5 Models of the Church
Ways of Understanding the Church Today
Images of Church
Organisation and Structure
Four Marks
100

Proclaim and witness but also act like Christ  

What is Herald

100

Passing on the Gospels from the Apostles through each generation

What is Sacred Traditions

100

Like a human’s body parts are all different but work together as one.

What Body of Christ

100

Role of spiritual and pastoral leader of a diocese. 

What is Bishop

100

Set apart for a special purpose by and for God. (Jesus Christ founded the Church)

What is Holy

200

Ministry of Jesus, Suffering Servant of God 

What is Servant

200

Passing on the Gospels from the Apostles through each generation

What is Sacred tradition

200

It was the Holy Spirit’s action that began the Church at Pentecost and the Spirit continues to dwell within the Church today. 

What is Temple of the Holy Spirit

200

A baptized man who has received Holy Orders. 

What is Priest

200

The many followers of Jesus who spread his message. 

What is Apostles

300

God’s Spirit through Christ-People of faith

What is Body of Christ


300

Church leaders have the authority and responsibility to interpret the word of God, so its teaching is free from error for future generations.

What is Magisterium

300

All those who are called to follow Jesus and who are part of his Church. 1 of 3 images for the church in scripture



What is People of God

300

Is ordained to work together with the priests and lay leaders of the Church. They are involved in both the Church’s liturgical and pastoral life. 

What is Deacon

300

First used to describe the Church in the early 2nd century. Separates it from other churches.

What is Catholic

400

Church’s leadership structure

What is Institution

400

The heritage of faith contained in sacred Scripture and Tradition.


What is Deposit of Faith

400

The Church consists of people of faith who are united by their common faith.

What is People of God/Community of faith

400

They share in the mission of the Church and are active members of their parishes. 

What is Laity

400

All its members are united by a set of common beliefs and mission.

What is One

500

An instrument of grace to its members and to the world

What is Sacrament

M
e
n
u