The local church

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The importance of the local church to the parish

Most Christians belong to a parish - a community of local believers within a particular denomination. The care of the parish and its people is entrusted to a parish priest. The local church building plays an important role in the community's life together. Living in that community encourages individual Christians to put their faith into action in everyday living practices, such as being a good neighbour and caring for those in need.

How the local church helps individual believers and the local area

The Bible calls the Church 'the body of Christ' and Christians believe that the Church is holy and belongs to God. The Church's mission is to preach the gospel and to make God's kingdom a reality in their own community.

Each local church follows that mission. It also supports believers in following Jesus' teachings in their own lives, encouraging them to be good people. Local churches carry out their mission in various ways, by:

offering the church as a community centre to bring local people together

giving spiritual support to the sick

praying for those in need

supporting groups that campaign for justice and peace

offering moral guidance

telling others about Jesus

outreach to children, the poor and needy

supporting young adults with advice on jobs, training, finance and finding a home

giving friendship and help to the elderly

raising money for charity

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Ecumenism

There is a movement within the Church that tries to create unity and friendship between different Christian denominations. It is called ecumenism. Supporters say that closer union will lead to:

tolerance of different ideas

mutual understanding of the Christian faith

less discrimination and conflict

friendship among Christians