Catholics direct their worship toward the Holy Trinity: God the Father, God the Son (Jesus Christ), and God the Holy Spirit. This reverence also extends to the Virgin Mary, recognized as the Mother of God, and to other saints acknowledged for their exemplary lives and closeness to God. Catholics believe these saints can intercede on their behalf in prayer. Veneration of Mary and the saints is distinct from the worship due to God alone. For example, Catholics might pray to St. Jude, the patron saint of lost causes, for assistance with a specific difficulty, while reserving ultimate adoration for God.
This understanding of worship is central to Catholic identity and practice. It shapes the liturgy, prayers, and devotional life of believers. Historically, this devotion has inspired countless works of art, music, and literature, deeply influencing Western culture. The emphasis on a communion of saints, both living and deceased, fosters a sense of community and interconnectedness among believers across time and space. This practice aims to connect individuals with a larger spiritual reality and provides a framework for understanding their place within the divine order.