A modern dictionary of Catholic terms, both common and obscure. Find accurate definitions of words and phrases.
PEOPLE OF GOD
A biblical term popularized by the Second Vatican Council to describe the members of the Church. The expression brings out the fact that those who belong to the Church form a visible society, that they are distinctive, specially chosen by God, and composed of all baptized believers in Christ throughout the world. Their degree of membership depends on their degree of faith, obedience to the Church's precepts, and sanctity or union with God.
All items in this dictionary are from Fr. John Hardon's Modern Catholic Dictionary, © Eternal Life. Used with permission.