Christian Living

15 Frequently Asked Questions About Catholic Practices – And the Answers You Should Know

Have you ever wondered why Catholics follow certain customs? From baptizing babies to confessing to priests, Catholic rituals can sometimes feel a bit mysterious—especially if you’re not familiar with the faith. 

This article offers easy-to-understand explanations behind these practices, helping you see the meaning in them. Whether you’re Catholic or just curious, this guide is for you.

Why Do Catholics Make the Sign of the Cross?

man praying, sign of the cross
Image credit: Ben White / Lightstock.com

When Catholics make the sign of the cross, they are expressing their faith in the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. It’s also considered a small prayer for God’s blessing and protection. This simple gesture reminds them of Jesus’ sacrifice and their connection to salvation.

Why Are Babies Baptized in the Catholic Church?

infant baptism by catholic priest
Image Credit: Melvin John Vito / Lightstock.com

Catholics baptize infants because they believe it removes original sin and officially brings the child into God’s family. Though babies can’t choose for themselves, parents and godparents make a promise to raise them in faith. It’s a beautiful way of starting their journey with God early in life.

Why Do Catholics Believe in Transubstantiation?

Transubstantiation,priests blessing the communion during mass
Image credit: Sidney de Almeida / Shutterstock.com

Catholics believe that during Mass, the bread and wine become the actual body and blood of Jesus, a belief called transubstantiation. This comes from Jesus’ words during the Last Supper: “This is my body… This is my blood.” It’s not just symbolic; Catholics believe Christ is truly present in the Eucharist.

Why Do Catholics Fast During Lent?

sign of cross on womans forehead as she prays ash wednesday
Image Credit: Journey Box Media / Lightstock.com

Catholics fast during Lent to reflect on Jesus’ 40 days of fasting in the desert. Fasting is about more than giving up food—it’s a chance for self-discipline and spiritual preparation for Easter. Fasting helps believers grow closer to God through sacrifice and prayer.

Why Do Catholics Follow Traditions Beyond the Bible?

Priest delivering mass
Image credit: Eddy-Morton / Lightstock.com

Catholics follow both the Bible and Sacred Tradition. These traditions are still connected and practiced to strengthen their faith. They believe that Jesus passed on His teachings through both written and oral tradition. For them, tradition complements the Bible and helps guide their faith.

Why Do Catholics Kneel and Stand at Mass?

catholic priests holding a mass
Image Credit: Light_of_truth / Lightstock.com

Kneeling, standing, and sitting during Mass are ways for Catholics to show reverence and participation in worship. They kneel during prayer and stand during readings to show respect. Each movement reflects their devotion and connection with God.

Why Pray to Saints in the Catholic Church?

statue of christ and saints
Image Credit: Pearl / Lightstock.com

Catholics ask saints to pray for them, much like asking a friend to pray on their behalf. Saints and Mary are not worshiped but are seen as intercessors. Mary, as Jesus’ mother, is especially honored. Praying to saints is seen as seeking support from those believed to be in heaven.

Why Do Catholics Confess to a Priest Instead of Just to God?

a man entering a confessional room in catholic church
Image Credit: Light_of_truth / Lightstock.com

Catholics believe that Jesus granted His apostles His right of forgiveness, and then the authority was passed down to priests. The main essential element in confessing to a priest is seeking spiritual counsel and the relief of letting go of the burden of sin. 

What Is Purgatory in Catholic Belief?

blissed Friar with faith on god walking toward the light purgatory
Image Credit: fran_kie / Shutterstock.com

Catholics see purgatory as a place where souls are purified before entering heaven. It’s not a punishment but a final step of cleansing to prepare the soul for meeting God.

Why Use Statues and Images in Catholic Worship?

mary mother of the church
Image Credit: Ontheroad / Lightstock.com

Catholics use images and statues to remember Jesus, Mary, and the saints. The statues themselves are not worshiped; instead, they remind us to pray and guide people on what avenues they can use to direct their prayer. They help remind Catholics to focus their minds on God and those who followed Him closely.

Why Is the Eucharist Celebrated as the ‘Real Presence’ of Christ?

Holy communion at Catholic mass
Image credit: Antonio Gravante / Lightstock.com

For Catholics, the Eucharist is more than a symbol. They believe it’s the real presence of Jesus Christ. This belief stems from Jesus’ words during the Last Supper: “This is my body.” Receiving the Eucharist during Mass is central to Catholic worship.

Why So Many Rituals and Sacraments in Catholicism?

Priest bowing before the Monstrance at Eucharist adoration in a Catholic church
Image Credit: Light_of_truth / Lightstock.com

Catholics believe that sacraments like baptism and the Eucharist are visible signs of God’s grace. These rituals help them connect with God and guide them through important life stages. The sacraments mark key spiritual moments, from birth to death, where God’s presence is felt.

What Does Catholic Infallibility Mean for the Pope?

Pope Francis addressing audience at St. Peter's Square at the Vatican
Editorial credit: AM113 / Shutterstock.com

Catholics believe the pope is infallible when he officially speaks on matters of faith and morals. However, this doesn’t mean he’s perfect in everything, but they trust that when it comes to doctrine, God guides him to reveal the truth.

Why Do Catholics Call Priests ‘Father’?

priest during mass
Image Credit: Rob Birkbeck / Lightstock.com

Catholics refer to priests as “Father” because they see them as spiritual leaders who guide their community with the teachings and word of God, much like a father guides a family. Priests offer support, guidance, and teachings that help people enhance and grow in faith.

Why Do Catholics Say the Rosary?

Man hands praaying holding a beads rosary with Jesus Christ in the cross or Crucifix
Image credit: StockPhotosArt / Shutterstock.com

While not mentioned in the Bible, Catholics choose to say the Rosary as a form of prayer and meditation that reflects on key events in the lives of Jesus Christ and the Virgin Mary. Quietly reciting the rosary helps deepen our connection with God through repetitive prayers and meditative reflection on the Mysteries of the Rosary, which include the Joyful, Sorrowful, Glorious, and Luminous Mysteries. By reciting the Rosary, Catholics seek to strengthen their faith, seek intercession from Mary, and foster a closer relationship with God.

Just Why?

I dont know what to say. Confused senior woman feeling embarrassed about ambiguous question, having doubts, no idea, being clueless uncertain.
Image credit: Andrii Iemelianenko / Shutterstock.com

Some of these traditions might sound very confusing and complicated for others, but every one of them carries a deeper spiritual significance based on faith, history, and the concept of growing closer to God. Whether be it the sign of the cross or the Eucharist, every practice is done for living one’s faith meaningfully.

More From Hope No Matter What

Funeral, sad and woman with flower on coffin after loss of a loved one, family or friend. Grief, death and young female putting a rose on casket in church
Image Credit: PeopleImages.com – Yuri A / Shutterstock.com

15 Myths People Misunderstand About the Afterlife

after life gates of heaven the door is jesus
Image Credit: Bas van den Eijkhof / Lightstock.com

12 Spiritual Myths That Sound Good but Go Against Scripture

Thoughtful man close up portrait pensive businessman think deep thoughts dreaming guy ceo executive entrepreneur look away consider thinking
Image Credit: MAYA LAB / Shutterstock.com

19 Facts About the Book of Revelation

An older man perhaps a scribe or prophet writes while in a cave , John the apostle - revelation
Image Credit: FootageFoundHere / Lightstock.com

14 Truths the Bible Teaches Us About Hell

man standing on a bible burning bridge
Image Credit: KevinCarden / Lightstock.com

14 Truths the Bible Teaches Us About Hell

+ posts

Jannah is a dedicated Christian content writer with growing experience, driven by her love for sharing the message of faith. She brings dedication and passion to every piece she writes, drawing from her background as a former lector. Jannah is committed to creating meaningful and inspiring content that reflects her Christian values.

Leave a Comment