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And so, lastly, does the very name of "Catholic", which, not without reason, amid so many heresies, the Church has thus retained; so that, though all heretics wish to be called Catholics, yet when a stranger asks where the Catholic Church meets, no heretic will venture to point to his own chapel or house.
Saint Augustine
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Interpretation

What this quote means

The Catholic Church's identity is distinct and recognizable, even amidst various heresies.

Saint Augustine emphasizes the unique and recognizable nature of the Catholic Church's identity, stating that while many heretics desire to be associated with the term 'Catholic', they cannot genuinely claim that identity, as they cannot point to their places of worship as true representatives of the Church. This highlights the inherent unity and authenticity of the Catholic Church in contrast to divergent beliefs.

Themes

CatholicIdentityChurchUnityHeresy

In practice

Example use cases

In a discussion about religious identity in interfaith dialogues.

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