Catholicism's Key Elements

The Bible is the most central element of Catholicism. It is believed to be written by those specifically inspired by God. Catholics believe that the Bible is true, meaning that everything included in it reveals some truth. This does not imply a literal reading. Catholics consider the background of the culture and time of the writer, as well as the different literary forms, in deciding what each Bible passage is supposed to say. For example, the story of Jonah teaches us a great deal about our own self-centered view of the world, and about God's mercy. But the story itself is a parable, so there is no need to argue whether Jonah was swallowed by a whale or a big fish.

The Catholic Church teaches that only the Church itself, generally through the hierarchy, can interpret the Bible. Even priests and catechists must adhere carefully to what the Church has to say about each passage. This causes issues with those who believe that educated people who read and study the Bible for themselves should be able to un

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was accepted to help people understand the error in some of the heresies that threaten the unity of the faithful. A fourth element is the teachings of the Church on living a just and holy life. They are daily, practical instructions for living out the commandment "love your neighbor as yourself". These include the corporeal acts of mercy: feed the hungry, give drink to the thirsty, clothe the naked, harbor the harborless, visit the sick, ransom the captive, bury the dead; and the spiritual acts of mercy: instruct the ignorant, counsel the doubtful, admonish sinners, bear wrongs patiently, forgive offenses willingly, comfort the afflicted, and pray for the living and the dead (Catholic Encyclopedia, 1911, http://www.newadvent.org/cathen/10198d.htm). Another source of instruction is the Beatitudes. The fifth element involves the teachings of the hierarchical church over the last two-thousand years. These include everything from how sacraments are administered to what constitutes a pro-life political standpoint. Catholics have a duty to respect the Church hierarchy and support their decisions. It does not mean that you always have to agree with them. It is more like a father setting a schedule for the family. The kids might
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