In Vietnamese, the term ekklesia (ἐκκλησία) is often translated as Church. The root of the word suggests a gathering that has been summoned — in the Greek world, it could refer to an assembly of people or a council of citizens. When the authors of the New Testament borrowed this term, they described those gathered by God through the Gospel, not just a self-selected group. That is why “going to church” and “being the Church” are inseparable: ekklesia is the living presence of God's people.
Ekklesia và Đức Kitô
Saint Paul refers to the Church as the body of Christ (see 1 Cor 12). Each member is a part; the whole is united under the head, who is the Lord. The vocabulary of ekklesia emphasizes the call out (ek = out, kaleo = to call): we do not establish the Church ourselves but respond to God in baptism and communion. Therefore, understanding the Greek term helps avoid the image of a “voluntary club” instead of holy communion.
Địa phương và toàn cầu
The New Testament speaks of ekklesia in a city (Rome, Corinth…) and about one Church only. The two levels are not in conflict: each community is a local manifestation of one body. Today, being connected to a parish, a diocesan bishop, and communion with the Pope reflects the true meaning of ekklesia more than simply “finding a preferred group” online.
Tránh hiểu lầm phổ biến
There is a viewpoint that reduces ekklesia to “just an invisible gathering” or “just a church building.” Both are skewed: the Church is mystery — existing in the Sacraments, Teachings, and a structured community. The etymology does not replace the Catechism about one, holy, catholic, apostolic — but reinforces a way of approaching Scripture that is responsible.
Ứng dụng cho đời sống
When encountering the term “Church” in the Gospel, one might ask: how does this verse invite us to communion with our brothers and sisters, with ministers, with the poor? Ekklesia is not closed off to “personal meaning” but opens up responsibility for love and service. This is the seed of a healthy parish life.
“For the body does not consist of one member but of many.”
— 1 Cor 12:14 (connecting ekklesia with the body)
