The Apocrypha, also known as the Deuterocanonical books, are considered by Catholics to be part of the Bible. They are significant because they provide additional insight into the history and beliefs of the Jewish people during the Second Temple period. They also contain important teachings and stories, such as the story of Hanukkah in 1 Maccabees. The Apocrypha is also used by Catholics to support certain beliefs, such as the doctrine of purgatory.