Untitled Flashcards Set

Ecumenical Council

A meeting of bishops and other church authorities to consider and rule on questions of Christian doctrine, administration, discipline, and other matters.

Protestant Reformation

A 16th-century religious, political, intellectual, and cultural upheaval in Europe that challenged the authority of the Catholic Church, leading to the creation of Protestantism and a major split in Western Christianity.

Sacrament

A religious ceremony/tradition that is an effective sign of God’s grace, entrusted in the Church, including baptism, the Eucharist, penance, and others.

Sacrament of Salvation

The Church, seen as both a sign and an instrument of God's saving grace, through which Christ's redemptive work is made present and effective.

Church Hierarchy

The structure of authority in the Church with the Pope at the top, followed by cardinals, archbishops, bishops, priests, deacons, and the laity.

Pope

The top of the Church hierarchy, successor of St. Peter, known as 'Servus servorum dei' (Servant of the servants of God).

Bishop

A church leader responsible for multiple churches and finances, a successor of apostles chosen by the Pope.

Priest

A church leader who serves mass, leads the Church and community, and mentors parishioners.

Deacon

An ordained minister ranking below a priest who assists the priest.

Laity

Regular followers of the Church called to expand it by spreading the Gospel.

Consecrated Life

A permanent state of life recognized by the Church, characterized by a free response to Christ's call, marked by vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience.

Evangelical Counsels

Vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience traditionally embraced by individuals in monastic or religious life.