FInal wihtout Celeste sadly ): Flashcards
Pastoral Letters
Letters written by bishops or popes to clergy and laity within their dioceses or the entire Church. They offer guidance on matters of faith, morals, and pastoral practice.
Judaizers
Early Christians who taught that Christians must observe the Mosaic Law, particularly the practices of circumcision and dietary laws, to be saved.
Justification
To make righteous
Parousia
The second coming of Christ at the end of time, when He will judge the living and the dead and establish His kingdom in its fullness.
Fruit of the Spirit
The virtues produced in Christians by the Holy Spirit, as listed in Galatians 5:22-23: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.
Pseudonymous
A work written under a false name. In biblical studies, it refers to certain writings attributed to an apostle or other early Christian figures but actually written by others.
Asceticism
A lifestyle characterized by abstinence from worldly pleasures and the practice of self-discipline, often for spiritual reasons.
Righteousness
The state of being morally right or justifiable. In Catholicism, it is often synonymous with holiness and living in accordance with God’s will.
Gnoscitsm
An ancient heresy that taught salvation through secret knowledge (gnosis) and viewed the material world as evil, created by a lesser deity.
Day of Atonement
Also known as Yom Kippur, it is a Jewish holy day dedicated to repentance and atonement for sins. In Christianity, it prefigures Christ’s atonement for the sins of humanity.
Doctrine
The official teachings of the Church, which all Catholics are required to believe. These teachings are derived from Scripture, Tradition, and the Magisterium (the Church’s teaching authority).
Epistle
A letter, particularly those found in the New Testament written by apostles such as Paul, Peter, James, John, and Jude, addressing early Christian communities and their issues.
Docetism
An early Christian Heresy that claimed Jesus only seemed to be human
Domitian
A Roman emperor (81-96 AD) known for his persecution of Christians.
Eutyhces
An early Christian monk who propagated Monophysitism, the belief that Christ has only one nature, which is divine.
Monophysitism:
The heresy that Christ has only one nature, either divine or a synthesis of divine and human, rather than two distinct natures, divine and human.
Nestorius
An early Christian bishop who taught the heresy that Jesus was two distinct persons, one divine and one human, rather than one person with two natures.
Nicaea
Refers to the First Council of Nicaea (325 AD), the first ecumenical council of the Church, which addressed the Arian heresy and formulated the Nicene Creed.
St. Athanasius
A Church Father and bishop of Alexandria known for his defense against Arianism and his role in the formulation of the Nicene Creed.
St. Augustine of Hippo:
An influential Church Father and theologian whose writings, including “Confessions” and “City of God,” shaped Western Christianity and philosophy.
St. Cyril of Alexandria
A Church Father known for his role in the Council of Ephesus (431 AD) and his defense of the title Theotokos for Mary, affirming the unity of Christ’s divine and human natures.
St. Irenaeus of Lyons
An early Church Father known for his work “Against Heresies,” which combated Gnosticism and emphasized the continuity of Christian teaching.
Antichrist
A figure who appears at the end of time to deceive and lead people away from God. In Catholic eschatology, it refers to any force or person opposing Christ and His Church.
Pantokrator
A Greek term meaning “Almighty” or “All-powerful,” often used in Christian iconography to depict Christ as the ruler of the universe.
Ecumenical Council:
A gathering of bishops from the entire Church, convened to discuss and resolve issues of doctrine, administration, and discipline. The decisions of these councils are considered authoritative.
Apologist
A defender of the Christian faith through reasoned arguments. Early Christian apologists wrote works defending Christianity against pagan and Jewish critics.
Theotokos
A Greek term meaning “God-bearer” or “Mother of God,” used to describe the Virgin Mary as the mother of Jesus Christ, who is both God and man.
Vulgate
The Latin translation of the Bible completed by St. Jerome in the late 4th century, which became the standard Bible for the Western Church.
Contrition
Sincere remorse for having sinned, coupled with the resolution to avoid sinning in the future. It is a necessary component of the sacrament of reconciliation.
Concordance
An alphabetical list of the principal words used in a book, especially the Bible, with their immediate contexts.
Eucharist
The sacrament in which bread and wine are consecrated and become the Body and Blood of Christ, commemorating the Last Supper and the sacrifice of Christ on the cross.
Sanctify
To make holy or set apart as sacred. In Catholic theology, it refers to the process of becoming more like Christ through the action of the Holy Spirit.
Begotten
Refers to the unique relationship between God the Father and Jesus Christ, His Son, who is not created but eternally begotten, sharing the same divine nature.
Homoousios
A Greek term meaning “of the same substance” or “consubstantial.” It is used in the Nicene Creed to affirm that Jesus Christ is of the same substance as God the Father, countering Arianism.
Apologist
A defender of the Christian faith through reasoned arguments. Early Christian apologists wrote works defending Christianity against pagan and Jewish critics, explaining and justifying Christian beliefs and practices.
Apostolic Succession:
The uninterrupted transmission of spiritual authority from the apostles through successive popes and bishops, taught by the Catholic Church to be necessary for valid sacraments and true teaching authority.
Charism
A special gift or grace of the Holy Spirit given to individuals for the good of the Church and the world, to help them live out their Christian vocation or to serve the Church’s mission.
Deposit of Faith
The body of revealed truth in the Scriptures and Sacred Tradition entrusted by Christ to the Apostles and, through them, to the entire Church.
Magisterium
The teaching authority of the Catholic Church, vested in the pope and the bishops in communion with him, responsible for interpreting and preserving the truths of the faith.
Martyrdom
The suffering of death because of adherence to the Christian faith and witness to Christ. Martyrs are considered saints and witnesses to the faith.
Pentecost
The event described in Acts 2, when the Holy Spirit descended upon the apostles, enabling them to speak in different languages and begin their public ministry. It is celebrated 50 days after Easter and is considered the “birthday” of the Church.
Pope
The Bishop of Rome and the leader of the worldwide Catholic Church. He is considered the successor of St. Peter, whom Catholics believe was appointed by Christ as the head of His apostles.
Presbyter
An elder or priest in the early Church. In modern usage, it generally refers to a priest, especially one who works with a bishop to serve a local church.
Sacred Tradition
The living transmission of the message of the Gospel in the Church, handed down from the apostles through their successors, the bishops, along with Sacred Scripture, forming the Deposit of Faith.
Christendom
The collective term for the worldwide community of Christians, historically referring to the medieval and early modern period when the Christian Church and state were closely intertwined.
Doctor of the Church
A title given by the Catholic Church to saints whose writings and teachings are of great importance for understanding Christian doctrine and practice. They are recognized for their significant contributions to theology and doctrine.
Ecumenical Council
A formal assembly of bishops from the entire Church convened to discuss and resolve issues of doctrine, administration, and practice. Decisions made in ecumenical councils are considered binding for the whole Church.
Father of the Church
Early Christian theologians and writers recognized for their significant contributions to the development of Christian doctrine and practice. They are often classified into Greek (Eastern) and Latin (Western) Fathers.
Feudalism
A social, economic, and political system that dominated medieval Europe, characterized by the exchange of land for military service and loyalty between lords and vassals.
Hermit
A person who lives in solitude, often for religious reasons, dedicating themselves to prayer, contemplation, and asceticism, sometimes forming the early model for monastic life.
Iconoclasm
The rejection or destruction of religious images and icons, often associated with certain periods in Byzantine history when there were significant disputes over the use of religious images.
Mohammed
The founder of Islam, regarded by Muslims as the last and greatest prophet, who received revelations from God (Allah) that form the basis of the Quran.
Papal Bull
A formal decree or charter issued by the pope. Named after the lead seal (bulla) attached to the document to authenticate it.
Papal States:
Territories in central Italy that were under the direct sovereign rule of the pope from the 8th century until 1870, when they were annexed by the Kingdom of Italy.
Recount a concise and accurate summary of Paul’s conversion experience to Christianity, from his approach to Damascus to his baptism.
Saul, a fervent persecutor of Christians, was traveling to Damascus with the intention of arresting followers of Jesus. As he neared Damascus, a bright light from heaven suddenly shone around him, causing him to fall to the ground. He heard a voice saying, “Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting me?” Saul asked, “Who are you, Lord?” The voice responded, “I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting.”
Blinded by the light, Saul was led by his companions into Damascus. For three days, he was blind and did not eat or drink. In Damascus, there was a disciple named Ananias. The Lord spoke to Ananias in a vision, instructing him to go to Saul. Despite his initial fear due to Saul’s reputation, Ananias obeyed.
Ananias found Saul, laid his hands on him, and said, “Brother Saul, the Lord Jesus, who appeared to you on the road, has sent me so that you may regain your sight and be filled with the Holy Spirit.” Immediately, something like scales fell from Saul’s eyes, and he regained his sight. He then rose and was baptized, marking his conversion to Christianity.
Explain the types of challenges the early Christian community was experiencing in Corinth. How did Paul respond to those challenges in his letters to that community?
Challenge: The Corinthian church was divided into factions, with members claiming allegiance to different leaders (Paul, Apollos, Cephas, or Christ).
Paul’s Response: Paul urged the Corinthians to be united in mind and judgment, emphasizing that Christ is not divided and that the different leaders are merely servants through whom they believed. He reminded them that their allegiance should be to Christ alone
Challenge: The community faced significant moral issues, including a case of sexual immorality where a man was living with his stepmother, and broader questions about marriage and celibacy.
Paul’s Response: Paul condemned the immoral behavior and instructed the community to expel the man involved in the immoral relationship to save his spirit and protect the integrity of the church (1 Corinthians 5:1-13). He also provided detailed guidance on issues related to marriage, celibacy, and sexual ethics, promoting a lifestyle that honors God (1 Corinthians 7).
Why is Paul called “The Apostle to the Gentiles?” Explain the significance of his missionary work for the early Church.
Paul is called “The Apostle to the Gentiles” because his primary mission and ministry were directed toward spreading the Christian gospel to non-Jewish people. Expansion of Christianity: Paul expanded christianity by universalizing it to everyone other than just Jews. By emphasizing salvation, all ppl were able to be Christians. He also established churches in major urban centers, which attracted more peopple.
Write a brief biography of St. Paul. Include his educational and religious background, his conversion, and his missionary journeys.
- Born in tarsus in 5 ad
- He had Religious backgrounds
- He was a persecuted Christians then became one after he met JEsus
- He was then sent to spread the word by starting 3 missionary journeys.
- He died in Rome around 64 ad
Write a brief analysis of Paul’s Letter to the Philippians. Include its historical context, possible places of origin, and major themes.
This letter was written during his imprisonment in ROme. His letter addresses the Christian community in Phillipi. Paul shows his gratitude for them as he urges them to rejoice. THe central theme is humility which is shown through Christ Hymn. Paul thanks them for their financial support as they have sent multiple gifts to aid his ministry and reaffirms them of God’s provision.
Imagine that you are Paul writing to one of the churches he founded. A conflict has come to your attention in that church concerning Christians who are arguing about money. Write a brief letter to them that explains how they should act and treat one another. Propose a resolution to the conflict that draws on Paul’s theological insights that you have studied in this chapter.
- Urge them to follow principles
- Seek Unity and Humility, do nothing out of selfishness
- practice generosity, those who should be blessed with more should give
- Resolve conflicts peacefully
What are the three primary ways in which Jesus Christ is present in the Church?
Describe each in as much detail as you can, using concrete examples. Which of these ways do you find to be most meaningful for your own life of faith? Why?
Mass
- In matthew Jesus promised to be there when people gather In his name
- Jesus’ presence is experiences through the sacraments
Word of God
- Lectio Divina, allows us to listen to God
- We encounter Christ through scripture.
In the person of the Priest
-Preist consecrates the bread and wine acting in the person of Christ to bring the real presence of Christ in the Eucharist
- His pastoral care is a reflection of Christ’s nature
List five titles for Jesus that are found in the New Testament. For each title you choose, explain what truth it reveals about Jesus. Which of these five titles do you personally find to be most meaningful or profound? Why?
Son of God- this title emphasizes his relationship to the Father
Son of Man- This title is used to highlight his identity with humanity
Lamb of God- Jesus is the sacrificial lamb who takes away sin
Messiah- This title affirms Jesus as the anointed one
Emmanuel- This signifies the incarnation of Jesus
Describe the three stages of development in the New Testament canon.
Teachings: This stage shows Jesus during his ministry times where he taught people
Oral: Follows Jesus after his ascension, where his apostles spread the word of through
Writing: Because a lot of varients started to form, they started writing it down.
Describe at least three reasons for the Roman persecution of Christians?
- Refusal to worship the Roman God and Emperors
- They didn’t believe that Jesus Christ was the only Salvation.
- Early Christians were subjected to a lot of hate from many false hate rumors that were spread.
Why did the Church grow and thrive despite the persecution of Christians in the Roman Empire
The early Christians were known for their strong sense of community. They provided needs for their members including care for the poor, widows and orphans.
How did Peter become the first Pope, the Bishop of Rome?
He became the first bishop bc he was recognized by Jesus to be the leader of the Aposltes
St Ignatius of Antioch
He helped develop the early church by advocating for the role of the Bishop.
He fought against Heresies such as Deocetism.
He promoted the unity of the Church urging believers to remain in close communion with their Bishops.
He embraced his martyrdom as a testimony of faith, inspiring others to remain steadfast in their beliefs despite persecution
Describe the lay investiture crisis, and explain why it posed a problem for the Church.
The lay investiture crisis was a conflict in the 11th and 12th centuries over who had the authority to appoint bishops and abbots: the Church or secular rulers. This posed a problem because it allowed kings and emperors to control church positions, undermining the Church’s spiritual authority and leading to corruption and nepotism. Secular leaders often appointed church officials based on political loyalty rather than spiritual qualifications. The conflict, notably between Pope Gregory VII and Emperor Henry IV, led to significant tensions and was partially resolved by the Concordat of Worms in 1122, which established that the Church would appoint bishops while allowing secular leaders some influence.
Describe the three ways the Church responded to the fall of the Roman Empire in the West.
Missionary Work, The church sent missionaries to convert the barbarian tribes into Christians
Church State Relationships, The Church assumed a greater role in governance and administration, stepping into the power vacuum left by the collapse of Roman authority.
The church responded by encouraging monastic communities as Europe was fragmented, the monastic communities provided a sense of stability.
What is the role of a monastic rule in a religious community?
The role of a monastic rule in a religious community is to provide a structured framework that guides the daily life and spiritual practice of its members. It ensures a balanced routine of prayer, work, and study, fostering both personal and communal growth. By setting clear expectations for behavior and interactions, the rule promotes unity, harmony, and moral integrity within the community. It emphasizes the importance of spiritual disciplines, such as regular prayer and worship, and encourages members to live out their religious values through acts of service and charity. Additionally, the rule helps maintain self-sufficiency through guidelines on managing resources and work, ensuring that the community can sustain itself while remaining focused on its spiritual mission. Overall, a monastic rule is crucial for creating an environment where members can deepen their faith and live out their religious commitments in a supportive and structured setting.
