1. We are a Communion of Saints Chapter 23

2. heresy- a denial after Baptism of a truth of the faith. apostacy- a total abandonment of one's own faith. schism- the refusal to submit to the leadership of Peter's successor, the pope, or a lack of unity with the members of the Church.

3. ecumenism- the work to promote the unity of all Christians. communion of saints- the union of all the baptized members

4. Common Christian Beliefs Despite the differences between Christians, there are important beliefs that all share in common. - Baptism -the belief in both humanity and the divinity of Jesus. -the belief that Jesus died and rose to save us from sin. -the Bible is the inspired word of God.

5. Mary Mary is Jesus' first and most faithful disciple. Mary is the greatest of all the saints.

6. The Church honors Mary as the greatest of all the saints and shows devotion to her through several titles: Blessed Virgin, Mother of God, Mother of the Church. She was given the title, "Mother of God" at the Council of Ephesus in 431 AD.

7. Mary Annunciation- she is told that God has chosen her to be the mother of his Son. Immaculate Conception (December 8th)- never stained by sin, Mary had a pure heart and lived a life of holiness. Assumption (August 15th) - God blessed Mary by sending her body and soul to live forever with Jesus.