Chapter 1: The Church and the Sacramental Economy of Salvation

Vocabulary flashcards covering the key terms, Catholic dogmas, offices, grace types, and sacramental dimensions from Chapter 1.

Sacraments (St. Augustine Definition)

Described by St. Augustine as visible signs of invisible grace.

Incarnation

The event in which the Son of God assumed human nature for our salvation to exist as true God and true man.

Hypostatic Union

The union of two natures, human and divine, in the one Divine Person of Jesus Christ.

Sacramental Economy

The system by which Christ makes himself and his saving graces present on earth through the sacraments and the Church's liturgy together.

Efficacious

Capable of producing a desired effect, bringing about what it signifies.

Church (Universal Sacrament of Salvation)

The visible sign and channel of grace that makes the saving action of Jesus present to the whole human race.

Communion of Saints

The union of spiritual goods and fellowship that includes the Church on earth, in Purgatory, and in heaven.

Human Solidarity

A concern for all who suffer, recognizing all people as part of the human family.

Priestly Mission

The office of the People of God to offer oneself to God in worship and help others grow in holiness.

Prophetic Mission

The office of the People of God to witness to Christ through words, actions, and example.

Kingly Mission

The office of the People of God to put the needs of others before one's own.

Grace

A sharing in the actual life and love of the Trinity; a gift from God that is never earned.

Sanctifying Grace

The type of grace that heals human nature wounded by sin and gives a share in divine life.

Actual Grace

Divine help provided by God to do good beyond our ordinary power.

Sacraments (CCC 1131 Definition)

Efficacious signs of grace, instituted by Christ and entrusted to the Church, by which divine life is dispensed to us.

Memorial

The dimension of a sacrament recognizing that God is present now and has acted for all in the past.

Celebration

A Church-approved ritual of worship and thanksgiving.

Communion

A real encounter of union with Christ, the Church, and humanity.

Transformation

The dimension of a sacrament wherein grace empowers believers to become holy and minister to others.