Theology Final Exam Vocab

Y2S2 - Ms. Mastoros

Disciples

A group of followers of Jesus Christ who were chosen to learn from Him and spread His teachings. They played a key role in the early Christian church and are often referred to as the Twelve Apostles.

Covenant

A promise between God and his people that establishes the terms of their relationship, including obligations and benefits.

New Covenant

The promise made by God to humanity through Jesus Christ, signifying a new relationship characterized by grace and forgiveness, fulfilled through the death and resurrection of Jesus.

Paschal Mystery

Jesus’s life death and resurrection central to Christian faith, representing the salvation offered to humanity.

Real Presence 

The doctrine that Jesus Christ is truly present in the Eucharist, both body and blood, under the appearances of bread and wine, affirming the significance of the sacrament in the life of the Church.

Ecclesiology 

The study of the Church, its nature, structure, and role within Christianity, including its community, governance, and mission.

Papacy 

The office of the Pope as the spiritual leader of the Roman Catholic Church, representing the continuity of apostolic leadership.

Ecumenism 

The movement aimed at promoting unity among Christian denominations, fostering dialogue, and overcoming divisions for a common witness to the gospel.

Magisterium 

The teaching authority of the Catholic Church, responsible for interpreting Scripture and Tradition.

Four Marks of the Church 

One, Holy, Catholic, and Apostolic.

Evangelization 

The process of spreading the Christian gospel by public preaching or personal witness. It involves sharing the message of Jesus Christ to invite others to faith.

Orthodox 

a term used to describe beliefs and practices that are in alignment with established teachings of the Christian faith, particularly in reference to the Eastern Orthodox Church, and not the Catholic Church.

Catechumens 

Individuals preparing for baptism in the Christian faith, undergoing a period of instruction and formation.

OCIA

The Order of Christian Initiation of Adults, a process in the Catholic Church for adults preparing for baptism and full participation in the faith.

Ecumenical Councils 

Church assemblies convened to discuss and resolve issues of doctrine, practice, or discipline in Christianity.

Apostolic Tradition 

The teachings and practices passed down from the apostles through the Church, forming the foundation of Christian faith alongside Scripture.

Heresies

Beliefs or doctrines that deviate from established Church teachings, often considered false or erroneous in the context of Christian faith.

Dogma

An authoritative principle or belief established by the Church as essential to the Christian faith, often defined through ecumenical councils.

Creed 

A formal statement of faith outlining core beliefs in Christianity, typically recited during worship.

Canon

The collection of books and scriptures recognized as authoritative and sacred in the Church, forming the basis of Christian teachings.

Sacred Tradition 

The teachings and practices passed down through generations within the Church, complementing Sacred Scripture and forming an essential part of the Christian faith.

Vulgate  

The Latin translation of the Bible, completed by St. Jerome in the late 4th century, which became the standard text for the Roman Catholic Church.

Monasticism 

A religious way of life characterized by communal living, devotion to prayer, and the renunciation of worldly things, often practiced by monks and nuns.

Asceticism 

A lifestyle characterized by severe self-discipline and abstention from all forms of indulgence, often for religious purposes. (alone)

Justification 

The process by which a person is made deserving of salvation, often understood in Christian theology as being declared righteous before God through faith in Jesus Christ.

Transubstantiation 

The doctrine that during the celebration of the Eucharist, the bread and wine become the actual body and blood of Christ while retaining their appearances.

Evangelical counsels 

The three vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience that are intended to help individuals live a life of greater holiness and commitment to God.