THE ESCHATOLOGICAL NATURE OF THE PILGRIM CHURCH
AND ITS UNION WITH THE CHURCH IN HEAVEN
Chapter 7 of Lumen Gentium discusses the Church’s journey towards perfection in heaven and our connection with those who have already passed.
The Church’s Perfection in Heaven
The Church, on earth, is not yet perfect. It will reach its fullness only when Christ restores all things in heaven (point 48). This restoration has already begun with Christ’s work and continues through the Holy Spirit in the Church (point 48). The Church teaches us how to live on earth with faith and hope for the future (point 48).
The Present and Future Ages
We are already in the final age of the world, but the complete transformation hasn’t happened yet (point 48). The Church on earth is marked by imperfection (point 48). Though we are God’s children, we are not yet fully revealed with Christ in glory (point 48). We experience a tension between our current state and the future glory that awaits us (points 48-49).
Our Union with the Church in Heaven
Despite the separation, we are united with the Church in heaven through Christ and the Holy Spirit (point 49). Those in heaven are already in communion with God and continue to support the Church on earth through their intercession (points 49-50).
Veneration of the Saints
The Church has always honored martyrs, saints, and the Virgin Mary (point 50). We remember them to be inspired by their examples and strengthen our connection to the whole Church (point 50). This veneration ultimately leads us to glorify God (point 50).
The Liturgy and the Communion of Saints
The Church’s union with those in heaven is most evident in the liturgy (point 50). During the liturgy, we celebrate God’s majesty with all believers, including the saints in heaven (point 50).
Correcting Abuses and Deepening Our Faith
The Church acknowledges potential abuses or misunderstandings in the veneration of saints (point 51). It emphasizes that true devotion involves love and seeking the saint’s intercession for our good and the good of the Church (point 51). Veneration of the saints should not diminish the worship we give to God (point 51).
Our Ultimate Goal: The Heavenly Liturgy
Our communion with the Church on earth and in heaven reflects our calling to be God’s family (point 51). This foreshadows the ultimate liturgy in heaven, where all creation will be united in praising God (point 51).
In essence, this passage emphasizes the Church’s journey towards heavenly perfection, where we will be fully united with God and all believers. It highlights the role of the saints in supporting the Church on earth and the importance of a proper understanding of their veneration.
Sharing
Jesus last words on Earth were to his disciples, can be found in Matthew Chap 28 when Jesus told his disciples,”Then Jesus approached and said to them, “All power in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go, therefore, and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, until the end of the age.”
Jesus calls all of us to share in his redemptive mission here on Earth. I would ask you to share these posts with your family, your friends and your acquaintances, and then share it with a couple of individuals that you may may not be comfortable sharing with, keeping in mind always the words of Jesus, And behold, I am with you always, until the end of the age
Author utilized AI in the preparation of this post.