Final answer:
A Domestic Church refers to the concept of the family as the foundational unit of Christian faith within the home. Historically linked to the Cult of Domesticity, it emphasizes the role of the household as a sacred space for upholding Christian values, and has roots in early Christian worship practices within ordinary homes before dedicated church buildings were constructed.
Step-by-step explanation:
The term 'Domestic Church' refers to the idea that the family serves as the first and fundamental unit of the Church at home. Throughout history, this concept has often been associated with the Cult of Domesticity, in which the home – under the guidance of a devout woman – becomes a sanctuary of Christian values and a contrast to the perceived immorality of the public sphere. This domestic sphere served both religious and social functions, as women were to emulate a Christian ideal, turning their household into a sacred space representing morality and piety. Historically, during the pre-Constantinian era, Christians practiced their faith in house-churches or domus ecclesiae, which were ordinary houses adapted for worship before the construction of designated church buildings. This practice underscores the intimate connection between one's home and spiritual life, a sentiment that resonates with groups like the Amish who continue to hold services in private homes today.