Sacred TextsThe Bible is the primary sacred text. It consists of two parts which are the called the Old Testament and the New Testament. The New Testament is a collection of early writings about Jesus’ life, his teachings, work of the apostles and the early history of the Church. It contains 27 books, which include the four gospels, the Acts of the Apostles, Fourteen letters of St. Paul and the Book of Revelation.
The gospels were written at different times and in different communities. Each gospel is told in a unique way and is influenced by the numerous issues that were present in their communities at the time of writing. Overall, the Bible is a sacred text which outlines some of the beliefs of Christianity, through various types of writings, such as stories and myths. Furthermore, Creeds have been produced to clarify Catholic beliefs to members and to distinguish themselves from other religious traditions. The Apostle’s Creed was developed between the 2nd and 9th centuries and is the most popular Creed used in worship by western Christians. Its central doctrines are those of the Trinity and God the Creator. In addition, the Nicene Creed was created in the 4th century and expresses the deity of Christ. Other sacred texts include:
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Sacraments:
- Baptism - sacrament of initiation. A candidate’s head is cleansed with holy water to welcome them into the Christian community. This can only be received once.
- Reconciliation - sacrament of healing. An individual confides their sins to a priest so they may be forgiven. This sacrament can be received many times.
- Communion - sacrament of initation. This is where one receives the body of Christ. This sacrament can be received multiple times, as it is given at every mass.
- Confirmation - last sacrament of initatiation. The candidate affirms their faith in God and becomes an adult member of the Cathoic Church. This sacrament is only received once.
- Marriage - sacrament of service. This is where a man and a woman commit themselves to one another. A couple is married forever and can only re-marry if they become a widow.
- Holy orders - sacrament of service. This is where an individual becomes a priest and they are required to study theology for several years before receving their vows. This sacrament only happens once as one is a priest for life.
- Anointing of the sick - sacrament of healing. This is given by a priest or a lay person when someone is close to death. It may be received more than once.