Pope: “The Church is not a human invention, but a divine institution”

Vatican City (Vatican), Mar. 25 (LaPresse) – “The Church is not a human invention, but a divine institution, established by Jesus himself.” This was stated by Pope Leo XIV during the Wednesday general audience, addressing the faithful in English. “Christ appointed the apostles, placing Peter at their head, and sent them to continue his saving mission until his return in glory. To perpetuate this same mission, the ministers were endowed with the sacred power to succeed the Apostles as Bishops, a ministry in which priests and deacons also participate through the Sacrament of Holy Orders. By participating in the ministry of Jesus, the Good Shepherd, they are consecrated to serve the faithful, build up the Church, and ensure the fruitful transmission of the faith,” the Pope added.