1 min read
Spirit
Spirit signifies the highest spiritual dimension of the human person, by which one is open to God, often distinguished from the broader concept of the soul.
In Catholic theology and Scripture, the term "spirit" is sometimes distinguished from "soul." While the soul is the spiritual principle that animates the human body, "spirit" signifies that from its creation, the human being is ordered to a supernatural end and capable of being raised by grace to communion with God (CCC 367).
Body, Soul, and Spirit
St. Paul prays that the "spirit and soul and body" be kept sound and blameless (1 Thessalonians 5:23). The Church teaches that this distinction does not divide the human soul into two different things; rather, "spirit" emphasizes the soul's highest capacity—its fundamental openness to God's grace and divine life (CCC 367).
May the Lord bless you and keep you.
Browse
All glossary terms
Join the community
Subscribe to our weekly newsletter for curated inspiration, delivered to your inbox.
We never share your data. See Privacy Policy for more info.