Here is Pope Francis on how the Church is both hierarchical (priesthood, bishops, etc thus fatherly) and motherly (unified and nurturing).

This points out the Marian aspect of the Church where Mary is both exemplar of the Church and Mother of all Christians and leads us to the Father, Son and Holy Spirit.

During his weekly general audience, Pope Francis explained that bishops, priests and deacons are called to guide and protect the Church, especially through the celebration of the Sacraments.

SUMMARY OF POPE’S CATECHESIS:

Dear Brothers and Sisters:

In our catechesis on the Church, we have seen that the Holy Spirit constantly bestows his gifts for the upbuilding of the Body of Christ. Among these gifts are the ordained ministries. Through the sacrament of Holy Orders, bishops, priests and deacons are called to guide and protect Christ’s flock, above all though the celebration of the sacraments which give us new life in Christ.

The Church is thus both hierarchical and maternal: her ordained ministries are at the service of her spiritual motherhood.

via Pope Francis explains why the Church is both hierarchical and maternal.

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