The Holy Catholic Church (Sadler's Church Teacher's Manual)

The Holy Catholic Church (Sadler's Church Teacher's Manual)

The Holy Catholic Church is Section XXVII of The Church Teacher's Manual of Christian Instruction, Michael Ferrebee Sadler's 1872 expansion of the Church Catechism in question-and-answer form.

Summary

This section explains the Church as holy, catholic, visible, and continuous. Sadler links the Church to apostolic doctrine, sacramental fellowship, ministry, and the breadth of Christ's kingdom.

Sadler's Text

Sadler's catechetical treatment of this topic is anchored in the statement, "In the Holy Catholic Church." He further explains the section by saying, "A body or society of persons united under Christ as their head."

Theological Themes

• Catholicity
• Visible Church
• Apostolic fellowship
• Sacraments and ministry

Scripture References

The following references are representative biblical texts used or implied in this section of Sadler's catechetical exposition:

• Ephesians 1:22
• Romans 12:5
• 1 Corinthians 12:27
• Ephesians 5:30-33
• 1 Timothy 3:15
• Matthew 16:18

Anglican Context

This section belongs to Sadler's exposition of the baptismal promise to believe the articles of the Christian faith. It is especially connected with the Apostles' Creed, the Nicene Creed, and the use of the creeds in Anglican public worship. Sadler's treatment reflects nineteenth-century Church of England catechesis and should be read as a historical Anglican source alongside current provincial formularies and catechetical resources.

See Also

• The Church Teacher's Manual of Christian Instruction
• Apostles' Creed
• Nicene Creed
• Church Catechism
• Anglican Doctrine