In the introduction to his book, Fulton Sheen argues that the Church is not just a human institution, but the living Body of Christ. He begins by explaining that the word “mystical” does not mean magical or occult, but rather hidden or mysterious. Just as our own bodies are a mystery, so too is the Body of Christ.
“The Church is the mystery of Christ prolonged in the world.”
Sheen then goes on to explain that the Church is not just a collection of individuals, but a single organism. Just as our bodies are made up of many different cells, so too is the Church made up of many different people. But just as the cells in our bodies all work together to create a living organism, so too do the members of the Church all work together to create the Body of Christ.
Sheen then goes on to discuss the different ways in which the Church is the Body of Christ. He says that the Church is the Body of Christ in its origin, its purpose, and its life. The Church is the Body of Christ in its origin because it was founded by Christ and is sustained by his grace. The Church is the Body of Christ in its purpose because it is to continue the work of Christ on earth. And the Church is the Body of Christ in its life because it is animated by the same Holy Spirit that animated Christ
“The Church is Christ extended.”
Sheen concludes the introduction by saying that the Church is the Body of Christ because it is the living presence of Christ in the world. He says that the Church is “Christ extended.” When we encounter the Church, we are encountering Christ himself.
Key points from the introduction:
- The Church is not just a human institution, but the living Body of Christ.
- The word “mystical” does not mean magical or occult, but rather hidden or mysterious.
- The Church is not just a collection of individuals, but a single organism.
- The Church is the Body of Christ in its origin, its purpose, and its life.
- The Church is the living presence of Christ in the world.
Creative reflections:
Sheen’s image of the Church as the Body of Christ is a powerful one. It helps us to see the Church as more than just a human institution. It helps us to see the Church as a living organism that is animated by the Holy Spirit. It also helps us to see the Church as the living presence of Christ in the world.
Church as the Body of Christ, we are reminded that we are all interconnected. We are all part of something larger than ourselves. We are all part of the Body of Christ. This realization should inspire us to love and care for one another as Christ loved and cared for us.
We are also reminded that the Church is not just a place to go on Sundays. The Church is a people who are called to continue the work of Christ in the world. We are called to be witnesses to his love and compassion. We are called to build up his kingdom. When we think of the Church as the Body of Christ, we are challenged to live our lives in a way that is worthy of his name.