Basilica/ Shrine:

Designated as such because of its historical/architectural importance, or specific devotions, these often serve as places of pilgrimage. The best known example in the U.S. is the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception in Washington, D.C.

Cathedral:

The main church of the diocese. This is where the bishop conducts major diocesan ceremonies: ordinations (of priests and deacons) and the blessing of the holy oils on Holy Thursday.

Parish Church:

Where the average layperson attends Mass. Here, the layperson has his or her most immediate contact and association with the Church.

Catholics are allowed to attend Mass in any Catholic church. To help foster community and sense of family, however, it is best for a Catholic to identify with a specific parish usually determined by geographical boundaries. Parish membership gives one a distinct identiy and sense of belonging.

Mission Church:

Faith communities that celebrate the liturgy regularly and meet in a specific place but have no resident pastor or administrator

Chapel:

Specific places in institutions that are used for prayer and worship. They can be in hospitals, colleges, military bases, etc. Mass can be celebrated in a chapel used for services of other denominations or purposes. Attendant spiritual directors, ordained or not, act as chaplains.

Special dispensation must be aquired to marry or be inducted into the Church through a chapel. Most chapels cannot Baptize, and the faithful is directed to a parish.