From the cradle of Catholic theology, the question “Why are we here?” is not just a philosophical inquiry but a profound journey into the heart of human purpose and divine intention. Catholics believe that the essence of our existence is rooted in the love of God, who, in His infinite wisdom and benevolence, decided to share His divine life with us.
Firstly, the Catholic faith teaches that we are here because God created us out of love. The Catechism of the Catholic Church eloquently puts it as part of “a plan of sheer goodness” where man is made to participate in the blessed life of God (CCC 1). This foundational belief suggests that our primary purpose is to know, love, and serve God, echoing the simplicity and depth of the Baltimore Catechism’s lesson: “God made us to know Him, to love Him, and to serve Him in this world, and to be happy with Him forever in the next.”
Being created in the “image and likeness of God” (Genesis 1:26-27), humans are endowed with intellect, free will, and the capacity to love, mirroring divine attributes. This divine image bestows upon us the responsibility of stewardship over creation. We are to care for the earth as a reflection of God’s own care, cultivating it with respect and love, acknowledging our role as caretakers in God’s grand design.
The narrative of human existence also includes the story of salvation. After the original sin, redemption was necessary, and through Jesus Christ’s life, death, and resurrection, humanity was offered a path back to God. We are here to accept this gift of salvation, to live according to Christ’s teachings, and to grow in sanctity, preparing ourselves for eternal life.
Moreover, life from a Catholic perspective is inherently communal. The Church is seen as the Body of Christ, where communal worship, service, and mutual support flourish. This communal aspect underscores our purpose to build and live in communion, both with God and with each other, aiming for the ultimate communion in heaven – the Beatific Vision.
Each person has a unique vocation or call within this communal life, contributing to the mission of the Church through personal sanctification. Whether through marriage, priesthood, religious life, or the single state, every Catholic is invited to live out the Gospel, engage in acts of mercy, and spread the message of Christ’s love.
In summary, from a Catholic viewpoint, we are here to engage in a relationship with God, to steward His creation, to partake in the redemption offered through Christ, to live in community, and to prepare for eternity. This purpose is not just individual but collective, weaving through every aspect of human life, guiding us towards a life of holiness, service, and love, all in anticipation of eternal communion with the Divine.
