Chapter 1 of Fulton Sheen’s “The Mystical Body of Christ”: Summary and Call to Action
Chapter 1 of Fulton Sheen’s book “The Mystical Body of Christ” is a foundational text on Catholic ecclesiology. In this chapter, Sheen introduces the reader to the concept of the Church as the body of Christ. He begins by explaining that the Church is not simply an organization or a group of people, but rather a living organism that is united to Christ in a supernatural way.
Sheen goes on to discuss the different ways in which the Church is the body of Christ. First, he points to the Eucharist. When we receive the Eucharist, we are not simply receiving a symbol of Christ’s body and blood, but rather we are receiving Christ himself. In this way, we are united to Christ’s body in a real and profound way.
“In the Eucharist, we are not simply receiving a symbol of Christ’s body and blood, but rather we are receiving Christ himself. In this way, we are united to Christ’s body in a real and profound way.”
Second, Sheen discusses the sacraments. The sacraments are visible signs of invisible graces. Through the sacraments, we are united to Christ and his saving work. For example, in the sacrament of Baptism, we are washed clean of our sins and reborn into new life in Christ. In the sacrament of Confirmation, we are strengthened by the Holy Spirit to live as faithful Christians.
“The sacraments are the prolongation of the Incarnation. They are the means by which Christ continues to live and work in the world.” (p. 14)
Third, Sheen discusses the communion of saints. The communion of saints is the union of all baptized Christians, living and dead. This union is not simply spiritual, but also mystical. When we pray for the saints, we are not simply asking them to pray for us, but we are also asking for their help in our own spiritual journey.
Sheen concludes Chapter 1 by discussing the implications of the Church being the body of Christ. He writes: “If the Church is the body of Christ, then we are all members of that body. And if we are members of that body, then we are all called to live in union with Christ.”
So, what does it mean to live in union with Christ? It means living in accordance with his will. It means following his teachings. It means loving him and our neighbor as he has loved us.
Here are a few specific things we can do to live in union with Christ:
- Receive the Eucharist regularly and with devotion.
- Participate in the sacraments frequently.
- Pray for the saints and ask for their intercession.
- Read the Bible and meditate on the Word of God.
- Attend Mass regularly and participate in other liturgical celebrations.
- Live a life of charity and service to others.
When we live in union with Christ, we become his instruments of salvation in the world. We become his hands and feet, his eyes and ears. We become his witnesses to the world.
So, let us all strive to live in union with Christ, the head of the Mystical Body. Let us be his disciples and his witnesses. Let us bring his love and salvation to the world.