The Third Mark of the Church: Catholic

     If you had read the previous blog here, then you already know what a Mark of the Church is. Today, Catholic is used to describe specific a group of Christians. Today's use of the word is the exact opposite of what it really means. The word "catholic" means "universal". It comes from the Greek word katholikos.

     The Church is Catholic because it is whole and complete. The Church has been united with Jesus through salvation. Through the unity with Christ, the Church is also Catholic, or universal, because it has a universal authority to preach the good news. All over the world, there can be found the influence of the Church. From big cities to Africa there are churches and service projects funded by the Catholic Church. Even in places where the Church is outlawed like China you can still see its influence. Ever since the day of Pentecost,  when the Holy Spirit filled the Apostles and empowered them to spread the good news, the Church has been lead and united by God. No one nation or culture can claim the Church as its own.