Authentic Catholicism, as opposed to Catholicism in name only, refers to the teachings and practices of the Roman Catholic Church as they have been passed down through the centuries, based on the Bible, sacred tradition, and the Magisterium (the teaching authority of the Church). It is a way of life that seeks to follow the example of Jesus Christ, His teachings, and the teachings and traditions of the Apostles as interpreted by the Holy Church.
Authentic Catholicism includes belief in the Holy Trinity (Father, Son, and Holy Spirit), the divinity and humanity of Jesus Christ, the resurrection, the sacraments, and the authority of the Church. It calls attention to the importance of prayer, participation in the sacraments, and works of charity and justice.
Authentic Catholicism also includes adherence to the moral teachings of the Church, including the sanctity of human life, the dignity of the human person, and the importance of family and community. Those practising real, historical Catholicism know of the importance of the virtues of faith, hope, and love, and encourages a life of holiness and spiritual growth. Catholics embody these virtues on a daily basis.
Let’s take a few points to briefly ponder concerning traditional Catholicism.
The Communion of Saints: Those practising authentic Catholicism realise the importance of the Communion of Saints, which includes all of the faithful who have died and are now in heaven. The Church teaches that the saints can intercede for us and help us in our spiritual lives.
Mary, Mother of God: Catholics hold a special place for Mary, the Mother of Jesus, whom we believe is the Mother of God. Mary is considered a powerful intercessor and a model of faith and obedience. The title “Mother of God” (Theotokos in Greek) is an ancient and essential dogma of the Catholic Church that has been upheld since the Council of Ephesus in 431 AD. It affirms that Mary is the mother of Jesus Christ, who is both fully God and fully human.
Sacred Tradition: Catholics believe that God’s revelation is transmitted through both Sacred Scripture and Sacred Tradition. Sacred Tradition refers to the teachings and practices of the Church that have been passed down from the Apostles to the present day.
Liturgy: Catholicism places a strong emphasis on the liturgy, especially the celebration of the Eucharist within the ancient, traditional liturgy in Latin (the Traditional Latin Mass). Catholics believe that the liturgy is the summit and source of the Church’s life and that it should be celebrated with reverence and beauty.
Faith and Reason: Real Catholicism teaches that faith and reason are not opposed to each other but are complementary. Authentic Catholicism points out the importance of using reason to understand the truths of the Faith and to engage with the world in a critical and constructive way.
Sadly, there are some who are Catholics by name only – sometimes these are called “cafeteria Catholics” because they pick and choose what they want as if from a salad bar. Due to not having proper catechesis and other reasons, some reject the belief in the communion of the saints, or Mary as an intercessor on our behalf and as the Mother of God; they also reject the sacred tradition of our Holy Church, and especially have hatred toward the Traditional Latin Mass. Those who know what authentic Catholicism is, have an obligation to teach those who are ignorant of these facts and those who have fallen away from the Faith. Pray for their conversion.
In summary, authentic Catholicism is a rich and multifaceted tradition that encompasses many different aspects of human life and experience. It seeks to provide a comprehensive vision of reality and to help people grow in their relationship with God and with each other.