A recent survey from the PRRI shows that more and more Christians are walking away from their churches, their denominations, or their religion altogether.
This is especially true of Catholics, who are leaving the church in significantly larger numbers than members of other denominations.
Yet, while some people are choosing to walk away, others can’t imagine leaving.
When asked “What do you love about being Catholic?” some devoted Christians had lots of love for the Church they can’t imagine leaving. Here’s what they had to say.
Catholicism is the Fullness of Truth
When asked, “What do you love about being Catholic?” many commenters shared how they believe the Catholic Church has a “fullness of truth” you can’t find anywhere else.
One commenter shared, “Catholicism is truly the fullness of truth where the protestant churches and other religions deviate, Catholicism is the fullness of truth. It is He, the truth, the way and life who established the Church on Peter, the rock.”
Another agreed: “We are the OG Christian religion, prophesied from Old Testament times. We neither worship false prophets, lick stones, pervert the Word of God, nor interpret it by our own will.”
For these Christians, walking away from the Truth is unthinkable.
It Also Offers the Full Experience
In addition to offering the fullness of truth, other Catholics shared how Catholicism offers a more complete, sensory experience than you would be likely to find in other churches. Full of meaning and intentionality, Catholic services contain a little something for everyone.
One commenter explained it this way: “Christianity is like a birthday cake. Protestants have cake, but it’s just cake, nothing else. Catholics have icing, roses, sprinkles, little decorations etc……. We have all these wonderful things to experience will ALL of our human senses. Taste, Smell, Hearing, Touch, Sight. It encompasses the entire human experience.”
Another shared, “I like how spiritually rich the traditions and services are. I remember growing up as a kid, Holy Week was my favourite time of the year, because the special masses were just really beautiful, and our church made an excellent use of the choir and decorations.”
Most Catholics Love Receiving the Eucharist
For many Catholics, receiving the Eucharist is the highlight of every Catholic Mass. This makes sense as the Mass is intentionally centered around receiving the Eucharist.
One commenter shared: “The Eucharist, from several angles. Again, the personal relationship aspect–God wanting a close, loving relationship with each one of us, even though we’ve messed up so many things so many times.”
Many Catholics Appreciate the Universality of the Mass
For those who grew up in the Catholic Church, the familiarity can be incredibly comforting. It doesn’t matter where to go to Mass, whether at your home church or in another city or state, you’re going to find a nearly identical service, making you feel right at home.
One commenter shared, “I like that the Catholic Church is universal; that no matter where I travel, I can enjoy the same service and still feel like I belong.”
Others Appreciate Secrecy During Confession
Many Catholics shared how much they appreciate the benefits of going to regular confession.
One commenter shared, “I love the absolute secrecy from the priest during confession. You can tell him anything and he won’t budge. They won’t judge you at all either.”
Another replied, “Confession is the perfect combination of unlimited forgiveness and having to deal with the consequences of your actions. There are many other things, but that’s what sticks out to me.”
Some Seek a Quiet, Contemplative Prayer Life
For others, the quiet, contemplative prayer life Catholicism teaches is a major win.
Catholic services tend to be more subdued and thoughtful than some of the more outlanding Protestant services, particularly those at megachurches. This offers parishioners additional time to think, pray, and reflect.
Others Love the Tradition
Many Catholics love looking forward to the many traditions the Catholic church is known for.
One commenter shared: “Jesus’ real presence in the Eucharist, the tradition and beauty of the mass, the rosary, the intervention of a family of Saints, Blessed Virgin Mary to intercede and guide. It truly is the light and purpose of my life.”
Many Answered: Everything!
More than any other answer, however, Catholic commenters gave the same answer time and again: Everything!
One commentor shared, “Personally I love everything about Catholicism. I love the tradition, I love the Eucharist, I love adoration and praying the rosary, and I love being able to honor our heavenly mother. I love the meanings behind everything that happens in mass and the symbolism of traditions we do. And most importantly I love God and knowing how much he loves me.”
Another replied, “The deeper you dig into Catholicism, the more it becomes apparent that it is absolutely true. The saints, the dogma, the way scripture is interpreted, the way that human nature is in perfect congruity with everything Catholicism teaches. Catholicism is too perfect to be made up by man.”
15 Common Catholic Church “Facts” Protestants Constantly Get Wrong
Think you know the Catholic Church? Think again.
Despite being the largest Christian denomination in the United States (and the world), much of what people believe about Catholics and the Catholic church simply isn’t true.
Are you guilty of believing any of these 15 Catholic Church myths?
15 Common Catholic Church “Facts” Protestants Constantly Get Wrong
10 Remarkable Catholic Saints Who Changed the Course of History
Whether or not you agree with Catholic teaching, it’s hard to deny: Catholic saints have played a pivotal role in shaping the course of history, leaving a lasting impact on both the Church and the world at large.
These remarkable individuals, through their unwavering faith, selfless acts of charity, and profound teachings, have left an indelible mark on society. Here are 10 remarkable Catholic saints who changed the course of history.
10 Remarkable Catholic Saints Who Changed the Course of History
Brittany Ann is an ECPA bestselling author and founder of Equipping Godly Women and Monetize My Ministry. She’s also a Christian speaker, podcaster, and conference host. Her work has been featured on numerous TV, radio, and online ministries, including CBN, MSN, Christianity Today, Evangelical Alliance, Patheos, Crosswalk, and more.
