The Church: A Plan Born in the Heart of the Father

The Eternal Father, out of His perfect wisdom, goodness, and entirely free and mysterious will, created the whole universe. He willed to raise humanity into divine life and, for this, calls all people through His Son. God the Father determined to call those who believe in Christ into the Holy Church. Gradually, a family of God was formed (CCC 759). This community, foreordained from the beginning of the world, is the Church. The world itself was created for the sake of the Church; God’s purpose is the salvation of humanity, which is carried out through the Church. Creation is willed by God and is called the “world.” Likewise, His purpose is salvation, and that is called the “Church” (CCC 760).

The Church Prepared in the Old Covenant (CCC 761)

Among all nations, anyone who fears God and acts righteously is acceptable to Him. As explained in CCC 762, God called Abraham to prepare for the unification of His people and promised that he would become the father of a great nation. The prophets reminded the people of their covenantal responsibilities.

The Church Established in Christ (CCC 763)

Proclaiming the coming of the Kingdom of God, the Lord Messiah initiated His Church. This Kingdom is revealed through Christ’s words, actions, and presence (CCC 764). Until the fullness of the Kingdom is realized, Jesus instituted a structure to remain, forming a community. He chose twelve apostles, appointing Peter as their head (CCC 765). The Church was born primarily from the complete self-giving of Christ, first through the institution of the Holy Eucharist for our salvation, and ultimately on the cross. The “blood and water” that flowed from the side of the crucified Jesus symbolizes the Church’s origin and growth (CCC 766).

The Church Made Manifest by the Holy Spirit (CCC 767)

When the mission entrusted to the Son by the Father was completed, the Holy Spirit was sent on Pentecost to sanctify the Church. To enable the Church to fulfill its mission, the Holy Spirit guides it through diverse hierarchical and charismatic gifts (CCC 768).

The Church Perfected in Glory (CCC 769)

The Church “will only attain its perfection in the heavenly glory” with the glorious return of Christ. Until that day, the Church journeys as a pilgrim through the tribulations of this world and the consolations offered by God.

The People of God (CCC 782)

This people is distinct from all others in religious, racial, ethical, and cultural aspects. It is the People of God. Membership in this people is not by birth but through rebirth from above—through water and the Spirit. Christ (the Messiah) is its head; it is a messianic people. They share in the dignity and freedom of the children of God. Its law is the new commandment to love one another as Christ has loved us. The mission of this people is to be the salt of the earth and the light of the world. Its destiny is the Kingdom of God, which has begun on earth through God’s initiative and will reach its fulfillment at the end of time.

The Church is One, Holy, Catholic, and Apostolic

These four attributes of the Church are inseparably connected and interrelated. It is Christ who, through the Holy Spirit, makes His Church possess these qualities. The Church is called to manifest each of these characteristics (CCC 811). Only through faith can we understand that the Church receives these attributes from its divine source (CCC 812).

The Communion of Saints (CCC 946–962)

The Apostles’ Creed includes “the Holy Catholic Church, the communion of saints.” In essence, what is the Church if not the assembly of all the saints? The communion of saints is the Church. Since all believers form one body, the good of each is shared with the others. This communion has two meanings: the communion in “holy things” (sancta) and the communion among “holy persons” (sancti).

The Sharing of Spiritual Goods

1. Communion in Faith (CCC 949)

2. Communion in the Sacraments (CCC 950)

3. Communion in Charisms or Spiritual Gifts (CCC 951)

4. Communion in Love (CCC 952)

The Union Between the Heavenly and Earthly Church

There are three states of the Church:
When the Lord comes in glory with all His angels, death will be destroyed, and everything will be subjected to Him (CCC 954).

1. We are those on earth, journeying as pilgrims.

2. This communion is strengthened by sharing in spiritual goods.

3. Some are undergoing purification.

4. Others already glorify the Triune God by seeing Him clearly.

Rev. Dr. Thomas Melvettath