Many people wonder how we can speak of the Church not just as an institution, but as something deeply united to Christ Himself. It’s a beautiful question — because it takes us to the very heart of what the Church truly is. The Church is not simply a human organization or a gathering of believers; she is, in the mystery of faith, the Body of Christ alive in the world.
When Scripture speaks of Christ and His Church, it uses the image of a body and its head. Saint Paul writes, “Christ is the head of the body, the Church” (Colossians 1:18). This means that just as a body receives direction and life from its head, so the Church draws her identity, mission, and grace from Christ. Without Him, she would be lifeless; through Him, she lives and moves and acts in love.
Another image the Bible gives us is that of a bride and bridegroom. In Ephesians 5, Saint Paul says, “Christ loved the Church and gave Himself up for her.” This love is not distant or symbolic — it is intimate and sacrificial. Jesus’ death on the Cross was the moment when the Bridegroom gave everything for His Bride, so that she might be purified and made holy. The Church, in turn, lives in response to that love — she listens, follows, and offers herself to Him in faith and devotion.
What this means for us is deeply personal. To belong to the Church is to belong to Christ Himself. Through Baptism, we are united to His Body; through the Eucharist, we receive His very life; through the Holy Spirit, we are made one in love. The Church carries His presence through time — teaching His truth, offering His grace, and bringing His mercy to every corner of the world.
In this sacred relationship, Christ and His Church are never separate. He lives in her, and she reveals Him to the world. When we love the Church, we are loving Christ; when we serve within her, we are serving Him.
Let us remember that to walk with the Church is to walk with Christ Himself. May our hearts remain close to His, trusting that in every age, He continues to love, guide, and sanctify His Bride.
— Fr. John Matthew, for Christian Way
