If you’ve come this far, whether you’re a member of the Catholic Church or someone just curious about the Church, you’ve most likely heard of the man named Jesus Christ. This page will give a brief summary of who Jesus is, what his story is and why he is so important.
Jesus Christ is the central figure of Christianity and the Son of God. He is believed to be the incarnation of God's Word, who took on human form to redeem humanity from sin and reconcile them with God. The Catholic Church teaches that Jesus is fully divine and fully human, possessing two natures in one person.
Jesus was born of the Virgin Mary through the power of the Holy Spirit. He lived a sinless life and preached the message of God's kingdom, demonstrating love, compassion, and mercy towards all. Jesus performed miracles, such as healing the sick, raising the dead, and feeding thousands. When he was approximately 33 years old, Jesus willingly suffered and died on the cross as a sacrifice for the salvation of humanity. His crucifixion and subsequent resurrection three days later are central to the Catholic faith. The resurrection affirms Jesus' victory over sin and death, providing the hope of eternal life to all who believe in him.
In addition to this, Jesus established the Catholic Church, with Peter as the first Pope, and entrusted it with the mission of continuing his work on earth. Through the sacraments, particularly the Eucharist, Catholics encounter the living presence of Jesus, receiving his grace and participating in his divine life.
In summary, Jesus is not merely a historical figure, but an ongoing, living presence in the Church and the world. He is the source of truth, the model of holiness, and the ultimate savior and redeemer. The Catholic Church encourages its members to follow Jesus' teachings, imitate his virtues, and seek a personal relationship with him.