Roman Catholic Church

The branch of Christianity headed by the pope . The Roman Catholic Church is governed by a hierarchy with the pope at the top and, at the lower levels, bishops and priests . The sacraments of Communion and confession are especially important in the Roman Catholic Church; Catholics also differ from most Protestants in emphasizing veneration of the saints , especially Mary, the mother of Jesus , and seeking the intercession of the saints (praying to them so that they will in turn pray to God). The Roman Catholic Church leadership strongly opposes abortion (see also abortion ) and artificial means of birth control .