Catholic Church teachings emphasize universal call to holiness

Following the principles established by the Second Vatican Council, Catholic teachings emphasize that holiness is a vocation for all baptized Christians, rather than being reserved solely for clergy or those in religious orders. The constitution Lumen Gentium clarifies that every believer is called to the fullness of Christian life and the perfection of charity.

This spiritual path is supported by the sacraments of Christian Initiation, including Baptism, Confirmation, and the Eucharist, which provide the necessary grace for believers to pursue holiness. The teachings distinguish between holiness and specific charisms, noting that sanctity is not measured by spectacular renunciations or specific life states, such as being a contemplative religious versus a layperson, but by faithfulness to God and charity.

While circumstances and sensitivities change across generations, the essence of the response to God remains constant. The Church maintains that its holiness derives from Christ rather than human perfection, and it is tasked with transforming the world through the Gospel rather than adapting the message to suit worldly trends.