According to Encyclopedia Britannica, Roman Catholicism is the largest single Christian denomination in the world, characterized by its adherence to the authority of the pope, who is considered by Catholics to be the successor of Saint Peter, the Apostle. Roman Catholicism traces its origins to the early Christian community founded by Jesus Christ and his apostles in the 1st century AD. Over time, it developed distinct theological, liturgical, and organizational structures.
Key beliefs of Roman Catholicism include the doctrines of the Trinity (the belief in one God in three persons: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit), the divinity of Jesus Christ, the authority of Scripture and tradition, the sacraments (especially the Eucharist), the Virgin Mary's perpetual virginity and immaculate conception, and the doctrine of purgatory.
The Catholic Church is organized hierarchically, with the pope as the supreme authority and bishops as his successors overseeing local churches (dioceses) around the world. The Roman Catholic Church also has a rich tradition of theology, philosophy, art, architecture, and social teachings.
Encyclopedia Britannica notes that Roman Catholicism has played a significant role in the development of Western civilization, influencing art, culture, law, ethics, and politics throughout history.
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