Are Catholics Christians? This question pops up more often than you’d think. Some people assume the answer is “no” because of misunderstandings about Catholic practices and beliefs. But the reality? Catholics are, and always have been, Christians. Let’s explore why this confusion exists and what the truth actually is.
What Makes Someone a Christian?
At its core, being a Christian means believing in Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior. It means accepting the Bible as the Word of God and affirming key doctrines like the Trinity, the Incarnation, and the Resurrection. These are non-negotiables for all Christians—Catholics included.
Catholicism fully embraces these foundational beliefs. In fact, the Catholic Church is the original and universal Church founded by Jesus Christ, with over 1.3 billion members worldwide. It’s not a separate religion or denomination but the oldest expression of Christianity, tracing its roots back to the apostles.
So why do some think otherwise?
Why the Confusion Exists
The confusion often stems from history. The Protestant Reformation in the 16th century created a split between Catholics and Protestants. Over time, some Protestants started using “Christian” to refer only to themselves, unintentionally (or sometimes intentionally) excluding Catholics.
Cultural misunderstandings also play a role. In casual conversation, people may frame questions like, “Are you Catholic or Christian?”—as though these are mutually exclusive categories. They’re not. This false dichotomy has stuck around, leading to more confusion.
Common Misunderstandings About Catholics
Let’s tackle a few of the big ones:
1. “Catholics Worship Mary and the Saints.”
No, Catholics don’t worship Mary or the saints. Worship is reserved for God alone. Catholics honor Mary and the saints as role models and intercessors. It’s like asking a trusted friend to pray for you—except these “friends” are already in heaven.
2. “Catholics Believe in Works, Not Faith.”
This myth misrepresents Catholic teaching. Catholics believe salvation comes through God’s grace, received by faith, and expressed through good works (James 2:14-26). Faith alone isn’t enough (James 2:24); we must cooperate with grace by living lives of charity. Faith and works are not opposing ideas, but two sides of the same coin. Catholicism teaches that faith must be a living, active faith, continually seeking to do God’s will.
3. “The Pope Replaces Jesus.”
Not true. The Pope is seen as Christ’s representative on Earth, not His replacement. His role as the earthly shepherd is grounded in Jesus’ instruction to Peter: Matthew 16:18, “You are Peter, and on this rock, I will build my church.” John 21:15-17, “Feed my sheep,” Luke 22:31-32, “Satan has asked to sift you [Peter],…but I have prayed for you…strengthen your brothers.”
4. “Catholic Practices Are Unbiblical.”
Actually, Catholic practices have deep biblical roots and align with scriptural teachings. Confession? See John 20:23. The Eucharist? Check out John 6:53-56. Even Sacred Tradition is supported by Scripture (2 Thessalonians 2:15).
Catholicism’s Unique Role in Christianity
Catholicism isn’t just part of Christianity; it’s foundational to it. The Catholic Church has preserved the teachings of Christ through apostolic succession—an unbroken line of bishops stretching back to the apostles. This continuity safeguards the faith against distortions.
Sacraments are another hallmark of Catholicism. Through Baptism, Eucharist, and more, Catholics encounter God in tangible ways. These aren’t just rituals; they’re life-giving encounters with grace.
And let’s not forget the Church’s global impact. From founding universities and hospitals to leading charitable efforts, Catholicism has shaped the world in profound ways. Its influence reaches far beyond Sunday Mass.
In Conclusion
Despite differences in worship styles and theology, all Christians share a common faith in Jesus Christ. The Catholic Church, as the original and universal Church founded by Jesus, is the origin of the Christian family since the very beginning. It is not a separate religion or denomination but the oldest and most faithful expression of Christianity, carrying on the teachings and practices handed down from the apostles. So, the next time someone asks, “Are Catholics Christians?” you can confidently say yes. Let’s move beyond labels and embrace the unity that comes from our shared love for Jesus and His Gospel—I invite you to explore the Catholic faith and come home to the Church Jesus founded.