Church Flashcards
What is the Greek word for church?
edesia
Edesia means assembly or gathering together.
What does the term ‘church’ with a small ‘d’ refer to?
the building where Christians come to pray
What does the term ‘Church’ with a capital ‘C’ refer to?
all believers gathered together
What are the four marks of the Church according to the Nicene Creed?
- one
- holy
- catholic
- apostolic
Why is the Church considered one?
- because of its source, the Holy Trinity
- because of its founder, Jesus Christ
- because of its ‘soul’, the Holy Spirit
Who is the source of all holiness in the Church?
Jesus
How does the Church make people holy?
- through its teaching
- through prayer and worship
- through good works
What does ‘catholic’ mean in the context of the Church?
universal or whole
What is the Church’s task according to the concept of being catholic?
to reach out to the whole world with the message of Jesus
What does it mean for the Church to be apostolic?
- founded by Jesus Christ
- authority given to his apostles
- faith preserved, taught, and handed on by the apostles
Who was entrusted with special authority by Jesus to act as his representative on earth?
St Peter, the first Pope and Bishop of Rome
True or False: The Church is considered a visible sign of holiness.
True
What is the Church described as in the New Testament?
The body of Christ
Especially emphasized by Saint Paul in his first letter to the Corinthians (1 Corinthians 12:27)
How do Catholics view themselves in relation to Jesus?
As the physical form of Jesus on earth
They believe they must continue his physical work, ministering help and teaching.
What does the concept of the Church being the body of Christ imply about Jesus’ work?
Jesus’ work continues through his followers
His work did not end with his death.
How does each person within the Church contribute?
Each person has a different talent for the good of the Church
Similar to how each part of a body has a different function.
How do Christians become part of the Catholic Church?
Through baptism
This integrates them into the Body of Christ.
What do Catholics believe they receive during the Eucharist?
The body of Christ
They believe sharing the consecrated host at communion strengthens their unity.
What does the saying ‘Outside the Church there is no salvation’ imply?
It suggests that the Church provides a way to holiness and salvation
It does not mean non-Catholics are condemned.
What is the significance of John 14:6 in relation to salvation?
‘I am the way, and the truth, and the life; no one comes to the Father, but by me.’
This reflects the Church’s teaching on salvation.
What can be said about those who have never heard the Gospel?
They may achieve salvation if they live according to their conscience
These individuals are sometimes referred to as anonymous Christians.
How does God reach people with His grace?
In ways that we cannot know or understand
This suggests God’s grace is universal.
What does Saint Teresa of Avila’s prayer emphasize about Christians?
Christ has no body now on earth but yours
It highlights the active role of Christians as the hands and feet of Christ.
What is Pope Francis’ stance on the salvation of Atheists?
God will ‘forgive’ Atheists if they behave morally and live to their consciences
This aligns with the concept of salvation outside the Church.
How is Mary often referred to by Catholics?
‘Our Lady’
This title emphasizes her special role and honor in the Catholic Church.
What is the significance of Mary in relation to Jesus?
Without Mary, there would be no Jesus, no Incarnation, and therefore no salvation.
Mary is considered essential in the Christian belief of salvation.
What does Mary’s acceptance of her role as mother of Christ demonstrate?
Mary is a true disciple and a role model for Christians.
Her willingness to accept God’s will reflects the ideal of discipleship.
What characteristic of Mary showcases her faith?
Total faith in God and her son.
She did not question God’s will even when told she would have a child as a virgin.
What does Mary’s dedication represent for Christians?
Total self-giving and commitment to God.
Mary exemplifies how Christians should dedicate their lives to God.
Fill in the blank: Mary is often called ______ by Catholics.
‘Our Lady’
True or False: Mary deserted her son at the foot of the cross.
False
Mary remained one of the few followers of Jesus until his crucifixion.
How do Catholic churches typically honor Mary?
By having a statue of Mary and showing special devotion to her.
This practice reflects her significance in the Catholic faith.
