Hindu Catholic Dialogue Commemorative Brochure 20150523

Author(s): United States Conference of Catholic Bishops
Publisher: United States Conference of Catholic Bishops

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A. HISTORICAL AND CULTURAL BACKGROUND
Al. When and where was the religion founded? The beginning of the Catholic Church is traced to the day of Pentecost (the story can be found in the New Testament in the Acts of the Apostles, chapter 2) in the city of Jerusalem, at that time under the Roman Empire, during the 30s of the first century A.D. (Anno Domini::The Year of the Lord,” the traditional manner of dating from the approximate year of the birth of Jesus). Pentecost, a Jewish feast meaning "fifty days," came to be known as the day on which the Holy Spirit appeared as tongues of flame over the disciples, empowering them to proclaim the Gospel message after the resurrection of Jesus of Nazareth (Jesus Christ). However, Jesus himself, who lived his life within the Judaism of his time, is considered the founder of Christianity and the one who established the unique features of the Catholic Church such as succession from the apostles and the sacraments as empowering a unique relationship with God.
A2. Who are the main prophets or seers? The Catholic Church recognizes the revelation of the one true God to Abraham in ancient times (ca. 1800 B.C.; B.C. means “Before [the birth of Christ,” and is the traditional manner of dating for Catholic Christians.). The Church also recognizes the prophets of ancient Israel as having received revelations inspired by God. The last of the prophets, for the early Church, was St. John the Baptizer, a cousin of Jesus who prepared the Jewish people for the imminent appearing of the true Messiah, Jesus of Nazareth.
A3. Are saints venerated? Saints are venerated, not worshiped. They are fellow-Christians who are role models, protectors, and intercessors because of their generous responsiveness to the grace of God. Some saints are popularly considered the "patron saints” of various needs and activities. The liturgical calendar of the Church sets aside certain days on which particular saints are commemorated officially. Over the centuries, a formal canonization process has evolved by which the Pope officially recognizes deceased exemplary Catholics as saints.
A4. What was the original language of the main scriptures? Greek
COMMEMORATIVE BROCHURE
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