Understanding the Four Marks of the Church

Introduction

When we recite the Nicene Creed, we affirm that we believe in “one, holy, catholic, and apostolic Church.” These are known as the Four Marks of the Church, and they offer a framework for understanding what the Catholic Church claims to be. They’re not just fancy words; they have deep meanings. Let’s take a closer look at each of these marks to better understand their significance and what they mean for our faith.

The Church is One

What Does it Mean?

When we say the Church is one, we mean that the Church is united in belief, worship, and governance under the leadership of the Pope and the bishops. The Church’s unity is a sign of God’s unchanging love and the unbroken continuity from the time of the Apostles.

Biblical and Catechetical Foundations

Jesus prayed for unity among His followers in the Gospel of John: “That they may all be one; even as You, Father, are in Me and I in You” (John 17:21). The Catechism of the Catholic Church also highlights the importance of the Church’s unity, stating, “The Church is one because of her ‘soul’: ‘It is the Holy Spirit, dwelling in those who believe and pervading and ruling over the entire Church, who brings about that wonderful communion of the faithful and joins them together so intimately in Christ that He is the principle of the Church’s unity'” (Catechism 813).

Universal Teaching vs. Theological Opinion

The Church’s unity is a universal teaching, rooted in the words of Christ Himself and confirmed by the Tradition and teachings of the Church. It is not merely a theological opinion.

The Church is Holy

What Does it Mean?

When we say the Church is holy, we’re not claiming that everyone in it is perfect. Instead, we mean that the Church was founded by Christ, who is all-holy, and that it’s guided by the Holy Spirit. Its purpose is to make its members holy.

Biblical and Catechetical Foundations

In the Gospel of Matthew, Jesus says, “You therefore must be perfect, as your heavenly Father is perfect” (Matthew 5:48). The Church serves as a vehicle to help us strive towards that holiness. According to the Catechism, “The Church . . . is ‘the holy People of God,’ and her members are called ‘saints'” (Catechism 823).

Universal Teaching vs. Theological Opinion

The holiness of the Church is not a matter of debate but is a universal teaching, rooted in Scripture and Tradition.

The Church is Catholic

What Does it Mean?

Catholic means ‘universal.’ The Church is Catholic because it’s meant for everyone, no matter who they are or where they come from. This universality is both in terms of space and time.

Biblical and Catechetical Foundations

In the Gospel of Mark, Jesus tells His disciples, “Go into all the world and proclaim the gospel to the whole creation” (Mark 16:15). The Catechism echoes this: “The Church is catholic because she has been sent out by Christ on a mission to the whole of the human race” (Catechism 831).

Universal Teaching vs. Theological Opinion

The catholicity of the Church is a universal teaching, strongly supported by both Scripture and the Church’s Tradition.

The Church is Apostolic

What Does it Mean?

The Church is apostolic because it’s built on the foundation of the Apostles, and it preserves their teachings and practices. The bishops are the successors of the Apostles, and through them, the Church remains connected to its roots.

Biblical and Catechetical Foundations

In Ephesians, it is stated that the Church is “built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Christ Jesus himself being the cornerstone” (Ephesians 2:20). According to the Catechism, “She is apostolic because she is founded on the apostles, in three ways: she was and remains built on ‘the foundation of the Apostles,’ the witnesses chosen and sent on mission by Christ himself; with the help of the Spirit dwelling in her, the Church keeps and hands on the teaching, the ‘good deposit,’ the salutary words she has heard from the apostles; she continues to be taught, sanctified, and guided by the apostles until Christ’s return, through their successors in pastoral office” (Catechism 857).

Universal Teaching vs. Theological Opinion

The apostolic nature of the Church is a universal teaching, central to understanding the Church’s authority and mission.

Conclusion

The Four Marks of the Church—One, Holy, Catholic, and Apostolic—are not just abstract concepts. They are the identity of the Church, deeply rooted in Scripture and Tradition. When we say we believe in a Church that possesses these marks, we’re making a powerful statement about the nature of the Church and our own commitments as members of this community. Understanding these marks can deepen our faith and strengthen our resolve to be active participants in the Church’s mission.

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Note: While content aims to align with Catholic teachings, any inconsistencies or errors are unintended. For precise understanding, always refer to authoritative sources like the Catechism of the Catholic Church. Always double-check any quotes for word-for-word accuracy with the Bible or the Catechism of the Catholic Church.