History of the Catholic Church

When we read in the New Testament how our beloved Lord Jesus Christ "went about doing good" in the land of Judea, preaching heavenly truths, imparting saying grace to men of good will, and infusing peace into the hearts of all, we are apt to indulge in feelings of regret that we too did not live in those happy days, that we were not permitted to enjoy his sacred presence and to hearken to his voice. Let us therefore examine and study carefully the plan adopted by our Saviour whereby he continues still to dwell on earth, forwarding the work of salvation in all lands and during all time. What method has Christ followed in order to effect this object? He delegated his threefold office and character-namely. His teaching office, his priesthood, and his kingly authority to a manner of chosen men, in union with whom he continues to act as Teacher, Priest, and King to the end of time.