Module 6: The Birth of the Church (Notes)

Vocabulary flashcards covering key terms and concepts from the notes on The Birth of the Church.

Resurrection

Jesus rose from the dead on the third day, then remained 40 days teaching His disciples before ascending.

Ascension

Jesus ascended into heaven 40 days after the Resurrection.

Pentecost

50 days after Easter (10 days after Ascension); the Holy Spirit descended on the apostles with wind and tongues of fire, ~3,000 baptized; the birthday of the Church.

Birthday of the Church

Pentecost is called the birthday of the Church.

Church

Body of Christ, People of God, and Temple of the Holy Spirit.

Kyriakon

Greek term meaning belonging to the Lord.

ecclesia

Latin term meaning assembly.

Cornerstone

Christ is the cornerstone of the Church; the Church is built on Him.

Mystical Body

The Church viewed as the Body of Christ, a spiritual union.

Spouse (of Christ)

The Church is described as the spouse of Christ.

One (Four Marks)

The Church has one faith, one God, and is under the Pope.

Holy (Four Marks)

The Church is holy, founded by Christ and made holy through the sacraments.

Catholic (Four Marks)

Universal; for all people everywhere.

Apostolic (Four Marks)

Founded on the apostles; authority preserved through apostolic succession.

Magisterium

Teaching authority of bishops in communion with the Pope; interprets Scripture and Tradition.

Papacy

Office of the Pope, bishop of Rome, successor of Peter; Vicar of Christ.

Petrine Doctrine

Christ gave Peter authority; papal authority passes down through succession.

Peter

Leader among the apostles; given special authority; first in the line of papal succession.

Apostolic Succession

Unbroken transmission of authority from the apostles through popes and bishops.

Mt. 16:18

Biblical basis cited for Peter’s authority (Jesus’ name for the church).

St. Clement I

Early Church Father who affirmed papal authority.

St. Ignatius of Antioch

Early Church Father who affirmed papal authority.

St. Irenaeus

Early Church Father who affirmed papal authority.

Leo I

Pope who strengthened papal power.

Gelasius I

Pope who strengthened papal power; taught the principle of two swords.

Two swords

Gelasius’ idea that there are two authorities: spiritual (church) and temporal (state).

Apologists

Defenders of the Christian faith against heresies.

Didache

1st‑century teaching document on morals, worship, and sacraments.

Evangelization

Proclaiming Christ’s life, death, resurrection, and Church to convert others.

Catechesis

Deepening and forming faith; preparing for the sacraments; teaching Christian life.

Kerygma

Proclamation of the Gospel; the basic preaching form.

Liturgy

Public worship of the Church.

Papal authority

Authority of the Pope in governance and teaching.

Aim of the Church

To unite all people with God through teaching, sacraments, and holiness.