Lecture on Church Teachings and Practices

A collection of flashcards covering key terms and definitions related to Church teachings and practices.

Apostolic

One of the marks of the Church, derived from the word apostle, meaning 'having been sent'.

Apostolic Tradition

The sharing of the Good News passed on through the sacrament of Holy Orders to the pope and bishops by the Holy Spirit.

Sacred Scripture

Divinely inspired writings that constitute the Bible, free of error and inspired by the Holy Spirit.

Analogy of Faith

The principle that each statement of belief must be understood in the context of the entire body of faith.

Canon of Scripture

The official collection of inspired books of the Bible, consisting of 46 Old Testament books and 27 New Testament books.

Sacred Tradition

The living transmission of the Gospel message, passed on from the Apostles to the pope and bishops, inspired by the Holy Spirit.

Examples of Sacred Tradition

Creeds, doctrines, hierarchical structure, and the Liturgy.

Dogmas

Infallible and irreformable teachings of the Church.

Indefectibility

The assurance that the Church will always teach the Gospel without error despite the defects of its members.

Infallibility

The gift of the Holy Spirit that protects the pope and bishops from error when proclaiming doctrines related to Christian faith and morals.

Doctrine

Any belief that has the official approval of the Magisterium.

Definitive Doctrine

Teachings not revealed by God but necessary for explaining Divine Revelation, taught infallibly.

Authoritative Doctrines

Teachings not divinely revealed, drawn from the Church’s reflection on Divine Revelation, not taught infallibly.

Examination of Conscience

An honest assessment of how well one has lived God's covenant of love, leading to responsibility for sins.

Contemplation

Wordless prayer where a person's mind and heart rest in God’s goodness and majesty.

Liturgy of the Hours

The prayer of the Church utilizing the scriptures, especially the Psalms, at specific times throughout the day.

Canon Law

The set of laws and regulations identifying structures, practices, and norms for Catholics to assist in their holiness.

Sanctify

Bishops are to be models of holiness for their people.

Govern

The responsibility of bishops to govern their diocese through words and actions.

Teach

The primary pastoral task of bishops as part of their teaching office.

Catechesis

A process of education in the Faith aimed at making young people and adults disciples of Christ.

Pastoral Letter

An open letter by a bishop to his diocese offering instruction or advice regarding a special circumstance.