Why Do
Catholics…?
A video series with Cardinal Dolan exploring the beautiful "whys" behind the traditions, customs, and practices of our Catholic faith.
10 Episodes · Cardinal DolanLatest Episode
All Episodes
10 Episodes
1:19
Ep. 01
Why Do Catholics…?
Why Do Catholics Genuflect Towards the Tabernacle?
Cardinal Dolan explains the meaning behind the sanctuary lamp — and why Catholics genuflect toward it every time they enter a pew.
1:31
Ep. 02
Why Do Catholics…?
Why Do Catholics Pray for the Dead?
Cardinal Dolan explores the Catholic tradition of praying for the souls of the Faithful Departed and the biblical roots behind this sacred practice.
1:03
Ep. 03
Why Do Catholics…?
Why Do Catholics Pray Every Day?
Cardinal Dolan shares how to weave traditional Catholic prayers naturally into the rhythms of your everyday day.
1:31
Ep. 04
Why Do Catholics…?
Why Do Catholics Have Patron Saints?
Cardinal Dolan explains how every Catholic has a patron saint — and how to choose one if your name isn't already shared with a saint.
1:52
Ep. 05
Why Do Catholics…?
Why Do Catholics Use So Many Candles During Mass?
Cardinal Dolan illuminates why candles hold such deep significance in Catholic life as a symbol of Christ, the Light of the World.
0:54
Ep. 06
Why Do Catholics…?
Why Do Catholics Have a Devotion for Each Month of the Year?
Cardinal Dolan walks through all twelve months and the special devotions from our Catholic faith each one represents.
0:46
Ep. 07
Why Do Catholics…?
Why Do Catholics Have a Devotion for Each Day of the Week?
Cardinal Dolan reveals the special Catholic devotion behind each day of the week — from Sunday through Saturday.
0:50
Ep. 08
Why Do Catholics…?
Why Do Catholics Fast Before Receiving Communion?
Cardinal Dolan explains the history and meaning behind the Eucharistic fast — from the old midnight rule to today's one-hour practice.
0:50
Ep. 09
Why Do Catholics…?
Why Do Catholics Mark Ourselves Before the Gospel?
Cardinal Dolan explains the small triple cross Catholics trace on their forehead, lips, and heart before the Gospel — and how it differs from the Sign of the Cross.
1:45
Ep. 10
Why Do Catholics…?
Why Do Catholics Bless with Holy Water?
Cardinal Dolan traces the ancient roots of holy water and explains why Catholics bless themselves with it upon entering a church.
About the Series
"Why Do Catholics…?" is a video series in which Cardinal Timothy Dolan explores the rich traditions, customs, and spiritual practices that define Catholic life. Each episode takes one of the "whys" of our faith and illuminates its history, meaning, and beauty — for lifelong Catholics and curious newcomers alike.