Katolinen

Katolinen is the Finnish adjective for Catholic, referring to the Catholic Church and its traditions. In Finnish usage it most commonly denotes the Roman Catholic Church, which is in communion with the Pope in Rome, but the term can also relate to the wider Catholic communion that includes the Eastern Catholic Churches, all sharing common doctrines and sacraments.

The Catholic Church traces its origins to the apostolic community and considers itself the continuation of the universal church founded by Jesus Christ. It is led by the Pope, with a global hierarchy of bishops and priests. Central to the faith are the seven sacraments, the Eucharist (Mass) as the principal act of worship, and Catholic moral and social teaching. The church emphasizes apostolic succession, liturgical tradition, and missionary outreach.

Organization and practice: the Catholic Church is organized into particular churches and dioceses; the Roman Rite is the most widely used liturgical tradition, but many Eastern rites are also in full communion with Rome. The pope and bishops govern doctrine and discipline, while local parishes minister to communities through liturgy, catechesis, education, and charitable activities.

Finland: in Finland, katolinen kirkko exists as a minority religious community. It operates as the Catholic Church in Finland, centered on the Diocese of Helsinki, with parishes in several cities and among immigrant communities. Services are conducted in multiple languages, including Finnish, Swedish, and various immigrant languages. The Finnish Catholic community participates in ecumenical dialogue, education, and social and charitable work in cooperation with wider Finnish society.