How to Explore Catholicism
Exploring new religions is a great way to expand your understanding of the world, especially if that religion has had such historical impact as Catholicism. If you're interested in learning more about Catholicism, here are a few things you can do to explore this religion further.
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Instructions
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Read up on Catholic history. To truly understand Catholicism today, find books and documentaries on the history of the catholic church and how it shaped history. Visit your local library or use the Internet to find information on how the Catholics have changed through time, and what aspects of the Catholic church have stayed the same. Western European history, books on the Papacy through the middle ages, how Vatican II came about, and and books on the modern church are a great place to start.
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Familiarize yourself with Catholic ritual and tradition. Learn about the seven sacraments, the major creeds, prayers, and the mass. Visit a church, visit the official Catholicism website, or ask a friend. Find books or use the Internet to read up on the Catholic calendar of events and general practices in the modern day practice of the religion. Knowing the history of Catholicism will help you to understand the reason behind the worship ceremony, as well as the basic tenements of the Catholic religion.
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Interview a Catholic. Ask plenty of questions about specific practices of the Catholic religion without making judgments about them. The goal is to remain open to new ideas and to listen to what they are saying so you can gain a better understanding of Catholicism.
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Talk to a priest. Set up a meeting with a Catholic priest in your area so you can ask specific questions about Catholicism. The best way to explore any religion is to talk to as many people as you can who have the most knowledge on a subject. Ask about any elements of the religion that confuse you or about the methodology and reasons for specific parts of Catholic tradition.
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Visit a church or attend Mass. The best way to explore a religion is to immerse yourself in it. Find a church that is in your area and attend mass one day. Pay attention to the sequence of events and the significance of each element of the Mass.
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