ECC FINAL

Ecclesiology

The branch of theology that studies the Church, focusing on its nature, mission, structure, and role in salvation history.

The Church

The People of God, the Body of Christ, and the Temple of the Holy Spirit; both a visible institution and a spiritual communion.

Purpose of the Church

To continue Jesus' mission on earth, making salvation and truth available to all people.

Four Marks of the Church

One, Holy, Catholic, and Apostolic; essential characteristics given to the Church by Christ.

The Church is One

The Church is united in faith, sacraments, and leadership; this unity comes from God.

The Church is Holy

The Church is holy because of Christ's presence within it, continually calling its members to holiness.

The Church is Catholic

The Church is universal and open to all, teaching the fullness of Christ’s truth everywhere.

The Church is Apostolic

Built on the foundation of the apostles; apostolic succession preserves the Church’s teachings.

Apostolic Succession

The passing on of authority from the apostles to bishops, preserving the Church's teachings and sacramental authority.

Mission of the Church

To proclaim the Gospel and bring people to salvation; continuing Christ’s work of teaching, sanctifying, and governing.

Body of Christ

Describes the Church as united to Jesus, with all members playing different roles but sharing one faith.

People of God

Emphasizes the Church as a community called by God, where all members share dignity and responsibility.

Temple of the Holy Spirit

Indicates that the Holy Spirit dwells within the Church, guiding, strengthening, and uniting believers.

Hierarchy of the Church

Consists of bishops, priests, and deacons who serve the Church through leadership, teaching, and sacramental ministry.

Role of the Pope

The Bishop of Rome and successor of Saint Peter, serving as the visible head of the Church on earth.

Role of Bishops

Lead local dioceses and ensure faithfulness to apostolic teaching, possessing the fullness of Holy Orders.

Role of Priests

Serve under bishops, leading parishes, administering sacraments, and preaching the Gospel.

Role of Deacons

Serve through charity, preaching, and assisting at liturgy, but do not consecrate the Eucharist.

Laity

Baptized members of the Church who are not ordained clergy or religious, living out the Church’s mission.

Role of the Laity

To bring Christ into the world through their family, work, and society, witnessing faith through actions.

Religious Life

Involves men and women who take vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience, dedicating their lives to God.

Charisms

Gifts given by the Holy Spirit for building up the Church, intended to serve others rather than for personal glory.

Magisterium

The teaching authority of the Church, consisting of the Pope and bishops united with him.

Infallibility

Protection from error when the Pope or bishops formally teach matters of faith and morals under specific conditions.

Communion

Spiritual unity among believers and with God, strengthened through the sacraments, especially the Eucharist.

The Church - Human and Divine

The Church is human because it consists of people; it is divine as it was founded by Christ and guided by the Holy Spirit.

Church's Role in Salvation

The Church is the universal sacrament of salvation, through which Christ offers grace and truth to the world.

Nature of the Church

The Church as a community of believers, characterized by its diverse members and unified purpose.

Spiritual Communion

The deep spiritual connection among members of the Church and their relationship with God.

Visible Institution

The Church as an organized structure with physical elements like buildings and rituals.

Continuity of the Church

The ongoing mission and teachings of the Church that link past, present, and future generations.

Role of Sacraments

Sacraments serve as signs of grace and are vital to the life of the Church and its members.

Baptism

The sacrament that initiates individuals into the Church, signifying the start of their Christian life.

Eucharist

The sacrament of the body and blood of Christ, central to Catholic worship and community life.

Confirmation

The sacrament that strengthens the grace of Baptism and confirms commitment to the Church.

Penance

The sacrament of reconciliation with God, allowing for forgiveness of sins.

Anointing of the Sick

A sacrament that provides grace and comfort to those who are ill.

Holy Orders

The sacrament through which bishops, priests, and deacons are ordained.

Matrimony

The sacrament that unites a man and a woman in a lifelong commitment.

Vocations

Callings to religious or ministerial life within the Church, including ordained ministry, marriage, or consecrated life.

Faith and Reason

The relationship between belief and rational thought, both essential for understanding the Church's teachings.

Spiritual Gifts

Special abilities granted by the Holy Spirit to individuals, enabling them to serve the Church effectively.

Universal Church

The concept of the Church as a global community, transcending cultural and geographical boundaries.

Christian Witness

The act of living one's faith openly and authentically in everyday life.

Missionary Work

Efforts to spread the Gospel and establish the Church in new regions or among different peoples.