Many Catholics have a great devotion to Mary, but it’s not out of worship. Mary is the closest human being to God, and her mission is to help lead us to God, so Catholics ask for her intercession and assistance.
Posts in Catholic 101
Catholic 101: Icons and Prayer
Icons are not only a form of art: they orient the mind and heart towards the mysteries of God, and thus they’re an important resource for prayer, especially in Eastern Christianity.
Catholic 101: Holy Days of Obligation
Growing up, Jason resented having to go to Church on ANOTHER day of the week. Looking back, he thinks we’re approaching holy days of obligation with the wrong mindset.
Five Questions for Catholics Dealing with Mental Health Issues
“I just need to trust in God more, and then I won’t be so anxious,” “This is just my cross, and Jesus calls us to pick up our crosses and follow him,” “God never gives us what we can’t handle.” These phrases are used far too frequently by the faithful struggling...
Catholic 101: Transubstantiation
How is that Catholics believe Christ becomes really present under the form of bread and wine at Mass? Joe Seiter helps us understand transubstantiation, and how theology and faith both inform one of the Church’s great mysteries.
Catholic 101: The Doctrine of Discovery
Critics faulted Pope Francis for not referencing this long-standing controversy when he visited Canada this summer. What is the Doctrine of Discovery? And why were people so upset?
Catholic 101: What is Vatican II?
The Second Vatican Council was a major event in the life of the Church, but do you know what actually happened?
Catholic 101: Gifts of the Holy Spirit
The gifts of the Holy Spirit empower us to have hearts and minds like that of Jesus Christ and grant us a foretaste of the divine life.
Catholic 101: Why go to Confession?
Confession can make many of us uncomfortable, but there is great beauty in this sacrament. Reconciliation is ultimately strengthening our relationship with God and accepting God’s abundant mercy.
Catholic 101: Nuclear Arms
The Catholic Church’s stance on nuclear arms is a radical teaching in the face of a radical threat.