Chapter 1: Apostolic: Founded on the Apostles
Our faith, summarized in the Apostles’ Creed, is the same as the faith of the first apostles.
Chapter 2: Holy: Jesus Christ in the Sacraments
In the sacraments, we meet the risen Christ. We become the Church—God’s holy people.
Chapter 3: Catholic: Open and Respectful of All
The word catholic means “universal” or “open to all.” Catholics are called to welcome all people.
Chapter 4: One: Praying for Unity
In the Church, no one ministry (or minister) is more important than another.
Chapter 5: Councils, Cultures, and Conflicts
Twenty-two different church traditions make up the universal Catholic Church.
Chapter 6: Liturgy and Unity, Worship and Beauty
Throughout history the essential signs and words of the liturgy have remained the same.
Chapter 7: The Church and the Empire
The Church reminds us that obedience to God comes before obedience to any civil authority.
Chapter 8: Prayer for Understanding
Genuine prayer, in which we open our hearts and minds to the Holy Spirit, promotes healing and understanding.
Chapter 9: Faith Expressed and Lived
We should keep ourselves open to receive God’s gift of faith and continue to nourish it in ourselves.
Chapter 10: Mass in the Cathedral
The Eucharist is the Church’s great offering of thanksgiving to God for the gift of salvation and the Eucharist.
Chapter 11: The Quest for Salvation
Jesus Christ commands us to live in peace and to love all people as our neighbors. We are saved through Jesus Christ and God’s grace.
Chapter 12: Devotions
The Church recognizes popular devotions and private prayer as valuable ways to express and develop piety.
Chapter 13: Reforming the Church
True reform begins within each person’s heart as he or she seeks God’s truth.
Chapter 14: Forgiveness and Reconciliation
Reconciliation celebrates the fact that God is merciful and always welcomes us back.
Chapter 15: Morality and Salvation
We choose to accept or reject God’s love based on the choices we make throughout our lives.
Chapter 16: Seeking a Common Prayer
The Holy Spirit works in all Christian traditions to bring their members to the truth of the Gospel.
Chapter 17: Modern Ecumenical Councils
The living God continues a personal revelation through Scripture and Church Tradition.
Chapter 18: Renewal of the Liturgy
Sincere liturgical participation brings worshippers closer to God and helps them experience God’s own holiness.
Chapter 19: The Moral Struggle of a New Age
Social justice is imperative for the survival of life, and is the Gospel of life Jesus preached.
Chapter 20: A Prayer for the Church
Building the Church of tomorrow begins with prayer and action that shows respect for all humanity.