What Is the Church?

What Is the Church?

Many people think of the Church as a building, denomination, or organization.

The Catholic Church teaches something much deeper.

The Church is the family of God, the Body of Christ, and the community of believers founded by Jesus Christ to continue His mission on earth.

The Church exists to proclaim the Gospel, celebrate the sacraments, and lead people to salvation.

“And I say to thee: That thou art Peter; and upon this rock I will build my church.” — Matthew 16:18

Did Jesus Found a Church?

Christ did not simply leave behind a book or a set of teachings.

He established a Church.

Jesus chose Apostles, gave them authority, commissioned them to teach all nations, and promised to remain with them until the end of the world.

The Church is therefore not a human invention but part of God’s plan for salvation.

“Going therefore, teach ye all nations; baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost.” — Matthew 28:19

The Church Is the Body of Christ

Scripture describes the Church as the Body of Christ.

Christ is the Head. Believers are members of His Body.

Just as a body has many parts working together, Christians are united in faith, worship, and mission.

The Church is not merely an organization. It is a living spiritual reality united to Christ.

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

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

The Church Is the Family of God

Through Baptism, Christians become children of God.

The Church becomes our spiritual family.

Within the Church:

• We worship together.
• We pray together.
• We support one another.
• We grow in holiness together.

God did not intend the Christian life to be lived alone.

The Church Is More Than a Building

When Catholics speak about “going to church,” they often mean a church building.

However, the Church itself is the People of God.

Buildings help us gather for worship, but the Church is the community Christ established.

The Church exists wherever believers gather around Christ and His sacraments under the leadership He established.

The Church’s Mission

To Proclaim the Gospel

The Church announces the Good News of Jesus Christ to all nations.

To Make Disciples

The Church teaches believers how to follow Christ faithfully.

To Celebrate the Sacraments

The Church administers the sacraments Christ entrusted to her.

To Lead Souls to Heaven

The ultimate mission of the Church is salvation.

Why Is the Church Necessary?

Many ask: “Can’t I just follow Jesus on my own?”

Every Christian must have a personal relationship with Christ. Yet Christ Himself established a Church.

The Church provides:

• Authentic teaching.
• The sacraments.
• Spiritual guidance.
• Christian fellowship.
• Apostolic authority.

The Church exists because Christ willed that His followers remain united in one faith.

The Church Through History

From the Apostles until today, the Church has continued Christ’s mission.

For two thousand years the Church has:

• Preached the Gospel.
• Celebrated the sacraments.
• Preserved Christian doctrine.
• Produced saints.
• Served the poor.

The Catholic Church traces her history directly to Jesus Christ and the Apostles.

Common Misunderstandings

The Church Is Not Merely a Human Organization

The Church includes human members who are imperfect. Yet the Church herself was established by Christ and is guided by the Holy Spirit.

The Church Is Not Just a Building

The Church is the People of God united to Christ.

The Church Is Not Optional

Jesus founded the Church to continue His saving work in the world.

Why the Church Matters

Without the Church, the Gospel would not have been preserved, the sacraments would not be available, and Christian doctrine would be vulnerable to endless division.

The Church is Christ’s chosen instrument for bringing His truth and grace to the world.

“The church of the living God, the pillar and ground of the truth.” — 1 Timothy 3:15

Key Truths About the Church

• Jesus Christ founded the Church.
• The Church is the Body of Christ.
• The Church is the Family of God.
• The Church is guided by the Holy Spirit.
• The Church exists to proclaim the Gospel.
• The Church administers the sacraments.
• The Church continues Christ’s mission on earth.
• The Catholic Church traces her origins to the Apostles.

What Does This Mean For Me?

God does not call us to follow Him alone.

Christ invites us into His Church.

Within the Church we receive His Word, His grace, His sacraments, and the support of fellow believers.

To belong to Christ is to be united with the Body He established.

Explore More About the Church

Continue Learning

Now that you understand what the Church is, the next question is: What are the Four Marks of the Church?

Learn why Catholics profess that the Church is one, holy, catholic, and apostolic.