1 Theme: Church Life Early Church: 1st- 6th “Christianity Defined” Leadership & People • Hierarchy 1. Bishop: Teacher (Elder) 2. Elders: Council 3. Deacons: Deacons (Servants) 4. Laity: Baptized believer 5. Catechumen: Seeker (pre-baptized) Catechumen • Greek: = “Oral handing down” – Traditions: • Scripture • Creeds • Teachings (Theology) • Three years training – Baptized • Easter or Pentecost •1 st Catacombs •2 nd Basilica Catechumen • Baptism! – Trinitarian Formula – New life – Sign grace – Forgiveness – Membership – Some Traditions • 1 lapse (Major sin) • Excommunicated • Seven Deadly Sins