What Do We Mean by “The Life of the Church”?

The Church is not just an institution—it’s a living mystery, animated by grace, nourished by the Eucharist, and made visible in her saints.

When we talk about “the life of the Church,” we don’t mean the latest parish potluck or bingo night (though those are special in their own way). We’re talking about something much deeper and much more alive.

I’ve been coming across the term “Life of the Church” a lot lately, most notably from something Pope Leo XIV said about ordaining women. I can’t fin…