Page:Completecatechis00deharich.djvu/158

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and most of the Sacraments, and have, on the contrary, established principles which are directly opposed to sanctity (Short Hist. of Revealed Religion, 43); and 3, Because they cannot produce from among themselves one Saint, confirmed as such by his miraculous power.

39. Why can none of them be called Catholic?

Because they arose only in later years, and have not ceased to split again into numerous sects, none of which is universally spread or continually spreading in the manner ordained by Christ (Short Hist. of Revealed Rel, 43 and 47).

40. And why can none of them be called Apostolic?

1. Because they did not come into existence till long after the time of the Apostles, and then by separating themselves from the old Apostolic Church; 2. Because doctrine ever wavering and ever changing, as theirs is, cannot certainly be Apostolic; and 3. Because they have no lawful successors of the Apostles, and, therefore, neither Teachers nor Pastors sent by Christ.

41. If, then, none but the Roman Catholic Church has the marks of the ' one ' Church of Christ, what follows from this?

That the Roman Catholic Church alone is the true Church established by Jesus Christ.

Application. Pray frequently for the peace and exaltation of the Catholic Church, and for the conversion of the heretics and infidels. "' Blessed are all they that love thee [the Church], and that rejoice in thy peace ' (Tob. xiii. 18).

§ 3. On the End of the Church, and on her Qualities resulting from this End.

42. For what end did Christ establish the Church?

Christ established the Church, that by her He might lead all men to eternal salvation.