Is the Word “Catholic” Biblical?

Reflection Date: May 24, 2026 | Pentecost Sunday 
Daily Readings: Acts 2:1-11; 1 Corinthians 12:3b-7, 12-13; John 20:19-23

Children of God:
Today, many people say that the word “Catholic” is not found in the Bible, but that is not accurate. 

The term “Catholic,” which comes from the Greek word katholikos meaning universal, is deeply rooted in the language of Scripture itself. 

While it may not appear in English translations as the word “Catholic,” its meaning is clearly present in the original Greek texts. 

In Acts 9:31, we find the phrase ekklesia kath’ holēs, which means “the church throughout” or “the universal church.” 

This shows that from the very beginning, the Church was understood as something universal, not limited to one place or group. 

The early Christians did not see themselves as divided communities but as one body spread across different regions. 

People come, people go, but the Church remains. Empires come, empires go, but the Church remains. Institutions come, institutions go, but the Church remains. 

As time went on, this word became a formal way of describing the Church’s universal nature: Catholic.

That is why we can confidently say that the word “Catholic” is indeed Biblical in meaning and origin, and it reminds us that the Church we belong to today continues that same universal mission rooted in Scripture.

In the gospel of John, Jesus appeared to his disciples who were gathered in fear behind closed doors. 

He greeted them with peace and showed them his wounds. 

Then he breathed on them and said, “Receive the Holy Spirit” (John 20:22). 

What can guide us today as we celebrate this gift?

First, the Holy Spirit brings peace that overcomes fear.

Jesus said, “Peace be with you” (John 20:19). 

He spoke these words to disciples who were afraid and uncertain. 

His presence brought calm and assurance in the midst of their anxiety.

The disciples experienced a transformation. 

They moved from hiding to becoming witnesses. 

This change did not come from their own strength but from the Spirit they received. 

Peace became the foundation of their mission.

In our lives, we also experience fear and uncertainty. 

There are moments when we feel overwhelmed or unsure of what to do. 

Yet the Holy Spirit continues to offer peace. 

When we open our hearts, we find the courage to move forward.

The Holy Spirit brings peace that overcomes fear.

Second, the Holy Spirit empowers us to continue Christ’s mission.

Jesus said, “As the Father has sent me, so I send you” (John 20:21). 

He entrusted his disciples with a mission that would continue his work. 

This mission was not limited to them but extended to the whole Church.

The Church has carried this mission through generations. 

Despite challenges and changes, it continues to proclaim the Gospel. 

This is possible because the Spirit remains active and present. 

The mission does not depend on individuals alone.

In our daily lives, we are also part of this mission. 

We may not realize it, but our actions, words, and choices can reflect Christ to others. 

The Spirit empowers us to live with purpose. 

When we cooperate with this grace, we become instruments of God’s work.

The Holy Spirit empowers us to continue Christ’s mission.

As we reflect, we ask ourselves: Do I allow the Holy Spirit to bring peace into my fears and uncertainties? 

Do I see myself as part of the Church’s mission in the world? Do I trust that God continues to work through me despite my limitations?

Children of God:
Pentecost reminds us that the Church is alive because of the Holy Spirit. 

Jesus gave his disciples not only peace but also a mission. 

This gift continues to sustain us today. 

People may come and go, but the Church remains because God remains. 

The Spirit continues to guide, strengthen, and renew.