Joshua Bennett
Why Do Catholics Do That? by Kevin Orlin Johnson is an insightful exploration into the traditions, rituals, and practices of the Catholic faith, offering a clear and accessible explanation for both Catholics and non-Catholics alike. Through engaging storytelling and thorough research, Johnson delves into the historical, theological, and cultural roots of various Catholic customs, addressing common questions and misconceptions. Whether examining the significance of the Eucharist, the role of saints, or the purpose of confession, the book provides a deeper understanding of why Catholics observe these practices and how they connect to the Church’s teachings and spiritual heritage. It serves as a valuable resource for anyone seeking to appreciate the richness and meaning behind Catholic traditions.
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What You'll Learn
- Liturgical Practices: Explains rituals like the Eucharist, rosary, and Mass traditions in Catholic worship
- Sacraments: Details Baptism, Confirmation, Confession, and other sacraments as spiritual milestones
- Mary & Saints: Clarifies devotion to Mary and saints, their roles in faith
- Church Structure: Describes the Pope, bishops, and priests' authority in Catholic hierarchy
- Traditions & Symbols: Explores ashes, holy water, and other symbolic practices in Catholicism
Liturgical Practices: Explains rituals like the Eucharist, rosary, and Mass traditions in Catholic worship
The Catholic Church is rich with liturgical practices that are deeply rooted in tradition, scripture, and the belief in the presence of Christ. One of the most central rituals in Catholic worship is the Eucharist, also known as Holy Communion. Catholics believe that during the Eucharist, the bread and wine are transformed into the Body and Blood of Christ through a process called transubstantiation. This belief is based on the Last Supper, where Jesus shared bread and wine with His disciples, saying, "This is my body... this is my blood" (Matthew 26:26-28). The Eucharist is not merely a symbolic act but a sacramental encounter with Christ, fostering spiritual nourishment and unity among the faithful. It is celebrated during the Mass and is considered the source and summit of the Christian life.
Another significant liturgical practice is the Mass, the central act of Catholic worship. The Mass is a reenactment of Christ’s sacrifice on the cross and a communal prayer of thanksgiving. It is divided into two main parts: the Liturgy of the Word and the Liturgy of the Eucharist. During the Liturgy of the Word, Scripture readings are proclaimed, and the homily is delivered, inviting the faithful to reflect on God’s Word. The Liturgy of the Eucharist follows, where the bread and wine are consecrated and distributed as Communion. The Mass is structured to engage the whole person—body, mind, and spirit—through prayers, songs, gestures, and the reception of the Eucharist. It is a celebration of God’s presence and a reminder of the covenant between God and His people.
The Rosary is a devotional prayer that holds a special place in Catholic liturgical life. It consists of repeating a series of prayers—the Lord’s Prayer, the Hail Mary, and the Glory Be—while meditating on the mysteries of Christ and the Virgin Mary’s life. These mysteries are divided into Joyful, Sorrowful, Glorious, and Luminous Mysteries, each focusing on different events in salvation history. The Rosary is not just a repetitive prayer but a tool for contemplative prayer, allowing the faithful to deepen their relationship with God and reflect on the Gospel. It is often prayed individually or communally, fostering a sense of connection to the broader Catholic tradition and the intercession of the Blessed Mother.
In addition to these practices, liturgical traditions such as the use of sacred symbols, vestments, and liturgical seasons play a vital role in Catholic worship. For example, the liturgical calendar guides the Church through seasons like Advent, Lent, and Easter, each with its own focus and spiritual purpose. Advent prepares for Christ’s coming, Lent emphasizes repentance and renewal, and Easter celebrates the Resurrection. These seasons are marked by specific prayers, readings, and rituals that help Catholics live out the mysteries of faith throughout the year. Similarly, the use of sacred symbols like the cross, candles, and incense enhances the sensory experience of worship, drawing the faithful into a deeper encounter with the divine.
Finally, the Sign of the Cross and other gestures are integral to Catholic liturgical practices. Making the Sign of the Cross is a reminder of baptism and an invocation of the Trinity. It is often done at the beginning and end of prayers, Mass, and other sacred actions. Gestures like genuflecting before the Blessed Sacrament, bowing at the name of Jesus, and kneeling during the Eucharist express reverence and humility before God. These actions are not mere customs but intentional expressions of faith, grounding Catholics in the physical and spiritual realities of their worship. Together, these liturgical practices create a holistic experience of faith, connecting believers to Christ, the Church, and the communion of saints.
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Sacraments: Details Baptism, Confirmation, Confession, and other sacraments as spiritual milestones
In the Catholic faith, sacraments are visible rituals that confer God's grace and serve as spiritual milestones in a believer's journey. Among these, Baptism stands as the foundational sacrament, marking the initiation into the Christian community. Through the pouring of water and the invocation of the Holy Trinity, Baptism cleanses the recipient of original sin and grants them new life in Christ. It is a rebirth, symbolizing the death of the old self and the emergence of a new creation in God's eyes. For infants, Baptism is often performed shortly after birth, with parents and godparents making vows to raise the child in the faith. Adults seeking Baptism undergo a period of catechumenate, known as the Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults (RCIA), to prepare for this transformative sacrament.
Confirmation is another pivotal sacrament, often referred to as the "sacrament of maturity." It builds upon the grace received in Baptism, strengthening the recipient with the gifts of the Holy Spirit. During the rite, the bishop anoints the confirmand with sacred chrism and lays hands on them, invoking the Spirit's power. This sacrament is seen as a deepening of one's faith and a call to witness to Christ in the world. Confirmands are encouraged to choose a sponsor who will support them in living out their faith boldly and authentically. Confirmation is a reminder that faith is not passive but requires active participation in the life of the Church and the mission of spreading the Gospel.
Confession, or the Sacrament of Reconciliation, is a profound expression of God's mercy and the Church's role in facilitating healing and forgiveness. Through this sacrament, Catholics acknowledge their sins, express remorse, and receive absolution from a priest acting in persona Christi. The rite includes an examination of conscience, the confession of sins, an act of contrition, and the priest's absolution, often accompanied by a penance to foster spiritual growth. Confession is not merely about admitting wrongdoing but about experiencing God's unconditional love and the restorative power of grace. It is a sacrament of second chances, reinforcing the believer's commitment to holiness and communal reconciliation.
Beyond these three, the Catholic Church recognizes three additional sacraments: Eucharist, Matrimony, and Anointing of the Sick. The Eucharist is the source and summit of Christian life, where bread and wine are consecrated and become the Body and Blood of Christ. It is a communal celebration of God's presence and a foretaste of the heavenly banquet. Matrimony is a sacred covenant between a man and a woman, reflecting Christ's love for the Church. It is a public commitment to love and cherish one another, open to the gift of children and rooted in faith. The Anointing of the Sick offers spiritual and physical comfort to those facing illness or age, reminding them of God's companionship in suffering and the hope of eternal life.
These sacraments are not mere rituals but encounters with the living God, shaping the believer's identity and mission. They are milestones that mark the journey from initiation to sanctification, from individual faith to communal witness. As Kevin Orlin Johnson explores in *Why Do Catholics Do That?*, these sacraments are deeply rooted in Scripture and Tradition, offering tangible ways to experience God's grace in the ordinary and extraordinary moments of life. They are not optional add-ons but essential elements of the Catholic faith, guiding believers toward holiness and unity with Christ.
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Mary & Saints: Clarifies devotion to Mary and saints, their roles in faith
Catholics often face questions about their devotion to Mary and the saints, which can seem puzzling to those outside the faith. Kevin Orlin Johnson’s work, *Why Do Catholics Do That?*, sheds light on this by explaining that such devotion is deeply rooted in Scripture, tradition, and the understanding of the Communion of Saints. Catholics honor Mary not as a goddess but as the Mother of God, a title derived from the Council of Ephesus in 431 AD. Her role as the mother of Jesus, the incarnate Son of God, gives her a unique place in salvation history. Devotion to Mary is seen as a way to draw closer to Christ, as she always points to her Son, saying, “Do whatever he tells you” (John 2:5). This is not worship but veneration, a recognition of her singular grace and intercessory power.
The saints, similarly, are venerated not as objects of worship but as models of faith and intercessors before God. Johnson clarifies that Catholics believe the saints in heaven are alive in Christ and can pray for us, just as we pray for one another on Earth. This practice is grounded in the belief that the Church is not limited to the living but includes the “communion of saints”—those in heaven, on Earth, and in purgatory. The saints’ lives exemplify holiness, and their intercession is sought as a means of grace, much like asking a friend to pray for us. This devotion is always directed toward God, with the saints serving as intermediaries, not replacements for Him.
A common misconception is that Catholics pray *to* Mary and the saints rather than *through* them. Johnson emphasizes that prayers like the Hail Mary are not prayers of worship but requests for intercession. The Hail Mary, for instance, is largely Scriptural, combining the angel’s greeting in Luke 1:28 and Elizabeth’s words in Luke 1:42. Catholics see Mary’s role as a powerful intercessor, given her unique relationship with Christ. Similarly, the saints’ prayers are believed to be efficacious because of their closeness to God. This practice is akin to asking a fellow Christian to pray for us, but with the added belief that the saints’ prayers carry special weight due to their heavenly status.
Devotion to Mary and the saints also reflects the Catholic understanding of the “cloud of witnesses” mentioned in Hebrews 12:1. Just as athletes are inspired by spectators, Catholics believe the saints in heaven cheer us on in our spiritual journey. Icons, statues, and relics are not worshipped but serve as reminders of these holy figures and their lives. Johnson explains that these physical representations are tools to deepen faith, not ends in themselves. They help Catholics focus on the spiritual realities they represent, much like a wedding ring symbolizes a commitment.
Finally, this devotion is practical and personal. Catholics turn to Mary and the saints in times of need, seeking their prayers for healing, guidance, or strength. Each saint is often associated with specific patronages—St. Anthony for lost items, St. Jude for desperate situations—reflecting their lives and miracles. This practice fosters a sense of community across time, connecting believers with those who have gone before them. Johnson underscores that this devotion ultimately glorifies God, as all grace and answers to prayer come through Him. It is a way to live out the faith dynamically, drawing on the rich tapestry of the Church’s history and the enduring presence of the Communion of Saints.
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Church Structure: Describes the Pope, bishops, and priests' authority in Catholic hierarchy
The Catholic Church operates under a hierarchical structure that ensures unity, continuity, and spiritual leadership. At the apex of this structure is the Pope, who serves as the Vicar of Christ and the successor of Saint Peter. The Pope’s authority is supreme and universal, encompassing both spiritual and administrative matters. He is the final arbiter of doctrine, the head of the global Church, and the visible symbol of Catholic unity. His role is not merely ceremonial but deeply pastoral, guiding the faithful through his teachings, encyclicals, and decisions. The Pope’s authority is derived from his office, which Catholics believe was established by Christ Himself, as evidenced in the Gospel of Matthew (16:18-19), where Jesus says to Peter, “You are Peter, and on this rock I will build my Church.”
Below the Pope are the bishops, who serve as the successors of the Apostles and the primary teachers of the faith in their respective dioceses. Each bishop exercises authority over his local Church, overseeing the spiritual and pastoral needs of the faithful in his care. Bishops are responsible for teaching doctrine, governing their dioceses, and sanctifying the people through the sacraments. Their authority is both individual, within their dioceses, and collegial, when they act together with the Pope, particularly in ecumenical councils. The bond between the Pope and the bishops ensures the unity of the Church, as they collectively safeguard and transmit the deposit of faith.
Priests form the next level of the hierarchy, serving as collaborators with the bishops in the local Church. They are ordained to preach the Gospel, celebrate the sacraments, and shepherd the faithful in their parishes. Priests act *in persona Christi* (in the person of Christ) when they celebrate the Eucharist, and their ministry is essential for the spiritual life of the community. While priests do not possess the same teaching and governing authority as bishops, they are entrusted with significant pastoral responsibilities, including hearing confessions, providing spiritual counsel, and fostering the growth of the local Church. Their authority is derived from their sacramental ordination and is exercised under the direction of their bishop.
The relationship between the Pope, bishops, and priests is one of communion and service, rooted in the sacramental order of the Church. This structure ensures that the Church remains faithful to its mission of proclaiming the Gospel and caring for souls. It also provides a clear chain of authority, preventing fragmentation and ensuring that the teachings and practices of the Church remain consistent across time and place. As Kevin Orlin Johnson explains in *Why Do Catholics Do That?*, this hierarchical structure is not about power for its own sake but about the service of unity and the fulfillment of Christ’s command to “go and make disciples of all nations” (Matthew 28:19).
Finally, it is important to note that this hierarchical structure is balanced by the principle of subsidiarity, which holds that matters should be handled at the lowest competent level. While the Pope and bishops have ultimate authority, they often delegate responsibilities to priests and lay leaders, fostering a sense of shared mission and collaboration. This approach reflects the Church’s understanding of itself as the Body of Christ, where each member has a role to play in building the Kingdom of God. The authority of the Pope, bishops, and priests, therefore, is not an end in itself but a means to serve the People of God and fulfill the Church’s divine purpose.
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Traditions & Symbols: Explores ashes, holy water, and other symbolic practices in Catholicism
The Catholic faith is rich with traditions and symbols that hold deep spiritual meaning for its adherents. One of the most recognizable practices is the imposition of ashes on Ash Wednesday, marking the beginning of Lent. This ritual, where ashes are placed on the forehead in the shape of a cross, serves as a powerful reminder of mortality and the need for repentance. The ashes, typically made from the burned palms of the previous year’s Palm Sunday, symbolize the dust from which humanity was created and to which it will return. This act encourages Catholics to reflect on their sins, seek forgiveness, and embrace a period of spiritual renewal. It is a public declaration of faith and a call to humility, echoing the biblical phrase, “Remember that you are dust, and to dust you shall return” (Genesis 3:19).
Holy water is another significant symbol in Catholicism, used in various rituals and sacraments. It is blessed by a priest and often placed at the entrance of churches for the faithful to bless themselves as they enter. The use of holy water dates back to the early Church and is rooted in the belief that water is a purifying element, both physically and spiritually. It recalls the waters of baptism, where individuals are cleansed of original sin and welcomed into the Church. Catholics use holy water to seek protection, invoke God’s presence, and renew their baptismal promises. Its application is a tangible way to connect with divine grace and sanctify daily life.
Incense is another symbolic practice deeply embedded in Catholic liturgy. Used during Mass and other sacred ceremonies, incense represents the prayers of the faithful rising to God, as described in the Book of Revelation (8:3-4). The fragrant smoke also symbolizes purification, as it was used in the Old Testament to cleanse spaces and objects dedicated to God. During Mass, incense is offered to the altar, the cross, and the congregation, signifying reverence and the presence of the Holy Spirit. This ancient tradition enhances the sensory experience of worship, drawing participants into a deeper encounter with the divine.
Sacred art and architecture also play a vital role in Catholic symbolism. Churches are often adorned with statues, stained glass windows, and icons that depict saints, biblical scenes, and the life of Christ. These visual representations serve as aids to prayer and reminders of the faith’s core teachings. For example, the crucifix, a cross with a corpus (the body of Christ), is central to Catholic devotion, emphasizing the redemptive power of Jesus’ sacrifice. Similarly, the Stations of the Cross, a series of 14 images depicting Christ’s Passion, guide believers in meditation and reflection on His suffering and love. These artistic expressions are not mere decorations but tools for spiritual growth and connection to the sacred.
Finally, the Eucharist stands as the most profound symbol in Catholicism, representing the body and blood of Christ. This sacrament, celebrated during Mass, is believed to be a real and transformative encounter with Jesus. The bread and wine, consecrated by the priest, become the source and summit of the Christian life, nourishing the soul and uniting the faithful in communion with God and one another. The Eucharist is a visible sign of Christ’s enduring presence in the world and a reminder of His sacrifice for humanity’s salvation. Through these traditions and symbols, Catholics express their faith, deepen their relationship with God, and participate in the timeless mysteries of their religion.
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Frequently asked questions
It’s a book that explains the reasons behind various Catholic practices, traditions, and beliefs in a clear and accessible way, addressing common questions non-Catholics or curious Catholics may have.
The book is aimed at both non-Catholics seeking to understand Catholicism and Catholics looking to deepen their knowledge of their faith and its practices.
Yes, the author often includes historical and scriptural background to explain the origins and significance of Catholic traditions and rituals.
It’s written in a straightforward, conversational tone, making complex theological and historical concepts easy for laypersons to understand, though it is well-researched.
Yes, the book tackles common questions and misconceptions about practices like the Eucharist, confession, and the veneration of saints, providing explanations rooted in Catholic teaching.
