The Church was founded by Jesus Christ to continue His saving mission on earth. Empowered by the Holy Spirit, she carries the same faith across generations, cultures, and nations.
God’s Saving Love
“For God so loved the world…” (Jn 3:16). Through His life, death, and resurrection, Jesus Christ brought salvation to humanity.
Christ Establishes His Church
To continue His mission, Jesus sent the Holy Spirit at Pentecost (Acts 2). The Apostles and their successors became the Church’s first leaders.
One Faith Across the World
As the Church grew, she ensured that the same faith was taught everywhere, preserving unity in belief.
Scriptural Foundation of Unity
“There is one Lord, one faith, one baptism…” (Eph 4:5–7). The Church understood its identity as one Body in Christ.
The Marks of the Church
At the Council of Nicaea (325 AD), the Church articulated her identity as One, Holy, Catholic, and Apostolic.
THE CHURCH IS ONE
Spread throughout the world, the Church remains united in faith, worship, and sacrament. A Catholic from Trinidad can attend Mass in France and follow the same prayers and structure—showing her unity.
THE CHURCH IS HOLY
“The Almighty has done great things…” (Lk 1:49). The Church is holy because God is holy. Her history is filled with men and women who lived out their baptismal calling—many recognized as Saints.
THE CHURCH IS CATHOLIC
Catholic means universal. The Church exists in every nation and culture, with more than one billion members.
THE CHURCH IS APOSTOLIC
Through Apostolic Succession, the mission of Jesus continues today in the bishops united with the Pope. The Catholic Church is the only Church that traces its leadership back to Peter, the first Pope.
“United in Christ, strengthened by the Spirit, the Church continues God’s saving work in the world.”
