Lumen Gentium

Dogmatic Constitution on the Church

Second Vatican Council; solemnly promulgated by St. Paul VI1964-11-21Current

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Overview

Presents the mystery, structure, mission, and holiness of the Church, including the roles of bishops, clergy, religious, and laity and the place of Mary in the mystery of Christ and the Church.

Why This Document Matters

It is Vatican II's central account of what the Church is and how all the baptized share in her holiness and mission.

Historical Context

Promulgated in the council's third session as the principal Vatican II constitution on ecclesiology.

Authority and Status

Genre: Ecumenical Council Constitution
Authority class: Ecumenical council dogmatic constitution
Juridical force: Doctrinal and pastoral
Current status: Current
Promulgated: 1964-11-21

A dogmatic constitution of an ecumenical council, solemnly promulgated by the pope. It must be interpreted within the whole of Catholic doctrine and with attention to the council's stated intent.

Key Points

ChurchPeople of GodEpiscopateLaity

Major Themes

ChurchPeople of GodEpiscopateLaityUniversal Call to HolinessMary

Related CatholicG33k Resources

Official Text

Lumen Gentium

The official document text is hosted by the Holy See. CatholicG33k provides contextual and educational material but does not reproduce the complete Vatican text here.

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