Roman Catholicism
Roman Catholicism identifies the system of belief that adheres to the faith, doctrine, and polity of the Roman Catholic Church (RCC). It emphasizes the cooperation of human will with divine grace in salvation, the mediation of grace through sacraments, and the veneration of saints and relics. The RCC is headed by the Bishop of Rome, esteemed as the “father of fathers” or Pope, considered the successor of the apostle Peter, and is regarded as the supreme pontiff and vicar of Christ on earth. Roman Catholicism is built on an episcopal system of government and upholds orthodox doctrines regarding the Trinity, deity of Christ, and Incarnation. Central to Catholic worship is the Mass, believed to be a recapitulation of the propitiatory sacrifice of Christ, and the belief in transubstantiation. The faith encompasses seven sacraments, including baptism, Eucharist, and penance, which are seen as the dispensary channels of God's grace. A distinctive feature of Roman Catholicism is the prominent role of the Virgin Mary, who is venerated and believed to have been conceived without sin and bodily assumed into heaven.
Roman Catholicism continued to grow despite the Reformation, particularly in the Americas, where it was dominant until Protestant expansion. The Second Vatican Council (1962-1965) modernized practices and sought to improve relations with Protestants. Under Pope John Paul II, Roman Catholicism gained a positive social image, became more vocal concerning civils rights, and blurred doctrinal differences with Protestants, advocating a “reunion” or alliance in the Evangelicals and Catholics Together (ECT) initiative. All the while, not retracting one of the 33 anathemas decreed against Protestants by the Council of Trent (1545-1563).
Some have said that Protestant Christianity is merely a modification of Roman Catholicism, answering the same problems with different solutions. This perspective will not due. The Reformation has more to do with biblical Christianity than it does Roman Catholicism. While it does not deny the historical connection of the Roman Catholic Church to ancient Christianity, it is not a mere modification of the former, rather it is more of an awakening to the latter.
Table of Contents
