What does the word Catholic mean when applied to the Church?

• A. Local
• B. Holy
• C. Universal
• D. Ordinary

Answer: (C)

The main idea is that Catholic describes the Church as universal. The term comes from the Greek katholikos, meaning “concerning the whole” or “universal.” When applied to the Church, it emphasizes that the Church is meant for all people, across all nations and ages, and that it contains the fullness of Christ’s teaching, sacraments, and mission for everyone.

This universality sets it apart from notions of being just local or limited to a particular group. It’s also distinct from holiness or ordinariness—the words “holy” and “ordinary” refer to other aspects of the Church. In sum, Catholicity is about scope and completeness: the Church is universal in its reach, in its truth, and in its call to all corners of the world.