To be "Catholic" means to live a completely Christian life and hold a Catholic perspective of the world. The Catholic ideal is that all people are basically good at heart, but are all affected by a dreadful affliction known as sin. This affliction initially wounded us, but it can kill humankind spiritually if left unchecked. There is only one cure-divine grace-and the best way to receive this grace is through the Sacraments. Catholics believe that the Sacraments are seven rites that are created by Jesus and entrusted to the Church.
Basic tenets of Catholic belief:
-It's not just a theology. Catholicism IS a daily commitment to follow God's will, whatever it may be.
-God offers divine grace, but a Catholic must accept it and cooperate with it.
-We can exercise free will. Because He loves us, God never forces us to act against our free will, but there are consequences for committing evil. By turning from God, you are not only hurting yourself but others as well, as no Catholic is alone in the world. We are all part of that spiritual family known as the Church.
-The Church is not just a place to go on Sundays. It serves as a Mother-figure. It feeds us spiritually, instructs us in doctrine, provides healing and comfort for those that require it, and disciplines us when necessary.
In the next few weeks, this blog will focus on what exactly this whole Catholicism thing is from an overall perspective. Then, over the next year, it can gradually delve into the specifics.
Monday, December 1, 2008
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