Catholic Dictionary

Term

SPOUSE (BRIDE) OF CHRIST

Definition

Primarily the Church, founded by Christ, which St. Paul elaborately describes as espoused to Christ. Also a woman who vows her chastity to God in order to be more like Christ and more intimately united with him. Among certain mystics, such as Sts. Teresa of Avila and Catherine of Siena, an extraordinary union in prayer with the Savior.