Roman Catholic Church

Definition

The Roman Catholic Church is the largest Christian church and one of the oldest religious institutions in the world. In the context of US history, it played a significant role in European colonization and cultural development of America.

Related terms

Papacy: The office or authority of the Pope, who serves as the head of the Roman Catholic Church.

Reformation: A 16th-century movement for religious reform, leading to the founding of new Christian churches separate from the Pope's authority.

Spanish Missions in California: A series of religious outposts established by Spanish Catholics to spread Christianity among local Native Americans during colonial times.