Abstract This paper relates the religious and political motivations for recent outreach programs for inactive Catholics. The author discusses the fundamental features of Catholicism that make outreach to lapsed Catholics an integral part of Church activities. The paper surveys outreach programs throughout the United States.
From the Paper "The Roman Catholic Church has the largest denomination of Christian followers in the United States with million people identifying themselves as Catholic . However, million of those people are inactive Catholics."
Tags: outreach programs, inactive Catholics, Roman Catholic Church
Abstract This paper, written from a religious Catholic perspective, describes the basic principles of Catholic social teachings and analyzes how these principles are applied to current social issues. Much of the paper is based on William J. Byron's work "Ten Building Blocks of Catholic Social Teaching." The paper lists the ten fundamental social principles of Catholicism, which Byron also cited in his book. The paper includes numerous quotes from the Christian Bible which are intended to support various social outlooks.
From the Paper "The very essence of the meaning which gives definition to each of these categories is based on one very specific statement of Jesus Christ when he commands that his children are to "love their neighbor as they love themselves" which is the 'golden rule' and the statement in which Jesus Christ states that the greatest commandment of all is to "Love ye, one another..." (Holy Bible, New Testament) This specific category is critical in the social teachings of the Catholic Church and in fact stated is that "...the transformation of social relationships that responds to the demands of the Kingdom of God is not fixed within concrete boundaries once and for all." (Pontifical Council for Justice and Peace, 1979) An example brought to mind the account of Jesus healing on the Sabbath and assisting men with removing their oxen from a ditch on the Sabbath as well. While there are those in the crowd who taunt him about breaking the Jewish law of not laboring on the Sabbath Jesus relates to the crowd that certainly the needs of his fellow man stand higher than even the primary 'ten commandments of God, the Father. Therefore, the teaching is one of collaboration, flexible ministry in a growing and changing world. The church is effectively rendered helpless to 'go yet into the world..." and to "make ye disciples of all men..." which is called the "Great Commission" and commanded by Christ if they do not have genuine love for their fellow man because to go into that world at this time in the history of mankind is a prospect filled with the unknown in terms of both physical and spiritual safety. Therefore the church must remember to convey to followers that the only set and fixed law might be viewed as a simple reflection by humankind of the love which 'is' God. This task has been "entrusted to the Christian community..." and therein God's love either finds root and grows or falls by the way. This is called the 'Great Commission' within the Christian faith and is a process described as "...a quest for the seeds of truth and freedom sown in the vast field of humanity." (Cf. John Paul II, Encyclical Letter Redemptor Hominis, 11: AAS 71, 1979) The primary social teaching of the Christian faith and the Catholic Church social teachings are principles, which have as their basis very words of Christ who has revealed to humankind that the very essence or character of God is 'Love'. (1 John 4:8) as he brings his children to the understanding that "the fundamental law of human perfection, and consequently the transformation of the world is the new commandment of love." (Pontifical Council for Justice and Peace, 2004) "
Abstract This paper takes a look at the modern Catholic Church and its approach toward universality. This theological question is addressed in modern terms as well as from a historical perspective. The author defines Catholicism and considers it, as opposed to other branches of Christianity. The paper then explores the term universality and how this is defined and expressed in the Catholic Church today.
From the Paper "In order to understand the universality implied in the word Catholic one has to review the history of the word and the Church, as well as taking into account the contemporary context of the problem. Another important aspect of the designation of universality is the meaning of the word in terms of the difference between the denominational meaning and the spiritual sense of universal, which refers to the inclusion of all humanity in its religious ambit. The term has also raised considerable debate within the Catholic Church and Western religious community with regard to the contemporary view of the relativity of all religions. This is a central aspect of this discussion, as the view that all religions are equally relevant or 'universal' is contested from some quarters as problematic in a theological sense."
This essay explains and analyzes the events that led the Catholic Church from being a privileged and influential class under the monarchy to playing a relatively minor role in the life of the French nation only a decade later.
1,190 words (approx. 4.8 pages), 2 sources, 2001, $ 40.95
Abstract This essay examines the sequence of events that led the Catholic Church and its clergy from being a privileged and influential class prior to the French Revolution to playing a relatively minor role in the life of the nation after the Revolution.
From the Paper "The most audacious and bold attacks on the Church, however, came in the formation of two new religions during this period. In late 1793, in Paris and other large cities, a new religion was founded. The worship of "gods given by nature" and requiring no priests was proclaimed."
Abstract This paper takes a deep look at the true intentions of Martin Luther and his resistance against the Catholic Church by examining the historical context in which he acted and by taking a closer look at the man himself, thereby showing that Luther was a deeply religious man trying to maintain core religious values in the face of great social pressure.
From the Paper "The European world of the late fifteenth and early sixteenth century was one ensconced in the assumption of Christian values and, moreover, the authority of the Catholic Church. Likewise, it was a world of great injustice, misappropriation of power and perversion of morality. Such was most apparently epitomized by the vast disparity between classes of suffocating poverty and ever-growing wealth. And the necessary correlation between wealth and power was quite explicit in a Church that, to many ways of thinking, was a fat and corrupt entity whose most driving priority had become the exploitation of the weak. Martin Luther was born into this world in 1483, and not of a particular familial disposition to protest the circumstances. In fact, his father had managed to accrue some degree of financial comfort that assured his son the life of an educated man. Rather, his outrage at social conditions manifested itself through his religious observation. Above all, it bears noting, upon his adoption of the holy cloth in 1505, that Luther was a man of God. This was the only law that he saw fit to recognize. So his divergence from the conventions of the Catholic Church was, as he would be quick to assert himself, an act guided by compliance rather than defiance. But his ideology would spark massive reexamination and change, suggesting that it was certainly resistant to many of the prevailing forces of the time and place. Perhaps there may be no genuine reconciliation of these two ostensibly contradictory roles, both of which, one could argue, Luther embodied. However, a more direct study of Luther's motivations and tenets seems to suggest that he was, in both intent and aesthetic, a conservative who, by way of social circumstances, came to be regarded as a revolutionary."
Abstract This paper looks at the increased reports of sexual abuse within the Catholic Church. The writer points out that only recently has the Church needed to answer for itself and take a stand due to the high level of reported cases. An examination of the Church's response is given which follows criticism of their reaction.
From the Paper "The Catholic Church has been rocked recently by allegations of sexual abuses"especially against children. The problem is not isolated but all pervading. The cases of child, sexual abuses are about the same percentage as the general population. Most of the cases are not, in the strictest sense pedophilic"sex with pre-pubescent children, but ephebophilia?abuse of adolescent children. In a comprehensive study of 2,252 priests for 30 years, only one case of pedophilia was found. It involved a priest with two six year-old nieces. Between 5 and 10 percent of priests were pederasts (ephebophiles). (Jenkins, 1996)"
Abstract A paper on the topic of ethics and laws concerning the problem of sexual abuse of children in the Catholic church. The paper explores the fact that there has been a lot of media discussing this topic in recent discussions.
Abstract The purpose of this study is to separate some of the ideological rhetoric regarding Galileo's relationship with the Catholic Church from the historical facts. To do so, the paper examines Galileo's life as it developed and took him on a course towards an eventual trail before the Roman Inquisition. The paper touches upon his contributions to science as well.
From the Paper "In October 1992, the Pope proclaimed in veiled terms and with no clear admission of wrongdoing on the part of the Catholic Church that mistakes were made in the 1633 conviction of Galileo Galilei for heresy (Spaeth 6). Galileo was convicted, as has become part of scientific lore, for his assertion that the Earth revolved around the Sun instead of the other way around. Though Galileo was only confirming an earlier established theory by Polish-born Copernicus, Galileo's run-in with the Church has become iconic over the stretch of the almost four centuries since he was convicted."
Abstract This paper gives a brief history of the Catholic Church. It highlights the political and social nature of the Church and also describes its power base in the Western world over the centuries. Finally, the author explores the role of the Pope and the Church today.
From the Paper "The Catholic Church regards itself as the only true heir of the teachings of Jesus Christ, as it asserts that this is mandated in the bible (Matthew 16:15-20) . According to the Catholic interpretation, Jesus had entrusted Peter--the leader of the apostles--with the "the keys to Heaven" and ordained that upon the rock of Peter he would found his Church. The Church further holds that all the Popes are successors to Peter and as such are considered to be Christ's representative on earth. From the 4th century AD onwards, when the Roman Emperor, Constantine I, issued the Edict of Milan ending the prosecution of Christians in the Roman Empire, the Catholic Church was the only Christian church until its break with the Eastern Orthodox Church in 1054 and later, the Protestant movement of the 16th century (Dolan)"
Abstract This paper introduces and discusses the Catholic Church. Specifically it discusses the Catholic Church's injustice towards women and women's rights, including domestic violence, women priests, and other matters relevant to women but ignored by the Catholic Church. The paper shows that for centuries, the Catholic Church has been one of the most powerful, wealthiest, and most popular religions in the world. Millions of Catholics worship every week in a church, and donate billions of dollars for Church projects, and millions of these worshippers are women, who are essentially excluded from the Church except for certain roles. In addition, many of these worshipping women live in some of the poorest countries on Earth, facing famine, overpopulation, and lack of education, and yet the Catholic Church will not condone their use of birth control. The paper questions why the Catholic Church is so staunch in its stance against women and women's rights.
From the Paper "Since the Church excludes women from the clergy, there is a sense of extreme maleness and masculinity throughout the Church, from alter boys on up, and it is not surprising that normal, healthy men, even if they are priests, are sexually stimulated. To ignore this is to ignore the problem, and keeping priests celibate seems to simply exacerbate an already difficult situation. When there are predominately men in an organization, where will men turn to fulfill their urges if no one else is available? Since men are not perfect, they have flaws, and if given the opportunity, they may sin. Not recognizing the strain that celibacy puts on priests is simply another doctrine of the Church that is outmoded."
Tags: doctrine, abortion, faith, socialization, Episcopal, Church
Abstract In this article, the writer notes that many Catholic churches in modern society offer anyone that wants to worship an opportunity to do so, regardless of their lifestyle or former habits. There are many Catholics that live their lives outside of the boundaries of what conservative Catholics would consider acceptable. However, the writer points out that at the same time there are Catholics that believe the conservative church is far too restrictive in its regulation of church practices and practitioner's lives. The writer maintains that it seems that within the Catholic Church today, a middle ground must be found, one that will accommodate the needs of everyone.
From the Paper " Many devout Catholics suggest that the conservative approach is much better than the liberal approach quotes Amy, because it is impossible to label a Catholic church as tolerant or intolerant. It is also according to the interviewee, impossible to believe in such liberal ways as the California St. Francis Church, because it seems like the priest is making up his own rules and interpreting the bible as he sees fit, which is not an acceptable practice among most Catholics, even if they are not conservative in their beliefs. Many Catholics, according to Amy, would rather attend a devout service at a conservative church of Catholicism than at a "tolerant" or liberal Catholic Church where women are allowed to be priests and where gays and lesbians are allowed to participate in the holy sacraments."
Abstract This paper explains that the majority of immigrants before and during the Civil War (1861 to 1865), mostly poor and uneducated Catholics, having suffered terribly from discrimination and bigotry in their countries of origin, faced again in the United States extreme prejudice, bigotry, and religious discrimination, which highly affected their overall social, political, and economic lives. The author states that, in the U.S., anti-Catholic bigotry rose with the increased immigration because the English-speaking Protestant majority was afraid that the Catholics would take their jobs. The paper relates that the Catholic Church responded to the crucial needs of immigrant Catholics by creating social reform and support organizations. Mother Frances Cabrini, an Italian immigrant, founded the Missionary Sisters of the Sacred Heart to teach Italians in the parochial schools, to care for the thousands of homeless children who lived in the streets because of the deaths of their parents, and to place nurses in hospitals.
From the Paper "During the period in American history just before the outbreak of the Civil War in 1861, the United States was experiencing great change in its social, political and economic arenas, due mostly to the continuing expansion westward beyond the Mississippi River. This new territory was already inhabited by thousands of Catholics, mainly of Mexican descent, but much of the territory was completely unsettled and wild and was peopled by Native American Indian tribes. With new immigrants coming into the United States "at a rate of some two million every ten years from countries such as Ireland, France, Spain, Italy and Central Europe, the Catholic population exploded and was to serve as the basis for much social and political trouble in the future.""
Abstract When it comes to young adult Catholics in the United States, we see the entire spectrum. There are some who are Catholic in name only, take it as a given, and don't seek to know any more. They may go church but it isn't something that makes a difference or impact in their life. Then, there are those whose faith has become central in their lives. The paper shows that for many members of this generation, spirituality outranks the rules and practices of religion. For others, doctrine is set in stone and should be studied in depth. Still others are too busy to think in either of these ways as they are out in the world being the hands and feet of Christ. The paper shows that these young adults are not their parents, but they do not disregard what their parents have achieved for them as they set out to form their own history. This generation will not be afraid to take what it needs from religion and change what has become obsolete. The paper concludes that the current status of young adults Catholics in America is wide-ranging, but if anything, that should give hope to American Catholics because it means that their Church is becoming just as inclusive as the world "Catholic" implies.
From the Paper "With a new education and their own identity as a generation, young adult Catholics in America today also have their own outlook on traditional practices. From the very public experiences of local parish involvement, to personal devotions, young Catholics are developing their own standards. America's young adult Catholics actually show a lower level of mass attendance than they did thirty years ago. This trend may be explained simply by feelings of indifference, but more likely is a result of a new concept of what it means to be Catholic. Many hold the belief that one can be a good Catholic, and have a substantial relationship with God, without being a part of customary practices within a parish."
Abstract This paper describes the ritual of the Mass and discusses how it is viewed differently between Protestants and Catholics and even amongst Catholics themselves. In particular, the paper discusses Catholic theologian Michael McGuckian's explanation of the Catholic Mass and suggests that Catholicism's unclear understanding of what McGuckian calls an "unbloody" sacrifice in the first chapter of his work proves how essential it is that greater clarity be attained regarding the definition of Mass. The paper concludes that McGuckian's explanation of the Mass in a three-part structure is both powerful and lucid. It is also inspiring, given that it counters the tendency of some Catholic authors to stress only the painful aspects of Christ's sacrifice, rather than the eternal, positive, and visionary elements of the crucifixion.
From the Paper "One of the difficulties presented by the Mass to modern Christians is that Christians live in the absence of a concrete memory of the sacrificial system from which the Mass is derived. Thus, sacrifice can seem like a primitive concept, something from a long ago time, even while the Catholic Church teaches that the Eucharist is above all a sacrifice. It is a sacramental sacrifice, but not only a sacramental sacrifice or re-enactment of reality remembered--it is reality, in the moment and time of the Mass."
Abstract This paper looks at how the Catholic Church influences the development of human race. It looks at the stands of the Catholic Church at some of the recent conflicts of our time like abortion and stem-cell research and cloning. According to Catholic Church abortion is ethically and morally wrong. It is killing of a human life and therefore, should be prevented. The issue has plagued the church almost from the beginning. ?The Bible itself is virtually silent on abortion. The Ten Commandments state "Thou shalt not kill," but neither the Old nor the New Testament contains explicit sanctions against intentionally destroying a foetus.? (Theology of Abortion) the essay looks of Catholic Church stand on morality of abortion and its consequences.
The second aspect this paper looks at is the development of field of biotechnology and how it has influenced the public and moral attitudes. This is a recent example of the Church's influence on human development. The paper explores how the Church's so called "pro-life" attitude has affected the development in this field.
From the Paper ""The Catholic Church has been one of the strongest influential factors in European History. The influence has been extensive reaching from matters of the state, personal life, social values and ethical debates. Most organized religions have some form of moral code and ethical beliefs; the Catholic Church is no difference. These ideas and beliefs are usually in conflict with the development of human race. Some of the recent dilemmas of Catholic Church are its stand on Abortion, pro-life campaign, use of birth control, HIV and AID issue. The moralistic view of Catholic Church, which argues to be pro-life, is in contradiction of what is being pro-life mean. It is rather difficult to comprehend how any institution, which makes life miserable for human beings classify it to be the protector of life." "
