Understanding Catholicism: The True Essence

When we discuss what it means to be a good Catholic, the central theme resonates with a profound sense of love, relationship, and action. Inspired by Rabbi Hillel’s wisdom, Jesus teaches us that the essence of our faith lies not in dogma or theology, but in how we treat others. The Gospel of Matthew 25 paints a clear picture of the ultimate judgement: our actions towards the least among us define our worth before God.

For many Catholics, the path to being a good Christian involves adhering to numerous rules and practices. However, as I reflect on my own journey, I find that the core of being a Catholic ultimately lies in my relationship with Jesus and the practical demonstration of Him in my daily life.

The Essence of Being a Catholic

Ultimately, the reason for having a church is for Jesus to continue His mission. For me, this means focusing on my personal relationship with Jesus, praying daily, and meditating on scripture. I aim to bring Him into everything I do, making Him present in every interaction and action. While I do not actively preach or quote scripture, I focus on performing unexpected acts of kindness and compassion.

I believe being a good Catholic is about following Jesus' teachings and living by them. My family, teeming with love and compassion, is a reflection of these values. The Church has played a significant role in shaping our lives, and we have devoted countless hours to helping others. However, I do not strictly adhere to all the rules and regulations.

The Minimal Requirements to Be a Catholic

To be a Catholic at the most basic level, one must get baptized. Beyond that, there are various levels of commitment and practice:

Baptism: This is the foundational step for any Catholic into the Church. Belief in Core Teachings: To be a Catholic, one must believe in the Ten Commandments, the Trinity (Father, Son, and Holy Spirit), and accept the teachings of the Church as necessary for salvation. Acknowledging Church Authority: Accepting the authority of the Pope is essential. Avoiding Major Sins: As a layperson, avoiding major sins (or excommunication) is important. These are serious sins committed with full knowledge of their moral wrongness. Regular Participation in Church Life: Attendance at Mass on Sundays and Holy Days of Obligation is expected. One should also observe fasting and abstinence, receive Holy Communion at least once a year, confess all mortal sins at least once a year, and contribute financially to the Church. Living a Virtuous Life: To remain in constant full communion with the Church, one must avoid all major sins and strive to live a virtuous life.

To take your faith to the next level, one can focus on:

Prayer and Devotion: Praying daily, particularly with mental prayer. Attending daily Mass and Adoration can be beneficial. Confession monthly is another essential practice. Works of Mercy and Charity: Engaging in both spiritual and corporal works of mercy, both spontaneously and deliberately setting aside time for them. Lifelong Learning: Studying your faith to understand it better and share it with others. This includes theological stuff, how to pray, liturgy, arts, history, morality, and spiritual warfare. Seeking Wisdom and Guidance: Getting a spiritual director with deep knowledge of the faith can be a valuable resource. The goal is to live holily, recognizing and working to overcome personal weaknesses. Building a Strong Community: Contributing to parish life and being built up by other Catholics.

Ultimately, the true essence of being a Catholic is about living a life that reflects Christ's love and teachings. While there are many practices and obligations, focusing on the relationship with God and serving others remains the core of Catholicism.