Catholicism Midterm Study Guide

These flashcards cover key concepts, figures, and teachings from the lecture notes on Catholicism, focusing on Gnosticism, Eusebius, the Trinity, Nostra Aetate, and foundational beliefs and practices in the Church.

Gnosticism

A belief system that holds secret knowledge (Gnosis) essential for salvation and often denies Christ's true humanity.

Eusebius' Hesitation

Eusebius was hesitant about the term 'consubstantial' in the Nicene Creed because it was not found in scripture.

Emperor Constantine

The Roman Emperor who called for the bishops to gather for a council at Nicaea.

Arius' Teaching

Arius taught that the Son is a creature and that there was a time when God was created.

Mystery in Catholic Theology

Divine truth that surpasses human understanding; central mysteries include the Word of God.

Sacrament

An outward sign instituted by Christ that confirms or gives grace; there are 7 sacraments in the Catholic Church.

Cyprian's Foundation of Unity

According to Cyprian, the foundation of the Church's unity is Christ and the Church.

Cyprian's Famous Phrase

'Outside the Church there is no salvation' describes the relationship between the Church and salvation.

Metaphor of Clothing

Cyprian used the metaphor of clothing to indicate that the Church should be seamless and unified.

Consequences of Schisms

Cyprian stated that those who create schisms or separate from the Church do not achieve salvation.

Trinity

The Christian belief in one God existing as three persons: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.

Nostra Aetate's Change for Jews

Nostra Aetate revolutionized the accusation that all Jews were responsible for Christ's death by clarifying that not all are culpable.

Nostra Aetate and Other Faiths

Nostra Aetate recognizes other religions and states followers can attain heaven through their teachings.

Religious Freedom in Nostra Aetate

Nostra Aetate introduced the teaching that truth exists in every culture.

Interfaith Relations

According to Nostra Aetate, interfaith dialogue should focus on universal dignity and mutual respect.

Pastoral Approach Shift

Nostra Aetate represented a shift in Catholic pastoral approach from condemnation to cooperation and dialogue.

Logos

In the Prologue to John's Gospel, Logos refers to the eternal Word who is God and became incarnate as Christ.

Papal Infallibility

The doctrine that the Pope is preserved from error in matters of faith or morals.

Tradition in the Church

Living transmission of the gospel handed on through the ages, encompassing worship and teachings.

Successors of the Apostles

The bishops are considered the successors of the Apostles.

Examples from the Magisterium

Examples include the Nicene Creed and the doctrine of the Immaculate Conception.