The Catholic church grew out of the early New Testament church which opened its doors in 32 AD, Acts 2:38 and is known as the apostatized church. When it became known as the Roman Catholic Church it dominated Europe up until the 16th century which then along came the Reformation Movement of which credit is given to Martin Luther for starting it.
It was foretold in Matthew 7:15-16, to beware of false prophets, and Paul wrote in 1 Timothy 4:1-2, “in the latter times some shall depart from the faith”. The practices of this church are listed in the four part articles preceding this Conclusion and the precedent set forth by its dominance
History seems to trace in the 16th century other churches sprang up and grew from the Catholic church dominance. This precedence set forth by this church of its total teachings and beliefs evidently set up the practice set forth as if a Christians oriented church not authorized by God could do this why not others.
Of course because of the Reformation and the Catholic church losing its complete dominance these new countless churches were put together by those who overlooked New Testament teachings.
Catholic churches still are big in the United States and more or less have complete religious dominance in Mexico and down and into South America. It is big in the Philippines and so many other parts of the world.
You can escape from this present accepted staggering amount of unscriptural oriented churches by becoming a member of the New Testament church. Get to understand what the New Testament teaches, become aware of teachings by reading the other articles on this site.
Once your decision to become a member of the New Testament church (the Church of Christ) your comprehension of New Testament teachings starts growing. Add to your growing knowledge by preacher sermons, bible study classes, there is much to learn in the right books and the internet has so many good web sites for articles expressing bible teachings.
A good place to start here is the Introduction. Then read the article, Salvation.
This site has many articles to expand your knowledge and perception to pick the true church.