Katolik

Katolik is the term used in Indonesian and Malay languages to denote Catholic or Catholics, especially the Roman Catholic Church. It derives from the Greek katholikos meaning universal. Catholicism refers to the Christian tradition in communion with the Pope in Rome.

The Catholic Church traces its origins to Jesus and the Apostles and regards itself as the universal church founded by Christ. It is structured hierarchically, with the Pope at the top, followed by bishops, priests, and deacons. The Church includes the Latin Rite (Roman Catholic) and 23 Eastern Catholic Churches in communion with Rome.

Core beliefs include the Trinity, the incarnation, and the resurrection. The seven sacraments mark key moments in life: baptism, Eucharist, confirmation, reconciliation, anointing of the sick, holy matrimony, and holy orders. Mass or the Eucharist is central to worship.

Liturgy varies by rite; the Latin Rite is the largest and uses vernacular languages after Vatican II; Eastern Catholic Churches preserve distinct liturgical traditions such as the Byzantine. The Church also emphasizes devotion to Mary and the saints and upholds Catholic social teaching.

History and reach: The Catholic Church developed through early Christianity, faced the East–West Schism in 1054 and the Protestant Reformation in the 16th century, and participated in reforms from the Second Vatican Council (1962–1965). Today it is one of the world's largest religious bodies with adherents worldwide.