Communion of Saints

What Is the Communion of Saints?

The Communion of Saints is the spiritual union of all members of Christ’s Body: Christians on earth, the souls being purified, and the saints in Heaven.

Because all believers are united in Jesus Christ, death does not destroy the bond of love within the Church.

The Communion of Saints reminds us that the Church is larger than what we can see.

“So we being many, are one body in Christ.” — Romans 12:5

The Three States of the Church

The Church Militant

Christians on earth who are still striving to follow Christ and resist sin.

The Church Suffering

The souls in Purgatory who are being purified before entering the fullness of Heaven.

The Church Triumphant

The saints in Heaven who now see God face-to-face and rejoice in His glory.

One Body in Christ

Saint Paul teaches that the Church is the Body of Christ.

In a body, the members are connected to one another.

When one member suffers, others care. When one member is honored, others rejoice.

This unity continues because Christ is the source of the Church’s life.

“Now you are the body of Christ, and members of member.” — 1 Corinthians 12:27

Sharing in Spiritual Goods

The Communion of Saints also means that the faithful share in spiritual goods.

These include faith, prayer, charity, the Sacraments, and the merits of Christ.

Because we are united in Christ, our prayers and acts of love can benefit others.

The Saints in Heaven

The saints in Heaven are not separated from the Church.

They are more alive than ever, fully united to Christ.

Because they love God perfectly, they also love those who belong to Christ.

Catholics believe the saints pray for the Church on earth.

Praying for the Dead

Catholics pray for the faithful departed because love does not end at death.

The Church entrusts the dead to God’s mercy and prays for those being purified.

This practice expresses hope in the Resurrection and trust in God’s mercy.

Asking the Saints for Prayer

Catholics ask the saints to pray for us because they are alive in Christ.

This is similar to asking a fellow Christian on earth to pray for us.

The difference is that the saints in Heaven are perfectly united to God and free from sin.

Their prayers depend entirely on Jesus Christ, the one Savior and Mediator.

Common Misunderstandings

Catholics Do Not Worship Saints

Worship belongs to God alone.

Catholics honor the saints and ask for their prayers, but they do not adore them.

The Saints Do Not Replace Jesus

Jesus Christ is the one Savior and Mediator.

The saints pray through Christ and because of Christ.

Death Does Not Separate Christ’s Body

Those who die in God’s friendship remain united to Christ.

The Communion of Saints Is About Family

The Church is the family of God, united in Christ across Heaven and earth.

Why the Communion of Saints Matters

The Communion of Saints reminds us that we are not alone.

We belong to a spiritual family that includes believers on earth, the souls being purified, and the saints in Heaven.

This doctrine gives hope, strengthens prayer, and deepens our understanding of the Church.

Key Truths About the Communion of Saints

• The Communion of Saints is the union of all members of Christ’s Body.
• The Church includes believers on earth, souls in Purgatory, and saints in Heaven.
• Death does not destroy unity in Christ.
• The faithful share in spiritual goods.
• The saints in Heaven pray for the Church.
• Catholics pray for the faithful departed.
• Catholics honor saints but worship God alone.
• The Communion of Saints reveals the Church as God’s family.

What Does This Mean For Me?

You are part of a much larger spiritual family.

The saints encourage us by their example and help us by their prayers.

The Communion of Saints reminds us that Christian life is never isolated.

In Christ, the Church remains united in faith, hope, charity, and prayer.

Explore the Saints

Continue Learning

Now that you understand the Communion of Saints, the next topic is: Doctors of the Church

Learn about saints whose teaching has greatly helped the whole Church understand the faith.