Catholic or Christian? A Catholic Perspective
Every Catholic is a Christian, but not every Christian is a Catholic.
Who is a Christian?
A Christian is anyone who believes in Jesus Christ as the Son of God and follows His teachings. This includes members of various groups, such as:
- Catholics
- Eastern Orthodox Christians
- Protestants (e.g., Lutherans, Anglicans, Pentecostals, etc.)
Who is a Catholic?
A Catholic is a Christian who belongs to the Catholic Church under the leadership of the Pope in the Vatican. Catholics believe in:
- The seven sacraments
- Both Sacred Scripture and Sacred Tradition
- The real presence of Jesus in the Eucharist
- The intercession of the saints and devotion to Mary
Simple Comparison
| Term | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Christian | Anyone who follows Jesus Christ |
| Catholic | A Christian who belongs to the Catholic Church |
Example
If someone says “I’m a Christian,” they could be Catholic, Orthodox, or Protestant. If someone says “I’m Catholic,” they are identifying as a specific type of Christian — one who follows the teachings of the Catholic Church.
“By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.” – John 13:35