The Catholic Church

For many Christians worship is one of the most important ways of expressing their belief and is centred on their local Christian community, which in turn is a part of a worldwide community of Christians. This is often called the church.

In both the New and Old Testament, worship is seen as one of the most important things people can do.

“All the believers were together and had everything in common”

Prayer is a major element for Christian’s worshiping God.

By praying, it can be asserted that we are communicating with God, along with worshiping him.

Prayer

Catholic Church Hierarchy

Pope

Cardinal

Bishops

Priest

The high altar. A table for preparing consecrated bread and wine. At the east end of the church.

The communion rail. A rail where the congregation come to receive communion (bread and wine).The pulpit. A raised platform from which the sermon is read.

The font. Where people are baptised. Near the door of the church, symbolising entry to Christianity.

The lectern. A bookstand, often which a carved eagle on it from which readings are made.

The organ. Used to accompany hymn singing.

The transept. The widest part of the church (the arms of the cross shape).

The pews. Where the congregation sits.

Icons and Statues. An icon is a religious picture of Jesus, Mary or one of the saints. They are often kissed and have candles lit in front of them as a sign of respect.

Confession Box

Tabernacle Where the ‘Host’ (wafer

bread) is kept Often covered by a cloth

when not used Usually placed on a high

place on or near the alter Can be found with a red

Votive candle When people enter the

Church they bow to honour the presence of Jesus in the blessed sacrament

Used to light as you say a prayer

Often lit underneath an image/statue of Jesus, Mary or other Saints

Votive Candles

Used to burn incense in the church

Can be carried or hung from the walls/ceiling

Used to help create an atmosphere of holiness

Thurible

Lectern Used for

priests/speakers to read from

Many have Eagles, a sign of spreading the word of God and a symbol of John the Baptist

Confessional/Confession Box Catholics use this

to confess their sins in private

Used as a way to wash away sins in life and before worship

Statue of Mary Used as an aid to

prayer Christians do not

worship to Mary, she is there as a focus and a person to pray through

Statues of other people, such as Saints can sometimes be found

Make your own Catholic church