THE CATHOLIC CHURCH

St. Ambrose describes the Church as one built upon the rock of the apostles against countless dangers in the world; therefore, it remains unmoved. The Church's foundation is unshakable and firm against the assaults of the raging sea.

Waves lash at the Church but do not shatter it. Although the elements of this world constantly batter and crash against her, she offers the safest harbor of salvation for all in distress. 

The Church is like a great ship being pounded by the waves of life's different stresses. Our duty is not to abandon ship, as the heretics do, but to keep her on her course, adds St. Boniface. 

The Holy Spirit is present only in the true Church because He is the Spirit of truth. This Spirit is what gives her priests the power to bind and forgive in the person of St. Peter, states St. Augustine.

St. Cyprian states that he cannot have God for his father who has not the Church for his mother. He who is outside the Church is outside Noah's Ark. 

Pointing to the Catholic Church, St. Isidore of Seville states that the customs of the Holy Roman Church do not differ at all from the divine authorities. 

St. Bede says that the garments of Christ's true Church is the blood of the victorious martyrs and the adornments of virginity.

(01-29-03)