The Church’s Origin, Foundation, And Mission
By DON FIER Sacred Scripture reveals a rich and diverse tapestry of images to describe the Church. Each of these symbols enables one with faith to gain additional insights into the various complementary aspects which are present in this great mystery which the Fathers of Vatican Council II refer to as the “universal sacrament of salvation” (Lumen Gentium, n. 48 § 2). As we saw last week, these biblical images “are drawn from pastoral life (sheepfold, flock, sheep), from agriculture (field, olive grove, vineyard), from construction (dwelling place, stone, temple), and from family life (spouse, mother, family)” (Compendium of the Catechism of the Catholic Church, n. 149). New Testament symbols of the Church most often link her in some way…Continue Reading