Saint Thomas the Apostle Catholic Church

Catholic: (from Greek katholikos, “universal”), the characteristic that, according to ecclesiastical writers since the 2nd century, distinguished the Christian Church at large from local communities or from heretical and schismatic sects. A notable exposition of the term as it had developed during the first three centuries of Christianity was given by St. Cyril of Jerusalem in his Catecheses (348): the church is called catholic on the ground of its worldwide extension, its doctrinal completeness, its adaptation to the needs of men of every kind, and its moral and spiritual perfection (From Encyclopedia Britanica).

Within a few short years of the Resurrection the followers of Jesus began calling themselves "Christians" (Acts 11:26).  By the end of the first century, the word "catholic" - meaning "universal" - was applied to the Church. The idea of different (and sometimes competing) Christian denominations would have been unthinkable to the early Christians, especially in light of Christ's pronouncement on one shepherd and one flock (John 10:15), and his prayer that his disciples remain one (John 17:22).

It was only human weakness and sinfulness that brought about the religious divisions that afflict Christianity today. The Orthodox church drew apart from Rome off and on over several hundred years, finally separating in the eleventh century, and the various Protestant denominations date back no earlier than the sixteenth century. These churches can trace their roots back to Christ only through the Catholic Church.