Understanding the Church

Meaning and Nature of the Church

• In Filipino Catholic culture, "Church" often refers to a physical building for worship.
• People typically identify "the Church" with leaders like bishops, priests, and religious groups (nuns and brothers).
• The term "Church" derives from the Latin Ecclesia and Greek Ekklesia, meaning "to call out of," generally referring to an assembly for religious purposes.
• In Christian context, the Church encompasses the liturgical assembly, local community, and the universal community of believers.
• The Church is understood as the People of God, gathering worldwide, existing in local communities, and realized in liturgical celebrations, particularly the Eucharist.
• The visible aspects of the Church (rites, ceremonies, and laws) direct towards a deeper spiritual and supernatural reality, which connects individuals to the mystical body of Christ.
• Jesus established one Church combining divine and human elements to extend His salvific action through history.

Foundation of the Church

• The Church's origin lies in God’s will, aiming to share divine life with humanity.
• The Holy Spirit is sent to complete Christ's work through the Church.
• Key affirmations:
  • The Church was instituted by Christ, the sole mediator between God and man.
  • The Church continues Christ's divine mission throughout time.

Preparatory Stage of the Church

• God prefigured the Church as the family of God, emphasizing man's social and religious nature from creation.
• Key biblical covenants (Abraham, Moses, David) signify God's initiative in preparing for the Church.
• Each covenant anticipated the coming Church, creating a narrative of salvation history.

Stage of Institution

• Jesus instituted the Church through a series of actions, not a singular event.
• Important landmark events in the Church’s establishment:
  • Election of the Disciples: Initiated a permanent group to support his mission.
  • Election of the Apostles: Jesus selected twelve apostles, representing the new people of God.
  • Primacy of Peter: Established Peter as foundational for the Church's structure, granting him authority.
  • Institution of the Eucharist: Commands the celebration of the Eucharist in memory of Him, serving as spiritual sustenance.
  • Death on the Cross: Seen as the Church's birth; water and blood from Christ symbolize Baptism and Eucharist.
  • Pentecost: Marks the completion of the Church, as the Holy Spirit empowers believers and extends the Church's mission globally.

Jesus Bestowed Sacred Powers

• Jesus empowered the Apostles with sacred responsibilities to carry forth His mission.
• Key powers conferred include:
  • Authority to baptize.
  • Ability to forgive sins.
  • Command to celebrate the Eucharist.
• This divine mission continues with the Church as it serves as the conduit for Christ's presence and teachings.

This quiz explores the meaning and nature of the Church, particularly within the context of Filipino Catholic beliefs. It prompts participants to think beyond the physical building and consider who constitutes the Church's community. Delve into the deeper significance and role of the Church in faith and society.