ECC FINAL

What is Ecclesiology?

The branch of theology that studies the Church. It focuses on the Church’s nature, mission, structure, and role in salvation history.

What is the Church?

The Church is the People of God, the Body of Christ, and the Temple of the Holy Spirit. It is both a visible institution and a spiritual communion.

Why did Jesus establish the Church?

Jesus established the Church to continue His mission on earth. Through the Church, salvation and truth are made available to all people.

What are the Four Marks of the Church?

The Church is One, Holy, Catholic, and Apostolic. These marks describe the essential characteristics given to the Church by Christ.

What does it mean that the Church is One?

The Church is united in faith, sacraments, and leadership. This unity comes from God Himself, who is one.

What does it mean that the Church is Holy?

The Church is holy because Christ is holy and present within it. Even though its members sin, the Church continually calls them to holiness.

What does it mean that the Church is Catholic?

The Church is universal and open to all people. It teaches the fullness of Christ’s truth everywhere and at all times.

What does it mean that the Church is Apostolic?

The Church is built on the foundation of the apostles. Apostolic succession ensures the Church’s teachings remain faithful to Christ.

What is Apostolic Succession?

Apostolic succession is the passing on of authority from the apostles to bishops. This preserves the Church’s teachings and sacramental authority.

What is the mission of the Church?

The mission of the Church is to proclaim the Gospel and bring people to salvation. It continues Christ’s work of teaching, sanctifying, and governing.

What is the Body of Christ?

The Body of Christ describes the Church as united to Jesus. All members have different roles but share one faith and mission.

What does People of God mean?

People of God emphasizes the Church as a community called by God. All members share dignity and responsibility in the Church’s mission.

What is the Temple of the Holy Spirit?

This image shows that the Holy Spirit dwells within the Church. The Spirit guides, strengthens, and unites believers.

What is the hierarchy of the Church?

The hierarchy consists of bishops, priests, and deacons. They serve the Church through leadership, teaching, and sacramental ministry.

What is the role of the Pope?

The Pope is the Bishop of Rome and successor of Saint Peter. He serves as the visible head of the Church on earth.

What is the role of bishops?

Bishops lead local dioceses and ensure the Church remains faithful to apostolic teaching. They have the fullness of the sacrament of Holy Orders.

What is the role of priests?

Priests serve under bishops and lead parishes. They administer sacraments and preach the Gospel.

What is the role of deacons?

Deacons serve through charity, preaching, and assisting at liturgy. They do not consecrate the Eucharist.

What is the laity?

The laity are baptized members who are not ordained clergy or religious. They live out the Church’s mission in everyday life.

What is the role of the laity?

The laity bring Christ into the world through work, family, and society. They witness to faith through daily actions.

What is religious life?

Religious life involves men and women who take vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience. They dedicate their lives fully to God.

What are charisms?

Charisms are gifts given by the Holy Spirit for building up the Church. They are meant to serve others, not personal glory.

What is the Magisterium?

The Magisterium is the teaching authority of the Church. It consists of the Pope and bishops united with him.

What is infallibility?

Infallibility is the protection from error when the Pope or bishops formally teach matters of faith and morals. It applies only under specific conditions.

What is communion?

Communion refers to the spiritual unity among believers and with God. It is strengthened through the sacraments, especially the Eucharist.

Why is the Church both human and divine?

The Church is human because it is made up of people. It is divine because it was founded by Christ and guided by the Holy Spirit.

What is the Church’s role in salvation?

The Church is the universal sacrament of salvation. Through it, Christ offers grace and truth to the world.