We welcome your interest in the Catholic Church. Your openness to discovering who Jesus is, how He fits into your life, and how you can more closely follow Him are wonderful first steps to understanding the Catholic Faith, and learning how our vibrant Catholic Community of Holy Redeemer can be an important part of your spiritual growth and life long walk of faith. Know that God is with you on this journey, leading and guiding you. He is filling you with His “Grace,” which is the undeserved favor of God given freely to all of those who seek Him.
Who is Jesus?
Jesus is the Son of God, conceived by the Holy Spirit, and born of the Virgin Mary. He grew up in Nazareth in Israel, and at the age of 30 began a three-year long ministry traveling around Jerusalem with his 12 disciples teaching God's truth, healing the sick, and performing many astounding miracles. He spoke with the authority of God the Father, because He is truly God. He was full of compassion for the pain and suffering of all of the people, because He is truly man. He is like us in every way except for sin. He was obedient to God the Father, fully understanding that his role on earth was to suffer and die for all of humanity, so that through Jesus we would be able to conquer sin and death, and one day live with Him in heaven for all eternity. Indeed, He suffered a cruel and violent death. He was condemned to death on the cross. He was tortured, mocked, and crucified on a wooden cross, enduring the punishment that we deserve. He was buried and on the third day rose again from the dead.
After His death on the cross and before He ascended into Heaven, Jesus passed on the authority to his disciples to continue spreading the word of truth to all nations. Jesus chose the disciple Peter as his "rock" upon which the future church would be built. Because of Peter’s martyrdom in Rome and his unique leadership role, Rome was chosen as the central city for the new Christian community and the home of the Pope. Today the Catholic Church has spread to every corner of the world. As Jesus ascended into heaven, He gave the church the gift of the Holy Spirit to be with Her always until Jesus comes again, and to guide Her in truth, and protect Her from moral error.
Why is knowing Jesus important?
Jesus Christ is a person, not a fictional story. He is a living person in your life and you can trust in Him. He knows everything about you and He wants you to get to know Him. That truth you search for is Jesus! He is the guiding light that shines in every difficult situation. Without him, you won't know your purpose and will have a tendency to look to false gods like drugs, alcohol, wealth, gambling, shopping, career, food, etc. to fulfill your life. Once you know Jesus and his love for you, you will want to give that love to others. Jesus in your heart is a true conversion from sin and evil.
Why the Catholic Church?
There are many reasons for being Catholic. Below are just a few.
- The Catholic Church is One. We are united in Jesus Christ
- The Catholic Church is holy. We share in the holiness of God through Baptism
- The Catholic Church is Universal.
- The Catholic Church is Apostolic. The Church traces its authority and teachings back to Jesus through the apostles.
- The Catholic Church offers unlimited opportunity for spiritual growth.
- The Catholic Church offers unlimited opportunity for social transformation.
- The Catholic Church has a profound sense of history.
- The Catholic Church is a communal Church offering an opportunity to grow together with your brothers and sisters and to be a part of something that is so much bigger than yourself.
You may have many other reasons for your interest in the Catholic Faith. We welcome you to continue your spiritual journey as you inquire about the Church.
Please check out the RCIA page on this website or call the Church office @ 419-629-2543 with any questions you may have.