Catholicism: A Look at a Term Paper

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While Catholics view Jesus as being a part of God, Jews see Jesus as a human who was wonderful teacher and storyteller, not the son of God (Kreeft, 1987). In the eyes of Jews, Jesus does not have the power to save souls; only God can. For Catholics, Jesus is the Son of God who rose from the dead and saved humankind. Jews do not share this belief.

Catholics also believe that Jesus absorbed the sins of the people. For them, Jesus replaced Jewish law and erased the sins of their ancestors. For Jews, the commandments and Jewish law are still binding.

Judaism rejects the idea of original sin -- the idea that people are born with sins and require an act of grace provided by the sacrifices of Jesus to erase humankind's sins (Kreeft, 1987). For Catholics, salvation only exists through Jesus. In the eyes of Jews, humans are neither born naturally good nor naturally bad. They have both good and bad tendencies, and are taught to freely choose the good.

In conclusion, Catholicism and Judaism are both closer and farther apart than any two other religions. On the one hand, Catholics are descendants of Jews; but on the other, Catholicism is a new religion -- one that was indeed based on Judaism but is now an entity of its own.

Conclusion

My initial perceptions of Catholicism were based on stereotypes. After researching this religion, visiting a Catholics Church, and talking to Catholics, I've come to realize that Catholicism is not what I expected it to be. Father Felix showed me the lighter side of the religion, which is based on faith, love and helping one another.

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In addition, while Catholicism is very traditional, Catholics are flexible in their thoughts, beliefs and attitudes.

Catholicism has much in common with both Christianity and Judaism. In addition to all of the main points of traditional Christianity, Catholics view the Church as an institution founded by Christ and kept from doctrinal error by the presence and guidance of the Holy Spirit, and as the force of salvation for humanity (Kreeft, 1987). The seven sacraments, of which the most important is Communion, are of key importance in obtaining salvation.

While Catholicism has been criticized for many reasons over the years, one of which is that is too stringent in its guidelines, the religion is largely perceived as a great force for good, as an "expert in humanity" and even as a model of organization. Pope John Paul II was praised around the world upon his death as an outstanding world leader and humanitarian.

In conclusion, Catholicism seems to be a very humane and solid religion. By following the way of Jesus, Catholics experience the fullness of life -- the ups and the downs, the joy and sadness, the good times and the suffering -- with grace and dignity. By following God's teachings, Catholics find peace and courage in their lives. This can only be a good thing......

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