Our Catholic Faith
Living the truth of Christ through faith, worship, and service.
Two thousand years after Jesus of Nazareth walked among us, the Catholic (which means universal) message of faith has reached all corners of the world, uniting well over a billion believers. The Catholic Church — the sole Church founded by Jesus Christ over 2000 years ago (Catechism of the Catholic Church 811, 816) — professes a faith centered on our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, who suffered, died, and was resurrected to save us from sin and to grant us eternal life in heaven. Catholic beliefs — the sum of truths revealed by God in Scripture and Tradition — are expressed in the Apostles Creed and Catechism of the Catholic Church. There are seven Sacraments, of which the primary one is the Eucharist or Sacrament of the Eucharist, when consecrated bread and wine become the Body and Blood of Christ during the Holy Mass. Catholics honour and venerate the Blessed Virgin Mary as Mother of God through devotions, often seeking her intercession and that of other saints in prayer. The Catholic faith also teaches the importance of Divine Mercy, sanctification through faith, evangelization (sharing the Word of God), and Catholic Social Teaching — especially through voluntary service and works of mercy for the sick, poor, and afflicted.
Whether you are new to the Church, are returning after being away from the Catholic Church, or are coming here with questions, here is some basic information about what we profess as Catholics.
Who is Jesus?
Though he lived over 2000 years ago, this carpenter's som from Nazareth preached love for enemies, forgave sins, healed the sick, welcomed outcasts, and proclaimed the reign of God.
Do I need Jesus?
Out of pure love, God descended into our messy human world. He appeared as a baby so we’d feel safe becoming close him. Knowing us humans at our worst, he still chose to forgive as he died for us.
Can I know Jesus?
Yes! Through unity with Jesus via the Sacraments, God shares His grace with us. The Eucharist or Sacrament of the Eucharist is central to our faith — the real presence of Christ given for our salvation.
“We profess one, holy, catholic, and apostolic Church, united in faith and service."
Explore Your Faith
Learn, reflect, and grow in your understanding of Catholic faith and tradition.
Interested in becoming Catholic?
Perhaps your family or cultural background is Catholic but you weren’t involved, or you may have not have had any faith background but are now exploring. Have you been reading about the Catholic faith, exploring Catholic websites?
The best place to start is to find a Catholic church nearby where you live or work. It will offer an inquiry process called the Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults or ‘RCIA.’
If you like the church community or parish you have been attending, talk to the parish priest about your interest in becoming Catholic. Call your nearest Catholic parish today, and begin this awesome adventure!
Papal Blessings
For Special Occasions
For instructions on how to request a blessing from the Holy Father for a special occasion such as a significant birthday or anniversary, please download Procedure to Request an Apostolic Blessing .
Please note that papal blessing documents take two to three months to process.
For information on obtaining tickets for Papal Masses or General Audiences at the Vatican, or on purchasing photographs, religious objects, stamps and coins from the Vatican, please visit the website of the Apostolic Nunciature in Canada .