The Catholic Church

• Church government:The Pope is the head of the church.The Church is governed by a system of archbishops and bishops.
• The Clergy:Priests work the miracle of the Mass.Priests may not marry. They must remain celibate.
• Doctrine:Seven sacraments- baptism, confirmation, marriage, the last rites, ordination, the Eucharist (Mass or Holy Communion).The Mass is performed before the high altar by the priest. The Mass is a highly theatrical re-enactment of Christ's sacrifice.Transubstantiation- in the Eucharist the wine and bread are transformed into the body and blood of Christ. This miracle is worked by priests.Salvation is achieved through faith, good works, prayer and the cycle of confession- penance- absolution.
• Religious Practices:The liturgy (rites of worship) is in Latin.The Bible is in Latin.Services are highly ceremonial. Churches are lavishly decorated.Priests wear elaborate vestments.The high altar is at the east end of the church, in a space separated from the congregation.The priest conducts the Mass with his back to the congregation, facing the altar.Making the sign of the cross. Bowing at the name of Jesus.Veneration of the saints. Saints' day are holidays.Veneration of holy relics- saints' bones, pieces of the true cross, etc.Intercession between generations of the communion of the faithful- the living could help the dead.