Central to Catholic doctrine is the conviction that Jesus Christ is the Son of God, the second person of the Holy Trinity, fully divine and fully human. This belief affirms His pre-existence, incarnation through the Virgin Mary, life, ministry, death, resurrection, and ascension into Heaven. He is regarded as the Messiah prophesied in the Old Testament, sent to redeem humanity from sin and reconcile them to God.
This core tenet underpins the entire Catholic faith. It provides the foundation for understanding salvation, the sacraments, and the Church’s role in the world. Historically, this belief has been the subject of extensive theological reflection, resulting in a rich and complex body of teachings defining the nature of Christ and His significance for human history. Understanding this Christological foundation is essential for comprehending Catholic worship, moral teachings, and social engagement.