Comprehensive Guide to the Catholic Church: Unity, Holiness, Catholicity, and Apostolic Foundations

Creed

A statement or profession of faith that summarizes core Christian beliefs.

Ecumenical Council

A worldwide meeting of bishops to discuss and resolve Church issues.

Lectionary

The collection of Scripture readings and psalms used for Mass throughout the year.

Heresy

A false or untrue teaching that contradicts the Church's core beliefs.

Schism

A split or division within the Church community.

Martin Luther

Began the Protestant Reformation, which caused a schism from the Catholic Church.

Nicene Creed

Profession of faith developed at the Councils of Nicaea and Constantinople; unites all Catholics.

Apostles' Creed

Early statement of faith summarizing the Apostles' teachings.

Unity vs. Division

Unity means sharing the same faith and sacraments; division means separation (disagreement or break in communion).

Primary source of Church unity

The Blessed Trinity (Father, Son, Holy Spirit).

Conversion

Turning one's heart toward God; opening your life to Jesus.

Saint

A person who has been transformed by God's grace and now lives in full union with Him in Heaven.

Holiness

Living in a way that reflects God's love through moral goodness and service.

Grace

The free, undeserved gift from God that helps us respond to His call and live as His children.

Two dimensions of the Church

Human and Divine.

3 ways to cooperate with grace (3 S's)

Scripture, Sacraments, Service.

Immaculate Conception

Mary conceived without sin.

Annunciation

Angel Gabriel tells Mary she will bear Jesus.

Assumption

Mary is taken body and soul into Heaven.

Canonized Saints

Inspire us by their example of holiness and faithfulness.

Catholic

Means 'universal'; open to all people everywhere.

Evangelization

Spreading the Good News of Jesus through words and actions; everyone is called to evangelize.

Inculturation

Adapting the Gospel into different cultures while staying faithful to its truth.

Fulton Sheen

Used technology (radio and TV) to evangelize.

Laity

All members of the Church who are not clergy; called to spread the Gospel in everyday life.

Deposit of Faith

The full body of Church teaching (Scripture + Tradition) passed down by the Apostles.

Apostolate

The specific way each Christian shares in the Church's mission.

Apostolic Succession

The unbroken passing down of authority from the Apostles to bishops.

Mission of the Church

Continue Jesus' mission by revealing God's presence and saving actions in the world.

Domestic Church

The family; called the 'Church in miniature.'