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A Structured Society
Catholics all over the world are united in the Body of Christ in common belief, morality and worship.
Heart of this unity is Christ,
with a visible government of Bishops and the Pope.
Pope
"Bishop of Rome", visible head of the Church. Administers church affairs. Universal teacher of religious truth.
Cardinals
Chosen by the Pope. Serve as his advisors and help in administering church affairs.
Archbishops
Chief bishops overseeing affairs of the chief diocese in an area (diocese - administrative unit containing many parish churches).
Bishops
Successors to apostolic powers. Appointed by the Pope, with him share major responsibility for preserving truth and unity of belief in the Church. Administer affairs of a diocese.
Parish Priests
Ministers ordained to celebrate Mass, administer Sacraments, preach and teach the word of God. Responsible to the bishop and their parish communities.
Deacons
Responsible to the bishop; ordained to a "ministry of service," especially to preach and baptize.
Lay People
Take part in scripture reading, helping to distribute Eucharist, etc. Advise priest through Parish Council. Participate in the teaching mission of the Church.
Within this structure, many Religious Groups exist:
National Conference of Catholic Bishops - Ecclesiastical organization in which U.S. bishops work together.
U.S. Catholic Conference - Civil corporation in which bishops and other church members act on a large scale.
State Catholic Conferences - Special diocesan needs presented to government, public and private groups.
Religious Communities - Women religious (sisters, nuns) and religious brothers follow vows of poverty, chastity and obedience; serve God through prayer, work in schools, hospitals and missions, etc.
Secular Institutions - Lay people and clerics dedicated to God by vow and who give witness to Christ in secular life.
Social Services - Supervised by Catholic Charities; aid people in need.
Lay Organizations - Such as Knights of Columbus, Catholic Financial, and Catholic Youth organizations. They devote time and energy to serving God and neighbor.