A holy person who has followed God faithfully; also refers to someone officially recognized by the Church as being in Heaven.
Saint
An early heresy that denied Jesus was fully God.
Arianism
The members of the Church on Earth who strive against sin and grow in holiness.
Church Militant
The name given to Jacob, his descendants, and the nation chosen by God in the Old Testament.
Israel
The large vessel built by Noah to save his family and animals from the flood sent by God.
Noah’s Ark
A heresy that taught people could achieve salvation by their own efforts without God’s grace.
Pelagianism
A Protestant belief that salvation comes through faith alone.
Sola Fide
A title for the human body and soul, showing that God dwells within believers.
Temple of the Holy Spirit
Mary’s free and faithful “yes” to God when she agreed to become the mother of Jesus.
Fiat
The change of bread and wine into the true Body and Blood of Jesus Christ during the Eucharist.
Transubstantiation
A Protestant belief that the Bible alone is the highest authority in Christian faith.
Sola Scriptura
A serious Church penalty that excludes a person from receiving the sacraments.
Excommunication
The faithful group of God’s people who remain loyal to Him during difficult times.
Remnant
A sacred agreement or promise between God and His people.
Covenant
Praying to God on behalf of another person.
Intercession
The members of the Church who are in Heaven with God.
Church Triumphant
A journey to a holy place for spiritual growth and devotion.
Pilgrimage
A title for the Church that describes its loving relationship with Jesus.
Bride of Christ
Formal gatherings of Church leaders to discuss and decide important matters of faith, doctrine, and practice.
Councils
The complete rejection or abandonment of the Christian faith.
Apostasy
A heresy that taught Jesus had only one nature (divine) instead of both human and divine.
Monophysitism
A calling from God to live out one’s purpose, such as marriage, priesthood, religious life, or single life.
Vocation
The family as the first place where faith is taught, practiced, and lived.
Domestic Church
Relating to efforts to promote unity among all Christian churches.
Ecumenical