What did the term "sacramental economy" refer to in ecumenical councils?

The term "sacramental economy" refers specifically to the manner in which God's grace is dispensed through the sacraments within the context of the Church. This concept emphasizes the role of sacraments as essential means through which believers receive divine grace. Sacraments, such as Baptism, Eucharist, and Confirmation, function as visible signs instituted by Christ that convey spiritual grace.

Understanding sacramental economy helps illuminate how the Church functions as a channel of God's grace, fostering a deeper relationship between the faithful and God. This perspective is central to discussions in ecumenical councils, where the nature of grace, the significance of the sacraments, and the Church’s role as a mediator of grace are crucial topics. The term highlights both the theological and practical dimensions of sacramental life in the Church, making it a foundational concept in ecclesiology.

The other options focus on administrative or charitable aspects of the Church, but they do not reflect the theological understanding of the sacramental economy, which is fundamentally about the transmission of grace through sacred rites.