In Best of the Week

Where in the Bible Does it Say ‘Catholic’? (Father Simon Says)

Jake Mooreby Jake Moore

You may wonder where the Bible specifically mentions the word, “Catholic.” Maybe a Protestant has asked you this question and you didn’t know how to respond.

Marcos from Chicago called and asked Fr. Richard Simon about this. Father explained that the concept is in the Gospel of Mark. Jesus instructs you to “go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation,” emphasizing that the gospel is universal. The Greek word “Catholic” means “throughout the whole world” (with “holos” meaning “whole” and “kata” meaning “throughout”). So, “katholikos” translates to “throughout the whole world.” This reinforces Jesus’ message of a universal Church.

Fr. Simon also mentioned that the term “Catholic” was first used around 80-90 A.D. in Antioch to describe the universal Church. The essence of the word “Catholic” is rooted in the idea of reaching out to the entire world.

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Jake Moore

Jake Moore

Jake Moore serves as a Digital Audio Content Producer for Relevant Radio®. He is a graduate of Franciscan University of Steubenville, and is passionate about classic movies, Christian music, young adult ministry, and leading this generation to Christ through compelling media. You can listen to more of his podcasts at relevantradio.com and on the Relevant Radio® app.