ARK/Catholicism Review

Which event marks the birth of Jesus in Christian tradition?

• The Nativity

• The Last Supper

• The Ascension

• The Crucifixion

Answer explanation

The Nativity refers to the birth of Jesus, celebrated by Christians as the moment of God becoming human and beginning his life on earth among us. The other options relate to events later in Jesus' life.

What is the central act of worship in the Roman Catholic Church called?

• Baptism

• Confession

• The Mass

• Confirmation

Answer explanation

The central act of worship in the Roman Catholic Church is called The Mass. This is what Catholics around the world celebrate each day, and in a very special way on Sundays.

Baptism, Confirmation, and Confession are other Sacraments that bestow God's grace in unique way, but are not a form of worship.

Who do Catholics believe is the mother of Jesus?

• Mary

• Martha

• Elizabeth

• Ruth

Answer explanation

Catholics believe that Mary is the mother of Jesus, as she is the one who gave birth to him according to the New Testament. The other options, Martha, Elizabeth, and Ruth, were other important women in Salvation History.

According to Catholic belief, who are the Saints?

• Angels

• Prophets from the Old Testament

• People who lived virtuous lives on earth and are now in heaven

• Only the Apostles

Answer explanation

According to Catholic belief, Saints are individuals who lived virtuous lives on earth and are now in heaven. They are recognized for their holiness and intercede for the faithful.

Angels are spirits that exist, but do not have a physical form.

The Apostles were the original 12 disciples of Jesus, most of whom are recognized as Saints.

Which of the following best describes the Catholic view of God?

• God is only present in nature

• God is only a symbol

• God is a trinity of love: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit

• God is a distant creator who does not interact with the world

Answer explanation

The Catholic view of God emphasizes the Trinity, which consists of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, representing a relationship of love. God is actively involved in the life of his creation and invites each man/woman to become part of his family in Baptism.

This distinguishes it from views that see God as merely a symbol or a distant creator.

Explain why Catholics celebrate the Mass regularly.

• To re-participate in the Last Supper and Crucifixion of Jesus, and receive his body and blood in the Eucharist

• To remember the miracles of the Old Testament

• To pray to the saints because we worship them, as well as God

• To perform penance for sins

Answer explanation

Catholics celebrate the Mass to re-participate in the Last Supper and Crucifixion of Jesus, receiving his body and blood in the Eucharist, which is central to their faith and spiritual life.

How does the role of Mary differ from that of the Saints in Catholic belief?

• Mary is only remembered during Christmas

• Mary is honored as the Mother of God and given a unique place above all Saints

• Mary is considered a prophet, while Saints are not

• Mary is not venerated in Catholicism

Answer explanation

Mary is uniquely honored as the Mother of God, placing her above all Saints in Catholic belief.

Which of the following best explains the Catholic Church's view of the Saints?

• They are worshipped as gods

• They are people who serve as models of holiness and intercede for believers

• They replace the need to pray to God

• They are only remembered in history books

Answer explanation

The Catholic Church views Saints as exemplary figures of holiness who inspire believers and intercede on their behalf, rather than being worshipped as gods or replacing prayer to God.

Analyze how the life and teachings of Jesus influence Catholic beliefs and practices today.

• They are only studied in history classes

• They are not considered important in modern Catholicism

• They form the foundation for Catholic moral teachings, worship, and the Sacraments

• They are only relevant during Easter

Answer explanation

The life and teachings of Jesus are central to Catholicism, shaping moral teachings, guiding worship practices, and underpinning the Sacraments, making them foundational to the faith today.

Evaluate the significance of the Mass in expressing core Catholic beliefs about Jesus and salvation.

• The Mass is a social gathering with no religious meaning

• The Mass is only for priests

• The Mass re-presents the sacrifice of Jesus and unites believers with Him, expressing beliefs about salvation

• The Mass is unrelated to Jesus

Answer explanation

The Mass is central to Catholic faith as it re-presents Jesus' sacrifice, allowing believers to unite with Him. This act embodies core beliefs about salvation, making it a profound expression of faith rather than a mere social gathering.