The four canonical GospelsMatthew, Mark, Luke, and Johnform the core narrative of the life, ministry, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ within the Christian New Testament. These texts are venerated across Christian denominations, serving as foundational scripture. While various translations exist, Catholic editions typically include annotations and commentary reflecting Church tradition and theological interpretations.
These narratives offer believers a framework for understanding the person of Jesus, his teachings, and the establishment of Christianity. They serve as a primary source for liturgical readings, theological reflection, and spiritual formation. Historically, these texts played a pivotal role in shaping Western civilization, influencing art, literature, ethics, and philosophy. Their enduring influence continues to shape religious belief and practice today.
Further exploration will delve into the individual characteristics of each Gospel, their authorship, intended audiences, and unique contributions to the overall narrative of Jesus’ life and message. Subsequent sections will also examine the historical context surrounding their composition and their significance within the broader context of Christian scripture.
1. Matthew
The Gospel according to Matthew holds a significant position within the four canonical Gospels. Traditionally attributed to the apostle Matthew, a former tax collector called by Jesus to be one of his twelve disciples, this Gospel presents a structured and thematic portrayal of Jesus’s life, ministry, and teachings. Its placement as the first book in the New Testament underscores its importance in establishing the narrative arc of Jesus as the promised Messiah, fulfilling Old Testament prophecies. For example, Matthew extensively connects Jesus’s lineage, birth, and ministry to specific prophecies from the Hebrew Scriptures, emphasizing continuity and fulfillment. This connection resonates deeply within the Catholic tradition, reinforcing the understanding of Jesus as the Christ awaited by the Jewish people.
Matthew’s Gospel is particularly notable for its emphasis on Jesus’s teachings, often presented in extended discourses such as the Sermon on the Mount. This collection of ethical and spiritual teachings provides a foundational framework for Christian morality and discipleship. The Gospel also highlights the importance of the Church, portraying Jesus establishing a community of followers and entrusting them with authority and responsibility. The inclusion of key passages concerning the Churchs authority and mission, such as the Great Commission, contribute significantly to the Catholic understanding of ecclesiology and sacramental practice.
Understanding Matthew’s unique contributionsits focus on Jesus as the fulfillment of prophecy, its systematic presentation of Jesus’s teachings, and its emphasis on the Churchprovides crucial insight into its role within the broader narrative of the Gospels and its lasting impact on Catholic theology and practice. Its influence extends to liturgical readings, homilies, and catechetical instruction, shaping how the Catholic Church understands and proclaims the message of Jesus Christ.
2. Mark
The Gospel according to Mark, often considered the earliest of the four canonical Gospels, holds a unique position within the Catholic book of the Gospels. Its brevity and fast-paced narrative style create a sense of urgency and immediacy, drawing readers into the dramatic events of Jesus’s life. While shorter than the other Gospels, Mark’s account provides a foundational understanding of Jesus’s ministry, emphasizing his actions and miracles, portraying him as a powerful figure who confronts evil and challenges traditional religious authorities. For instance, Mark’s vivid descriptions of Jesus’s exorcisms and healings underscore his divine power and authority. This emphasis on Jesus’s miraculous works serves as a testament to his identity as the Son of God, a core belief within Catholic theology.
Mark’s Gospel also portrays Jesus’s suffering and death with stark realism. This focus on the Passion narrativethe events leading up to and including Jesus’s crucifixionholds particular significance within the Catholic tradition. The suffering servant motif, prevalent throughout Mark, foreshadows the understanding of Jesus’s sacrifice as an act of redemption for humanity. The liturgical calendar, particularly during Lent and Holy Week, draws heavily from Mark’s account of the Passion, guiding believers through a period of reflection and preparation for Easter. The depiction of Jesus’s vulnerability and human suffering in Mark resonates deeply with Catholic spirituality, fostering empathy and a deeper appreciation for the magnitude of his sacrifice.
Despite its concise nature, Mark’s Gospel offers profound theological insights into the person and ministry of Jesus Christ. Its influence on the other synoptic Gospels (Matthew and Luke) further solidifies its importance within the broader context of the New Testament. Recognizing Mark’s contribution to the Catholic book of the Gospels provides a richer understanding of the early Church’s proclamation of Jesus’s message and the foundations of Christian belief. It continues to shape Catholic interpretations of Jesus’s life, death, and resurrection and informs liturgical practices, inspiring reflection on the meaning of discipleship and the call to follow Christ.
3. Luke
The Gospel according to Luke occupies a prominent position within the four canonical Gospels, offering a meticulously crafted narrative of Jesus Christ’s life, ministry, and impact. Attributed to Luke, a physician and companion of the Apostle Paul, this Gospel exhibits a literary sophistication and historical consciousness that distinguishes it within the New Testament. Luke’s meticulous approach, evident in his detailed descriptions of events and settings, reflects a commitment to providing a comprehensive and historically grounded account of Jesus’s life. This approach contributes significantly to the Catholic understanding of Jesus’s historical context and the development of early Christianity. For example, Luke’s inclusion of specific details about Roman officials and Jewish customs provides valuable insights into the socio-political landscape of Jesus’s time, enriching the historical context of the Gospel narrative. Furthermore, Luke’s emphasis on the universal scope of Jesus’s message, extending beyond Jewish boundaries to encompass Gentiles, resonates deeply with the Catholic Church’s mission to evangelize all nations. This universal message, coupled with Luke’s portrayal of Jesus’s compassion for the marginalized and oppressedwomen, the poor, the sickforms a cornerstone of Catholic social teaching and its commitment to justice and mercy. The Gospel of Lukes narrative of the Good Samaritan, for instance, serves as a powerful example of Jesus’s call to love and compassion for all, regardless of social standing or background. It highlights the importance of extending mercy and aid to those in need, a principle central to Catholic social teaching.
Luke’s Gospel also provides a crucial link between the life of Jesus and the early Church. Acts of the Apostles, also attributed to Luke, serves as a sequel to the Gospel, tracing the spread of Christianity from its origins in Jerusalem to the reaches of the Roman Empire. This historical narrative, considered a foundational text within the Catholic book of the Gospels and the Acts of the Apostles, illuminates the challenges and triumphs faced by the early Church, offering valuable insights into the development of Christian communities and the evolution of early Christian theology. This connection between Luke and Acts reinforces the Catholic understanding of the Church’s apostolic origins and its mission to continue Christ’s work in the world.
Within the Catholic tradition, Lukes Gospel stands as a testament to the historical grounding of Christian faith, the universality of Jesuss message, and the compassionate heart of the Gospel. Its narrative and theological themes contribute significantly to the Catholic Churchs understanding of Jesuss life and ministry, impacting liturgical practices, theological reflection, and social outreach. From the Magnificats celebration of God’s grace to the parables of mercy and forgiveness, Lukes Gospel profoundly shapes Catholic spirituality and its commitment to proclaiming the Good News to all people. Challenges in interpreting specific historical details or reconciling them with other Gospel accounts remain a subject of ongoing scholarly discussion, contributing to a deeper understanding of the complexities and richness of the Gospel narrative and its enduring relevance within the Catholic tradition.
4. John
The Gospel according to John holds a distinct position within the four canonical Gospels, offering a unique and profound theological perspective on the person and ministry of Jesus Christ. Its placement as the last of the four Gospels signifies its culmination of the Gospel message, providing a reflective and deeply spiritual interpretation of Jesus’s life, teachings, and significance. While the synoptic Gospels (Matthew, Mark, and Luke) share a common narrative framework, John’s Gospel stands apart, presenting a more theologically developed and symbolically rich portrayal of Jesus. This distinct perspective makes John’s Gospel a crucial component within the Catholic book of the Gospels, offering a deeper understanding of Jesus’s divinity and his relationship with God the Father.
-
The “I AM” Sayings
John’s Gospel is characterized by a series of “I AM” sayings, in which Jesus identifies himself with metaphorical titles such as “I am the bread of life,” “I am the light of the world,” and “I am the good shepherd.” These pronouncements, unique to John’s Gospel, reveal Jesus’s divine identity and his role as the source of spiritual sustenance, guidance, and eternal life. Within the Catholic tradition, these sayings are interpreted as profound declarations of Jesus’s divinity and his intimate connection with God the Father. They provide a deeper understanding of Jesus’s mission and his offer of salvation to humanity.
-
Emphasis on Jesus’s Divinity
John’s Gospel places a greater emphasis on Jesus’s divine nature than the synoptic Gospels. From the prologue’s declaration that “the Word was God,” John consistently portrays Jesus as the incarnate Word of God, pre-existent and eternally united with the Father. This emphasis on Jesus’s divinity reinforces core Catholic doctrines, including the Trinity and the Incarnation. It provides a theological framework for understanding Jesus’s miracles, teachings, and ultimately, his sacrificial death and resurrection as acts of divine love and redemption.
-
Sacramental Underpinnings
While not explicitly detailing the institution of the sacraments, John’s Gospel contains several passages that are interpreted within the Catholic tradition as foreshadowing or providing a theological basis for sacramental practice. The wedding at Cana, the healing of the blind man, and the washing of the disciples’ feet are often understood as symbolic prefigurements of the sacraments of Matrimony, Anointing of the Sick, and Holy Orders, respectively. These connections between John’s Gospel and sacramental theology enrich the Catholic understanding of the sacraments and their role in conveying God’s grace.
-
The Farewell Discourse
John’s Gospel includes a lengthy farewell discourse delivered by Jesus to his disciples on the night before his crucifixion. This discourse, absent in the synoptic Gospels, offers a profound reflection on themes of love, unity, and the promise of the Holy Spirit. Within the Catholic tradition, the farewell discourse provides a source of comfort and guidance for believers. Jesus’s promise to send the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, is understood as the foundation for the Church’s ongoing mission and the continuing presence of Christ in the world. This emphasis on the Holy Spirit and the promise of eternal life reinforces core Catholic beliefs about the afterlife and the communion of saints.
Through these distinct features, John’s Gospel offers a unique lens through which to understand the person and ministry of Jesus Christ. Its profound theological insights and symbolic language contribute significantly to the richness and depth of the Catholic book of the Gospels. By exploring the “I AM” sayings, the emphasis on Jesus’s divinity, the sacramental underpinnings, and the farewell discourse, the Catholic Church gains a deeper appreciation for the mystery of Christ and the transformative power of his message. John’s Gospel complements and enriches the narratives of the synoptic Gospels, offering a complete and multifaceted portrayal of Jesus as the Son of God, the Word made flesh, and the source of eternal life. Its influence permeates Catholic liturgy, theology, and spiritual practice, shaping how believers understand and embrace the Christian faith.
5. Canonical Gospels
The term “Canonical Gospels” refers specifically to the four Gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John accepted as authentic and authoritative within the Christian biblical canon. These texts form the core narrative of Jesus Christ’s life and ministry and hold primary importance within the broader context of the New Testament. The “Catholic book of the Gospels,” while not a formally recognized title, essentially refers to the presentation of these same four canonical Gospels within Catholic liturgical and scriptural contexts. The connection is therefore one of direct inclusion; the Canonical Gospels are the Gospels utilized within the Catholic tradition. The Catholic Church, through centuries of tradition and theological reflection, affirms the authority and inspiration of these four Gospels as the authentic witness to the life, teachings, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. For example, liturgical readings during Mass and other sacramental celebrations draw heavily from these texts, shaping the Church’s understanding and proclamation of the Gospel message. The Catechism of the Catholic Church explicitly references and interprets passages from the canonical Gospels, grounding Catholic doctrine and moral teaching within their narrative and theological framework.
Understanding the significance of the canonical Gospels requires acknowledging the historical process of canon formation. Early Christian communities relied on various written and oral traditions about Jesus. Over time, through processes of discernment and guided by the Holy Spirit, the Church identified these four Gospels as possessing unique apostolic authority and theological coherence. Criteria considered included apostolic authorship (or close association with an apostle), widespread acceptance among Christian communities, consistency with the rule of faith (the core tenets of Christian belief), and liturgical usage. This careful process of selection highlights the importance placed on ensuring the accuracy and authenticity of the narratives presented within the Gospels. The acceptance of these four Gospels as canonical shaped the development of Christian theology, liturgical practice, and spiritual formation. The Catholic Churchs continued reliance on these texts reinforces their foundational role within the Christian faith.
The Catholic Church’s affirmation of the canonical Gospels as divinely inspired Scripture underscores their essential role in understanding the person and message of Jesus Christ. These texts serve not merely as historical documents but as living witnesses to the transformative power of the Gospel. Challenges related to textual variations, historical interpretations, and theological nuances remain subjects of ongoing scholarly inquiry. However, the canonical Gospels continue to serve as the primary source for Catholic engagement with the life and teachings of Jesus, shaping the Church’s understanding of its mission, its sacraments, and its call to proclaim the Good News to all nations. The inseparable link between the “Canonical Gospels” and the “Catholic book of the Gospels” highlights the centrality of these texts within the Catholic faith and their enduring power to inspire and transform lives.
6. New Testament
The New Testament forms the foundational scriptural basis for the “Catholic book of the Gospels,” encompassing it within a larger narrative of salvation history. The four GospelsMatthew, Mark, Luke, and Johnreside within the New Testament as its opening section, providing the core narrative of Jesus Christ’s life, ministry, death, and resurrection. The Gospels are inseparable from their New Testament context; their meaning and significance are deeply intertwined with the subsequent books, including the Acts of the Apostles, the Pauline Epistles, and the Book of Revelation. Cause and effect relationships between the Gospels and other New Testament writings are readily apparent. For instance, the Gospels narrate the establishment of the Church, while Acts chronicles its growth and spread under the guidance of the apostles. Paul’s letters, addressed to early Christian communities, frequently reference Gospel events and teachings, providing theological interpretations and practical applications. This interconnectedness highlights the New Testament’s cohesive narrative arc, tracing the development of early Christianity from Jesus’s ministry to the establishment of the Church and its ongoing mission.
The New Testament serves as the primary source for understanding the theological and historical context of the Gospels. It provides a framework for interpreting Gospel narratives, explaining their significance within the broader context of God’s plan of salvation. For example, the Old Testament prophecies cited within the Gospels gain deeper meaning when viewed through the lens of the New Testament’s fulfillment theology. Furthermore, the New Testament clarifies the relationship between Judaism and Christianity, demonstrating how Jesus fulfilled the promises made to Israel while simultaneously inaugurating a new covenant accessible to all nations. Understanding the New Testament’s literary genresGospels, historical narratives, epistles, apocalyptic literatureenhances appreciation for the diverse ways in which the early Church expressed and transmitted its faith. This literary diversity also provides valuable insights into the challenges and triumphs faced by early Christian communities as they sought to understand and live out the Gospel message.
A comprehensive grasp of the New Testament is crucial for a deeper appreciation of the “Catholic book of the Gospels.” The New Testaments overarching narrative provides context, clarifies theological interpretations, and reveals the historical development of Christian thought and practice. Scholarly examination of the New Testament continues to yield deeper insights into the historical Jesus, the formation of the early Church, and the complexities of early Christian theology. While challenges remain in interpreting ancient texts and navigating historical and cultural differences, studying the New Testament within the Catholic tradition offers a rich and rewarding journey towards understanding the foundations of Christian faith and the enduring power of the Gospel message. The interconnectedness of the Gospels with the rest of the New Testament underscores the importance of engaging with the entirety of scripture to gain a fuller understanding of God’s plan of salvation and the continuing relevance of Jesus Christ’s life, teachings, and resurrection for the world today.
7. Jesus Christ
Jesus Christ stands as the central figure of the Catholic book of the Gospels. The four canonical GospelsMatthew, Mark, Luke, and Johnprovide the core narrative of his life, ministry, death, and resurrection, serving as the foundation for Christian belief and practice within the Catholic tradition. Understanding Jesus Christ, his teachings, and his significance is crucial for interpreting and appreciating the Gospels’ message and their role within the Catholic faith. The following facets explore key aspects of Jesus Christ’s portrayal within the Gospels, highlighting their theological and historical implications.
-
The Messiah
The Gospels present Jesus as the long-awaited Messiah, the Christ, foretold in Jewish scripture. Matthew, in particular, emphasizes the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies in Jesus’s life and ministry. This messianic identity shapes the entire Gospel narrative, demonstrating how Jesus fulfills God’s promises to Israel and establishes a new covenant accessible to all nations. The Catholic Church embraces Jesus as the promised Messiah, recognizing him as the fulfillment of Jewish hopes and the savior of all humanity.
-
Teacher and Prophet
The Gospels portray Jesus as a teacher and prophet, proclaiming the Kingdom of God and challenging traditional religious authorities. His teachings, including the Sermon on the Mount, offer profound ethical and spiritual guidance. Jesus’s parables, often using everyday scenarios to convey spiritual truths, remain powerful tools for moral instruction within the Catholic Church. His prophetic pronouncements, challenging injustice and hypocrisy, continue to inspire social justice initiatives and calls for ethical reform within the Church and the wider world.
-
Son of God
A central theme throughout the Gospels is Jesus’s identity as the Son of God. John’s Gospel, particularly, emphasizes Jesus’s divine nature and his unique relationship with God the Father. This divine sonship is affirmed through miracles, teachings, and ultimately through Jesus’s resurrection. The Catholic Church embraces the doctrine of the Incarnation, recognizing Jesus as fully God and fully human, a core tenet of Christian belief derived directly from the Gospel narratives.
-
Suffering Servant and Redeemer
The Gospels culminate in the Passion narrative, depicting Jesus’s suffering, death, and resurrection. Mark’s Gospel, known for its stark portrayal of Jesus’s suffering, emphasizes the theme of the suffering servant. The Catholic Church understands Jesus’s sacrifice on the cross as an act of redemption for humanity, a central theme reflected in liturgical practices, particularly during Holy Week. The resurrection, proclaimed in all four Gospels, affirms Jesus’s victory over death and offers hope for eternal life, a cornerstone of Catholic belief and the promise of salvation offered to all who believe.
These interconnected facets of Jesus Christ’s identity, as presented in the Catholic book of the Gospels, form the bedrock of Catholic theology and spiritual practice. Understanding Jesus as Messiah, teacher, Son of God, and redeemer provides a framework for interpreting the Gospels’ message and applying its teachings to contemporary life. The Gospels’ portrayal of Jesus Christ continues to shape Catholic liturgy, sacraments, moral teachings, and social outreach, guiding believers towards a deeper relationship with God and inspiring them to live out the Gospel message in the world.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Gospels
This section addresses common inquiries regarding the four Gospels within the Catholic tradition, aiming to provide clear and concise information.
Question 1: Why are there four Gospels instead of just one?
The four Gospels offer complementary perspectives on the life and ministry of Jesus Christ. Each Gospel writerMatthew, Mark, Luke, and Johnwrote for a different audience and emphasized particular aspects of Jesus’s teachings and actions. Having four accounts provides a richer and more complete understanding of Jesus than a single narrative could offer. Their distinct viewpoints, while sometimes presenting different details or emphases, ultimately converge to present a unified portrait of Jesus as the Christ.
Question 2: How do the Synoptic Gospels (Matthew, Mark, and Luke) relate to the Gospel of John?
The Synoptic Gospels share significant similarities in content, structure, and even wording, suggesting a literary interdependence. John’s Gospel, however, takes a more theological and reflective approach, emphasizing Jesus’s divinity and offering a unique perspective on his teachings and miracles. While distinct in style and emphasis, John’s Gospel complements the Synoptic Gospels, providing a deeper understanding of Jesus’s identity and mission.
Question 3: Are the Gospels historically accurate?
The Gospels, while written with theological intent, are also grounded in historical context. Scholars continue to debate the precise level of historical detail and the influence of the authors’ perspectives. However, the Gospels provide valuable historical insights into the life and times of Jesus, the social and religious context of first-century Palestine, and the development of early Christianity. Catholics believe the Gospels offer a historically grounded and theologically inspired account of Jesus’s life, sufficient to understand his teachings and significance.
Question 4: How were the Gospels chosen and deemed canonical?
Through a process of prayerful discernment guided by the Holy Spirit, the early Church gradually recognized the four Gospels as uniquely authoritative and consistent with the apostolic tradition. Factors considered included apostolic authorship (or close association), widespread acceptance among Christian communities, conformity with the rule of faith (core Christian beliefs), and liturgical usage. This process affirmed the Gospels’ authenticity and their essential role in conveying the true message of Jesus Christ.
Question 5: How are the Gospels used in Catholic liturgy?
The Gospels hold a central place in Catholic liturgy, particularly during Mass. Readings from the Gospels form a core component of the Liturgy of the Word, proclaiming the life and teachings of Jesus Christ to the assembled faithful. The choice of Gospel readings follows a liturgical calendar, ensuring that different aspects of Jesus’s life and ministry are highlighted throughout the year. These readings provide spiritual nourishment and guidance, shaping the community’s understanding of the Christian faith.
Question 6: How can studying the Gospels deepen one’s faith?
Engaging with the Gospels allows individuals to encounter Jesus Christ through the narratives and teachings recorded by those who knew him or received firsthand accounts. Regular reading, reflection, and prayerful study of the Gospels can foster a deeper understanding of Jesus’s life, teachings, and significance. Applying the Gospels’ ethical and spiritual principles to daily life can lead to personal transformation and a stronger relationship with God. They provide a framework for navigating life’s challenges and finding meaning and purpose in following Christ.
By understanding the origins, context, and key themes of the Gospels, individuals can gain a deeper appreciation for their role within the Catholic tradition and their enduring power to inspire and transform lives. Continued exploration and engagement with the Gospels offer a lifelong journey of faith and discovery.
Further sections will explore the individual Gospels in greater detail, examining their unique characteristics, authorship, and theological contributions.
Tips for Engaging with the Gospels
Engaging with the four GospelsMatthew, Mark, Luke, and Johnoffers profound insights into the life and teachings of Jesus Christ. These tips provide guidance for a more enriching and meaningful exploration of these foundational texts within the Catholic tradition.
Tip 1: Read Contextually
Consider the historical, social, and cultural context in which each Gospel was written. Understanding the intended audience and the circumstances surrounding its composition can illuminate the author’s perspective and shed light on specific passages.
Tip 2: Compare and Contrast
Recognize the unique perspectives offered by each Gospel. Comparing and contrasting their narratives and theological emphases can provide a more comprehensive understanding of Jesus’s life and ministry. Note similarities and differences in how events are presented and interpreted.
Tip 3: Engage with Commentaries
Utilize reputable biblical commentaries to gain deeper insights into the Gospels’ meaning and interpretation. Commentaries offer historical context, linguistic analysis, and theological reflections, enhancing understanding of complex passages and themes.
Tip 4: Reflect Prayerfully
Approach the Gospels not merely as historical documents but as living encounters with Jesus Christ. Prayerful reflection on the narratives and teachings can foster a deeper personal relationship with God and inspire spiritual growth. Consider how the Gospel message applies to daily life and challenges.
Tip 5: Study the Catechism
Explore the Catechism of the Catholic Church’s treatment of the Gospels. The Catechism offers authoritative interpretations of Gospel passages, connecting them to Catholic doctrine and moral teaching, providing a framework for understanding the Gospels within the broader context of the Catholic faith.
Tip 6: Participate in Liturgical Celebrations
Actively participate in Catholic liturgical celebrations, particularly the Mass, where Gospel readings form a central component. Hearing the Gospels proclaimed within the context of worship can offer new insights and deepen appreciation for their meaning and power.
Tip 7: Join a Study Group
Engage with others through participation in a Gospel study group. Sharing perspectives, insights, and questions can enrich understanding and create a supportive community for exploring the Gospels together.
By incorporating these practices, readers can cultivate a deeper appreciation for the richness and complexity of the Gospels, fostering a more profound understanding of Jesus Christ and the transformative power of his message.
The subsequent conclusion will synthesize these insights, underscoring the enduring relevance of the Gospels for individuals and the Church today.
Conclusion
Exploration of the four canonical GospelsMatthew, Mark, Luke, and Johnreveals their central position within the Catholic tradition. These texts offer multifaceted perspectives on the life, ministry, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ, serving as foundational scripture for Catholic belief and practice. Their historical and theological significance, illuminated through careful examination of individual characteristics, authorship, and intended audiences, underscores their enduring relevance. The Gospels’ impact on liturgical readings, theological reflection, and spiritual formation within Catholicism remains profound. Understanding their unique contributions and interconnectedness provides crucial insight into the richness and depth of the Christian message.
The Gospels’ enduring power lies in their capacity to connect individuals with the person of Jesus Christ. Continued engagement with these texts, through study, reflection, and prayer, offers a transformative path towards deeper faith and understanding. Their timeless message of hope, love, and redemption continues to inspire and challenge believers across generations, inviting ongoing exploration and a lifelong journey of discipleship. The Gospels remain a vital source of spiritual nourishment and guidance, shaping the Catholic Church’s understanding of its mission and its call to proclaim the Good News to the world.
