Hey there,
I bet you can easily name all 7 of the Sacraments of the Catholic Church … especially since we just covered them.
But did you know the Catholic Church is also a Sacrament?
I had never heard this before … until Father Mike Schmitz talked about it recently in an episode of his Catechism in a Year Podcast. I knew then that I’d have to include this topic in my Sacraments of the Catholic Church series.
Interestingly enough, it doesn’t make the Church the 8th Sacrament.
But when you look at the definition of a Sacrament compared to what the Church is, it makes a lot of sense.
It’s all covered below, beginning with that great podcast episode from Father Mike … and the whole Sacraments series too. Enjoy!
Keep Believing-
Katy Barrilleaux
Founding Editor, Genuflect
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genuflect: resources
The Universal Sacrament of Salvation
In this episode of the Catechism in a Year Podcast, Father Mike Schmitz reads CCC 772-280 and explains how the Church is the Universal Sacrament of Salvation because it was instituted by Jesus Christ to bring His Grade to the world. It’s only 17 minutes long and well worth a listen.
Day 109: Mystery of Union with God | Catechism in a Year Podcast
The Church as a Sacrament is Biblical
Most point to the Second Vatican Council for the characterization of the Church as a Sacrament. In fact, it’s mentioned in Sacred Scripture, in Carinthians, Luke, and Mark.
Church as Sacrament | EWTN
The Church is Not The 8th Sacrament
Though the Church is referred to as a Sacrament, it’s not the 8th Sacrament. Rather, it’s the foundational Sacrament because the 7 Sacraments receive their power through the Church.
The Church: The Sacrament of Salvation| The Catholic Thing
The Holy Spirit in The Church
Father Joshua Whitfield says the Church is a Sacrament because it is in Christ. But also because the Holy Spirit dwells in the Church. Here’s more.
What We Believe, Part 18: The Church in the Spirit | Simply Catholic
The Church is Holy
Some people say the Church is man made. We hear this a lot whenever there’s a scandal and people talk about the human and sinful nature of the Church. But Tom Hoopes explains the 4 reasons why the Church is indeed Holy.
Yes, The Church is Absolutely Holy. Here’s Why | Aleteia
The Study of Ecclesiology
Ecclesiology is the study of the Church. It first answers the question as to whether Jesus Christ intended to found a Church. Spoiler alert: He did. And the Church is first and foremost a Sacrament. Here’s why.
Introduction to Ecclesiology | Simply Catholic
Beyond The Roman Catholic Church
Last year Genuflect looked at the Universal Catholic Church, breaking down the various Rites and Churches beyond the Roman Catholic Church. It’s worth revisiting in this context of the Church as a Sacrament.
Looking Beyond The Roman Catholic Church | Genuflect
genuflect: related
We previously covered all the Sacraments of the Catholic Church. Here they are again so you can take a deeper dive into each one:
Receiving Grace From The Sacraments
Shining a Light on Our Baptismal Calling
Driving Graces With The Sacrament of Confirmation
Joining With Christ in The Sacrament of Communion
Celebrating The Sacrament of Matrimony
Utilizing The Sacrament of Confession
Studying The Sacrament of Holy Orders
Requesting The Sacrament of The Anointing of The Sick
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