MANDATUM DEI: THE GOOD AND GLAD TIDINGS OF ETERNAL FELICITY. BASIC TEACHINGS OF THE ONE AND ONLY TRUE GOD THROUGH HIS ONLY CHURCH THE CATHOLIC CHURCH / BASIC CATHOLIC DOCTRINE
THE BASICS OF THE GOSPEL OF GOD JESUS CHRIST. There is no salvation to Heaven outside GOD JESUS CHRIST through His only Church, the Catholic Church
Please excuse the typing errors.
Every one therefore that heareth these my words, and doth them, shall be likened to a wise man that built his house upon a rock, And the rain fell, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and they beat upon that house, and it fell not, for it was founded on a rock. And every one that heareth these my words and doth them not, shall be like a foolish man that built his house upon the sand, And the rain fell, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and they beat upon that house, and it fell, and great was the fall thereof. (Matthew 7:24-27)
CONTENTS
Preface
Introductory Part
Prelimary Part
Part I. The Creed. The Creed in General; The Apostles Creed in General; I believe in GOD, the Father Almighty, Creator of Heaven and earth; And in JESUS CHRIST, His only Son, our Lord; Who was conceived by the HOLY SPIRIT, born of the Virgin Mary; Suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried; He descended into hell, the third day He rose again from the dead; He ascended into heaven, and sitteth at the right hand of GOD, the Father Almighty; From thence He shall come to judge the living and the dead; I believe in the HOLY SPIRIT; The Holy Catholic Church, the Communion of Saints; The forgiveness of sins; The resurrection of the body; And life everlasting; Amen
Part II. The Sacraments. The Sacraments in General; Baptism; Confirmation; The Most Holy Eucharist (The Most Holy Sacrament and The Most Holy Sacrifice of the Mass); Penance (Confession), Indulgences; Extreme Unction; Holy Orders; Matrimony; Other Means of Grace - Right use of Sacramentals; Prayer, Fasting and Almsdeeds; Hearing the Word of GOD
Part III. The Commandments. The Commandments in General; The Ten Commandments of GOD in General; I am the Lord thy GOD, thou shalt not have strange gods before; Thou shalt not take the the Name of the Lord thy GOD in vain; Remember thou keep holy the Sabbath Day; Honour thy father and thy mother; Thou shalt not kill; Thou shalt not commit adultery; Thou shalt not steal; Thou shalt not bear false witness against thy neighbour; Thou shalt not covet thy neighbours wife; Thou shalt not covet thy neighbours goods; The Commandments / Precepts of the Church in General; To hear Mass on all Sundays and Holy Days of Obligation; To fast and abstain on the days appointed; To confess at least once a year; To receive the Most Holy Eucharist during the Easter time; To contribute to the support of the Church; Not to marry persons who are not Catholics, or who are related within the fourth degree of kindred, nor privately with out witnesses, nor to solomnize marriage at forbidden times and to observe all the Marriage Laws of the Church
Part IV. The Lord’s Prayer. The Lords Prayer or The Our Father in General; Our Father, who art in heaven; Hallowed be Thy Name; Thy kingdom come; Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven; Give us this day our daily bread; And forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us; And lead us not into temptation; But deliver us from evil; Amen
Concluding Part. The Most Essential Truths of the Faith; On the Last Things: Death, Judgement, Purgatory, Heaven And Hell; On Acts of Faith, Hope, Charity and Contrition; On Trust and Confidence in GOD; On the Duty of Gratitude and Thanksgiving to GOD; The Christian Under Suffering; On Christian Perfection in Union with GOD; The Three Degrees of the Spiritual Life of Union with GOD; On Christian Joy and Peace in Union With GOD
PREFACE
Whereas you know not what shall be on the morrow. For what is your life? It is a vapour which appeareth for a little while and afterwards shall vanish away. (James 4:14,15)
It is of utmost importance for one to know:
From whom he / she has come into this world?
Why he / she is in this world?
In whom alone his / her joy, peace and happiness consists?
Where he / she will go after death?
O taste, and see that the Lord is sweet: blessed is the man that hopeth in him. (Pslams 33:9)
BASIC TEACHINGS OF GOD THROUGH HIS CATHOLIC CHURCH / BASIC CATHOLIC DOCTRINE - WITH SACRED SCRIPTURAL (HOLY BIBLE) PROOFS, REFERENCES AND CITATIONS.
THE BASICS OF THE GOSPEL OF GOD JESUS CHRIST
And Jesus coming, spoke to them, saying: All power is given to me in heaven and in earth. Going therefore, teach ye all nations: baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Ghost. Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you. (Matthew 28:18,19). He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved: but he that believeth not shall be condemned. (Mark 16:16). And behold I am with you all days, even to the consummation of the world. (Matthew 28:20).
Note: HOLY GHOST and HOLY SPIRIT mean the same.
INTRODUCTORY PART
Question: Who created man? (man refers to man and woman)
Answer: GOD created man. God created man to his own image: to the image of God he created him: male and female he created them. (Genesis 1:27)
Q. Why did GOD make us to His own image and likeness?
A. To give Him glory in this life and then in the next forever in heaven and to bestow upon us His own happiness in this life and then forever in heaven. I am thy protector, and thy reward exceeding great. (Genesis 15:1)
Q. On what condition will He bestow upon us His own happiness?
A. On condition that we always adore, love and serve Him on earth. The Lord thy God shalt thou adore, and him only shalt thou serve. (Matthew 4:10)
Q. How can we adore, love and serve GOD?
A. Only by doing GOD’s will which is based on His unchangeable teachings given by Him through His only Church the Catholic Church, through His Apostles. And Jesus coming, spoke to them, saying: All power is given to me in heaven and in earth. Going therefore, teach ye all nations: baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Ghost. Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you. (Matthew 28:18,19). He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved: but he that believeth not shall be condemned. (Mark 16:16); Not every one that saith to me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven: but he that doth the will of my Father who is in heaven, he shall enter into the kingdom of heaven.(Matthew 7:21)
Note’s: Catholic comes from the Greek words: kata which means according to and holos which means the whole. It literally means according to the whole or more colloquially, universal. Catholic is according to the whole established by GOD, entire and complete and not parts of it: Catholic Doctrine given by GOD, Catholic Worship & Means of Sanctification - Holy Mass & Sacraments instituted by GOD and Catholic Hierarchy established by GOD. They therefore that received his word were baptized: and there were added in that day about three thousand souls. And they were persevering in the doctrine of the apostles and in the communication of the breaking of bread and in prayers. (Acts of the Apostles 2:41,42)
The earliest known written record of the term Catholic Church is around 107 A.D. by Saint Ignatius of Antioch, one of the earliest Bishop’s of the Catholic Church, who was a friend of Saint John the Apostle and received and learnt the Doctrine of GOD from Him.
Q. Were all men made to be forever happy with GOD in heaven?
A. Yes, all without any exception. Is it my will that a sinner should die, saith the Lord God, and not that he should be converted from his ways, and live? (Ezechiel 18:23); Who will have all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth. For there is one God: and one mediator of God and men, the man Christ Jesus: Who gave himself a redemption for all, a testimony in due times. (1 Timothy 2:4-6); For this is the will of God, your sanctification (1 Thessalonians 4:3)
Q. Why are many not saved into Heaven but go to the eternal torments in the fires of hell?
A. Because instead of adoring, loving and serving GOD they seek only the riches, honours and pleasures of this world, out of self love. For what shall it profit a man, if he gain the whole world and suffer the loss of his soul? Or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul (Mark 8:36,37); The sower [JESUS CHRIST] went out to sow his seed. And as he sowed, some fell by the way side. And it was trodden down: and the fowls of the air devoured it. And other some fell upon a rock. And as soon as it was sprung up, it withered away, because it had no moisture. And other some fell among thorns. And the thorns growing up with it, choked it. And other some fell upon good ground and, being sprung up, yielded fruit a hundredfold. Saying these things, he cried out: He that hath ears to hear, let him hear. (Luke 8:5-8); In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of unbelievers, that the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God, should not shine unto them. (2 Corinthians 4:4); Enter ye in at the narrow gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way that leadeth to destruction, and many there are who go in thereat. How narrow is the gate, and strait is the way that leadeth to life: and few there are that find it! (Matthew 7:13,14); And a certain man said to him: Lord, are they few that are saved? But he said to them: Strive to enter by the narrow gate: for many, I say to you, shall seek to enter and shall not be able. (Luke 13:23,24)
Note: Those who do not want to lose the affections of their relatives and friends, their comfortable homes, their temporal goods, prospects in business and other worldy attatchments in order to live and die for GOD by living a true and sincere Catholic life, can never belong to Him in this life and consequently in the next for eternity in heaven. It necessarily follows that they will go down the wide road to hell. He that loveth father or mother more than me, is not worthy of me; and he that loveth son or daughter more than me, is not worthy of me. (Matthew 10:37); He that is not with me is against me; and he that gathereth not with me scattereth. (Luke 11:23); The kingdom of heaven is like unto a treasure hidden in a field. Which a man having found, hid it, and for joy thereof goeth, and selleth all that he hath, and buyeth that field. Again the kingdom of heaven is like to a merchant seeking good pearls. Who when he had found one pearl of great price, went his way, and sold all that he had, and bought it. (Matthew 13:44-46)
Q. May we not seek and use the goods of this world?
A. We may, so far as they help us to know, adore, love and serve GOD. And they that use this world, as if they used it not. (1 Corinthians 7:31)
Q. How must we regard those goods and pleasures which keep us away from knowing, adoring, loving and serving GOD?
A. We must neither seek nor use them. We know that we are of God and the whole world is seated in wickedness. (1 John 5:19); And if thy hand, or thy foot, scandalize thee, cut it off, and cast it from thee. It is better for thee to go into life maimed or lame, than having two hands or two feet, to be cast into everlasting fire. And if thy eye scandalize thee, pluck it out, and cast it from thee. It is better for thee having one eye to enter into life, than having two eyes to be cast into hell fire.(Matthew 18:8,9) And if thy eye scandalize thee, pluck it out: it is better for thee with one eye to enter into the kingdom of God than having two eyes to be cast into the hell of fire: Where their worm dieth not, and the fire is not extinguished. (Mark 9:46,47).
Q. Why?
A. Because they will cause us to be separated from the infinitely good GOD in this life and then for eternity in hell, along with its never ending torments. Anything that tries to come between us and GOD has to be immedietly taken and thrown out, so that we are able to love and serve GOD in this life and go straight along the road to eternal life with Him in heaven. Love not the world, nor the things which are in the world. If any man love the world, the charity of the Father is not in him. (1 John 2:15); For all that is in the world is the concupiscence of the flesh and the concupiscence of the eyes and the pride of life, which is not of the Father but is of the world. (1 John 2:16); But every man is tempted by his own concupiscence, being drawn away and allured. Then, when concupiscence hath conceived, it bringeth forth sin. But sin, when it is completed, begetteth death.(James 1:14,15); For what doth it profit a man, if he gain the whole world and suffer the loss of his own soul? Or what exchange shall a man give for his soul? (Matthew 16:26)
Q. Cannot the riches, honours and pleasures of this world make us happy?
A. Never.
Q. Why not?
A. Because our soul’s and bodies were not created for them and by them, but by GOD entirely for Himself. We have not been created for this world, but for GOD and GOD alone for time and eternity. The things of this world be it people, places or things are temporal and will end with this world. If we try to set our happiness on them, we will never find happiness because our happiness consists in GOD alone. And I will say to my soul: Soul, thou hast much goods laid up for many years. Take thy rest: eat, drink, make good cheer. But God said to him: Thou fool, this night do they require thy soul of thee. And whose shall those things be which thou hast provided? (Luke 12:19,20); For we brought nothing into this world: and certainly we can carry nothing out. (1 Timothy 6:7); for dust thou art, and into dust thou shalt return. (Genesis 3:19); And the dust return into its earth, from whence it was, and the spirit return to God, who gave it. (Ecclesiastes 12:7); And the world passeth away and the concupiscence thereof: but he that doth the will of God abideth for ever. (1 John 2:17); Jesus answered and said to her: Whosoever drinketh of this water shall thirst again: but he that shall drink of the water that I will give him shall not thirst for ever. But the water that I will give him shall become in him a fountain of water, springing up into life everlasting. (John 4:13,14); We are happy, O Israel: because the things that are pleasing to God, are made known to us. (Baruch 4:4) They have called the people happy, that hath these things: but happy is that people whose God is the Lord. (Psalms 143:15)
Note: Those who follow the maxims of the world are never truly happy because they have no true peace of soul, and are in danger of being lost eternally in hell.
Q. But cannot we love those riches, honours and pleasures, and GOD at the same time?
A. We cannot love both, at the same time. If we make the riches, honours and pleasures of this world the sole object of our lives, we will definately forget GOD, our Creator and Redeemer. If we try to love GOD and also love the things of this world we will never be able to love GOD. No man can serve two masters. For either he will hate the one, and love the other: or he will sustain the one, and despise the other. You cannot serve God and mammon. (Matthew 6:24); But let your speech be yea, yea: no, no: and that which is over and above these, is of evil. (Matthew 5:37); I know thy works, that thou art neither cold nor hot. I would thou wert cold or hot. But because thou art lukewarm and neither cold nor hot, I will begin to vomit thee out of my mouth. (Apocalypse [Revelation] 3:15,16); He that is not with me is against me; and he that gathereth not with me scattereth. (Luke 11:23)
Note: Those who try to secure this life and the next life in heaven, can never secure heaven but will loose their lives in the eternal torments of hell. One cannot love and serve GOD in parts. It is all or nothing to hell.
Q. Where then are we to seek true happiness?
A. In GOD and GOD alone.
Q. How are we to seek for true happiness in GOD?
A. By knowing, adoring, loving and serving GOD according to His will.
Q. What do we say of the person who adores, loves and serves GOD as is GOD’s will to be adored, loved and served?
A. That he is united with GOD through His Catholic Church by faithfully living the only true religion given by GOD namely Catholicism, by His grace and help. Such a person alone adores, loves and serves GOD according to GOD’s will. But that on the good ground are they who in a good and perfect heart, hearing the word, keep it and bring forth fruit in patience. (Luke 8:15); Here is the patience of the saints, who keep the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus.(Apocalypse [Revelation] 14:12); There was in the days of Herod, the king of Judea, a certain priest named Zachary, of the course of Abia: and his wife was of the daughters of Aaron, and her name Elizabeth. And they were both just before God, walking in all the commandments and justifications of the Lord without blame. (Luke 1:5,6)
Q. What will happen to any person after death if that person has not loved and served the infinitely good GOD as He has willed?
A. GOD will cast that person into the everlasting torments of hell. Since that person has rejected Him and His infinite goodness, He will justly cast that person off into hell, and have nothing to do with that person for all eternity. It is right and just that he who rejects GOD and His infinite goodness should be rejected by Him. If any one abide not in me, he shall be cast forth as a branch and shall wither: and they shall gather him up and cast him into the fire: and he burneth. (John 15:6); And whosoever was not found written in the book of life was cast into the pool of fire. (Apocalypse [Revelation] 20:15)
Note: Man is the free cause of his own sin and eternal damnation in hell by wilful transgression of GOD’s law, and final impenitence, rejecting GOD’s infinite love and mercy. GOD can never be the cause of any man’s sin or eternal damnation in hell. From GOD there is only help for salvation. Before man is life and death, good and evil, that which he shall choose shall be given him: For the wisdom of God is great, and he is strong in power, seeing all men without ceasing. (Ecclesiasticus [Sirach]15:18,19); God hath given him place for penance, and he abuseth it unto pride (Job 24:23); Destruction is thy own, O Israel: thy help is only in me. (Hosea 13:9); Or despisest thou the riches of his goodness and patience and longsuffering? Knowest thou not that the benignity of God leadeth thee to penance? (Romans 2:4)
Q. What then must always be our only care?
A. To do the holy will of GOD in all things, according to His good pleasure. Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven.(Matthew 6:10); Father, if thou wilt, remove this chalice from me: but yet not my will, but thine be done. (Luke22:42); I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercy of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, pleasing unto God, your reasonable service. And be not conformed to this world: but be reformed in the newness of your mind, that you may prove what is the good and the acceptable and the perfect will of God. (Romans 12:1,2)
Behold, I stand at the gate and knock. If any man shall hear my voice and open to me the door, I will come in to him and will sup with him: and he with me. To him that shall overcome, I will give to sit with me in my throne: as I also have overcome and am set down with my Father in his throne. (Apocalypse [Revelation] 3:20,21)
PRELIMINARY PART
Q. Who is a true Catholic / Christian?
A. A true Catholic / Christian is he who by the grace of GOD: is baptised and who believes and professes the Catholic Doctrine, partakes in the Sacraments and is subject to the Pope and other lawful Pastors of the Church obeying them in everthing that is not sinful. They therefore that received his word were baptized: and there were added in that day about three thousand souls. And they were persevering in the doctrine of the apostles and in the communication of the breaking of bread and in prayers. (Acts of the Apostles 2:41,42); Here is the patience of the saints, who keep the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus. (Apocalypse [Revelation] 14:12)
Note’s: The terms Christian and Catholic, and Chritianity and Catholicism are interchangeable. Only Catholics can be Christians. Only Catholicism is Christianity.
Only practicing members of the Catholic Church will be saved by GOD to heaven; that is those who firmly believe all the truths contained in the Creed and keep the Ten Commandments of GOD and the Commandments / Precepts of the Church, by the means of grace established by GOD, primarily, Holy Mass, Sacraments and Prayer. Here is the patience of the saints, who keep the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus. And I heard a voice from heaven, saying to me: Write: Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord. From henceforth now, saith the Spirit, that they may rest from their labours. For their works follow them. (Apocalypse [Revelation] 14:12,13). Those who are dead members of the Catholic Church, that is, bad Catholics, those who live in mortal sin, will be condemned by GOD to the eternal torments of hell if they die unrepented. These include those who choose among the Catholic Doctrines, to accept such doctrines as they please them, and to reject the rest. GOD can neither deceive nor be deceived, bad Catholics deceive themselves to hell. But the fearful and unbelieving and the abominable and murderers and whoremongers and sorcerers and idolaters and all liars, they shall have their portion in the pool burning with fire and brimstone, which is the second death.(Apocalypse [Revelation] 21:8); You are of your father the devil: and the desires of your father you will do. He was a murderer from the beginning: and he stood not in the truth, because truth is not in him. When he speaketh a lie, he speaketh of his own: for he is a liar, and the father thereof. But if I say the truth, you believe me not. (John 8:44,45); He who saith that he knoweth him and keepeth not his commandments is a liar: and the truth is not in him. (1 John 2:4); Not every one that saith to me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven: but he that doth the will of my Father who is in heaven, he shall enter into the kingdom of heaven. Many will say to me in that day: Lord, Lord, have not we prophesied in thy name, and cast out devils in thy name, and done many miracles in thy name? And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, you that work iniquity. (Matthew 7:21-23); Whosoever revolteth and continueth not in the doctrine of Christ hath not God. (2 John 1:9); And why call you me, Lord, Lord; and do not the things which I say? Every one that cometh to me and heareth my words and doth them, I will shew you to whom he is like. He is like to a man building a house, who digged deep and laid the foundation upon a rock. And when a flood came, the stream beat vehemently upon that house: and it could not shake it: for it was founded on a rock. But he that heareth and doth not is like to a man building his house upon the earth without a foundation: against which the stream beat vehemently. And immediately it fell: and the ruin of that house was great. (Luke 6:46-49); For he also that striveth for the mastery is not crowned, except he strive lawfully. (2 Timothy 2:5)
Q. What is Catholic / Christian Doctrine?
A. Catholic / Christian Doctrine is the Teaching or Doctrine of GOD which He has revealed through His only Church the Catholic Church through His Apostles to give Him glory and show us the way of salvation to Him in Heaven. Catholic / Christian Doctrine treats of what we must believe, of what we must do, and of the means of grace which we must use, which includes primarily the Holy Mass, the Sacraments and prayer, to believe what we must believe and do what we must do, for the glory of GOD and the salvation of our souls and that of others.
Q. Why is it necessary for everyone to learn the Teachings of GOD revealed by Him through His Catholic Church / Catholic Doctrine, which is also called the Gospel of JESUS CHRIST?
A. It is necessary for everyone to learn the Teachings of GOD through His Catholic Church / Catholic Doctrine because it teaches us how to love and serve GOD: and unless we love and serve GOD in this life we can not be saved in the next; therefore, our knowledge of the Teachings of GOD through His Catholic Church / Catholic Doctrine affects our whole existence. And Jesus coming, spoke to them, saying: All power is given to me in heaven and in earth. Going therefore, teach ye all nations: baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Ghost. Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you. (Matthew 28:18,19). He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved: but he that believeth not shall be condemned. (Mark 16:16).
Q: Are parents and guardians bound to teach their children and those dependent on them Catholic Doctrine?
A. Parents and guardians bound to teach their children and those dependent on them Catholic Doctrine, and it is a sin of grave matter if they neglect this serious obligation before GOD. Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with thy whole heart, and with thy whole soul, and with thy whole strength. And these words which I command thee this day, shall be in thy heart: And thou shalt tell them to thy children (Deuteronomy 6:5-7); Tell ye of this to your children, and let your children tell their children (Joel 1:3); But he that shall scandalize one of these little ones that believe in me, it were better for him that a millstone should be hanged about his neck, and that he should be drowned in the depth of the sea. (Matthew 18:6); But if any man have not care of his own and especially of those of his house, he hath denied the faith and is worse than an infidel. (1 Timothy 5:8); Rejoice not in ungodly children, if they be multiplied: neither be delighted in them, if the fear of God be not with them. Trust not to their life, and respect not their labours. For better is one that feareth God, than a thousand ungodly children. And it is better to die without children, than to leave ungodly children. For better is one that feareth God, than a thousand ungodly children. And it is better to die without children, than to leave ungodly children. (Ecclesiasticus [Sirach] 16:1-5); And they brought to him young children, that he might touch them. And the disciples rebuked them that brought them. Whom when Jesus saw, he was much displeased and saith to them: Suffer the little children to come unto me and forbid them not: for of such is the kingdom of God. (Mark 10:13,14); And whosoever shall give to drink to one of these little ones a cup of cold water only in the name of a disciple, amen I say to you he shall not lose his reward. (Matthew 10:42)
Q. Through whom did GOD give His teachings to His Catholic Church to be taught to the world?
A. GOD gave His teachings to His Catholic Church to be taught to the world through His Apostles. This Divine Revelation of His ended at the death of the the last Apostle alive, the Apostle Saint John. It is also called the Deposit of Faith. As the Father hath sent me, I also send you [Apostles]. (John 20:21); But you shall receive the power of the Holy Ghost coming upon you, and you shall be witnesses unto me in Jerusalem, and in all Judea, and Samaria, and even to the uttermost part of the earth. (Acts of the Apostles 1:8); He that heareth you heareth me: and he that despiseth you despiseth me: and he that despiseth me despiseth him that sent me. (Luke 10:16); Dearly beloved, taking all care to write unto you concerning your common salvation, I was under a necessity to write unto you: to beseech you to contend earnestly for the faith once delivered to the saints (Jude 1:3)
Q. Where does the Catholic Church find the revealed truth it is bound to teach?
A. The Catholic Church finds the revealed truth it is bound to teach only in Sacred Scripture (Holy Bible) and Sacred Revealed Tradition. The authority given by GOD to the Catholic to teach His revealed truth is called the Magisterium of the Church. Sacred Scripture, Sacred Revealed Tradition and the Magisterium are together called the Three Pillars of the Catholic Church. Only a three legged stool is stable to sit on. One will most definately fall if one sits on a one legged stool or a even a two legged stool.
Note’s : Sacred Scripture is the Written Word of GOD in a collection of seventy two books written by men inspired by GOD under the guidance and influence of the HOLY SPIRIT. Sacred Revealed Tradition is the Non-Written Word of GOD, received by the Apostles from GOD, which they have transmitted by word of mouth, and has come down to us by the means of the Church. The word tradition has been taken from its Latin root, tradere, which means to pass on. Sacred Revealed Tradition is equal to Sacred Scripture because together it is the one Word of GOD.
There is nothing more difficult than to understand the true meaning of every passage of the Sacred Scripture. The Word of GOD through Sacred Scripture itself says: As also in all his epistles, speaking in them of these things; in which are certain things hard to be understood, which the unlearned and unstable wrest, as they do also the other scriptures, to their own destruction. (2 Peter 3:16); The interpretation of the Sacred Scriptures belongs to the Catholic Church alone who alone has the authority from GOD for it. And Philip running thither, heard him reading the prophet Isaias. And he said: Thinkest thou that thou understandest what thou readest? Who said: And how can I, unless some man shew me? Then Philip, opening his mouth and beginning at this scripture, preached unto him Jesus. (Acts of the Apostles 8:30,31;35). No one can explain Sacred Scripture in his own private manner. Understanding this first: That no prophecy of scripture is made by private interpretation. (2 Peter 1:20). The Word of GOD cannot be altered by no one. For I testify to every one that heareth the words of the prophecy of this book: If any man shall add to these things, God shall add unto him the plagues written in this book. And if any man shall take away from the words of the book of this prophecy, God shall take away his part out of the book of life, and out of the holy city, and from these things that are written in this book. (Apocalypse [Revelation] 22:18,19)
Sacred Scriptural Reference’s for Sacred Revealed Tradition - But there are also many other things which Jesus did which, if they were written every one, the world itself. I think, would not be able to contain the books that should be written. (John 21:25); Having more things to write unto you, I would not by paper and ink: for I hope that I shall be with you and speak face to face, that your joy may be full. (2 John 1:12); Therefore, brethren, stand fast: and hold the traditions, which you have learned, whether by word or by our epistle. (2 Thessalonians 2:14); Now I praise you, brethren, that in all things you are mindful of me and keep my ordinances as I have delivered them to you. (1 Corinthians 11:2)
There was not any Written Word of GOD for two thousand years, from Adam down to Moses. All that GOD spoke to Adam, Noe [Noah], etc., came down uncorrupted to Moses, who was the first to write down the Word of GOD by Sacred Revealed Tradition; that is, GOD took care that the Patriarchs, His faithful servants, should hand down by word of mouth His Doctrine uncorrupted from generation to generation.
The Doctrine of GOD given to His Catholic Church through His Apostles which is Catholic Doctrine is entirely independent of the Holy Bible because Catholic Doctrine was taught and believed by the early Catholics / Christians before the New Testament was written, centuries, indeed, before the Holy Bible was collected into its present form.
Sacred Scripture in a broader sense is a part of Sacred Revealed Tradition.
Q. Can the Teachings of GOD through His Catholic Church / Catholic Doctrine ever be changed?
A. The Teachings of GOD through His Catholic Church or Catholic Doctrine can never be changed or modified by the smallest jot by no one, including the Pope who has the highest authority from GOD on earth, because GOD does not change. For ever, O Lord, thy word standeth firm in heaven.(Psalms118:89). For I am the Lord, and I change not (Malachias 3:6); Jesus Christ, yesterday, and today: and the same for ever. Be not led away with various and strange doctrines. (Hebrews 13:8,9); Dearly beloved, taking all care to write unto you concerning your common salvation, I was under a necessity to write unto you: to beseech you to contend earnestly for the faith once delivered to the saints.(Jude 1:3); I wonder that you are so soon removed from him that called you into the grace of Christ, unto another gospel. Which is not another: only there are some that trouble you and would pervert the gospel of Christ. But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach a gospel to you besides that which we have preached to you, let him be anathema. As we said before, so now I say again: If any one preach to you a gospel, besides that which you have received, let him be anathema. (Galatians 1:6-9). JESUS CHRIST has said: Do not think that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets. I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil. For amen I say unto you, till heaven and earth pass, one jot, or one tittle shall not pass of the law, till all be fulfilled. (Matthew 5:17,18). And whosoever shall keep the whole law, but offend in one point, is become guilty of all. (Saint James 2:10); Whosoever revolteth and continueth not in the doctrine of Christ hath not God. He that continueth in the doctrine, the same hath both the Father and the Son. If any man come to you and bring not this doctrine, receive him not into the house nor say to him: God speed you. (2 John 1:9,10)
Note: Catholic Doctrine in the year 33 A.D. is the same Catholic Doctrine in the year 2025 A.D., in the years between 33 A.D. and 2025 A.D., and until the end of time.
Q. Which are the Two Chief Mysteries of the Faith?
A. The Two Chief Mysteries of the Faith are: The Unity and Trinity of GOD and the Incarnation and Reedeming Death of our Saviour JESUS CHRIST.
Note’s: Mysteries are truths revealed by GOD that are above reason and which we are to believe even though we cannot understand them. Mysteries are above, but not contrary to, reason; and even reason itself persuades us to accept the mysteries. Mysteries cannot be contrary to reason, because the same GOD who has given us the light of reason has also revealed the mysteries, and He cannot contradict Himself. We must believe mysteries because they are revealed to us by GOD, who, being infinite Truth and Goodness, can neither deceive nor be deceived.
GOD requires us to believe mysteries that we may in humility submit our understanding to Him who is Truth Himself and can neither deceive nor be deceived.
Another mystery of the faith is the mystery of the Most Holy Eucharist.
Q. Are we obliged to make an external profession of the truth’s revealed by GOD though His Catholic Church?
A. We obliged to make an external profession of the truth’s revealed by GOD through His Catholic Church, as often as GOD’s honour and glory, and our own salvation or that of our neighbour’s requires it. Every one therefore that shall confess me before men, I will also confess him before my Father who is in heaven. But he that shall deny me before men, I will also deny him before my Father who is in heaven. (Matthew 10:32,33); He that feareth man shall quickly fall: he that trusteth in the Lord, shall be set on high. (Proverbs 29:25); And fear ye not them that kill the body, and are not able to kill the soul: but rather fear him that can destroy both soul and body in hell. (Matthew 10:28)
Q. Are we bound to venture the ruin of our estates, the loss of our relatives and friends, and to lay down our very lives for the profession and defence of the truth’s revealed by GOD through His Catholic Church for the honour and love of Him?
A. Doubtless we are, because of the infinite goodness of GOD JESUS CHRIST, who for our redemption and salvation has suffered far greater things for us, even to a disgraceful death on the cross and therefore, it would be base ingratitude, not to be ready to give our lives for Him as often as His honour shall require it and seeing the reward we expect in heaven, infinitely exceeds all the pleasures and pains of this life. GOD JESUS CHRIST has said: He that loveth father or mother more than me, is not worthy of me; and he that loveth son or daughter more than me, is not worthy of me. (Matthew 10:37) and For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: and whosoever shall lose his life for my sake and the gospel shall save it. For what shall it profit a man, if he gain the whole world and suffer the loss of his soul? Or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul (Mark 8:35-37). But above all GOD JESUS CHRIST has called all faithful Catholics His friends and has said there is no greater love a man can have than to lay down his life for his friends. So there is no greater love than suffering anything, loosing everything including our very lives by laying down our lives for GOD who is our friend. You are my friends, if you do the things that I command you.(John 15:14); Greater love than this no man hath, that a man lay down his life for his friends. (John 15:13); Many waters cannot quench charity, neither can the floods drown it: if a man should give all the substance of his house for love, he shall despise it as nothing. (Canticle of Canticles 8:7)
Q. How do Catholic’s come to lose their faith?
A. 1. By lack of instruction in Catholic Doctrine and by indifference to Catholic Doctrines; 2. By godless anti-Catholic education; 3. By neglect of prayer and other religious duties; 4. By lack of submission to Catholic Doctrine; 5. By reading bad books and newspapers and by the evils of the internet, television, cinema and theatre; 6. By mingling with lukewarm Catholics, bad Catholics and non Catholics; 7. By mixed marriages; 8. By pride and subtle reasoning on the mysteries of the Catholic religion; 9. By becoming members of secret societies; 10. By worldliness and a wicked life.
Q. What and how many are the principal and most necessary parts of the teachings of GOD through His Catholic Church / Catholic Doctrine?
A. The principal and most necessary parts of Catholic Doctrine, are four:
1. The Creed,
2. The Sacraments,
3. The Commandments,
4. The Our Father.
They are called the Four Pillars of the Catholic Church.
PART I. CREED
The Creed in General
Q. What is the Creed?
A. The Creed is the principal articles of the holy faith revealed by GOD, that we believe or profess to believe. GOD who is eternal truth and wisdom who can neither deceive nor be deceived has revealed them to us through His Catholic Church through the Apostles.
Note: Creed comes from the Latin word Credo which means I believe. Creeds are also called Symbols of Faith.
The Apostles Creed in General
What is the Apostles Creed?
A. The Apostles Creed is a Creed taught by the Apostles and has come down to us from them. They comprise of twelve articles which correspond to the twelve Apostles.
Q. Who were the Apostles?
A. The Apostles were the twelve men chosen by GOD JESUS CHRIST to be the first bishops of His Church, the Catholic Church.
Note: Sacred Scriptural Reference that the Apostles were Bishops: And his bishopric [Judas Iscasiot’s] let another take.(Acts of the Apostles 1:20)
Q. Who are the Twelve Apostles who were chosen by GOD JESUS CHRIST?
A. The Twelve Apostles who were chosen by GOD JESUS CHRIST are: Saint Peter, Saint Andrew, Saint James, Saint John, Saint Philip, Saint Bartholomew, Saint Matthew, Saint Thomas, Saint James, Saint Simon, Saint Jude Thaddeus, and Judas Iscariot the traitor, in whose place Saint Mathias was later chosen. And when day was come, he called unto him his disciples: and he chose twelve of them (whom also he named apostles): Simon, whom he surnamed Peter, and Andrew his brother, James and John, Philip and Bartholomew, Matthew and Thomas, James the son of Alpheus, and Simon who is called Zelotes, And Jude the brother of James, and Judas Iscariot, who was the traitor. (Luke 6:13-16); For it is written in the book of Psalms [Psalms 108:8]: Let their habitation become desolate, and let there be none to dwell therein. And his [Judas Isacriot’s] bishopric let another take. And they appointed two, Joseph, called Barsabas, who was surnamed Justus, and Matthias. And praying, they said: Thou, Lord, who knowest the heart of all men, shew whether of these two thou hast chosen, To take the place of this ministry and apostleship, from which Judas hath by transgression fallen, that he might go to his own place. And they gave them lot, and the lot fell upon Matthias, and he was numbered with the eleven apostles. (Acts of the Apostles 1:20; 23-26)
Note: Saint Paul was an Apostle, but as he was not called till after the Ascension of JESUS CHRIST he is not numbered among the twelve. Paul, a servant of Jesus Christ, called to be an apostle (Romans 1:1)
Q. Which are the twelve articles of faith of the Apostles Creed?
A. 1. I believe in GOD, the Father Almighty, Creator of Heaven and earth;
2. And in JESUS CHRIST, His only Son, our Lord,
3. Who was conceived by the HOLY SPIRIT, born of the Virgin Mary,
4. Suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried,
5. He descended into hell, the third day He rose again from the dead,
6. He ascended into heaven, and sitteth at the right hand of GOD, the Father Almighty,
7. From thence He shall come to judge the living and the dead;
8. I believe in the HOLY SPIRIT;
9. The Holy Catholic Church, the Communion of Saints;
10. The forgiveness of sins;
11. The resurrection of the body;
12. And life everlasting.
Amen.
1. I believe in GOD, the Father Almighty(Matthew 5:45), Creator of Heaven and earth (Genesis 1:1; Romans 1:20);
2. And in JESUS CHRIST, His only Son, our Lord (Matthew 3:17; Philippians 2:11; John 20:28),
3. Who was conceived by the HOLY SPIRIT (Luke 1:35), born of the Virgin Mary (Luke 2:7; Isaias 7:4; Isaias 66:7,8)
4. Suffered under Pontius Pilate (John 19:1,2;15,16), was crucified, died, and was buried (John 19:17,18;30;38-42),
5. He descended into hell (1 Peter 3:19,20), the third day He rose again from the dead (Matthew 28:1-10; John 20:11-18),
6. He ascended into heaven (Luke 24:51), and sitteth at the right hand of GOD (Hebrews 1:3;), the Father Almighty (Mark 14:36),
7. From thence He shall come (Matthew 16:27) to judge the living and the dead (Acts of the Apostles 10:42);
8. I believe in the HOLY SPIRIT (John 14:16-17; John 20:11-18; Acts of the Apostles 1:8);
9. The Holy Catholic Church (Matthew 16:18-19), the Communion of Saints (1 Corinthians 12:12-14; Romans 12:5; Romans 8:38,39; Apocalypse 8:3,4; Luke 15:10; Hebrews 12:22; 2 Corinthians 1:11; 2 Machabees 12:46);
10. The forgiveness of sins (John 20:22-23);
11. The resurrection of the body (1 Corinthians 15:51-54; (1 Thessalonians 4:13-16); (Job 19:25-27)
12. And life everlasting (1 John 5:20; John 10:27,28; Mark 10:29,30, Matthew 25:46).
Amen.
Q. Say the Apostles’ Creed.
A. I believe in GOD, the Father Almighty, Creator of Heaven and earth; and in JESUS CHRIST, His only Son, our Lord; who was conceived by the HOLY SPIRIT, born of the Virgin Mary, suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified; died, and was buried. He descended into hell: the third day He rose again from the dead: He ascended into heaven, and sitteth at the right hand of GOD, the Father Almighty; from thence He shall come to judge the living and the dead. I believe in the HOLY SPIRIT, the Holy Catholic Church, the communion of Saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and life everlasting. Amen.
Note: It is most useful to recite the Creed everyday, so as to impress the truths of faith more and more deeply on our hearts.
I believe in GOD, the Father Almighty, Creator of Heaven and Earth
Q. What is meant by the word: “I believe”, which we say at the beginning of the Creed?
A. The word: I believe, means I hold everything that is contained in these twelve articles to be perfectly true; and I believe these truths more firmly than if I saw them with my eyes, because GOD who is eternal Truth and Wisdom, who can neither deceive nor be deceived, has revealed them to us through the Holy Catholic Church through His Apostles.
Q. How do we know that there is a GOD?
A. We know that there is a GOD because reason proves it and faith confirms it. Because that which is known of God is manifest in them. For God hath manifested it unto them. For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made. His eternal power also and divinity: so that they are inexcusable. (Romans 1:19,20); The fool said in his heart: There is no God. (Psalms 52:1)
Note: On the natural level GOD has designed it in such a way that man can infer from the created world around him that there exists a Eternal Supreme Being, which is Him; and also the voice of mans conscience, which comes from GOD, being the Voice of GOD in his soul, which bids him to do right and avoid wrong, fills him with remorse after doing bad while delighting him after doing good, tells him that there is a Supreme Perfect Being who rewards the good and punishes the bad; and on a supernatural level the Divine Revelation of GOD given by Him first through the patriarchs and prophets of old and later through His Catholic Church, through the Apostles, confirms His existence.
Q. Who is GOD?
A. GOD is a self existent pure spirit, infinitely perfect and almighty. He is the Creator and Ruler of heaven and earth.
Q. Is there only one GOD?
A. Yes, there is only one GOD. Know therefore this day, and think in thy heart that the Lord he is God in heaven above, and in the earth beneath, and there is no other. (Deuteronomy 4:39); Hear, O Israel, the Lord our God is one Lord. (Deuteronomy 6:4); Be converted to me, and you shall be saved, all ye ends of the earth: for I am God, and there is no other. I have sworn by myself, the word of justice shall go out of my mouth, and shall not return: For every knee shall be bowed to me, and every tongue shall swear. Therefore shall he say: In the Lord are my justices and empire: they shall come to him, and all that resist him shall be confounded. (Isaias 45:22-25); Hear, O Israel: the Lord thy God is one God (Mark 12:29)
Q. Why can there be only one GOD?
A. There can be only one GOD, because GOD, being supreme and infinite, cannot have an equal.
Q. Had GOD a beginning?
A. GOD had no beginning. He always was, He is and He always will be. Before the mountains were made, or the earth and the world was formed; from eternity and to eternity thou art God. (Psalms 89:2)
Q. Does GOD know all things?
A. GOD knows all things, even our most secret thoughts, words and actions. I am the Lord who search the heart, and prove the reins: who give to every one according to his way, and according to the fruit of his devices. (Jeremias 17:10)
Q. Is GOD all holy, all powerful, all just and all merciful?
A. GOD is all holy, all powerful, all just and all merciful.
The Divine Attributes of GOD
• GOD is eternal, that is, He always was, is, and ever will be. With him there is no time. He is outside time and space. God said to Moses: I AM WHO AM. (Exodus 3:14); Before the mountains were made, or the earth and the world was formed; from eternity and to eternity thou art God. (Psalms 89:2); Now to the king of ages, immortal, invisible, the only God, be honour and glory for ever and ever. Amen. (1 Timothy 1:17); But of this one thing be not ignorant, my beloved, that one day with the Lord is as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day.(2 Peter 3:8)
• GOD is omnipresent, that is, all things are present to Him at all times. And when Jacob awaked out of sleep, he said: Indeed the Lord is in this place, and I knew it not.(Genesis 28:16); The eyes of the Lord in every place behold the good and the evil. (Proverbs 15:3); Shall a man be hid in secret places, and I not see him, saith the Lord? do not I fill heaven and earth, saith the Lord? (Jeremias 23:24); Whither shall I go from thy spirit? or whither shall I flee from thy face? If I ascend into heaven, thou art there: if I descend into hell, thou art present. (Psalms 138:7,8); And he knoweth not that the eyes of the Lord are far brighter than the sun, beholding round about all the ways of men, and the bottom of the deep, and looking into the hearts of men, into the most hidden parts. (Ecclesiasticus [Sirach] 23:28)
• GOD is immutable, that is, He ever remains the same. For I am the Lord, and I change not (Malachias 3:6); God is not a man, that he should lie, nor is the son of man, that he should be changed. Hath he said then, and will he not do? hath he spoken, and will he not fulfil? (Numbers 23:19); Every best gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no change nor shadow of alteration. (James 1:17); Jesus Christ, yesterday, and today: and the same for ever. (Hebrews 13:8)
• GOD is omniscient, that is, He knows all things, the past, the present, and the future, and also our inmost thoughts from all eternity. Before I formed thee in the bowels of thy mother, I knew thee. (Jeremias 1:5); I am the Lord who search the heart, and prove the reins: who give to every one according to his way, and according to the fruit of his devices.(Jeremias 17:10); The Lord hath looked from heaven: he hath beheld all the sons of men. From his habitation which he hath prepared, he hath looked upon all that dwell on the earth. He who hath made the hearts of every one of them: who understandeth all their works. (Psalms 32:13-15); And they have said: The Lord shall not see: neither shall the God of Jacob understand. Understand, ye senseless among the people: and, you fools, be wise at last. He that planted the ear, shall he not hear? or he that formed the eye, doth he not consider? (Psalms 93:7-9); I know that thou canst do all things, and no thought is hid from thee. (Job 42:2)
• GOD is infintely wise, that is, He knows how to direct everything for the best, in order to carry out His perfect designs. For my thoughts are not your thoughts: nor your ways my ways, saith the Lord. For as the heavens are exalted above the earth, so are my ways exalted above your ways, and my thoughts above your thoughts. (Isaias 55:8,9); O the depth of the riches of the wisdom and of the knowledge of God! How incomprehensible are his judgments, and how unsearchable his ways! For who hath known the mind of the Lord? (Romans 11:33-34); How great are thy works, O Lord? thou hast made all things in wisdom: the earth is filled with thy riches. (Psalms 103:24); But the foolish things of the world hath God chosen, that he may confound the wise: and the weak things of the world hath God chosen, that he may confound the strong. (1 Corinthians 1:27)
• GOD is omnipotent, which means almighty, that is, GOD can do all that He wills, and that by a mere act of His will. Because no word shall be impossible with God. (Luke 1:37); With men this is impossible: but with God all things are possible. (Matthew 19:26); By the word of the Lord the heavens were established; and all the power of them by the spirit of his mouth: Gathering together the waters of the sea, as in a vessel; laying up the depths in storehouses. Let all the earth fear the Lord, and let all the inhabitants of the world be in awe of him. For he spoke and they were made: he commanded and they were created. (Psalms 32:6-9); Who shall declare the powers of the Lord? who shall set forth all his praises? (Psalms 105:2)
• GOD is infinitely good, that is, His love for His creatures is far more than a father loves his children. God is charity. (1 John 4:8); None is good but one, that is God. (Mark 10:18); And we know that to them that love God all things work together unto good: to such as, according to his purpose, are called to be saints. (Romans 8:28)
• GOD is very patient, that is, He leaves the sinner time for repentance and a change of life. Is it my will that a sinner should die, saith the Lord God, and not that he should be converted from his ways, and live? (Ezechiel 18:23); But he answering, said to him: Lord, let it alone this year also, until I dig about it and dung it. And if happily it bear fruit: but if not, then after that thou shalt cut it down. (Luke 13:8); Or despisest thou the riches of his goodness and patience and longsuffering? Knowest thou not that the benignity of God leadeth thee to penance? (Romans 2:4); The Lord delayeth not his promise, as some imagine, but dealeth patiently for your sake, not willing that any should perish, but that all should return to penance (2 Peter 3:9)
• GOD is infinitely merciful and compassionate, that is, He very readily forgives our sins when we are sincerely sorry for them. But his period of mercy is finite because he can only give a certain time period for a sinner to repent. As I live, saith the Lord God, I desire not the death of the wicked, but that the wicked turn from his way, and live. Turn ye, turn ye from your evil ways. (Ezechiel 33:11); The Lord is sweet to all: and his tender mercies are over all his works. (Psalms 144:9); Wash yourselves, be clean, take away the evil of your devices from my eyes, cease to do perversely, Learn to do well: And then come, and accuse me, saith the Lord: if your sins be as scarlet, they shall be made as white as snow: and if they be red as crimson, they shall be white as wool. If you be willing, and will hearken to me, you shall eat the good things of the land. But if you will not, and will provoke me to wrath: the sword shall devour you because the mouth of the Lord hath spoken it. (Isaias 1:16-20); And God saw their works, that they were turned from their evil way: and God had mercy with regard to the evil which he had said that he would do to them, and he did it not. (Jonas 3:10); I will arise and will go to my father and say to him: Father, I have sinned against heaven and before thee. I am not worthy to be called thy son: make me as one of thy hired servants. And rising up, he came to his father. And when he was yet a great way off, his father saw him and was moved with compassion and running to him fell upon his neck and kissed him. (Luke 15:18-20); I say to you that even so there shall be joy in heaven upon one sinner that doth penance, more than upon ninety-nine just who need not penance. (Luke 15:7); For because sentence is not speedily pronounced against the evil, the children of men commit evils without any fear. (Ecclesiastes 8:11); Say not: I have sinned, and what harm hath befallen me? for the most High is a patient rewarder. Be not without fear about sin forgiven, and add not sin upon sin: And say not: The mercy of the Lord is great, he will have mercy on the multitude of my sins. For mercy and wrath quickly come from him, and his wrath looketh upon sinners. Delay not to be converted to the Lord, and defer it not from day to day. For his wrath shall come on a sudden, and in the time of vengeance he will destroy thee.(Ecclesiasticus [Sirach] 5:4-9); The sinner shall not escape in his rapines, and the patience of him that sheweth mercy shall not be put off. (Ecclesiasticus [Sirach] 16:14)
• GOD is infinitely holy, that is, He loves good and hates all evil. Be ye holy, because I the Lord your God am holy.(Leviticus 19:2); Thou hast loved justice, and hated iniquity (Psalms 44:8); Every branch in me that beareth not fruit, he will take away: and every one that beareth fruit, he will purge it, that it may bring forth more fruit. (John 15:2); There shall not enter into it [Heaven] any thing defiled (Apocalypse [Revelation] 21:27)
• GOD is infinitely just, that is, He rewards all good and punishes all evil deeds. Complete reward and complete punishment from GOD will come only in the next world. The worst punishment GOD can inflict in this life is to leave the obstinate sinner to die in his sins. Wherefore, all that thou hast brought upon us, and every thing that thou hast done to us, thou hast done in true judgment (Daniel 3:31); But I say unto you, that every idle word that men shall speak, they shall render an account for it in the day of judgment. (Matthew 12:36); And that servant, who knew the will of his lord and prepared not himself and did not according to his will, shall be beaten with many stripes. But he that knew not and did things worthy of stripes shall be beaten with few stripes. (Luke 12:47,48); That they might know that by what things a man sinneth, by the same also he is tormented. (Wisdom 11:17); But the Lord, the God of Israel, that seeth all things, struck him with an incurable and an invisible plague. For as soon as he had ended these words, a dreadful pain in his bowels came upon him, and bitter torments of the inner parts. And indeed very justly, seeing he had tormented the bowels of others with many and new torments, albeit he by no means ceased from his malice. (2 Machabees 9:5,6); In their heat I will set them drink: and I will make them drunk, that they may slumber, and sleep an everlasting sleep, and awake no more, saith the Lord. (Jeremias 51:39); And every one that hath left house, or brethren, or sisters, or father, or mother, or wife, or children, or lands for my name’s sake, shall receive an hundredfold, and shall possess life everlasting. (Matthew 19:29); And the Lord will reward every one according to his justice, and his faithfulness (1 Kings [1 Samuel] 26 26:23); Behold, I come quickly: and my reward is with me, to render to every, man according to his works. I am Alpha and Omega, the First and the Last, the Beginning and the End. (Apocalypse [Revelation] 22:12,13); For he that doth wrong shall receive for that which he hath done wrongfully. And there is no respect of persons with God. (Colossians 3:25); For mercy and wrath are with him. He is mighty to forgive, and to pour out indignation: According as his mercy is, so his correction judgeth a man according to his works. The sinner shall not escape in his rapines, and the patience of him that sheweth mercy shall not be put off. All mercy shall make a place for every man according to the merit of his works, and according to the wisdom of his sojournment. (Ecclesiasticus [Sirach] 16:12-15)
• GOD is perfect truth, that is, all that He reveals to man is infallibly true. He is eternal truth who can neither deceive nor be deceived. Jesus saith to him: I am the way, and the truth, and the life. John 14:6); Heaven and earth shall pass away: but my word shall not pass away. (Mark 13:31)
• GOD is faithful, that is, He keeps His promises and carries out His threats. God is not a man, that he should lie, nor is the son of man, that he should be changed. Hath he said then, and will he not do? hath he spoken, and will he not fulfil? (Numbers 23:19); Be not deceived: God is not mocked. (Galatians 6:7)
The Holy Name of GOD
In revealing His mysterious name, YHWH that is “I AM WHO AM”, I AM WHO I AM” or, “I AM HE WHO IS”, GOD says who He is and by what name He is to be called. This Divine Name is mysterious just as GOD is mystery. It is at once a Name revealed and something like the refusal of a name, and hence it better expresses GOD as what He is, that is infinitely above everything that we can understand. In GOD there is no variation or shadow due to change. GOD is “HE WHO IS”, from eternity to eternity, and as such remains ever faithful to Himself and to His Word. With this man should always very importantly know and keep in mind that GOD is WHO HE IS from eternity to eternity, who has made Himself known to man through His unchangeable Divine Revelation, and not what man would like Him to be, according to his depraved likings and attatchments due to his fallen nature, which will not be GOD, WHO HE IS, but GOD who is not WHO HE IS, a false god of mans own making. Moses said to God: Lo, I shall go to the children of Israel, and say to them: The God of your fathers hath sent me to you. If they shall say to me: What is his name? What shall I say to them? God said to Moses: I AM WHO AM. He said: Thus shalt thou say to the children of Israel: HE WHO IS, hath sent me to you. (Exodus 3:13,14)
Q. How many Persons are there in GOD?
A. In GOD there are three Divine Persons, really distinct, and equal in all things: The FATHER, The SON and The HOLY SPIRIT. This is a mystery of GOD. And there are Three who give testimony in heaven, the Father, the Word, and the Holy Ghost. And these three are one. (1 John 5:7); And Jesus coming, spoke to them, saying: All power is given to me in heaven and in earth. Going therefore, teach ye all nations: baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Ghost. (Matthew 28:18,19); And the Lord spoke to Moses, saying: Say to Aaron and his sons: Thus shall you bless the children of Israel, and you shall say to them: The Lord [First] bless thee, and keep thee. The Lord [Second] shew his face to thee, and have mercy on thee. The Lord [Third] turn his countenance to thee, and give thee peace. (Numbers 6:22-26); I saw the Lord sitting upon a throne high and elevated: and his train filled the temple. Upon it stood the seraphims: the one had six wings, and the other had six wings: with two they covered his face, and with two they covered his feet, and with two they flew. And they cried one to another, and said: Holy, holy, holy, [Thrice] the Lord God of hosts, all the earth is full of his glory (Isaias 6:1-3)
Note’s: Divine means pertaining to GOD, and distinct means separate; that is, not confounded or mixed with any other thing.
There is only one true GOD, eternal infinite and unchangeable, incomprehensible, almighty and ineffable, the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit; Three Persons indeed, but one essence, substance or nature entirely simple.
Q. What is the three Divine Persons in one GOD Called?
A. The Three Divine Persons in one GOD is called The Most Holy Trinity.
Q. Is the Father GOD?
A. The Father is GOD and the First Person of the Most Holy Trinity.
Q. Is the Son GOD?
A. The Son is GOD and the Second Person of the Most Holy Trinity.
Q. Is the Holy Spirit GOD?
A. The Holy Spirit is GOD and the Third Person of the Most Holy Trinity.
Note: First, second, and third with regard to the persons of the Most Holy Trinity do not mean that one person was before the other or that one is greater than the other; for all the persons of the Most Holy Trinity are eternal and equal in every respect. These numbers are used to mark the distinction between the persons, and they show the order in which the one proceeded from the other from all eternity.
Q. Are the three Divine Persons one and the same GOD?
A. The three Divine Persons are one and the same GOD, having one and the same Divine nature.
Q. Can we fully understand how the three Divine Persons are one and the same GOD?
A. We cannot fully understand how the three Divine Persons are one and the same GOD, because this is a mystery of the faith revealed by GOD.
GOD has revealed Himself to man, to the extent that man needs to know Him for His glory and for mans salvation. Beyond that He remains a mystery beyond words.
Q. Who is GOD the Father?
A. GOD the Father is the first person of the Most Holy Trinity.
Q. Why is the Father the First Person of the Most Holy Trinity?
A. The Father is the First Person of the Most Holy Trinity, because He does not proceed from any other Person, but is the Principle of the other two Persons, that is, of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, from all eternity.
Q. Who created the world?
A. GOD created the world. In the beginning God created heaven, and earth. (Genesis 1:1)
Q. Why did GOD create the world?
A. GOD created the world for His glory.
Q. Which are the chief creatures of GOD?
A. The chief creatures of GOD are Men and Angels.
Q. What are Angels?
A. Angels are bodiless spirits consisting of an intellect and a will created by GOD to adore and enjoy Him in Heaven, to minister unto Him and help men to save their souls. And God said: Be light [also refers to Angels] made. And light was made. And God saw the light that it was good (Genesis 1:3,4); And all the angels stood round about the throne and the ancients and the four living creatures. And they fell down before the throne upon their faces and adored God(Apocalypse [Revelation] 7:11); See that you despise not one of these little ones: for I say to you, that their angels in heaven always see the face of my Father who is in heaven. (Matthew 18:10); For he hath given his angels charge over thee; to keep thee in all thy ways.(Psalms 90:11)
Q. How many Choirs of Angels are there?
A. There are nine Choirs of Angels. In hierarchial order they are: 1. Seraphim, 2. Cherubim, 3. Thrones, 4. Dominions, 5. Virtues, 6. Powers, 7. Principalities, 8. Archangels and 9. Angels. And one of the seraphims flew to me, and in his hand was a live coal, which he had taken with the tongs off the altar. (Isaias 6:6); Lord of hosts, God of Israel who sitteth upon the cherubims, thou alone art the God of all the kingdoms of the earth, thou hast made heaven and earth. (Isaias 37:16); For in him were all things created in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones, or dominations, or principalities, or powers. All things were created by him and in him. (Colossians 1:16); For the Lord himself shall come down from heaven with commandment and with the voice of an archangel and with the trumpet of God: and the dead who are in Christ shall rise first. (1 Thessalonians 4:15); See that you despise not one of these little ones: for I say to you, that their angels in heaven always see the face of my Father who is in heaven. (Matthew 18:10)
Q. What are the names of the three Archangels mentioned in Sacred Scripture?
A. The names of the three Archangels mentioned in Sacred Scripture are: 1. Saint Michael the Archangel (Daniel 10:13,21; Daniel 12:1; Jude 1:9; Apocalypse [Revelation] 12:7), 2. Saint Gabriel the Archangel (Daniel 8:16, Daniel 9:21; Luke 1:19,26) and Saint Raphael the Archangel (Tobit [Tobias] 3:25; Tobit [Tobias] 5:17; 6:16; 8:3; 9:6; 11:4; 12:15).
Q. How did satan and the rest of the devils fall from their dignity of Angels in heaven?
A. By a rebellious sin of pride. And God said: Be light [also refers to Angels] made. And light was made. And God saw the light that it was good; and he divided [also refers to the fall of the bad rebellious angels, who are devils] the light [also refers to the good Angels] from the darkness [also refers to the bad rebellious angels, who are devils]. (Genesis 1:3,4); And he [JESUS CHRIST] said to them: I saw Satan like lightning falling from heaven. (Luke 10:18)
Q. Who is Man?
A. Man is a creature of GOD composed of soul and body, and made to the image and likeness of GOD.
Note: GOD created man to his own image and likeness. And he said: Let us make man to our image and likeness (Genesis 1:26). The image and likeness is principally in the soul. Men attain to a perfect likeness to GOD only when they are in the sanctifying grace of GOD, for in this case they are: made partakers of the divine nature (2 Peter 1:4).
Q. Is the soul then a spirit like GOD?
A. It is.
Q. Can the soul cease to exist?
A. No.
Q. Out of what did GOD create man?
A. GOD made man out of nothing. I beseech thee, my son, look upon heaven and earth, and all that is in them, and consider that God made them out of nothing, and mankind also (2 Machabees 7:28)
Q. Of what is man composed?
A. Of two parts: a soul and a body.
Note: GOD formed man from the slime of the earth and He and breathed into his face the breath of life, and man became a living immortal soul. GOD formed woman by taking one of the ribs of the man whom He had formed and filling up flesh built the rib into a woman after He had cast a deep sleep upon the man. And the Lord God formed man of the slime of the earth: and breathed into his face the breath of life, and man became a living soul. Then the Lord God cast a deep sleep upon Adam: and when he was fast asleep, he took one of his ribs, and filled up flesh for it. And the Lord God built the rib which he took from Adam into a woman: and brought her to Adam. (Genesis 2:7;21,22)
Q. What is the soul of man composed of?
A. The soul of man is composed of an intellect and a will.
Q. Why did GOD create man?
A. GOD created man to know, adore, love and serve Him in this life so that He will take him to adore and love Him and be perfectly happy with Him forever in the next life in heaven.
Q. What must we do to save our souls?
A. To save our souls, we must worship GOD by the Supernatural Divine virtues of faith, hope, and charity; that is, we must believe in Him, hope in Him, and love Him with all our heart, by keeping His commandments, by His grace.
Q. What is a Supernatural Virtue?
A. A Supernatural Virtue is a quality infused by GOD into the soul by which the soul acquires inclination, facility, and promptness to know good and do it for the glory and love of GOD and towards eternal life with Him in Heaven. Therefore if you be risen with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is sitting at the right hand of God. Mind the things that are above, not the things that are upon the earth. (Colossians 3:1,2)
Q. Why is it called Supernatural?
A. It is called Supernatural because it is above and beyond nature and is not in the power of nature to obtain it, but by the special grace which is a gratuitous gift of GOD.
Q. How many principal Supernatural Virtues are there?
A. There are seven principal Supernatural Virtues: the three Divine Virtues which cannot be aquired, and the four Cardinal Virtues.
Q. What are the Supernatural Divine virtues?
A. The Supernatural Divine virtues are: Faith, Hope and Charity.
Note: Faith, Hope and Charity are called Supernatural Divine virtues or theological virtues, because they have GOD as their immediate and principal object, and are infused by Him.
Q. What is Faith?
A. Faith is a Supernatural Divine Virtue by which we firmly believe all the truths that GOD has revealed to us.
Q. What is Hope?
A. Hope is a Supernatural Divine Virtue by which we firmly trust that GOD will give us eternal life and the means to obtain it as a reward if we do His Holy Will.
Q. What is Charity?
A. Charity is a Supernatural Divine Virtue by which we love GOD above all things for His own sake, and we love our neighbor as ourselves for the love of GOD. It is the greatest and noblest of all the virtues. God is charity. (1 John 4:9).
Q. When does GOD infuse the Supernatural Divine virtues into the soul?
A. GOD in His goodness infuses the Supernatural Divine virtues into the soul when adorning us with His sanctifying grace; and hence when receiving Baptism we were enriched with these virtues and, along with them, with the gifts of the HOLY SPIRIT.
Q. Is it enough towards salvation, to have received the Supernatural Divine virtues in Baptism?
A. For one who has come to the use of reason, it is not enough to have received the Supernatural Divine virtues in Baptism; it is also necessary to persevere in Faith, Hope and Charity by the grace of GOD until death.
Q. Is faith alone, without good works of Charity, sufficient for salvation?
A. No, it is absolutely not. Faith without works of Charity is a dead faith and cannot be profitable unto salvation. So faith also, if it have not works, is dead in itself. But some man will say: Thou hast faith, and I have works. Shew me thy faith without works; and I will shew thee, by works, my faith. Thou believest that there is one God. Thou dost well: the devils also believe and tremble. But wilt thou know, O vain man, that faith without works is dead? (James 2:17-20); And if I should have prophecy and should know all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I should have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, and have not charity, I am nothing. (1 Corinthians 13:3)
Q. What faith will suffice to justify?
A. Faith working by the charity of GOD through His grace.
Q. Name the Supernatural Cardinal Virtues.
A. The Supernatural Cardinal Virtues are Prudence, Justice, Fortitude and Temperance. And if a man love justice: her labours have great virtues: for she teacheth temperance, and prudence, and justice, and fortitude, which are such things as men can have nothing more profitable in life. (Wisdom 8:7)
Note: Prudence, Justice, Fortitude and Temperance are called cardinal virtues because all the moral virtues are founded and hinged around them. (in Latin, cardo means hinge)
Q. What is Prudence?
A. Prudence is the virtue that directs each action towards its lawful end and consequently seeks the proper means in order that the action be well accomplished in all points of view for the love of GOD and thereby pleasing to Him.
Q. What is Justice?
A. Justice is the virtue which disposes us to give GOD what belongs to GOD and to give ourselves and everyone what belongs to ourselves and everyone, for the love of GOD.
Q. What is Fortitude?
A. Fortitude is the virtue which renders us courageous to the point of not fearing danger, not even death, for the service of GOD.
Q. What is Temperance?
A. Temperance disposes us to control the inordinate desires that please the senses and makes us use temporal goods with moderation for the love of GOD.
Q. Name the capital moral virtues?
A. The capital moral virtues are: humility; zeal and diligence; meekness and patience; temperance; chastity; liberality and brotherly love.
Note’s: Humility: Humility is the virtue by which we recognize who GOD is and who we are, namely He is everything and we are nothing, and that without Him we can do absolutely nothing. A complete submission to GOD in everything, in accordance to what He has willed. It is knowing ones place before GOD and taking ones place before GOD. Humility is the foundation of all virtues. The greater thou art, the more humble thyself in all things, and thou shalt find grace before God (Ecclesiasticus [Sirach] 3:20); Be you humbled therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in the time of visitation (1 Peter 5:6); One has to always remember: for dust thou art, and into dust thou shalt return. (Genesis 3:19) And the dust return into its earth, from whence it was, and the spirit return to God, who gave it. Vanity of vanities, said Ecclesiastes, and all things are vanity. (Ecclesiasticus [Sirach] 12:7,8); Take up my yoke upon you, and learn of me, because I am meek, and humble of heart (Matthew 11:29).
Zeal and Diligence: Zeal is the virtue which make us promote GOD’s honor and greater glory, to the best of our ability and strength, out of love for Him. Zeal is love of GOD in action. Diligence is the virtue which make us serve GOD readily and cheerfully by carefully performing all our duties to Him to the best of our ability and strength, out of love for Him. For the charity of Christ presseth us (2 Corinthians 5:14); The zeal of thy house hath eaten me up. (John 2:17); And from the days of John the Baptist until now, the kingdom of heaven suffereth violence, and the violent bear it away. (Matthew 11:12); Cursed be he that doth the work of the Lord deceitfully: and cursed be he that withholdeth his sword from blood. (Jeremias 48:10); This only take care of with all diligence, that you love the Lord your God. (Joshua 23:11)
Meekness and Patience: Meekness is a virtue which makes us suppress all desire of revenge, and any unjust anger and displeasure when wrong is done to us, for the love of GOD. Patience consists in preserving one’s serenity amid all the sufferings and contrarieties of this life, for the love of GOD. It is suffering well for the love GOD. Take up my yoke upon you, and learn of me, because I am meek, and humble of heart (Matthew 11:29); Wait on God with patience: join thyself to God, and endure, that thy life may be increased in the latter end. (Ecclesiasticus [Sirach] 2:3); Patient in tribulation. (Romans 12:12); In your patience you shall possess your souls. (Luke 21:19)
Temperance: Temperance is a virtue restraining our sensual inclinations and desires, especially our inordinate appetite for eating and drinking, for the love of GOD. By surfeiting many have perished, but he that is temperate, shall prolong life. (Ecclesiasticus [Sirach] 37:34)
Chastity: Chastity is a virtue which consists in preserving the mind and body free from everything that might stain our innocence and makes us hate all unclean inclinations and desires by which this virtue is violated, for the love of GOD. How beautiful is the chaste generation with glory: for the memory thereof is immortal: because it is known both with God and with men. (Wisdom 4:1)
Liberality: It is a virtue which makes us ready and willing to use our property for the relief of the spiritual and temporal needs of the needy, or for other praiseworthy purposes, for the love of GOD. I have shewed you all things, how that so labouring you ought to support the weak and to remember the word of the Lord Jesus, how he said: It is a more blessed thing to give, rather than to receive. (Acts 20:35); God loveth a cheerful giver. (2 Corinthians 9:7)
Brotherly Love: Brotherly love is a virtue which makes us will the spiritual and temporal best for everyone, and sincerely condole with our neighbour in his distress. We know that we have passed from death to life, because we love the brethren. (1 John 3:14); By this shall all men know that you are my disciples, if you have love one for another. (John 13:35)
Q. Who were the first man and woman created by GOD?
A. The first man and woman created by GOD were Adam and Eve.
Q. Were Adam and Eve innocent and holy when they came from the hand of GOD?
A. Adam and Eve were innocent and holy, in sanctifying grace when they came from the hand of GOD.
Note: GOD created Adam and Eve in the state of original justice, and perfection of all natural gifts.
Q. Did Adam and Eve remain faithful to GOD?
A. Adam and Eve did not remain faithful to GOD; but broke His Divine prohibitory command by eating the forbidden fruit.
Q. What befell Adam and Eve on account of their sin?
A. Adam and Eve, on account of their mortal sin, lost innocence and holiness, and were doomed to misery and death. For by a man came death (1 Corinthians 15:21)
Q. What is the sin called which we inherit from our first parents?
A. The sin which we inherit from our first parents is called original sin. Wherefore as by one man sin entered into this world and by sin death: and so death passed upon all men, in whom all have sinned. (Romans 5:12)
Q. What are the effects of original sin?
A. Concupiscence, ignorance, evil inclination, proneness to sin, sickness, and death.
Q. Was any one ever preserved from original sin?
A. The Blessed Virgin Mary, through the merits of her Divine Son JESUS CHRIST, was preserved free from the guilt of original sin, and this privilege is called her Immaculate Conception. She was saved by JESUS CHRIST from sin by receiving the grace from the merits of His passion and death to be preserved free from sin. But she was still saved. At the end of her earthly life upon her death she was taken body and soul into Heaven by GOD and this is called her Assumption.
Note’s: The Blessed Virgin Mary was preserved from original sin by JESUS CHRIST before He was born as man because He always existed as GOD and from all eternity foresaw His own future merits of His passion and death and the dignity of His Mother before Him. He therefore by His future merits of His passion and death provided for her the special privilege of exemption from original sin. He being GOD, the vessel in which He would take flesh and come into the world had to be immaculate.
Sacred Scriptural References for the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary - And the angel being come in, said unto her: Hail, full of grace, the Lord is with thee: blessed art thou among women. (Luke 1:28); I will put enmities between thee and the woman, and thy seed and her seed: she shall crush thy head, and thou shalt lie in wait for her heel. (Genesis 3:15)
Sacred Scriptural References for Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary body and soul into Heaven - And a great sign appeared in heaven: A woman clothed with the sun, and the moon under her feet, and on her head a crown of twelve stars. (Apocalypse 12:1)
Q. Is original sin the only kind of sin?
A. Original sin is not the only kind of sin; there is another kind of sin, which we commit ourselves, called actual sin.
Q. What is actual sin?
A. Actual sin is any wilful thought, word, deed or omission contrary to the law of GOD. The law of GOD is found in the Ten Commandments of GOD and the Six Commandments / Precepts of the Church.
Q. How many kinds of actual sin are there?
A. There are two kinds of actual sin: mortal and venial.
Note: Sin is divided into the sin we inherit called original sin, and the sin we commit ourselves, called actual sin. Actual sin is sub-divided into greater sins, called mortal, and lesser sins, called venial.
Q. What is mortal sin?
A. Mortal sin is a grievous offense against the law of GOD by which one who is in sanctifying grace looses the grace and friendship of GOD. All iniquity is sin. And there is a sin unto death. (1 John 5:17); For the wages of sin is death. (Romans 6:23); Who said to God: Depart from us(Job 22:17); Then he goeth, and taketh with him seven other spirits more wicked than himself, and they enter in and dwell there: and the last state of that man is made worse than the first. (Matthew 12:45)
Note’s: All those who are in a state of mortal sin are not in union with GOD. Only those in a state of sanctifying grace are in union with GOD.
When a mortal sin is committed by one who is in sanctifying grace, GOD leaves the soul and the devil enters into it. Anyone who dies in a state of mortal sin will surely be cast into hell by GOD as He has promised.
Q. What is necessary to commit a mortal sin?
A. To commit a mortal sin three things are necessary:
1. Grave matter.
2. Full knowledge.
3. Full consent of the will.
Note’s: Grave matter is anything in thought, word or deed that is seriously contrary to the Commandments of GOD and the Commandments / Precepts of His Church.
Full knowledge in sinning is when one knows perfectly well that what one is doing is a sin.
Full consent of the will is verified in sinning when one deliberately determines to do a thing although one knows that thing to be sinful.
Slight offenses can become mortal sins when committed through defiant contempt for GOD or His law; and also when they are followed by very evil consequences, which we foresee in committing them.
Q. What injury does mortal sin do the soul?
A. (1) Mortal sin deprives the soul of grace and of the friendship of GOD; (2) It deprives it of merits already acquired, and renders it incapable of acquiring new merits in that state; (3) It makes it the slave of the devil; (4) It makes it lose Heaven if no repentance is done; (5) It makes it deserve the chastisements of this life and the eternal torments in the fires. But they that commit sin and iniquity, are enemies to their own soul. (Tobias 12:10); If any one abide not in me, he shall be cast forth as a branch and shall wither: and they shall gather him up and cast him into the fire: and he burneth. (John 15:6)
Q. What is venial sin?
A. Venial sin is a slight offense against the law of GOD in matters of less importance; or in matters of great importance it is an offense committed without full knowledge or full consent of the will. GOD does not leave the soul when venial sins are committed but venial sin lessens our love of GOD, leads us to mortal sin and renders us deserving of great temporal punishments both in this world and in the next. He that knoweth his brother to sin a sin which is not to death (1 John 5:16)
Note: A distinction must be made between venial sins and imperfections. Imperfections are faults which are due not to a bad will, but to human frailty. Uncivil manners, involuntary distractions in prayer, etc., are imperfections. Venial sins, arise from a bad will, imperfections do not. But, although imperfections are not actually sins, yet they are wrong and ought to be avoided.
Q. Can little account be made of venial sin?
A. Never can little account be made of venial sin, because it is always an offence against GOD and also because it does no little harm to the soul: he that contemneth small things, shall fall by little and little. (Ecclesiasticus [Sirach] 19:1)
Q. What harm does venial sin do the soul?
A. Venial sin: (1) Weakens and chills charity in us; (2) Weakens the power to resist mortal sin and disposes us to mortal sin ; (3) Renders us deserving of great temporal punishments both in this world and in the next. But they that commit sin and iniquity, are enemies to their own soul. (Tobias 12:10)
Q. What is the root of all sin?
A. All sin, proceeds from in-ordinate self love, for one never commits sin without coveting some gratification for self.
Note: Sin is nothing else but turning away from the GOD the Creator to choose the creature. It is a revolt against and disobedience to GOD. The sinner rebels against GOD like the fallen angels, saying: I will not serve. Nothing degrades man except sin.
Q. Which are the chief sources of sin?
A. The chief sources of sin are the seven capital sins: Pride; Sloth; Anger; Gluttony; Lust; Avarice and Envy and they are commonly called the seven Capital Sins. Mary Magdalen; out of whom he had cast seven devils. (Mark 16:9); Then he goeth and taketh with him seven other spirits more wicked than himself (Luke 11:26)
Note’s: Pride is thinking of ourselves of what we are not and not giving GOD the adoration, honor and glory He deserves, and despising our neighbour. It is wilfully not living in accordance with the truth of GOD. It is the root or fountain of all other sins. Pride is hateful before God and men (Ecclesiasticus [Sirach] 10:7); And whosoever shall exalt himself shall be humbled (Matthew 23:12)
Sloth is giving way to our natural repugnance to labor and exertion, so as to neglect our duties before GOD.
Lukewarmness, or laziness in all that concerns the service of GOD, or the salvation of our soul is the sloth that is particularly hateful to GOD. Cursed be he that doth the work of the Lord deceitfully: and cursed be he that withholdeth his sword from blood. (Jeremias 48:10); But because thou art lukewarm and neither cold nor hot, I will begin to vomit thee out of my mouth. (Apocalypse [Revelation] 3:16)
Anger is being exasperated at what dis pleases us, and flying into a passion, and suffering to be carried away by a violent desire of revenge. And let every man be swift to hear, but slow to speak and slow to anger. For the anger of man worketh not the justice of God. (James 1:19,20)
Gluttony is eating or drinking too much. Whose end is destruction: whose God is their belly: and whose glory is in their shame (Philippians 3:19)
Lust is indulging in immodest or impure thoughts, desires, words, or actions. For if you live according to the flesh, you shall die: but if by the Spirit you mortify the deeds of the flesh, you shall live. (Romans 8:13); Mortify therefore your members which are upon the earth: fornication, uncleanness, lust, evil concupiscence and covetousness, which is the service of idols. For which things the wrath of God cometh upon the children of unbelief. (Colossians 3:5,6)
Avarice is inordinately seeking and loving money or other worldly goods, and are being hard hearted towards the poor and needy. For they that will become rich fall into temptation and into the snare of the devil and into many unprofitable and hurtful desires, which drown men into destruction and perdition. For the desire of money is the root of all evils (1 Timothy 6:9,10)
Envy is repining at our neighbour’s good, and being sad when he enjoys spirtitual and temporal blessings from GOD, but are glad when he is deprived by GOD of them. But by the envy of the devil, death came into the world: And they follow him that are of his side. (Wisdom 2:24,25)
Q. What are the opposite extreemes of the capital sins?
A. The opposite extreemes of the capital sins are: Pride - Self-Loathing; Sloth - Workaholism; Anger - Timidity and Servility; Gluttony - Deficiency; Lust - Prudishness; Avarice - Wastefulness and Envy - Pusillanimity.
And thy ears shall hear the word of one admonishing thee behind thy back: This is the way, walk ye in it: and go not aside neither to the right hand, nor to the left. (Isaias 30:21); Take courage therefore, and be very valiant: that thou mayst observe and do all the law, which Moses my servant hath commanded thee: turn not from it to the right hand or to the left, that thou mayst understand all things which thou dost. (Joshua 1:7)
“Lead me to pastures, Lord, and graze there with me. Do not let my heart lean either to the right or to the left, but let your good Spirit guide me along the straight path.”
“Remove all obstacles and stumbling blocks so that you will be able to go straight along the road to Eternal Life.”
Note: Capital sins correspond to living too lax. The opposite extreemes of the capital sins correspond to living too rigid. The capital moral virtues for the love of GOD are in the mean. One has to live proper and balanced for the love of GOD by the help of His grace.
Q. What is laxity?
A. Laxity is seeing no sin where there is sin.
Q. What is scrupulosity?
A. Scrupulosity is seeing sin where there is no sin.
Q. How are the Seven Capital Sins are conquered?
A. The Seven Capital Sins are conquered by the exercise of the opposite seven Capital Moral Virtues namely Humility; Zeal and Diligence; Meekness and Patience; Temperance; Chastity; Liberality and Brotherly Love by the grace of GOD : Thus, Pride is conquered by Humility before GOD; Sloth by Zeal and Diligence in the service of GOD; Anger by Meekness and Patience for the love of GOD; Gluttony by Temperance for the love of GOD; Lust by Chastity for the love of GOD; Avarice by Liberality for the love of GOD and Envy by Brotherly Love for the sake of GOD.
Note: The exercise of the Seven Capital Moral Virtues by the grace of GOD help to combat the three enemies of the soul, the devil, the world and the flesh. Humility, and Meekness and Patience especially to combat the devil; Liberality and Brotherly Love especially to combat the world and Zeal and Diligence, Temperance and Chastity especially to combat the flesh.
Q. Which are the six sins against HOLY SPIRIT?
A. The six sins against HOLY SPIRIT are: Presumption; Despair; Resisting the Known Truth; Envy of Another’s Spiritual Good; Obstinacy in Sin; and Final Impenitence.
Note’s: Presumption is a rash expectation of salvation without making proper use of the necessary means established by GOD to obtain it. A foolish confidence of salvation, without leading a good life in accordance with GOD by not taking care to keep all His Commandments; such as they entertain who think they will be saved by faith only, without good works in accordance with GOD.
Despair is the loss of hope in GOD’s mercy. And Cain said to the Lord: My iniquity is greater than that I may deserve pardon. (Genesis 4:13); Saying: I have sinned in betraying innocent blood. But they said: What is that to us? Look thou to it. And casting down the pieces of silver in the temple, he departed and went and hanged himself with an halter.(Matthew 27: 4,5)
The forgetfulness of GOD’s justice will lead us into sins of presumption. The forgetfulness of GOD’s mercy will lead us into sins of despair.
Resisting the known truth is to contradict or argue obstinately against or attack known points of Catholic Doctrine.
Envy of another’s spiritual good is a sadness or repining at another’s growth in Christian virtue and perfection or being jealous of another person who has been given certain graces or gifts by the HOLY SPIRIT.
Obstinacy in sin is a wilful persisting in sin, and running on from sin to sin, after sufficient instructions and admonition. For if we sin wilfully after having the knowledge of the truth, there is now left no sacrifice for sins: But a certain dreadful expectation of judgment, and the rage of a fire which shall consume the adversaries. (Hebrews 10:26,27); For it had been better for them not to have known the way of justice than, after they have known it, to turn back from that holy commandment which was delivered to them. (2 Peter 2:21)
Final impenitence is to die rejecting the grace of GOD for repentance and conversion to Him through His Catholic Church, which results in eternal damnation in the torments of the fires of hell forever. Who have said to God: Depart from us, we desire not the knowledge of thy ways. (Job 21:14); You stiffnecked and uncircumcised in heart and ears, you always resist the Holy Ghost. (Acts 7:51); And again the Lord said to me: I see that this people is stiffnecked: Let me alone that I may destroy them, and abolish their name from under heaven (Deuteronomy 9:13); But he that shall blaspheme against the Holy Ghost, shall never have forgiveness, but shall be guilty of an everlasting sin. (Mark 3:29)
Q. Why are these sins specially said to be against the HOLY SPIRIT?
A. These sins are specially said to be against the HOLY SPIRIT, because they are committed by resisting the HOLY SPIRIT in an especial manner, that is knowingly and willingly despising, rejecting, or abusing His grace through pure malice, which is contrary to goodness, the special attribute of the HOLY SPIRIT.
Q. Why should we particularly avoid the sins against the HOLY SPIRIT?
A. Because, being the greatest hindrance to GOD’s grace, they harden the heart, and therefore render its conversion extremely difficult.
Q. Which are the four sins that cry out to Heaven for vengeance?
A. The four sins that cry out to Heaven for vengeance: 1. Willful murder; 2. The sin of Sodom; 3. Oppression of the poor and 4. Defrauding laborers of their wages. And he said to him: What hast thou done? the voice of thy brother’s blood crieth to me from the earth. (Genesis 4:10); And the Lord said: The cry of Sodom and Gomorrha is multiplied, and their sin is become exceedingly grievous. (Genesis 18:20); And the Lord said to him: I have seen the affliction of my people in Egypt, and I have heard their cry because of the rigour of them that are over the works (Exodus 3:7); Behold the hire of the labourers who have reaped down your fields, which by fraud has been kept back by you, crieth: and the cry of them hath entered into the ears of the Lord of Sabaoth. (James 5:4)
Note: The sin of sodom is an evil unnatural sin against the law of nature established by GOD in regard to a man and man and a woman and a woman, and is a high abomination before GOD. For their women have changed the natural use into that use which is against nature. And, in like manner, the men also, leaving the natural use of the women, have burned in their lusts, one towards another: men with men, working that which is filthy and receiving in themselves the recompense which was due to their error. (Romans 1:26,27); And the Lord rained upon Sodom and Gomorrha brimstone and fire from the Lord out of heaven. And he destroyed these cities, and all the country about, all the inhabitants of the cities, and all things that spring from the earth. (Genesis 19:24,25); As Sodom and Gomorrha and the neighbouring cities, in like manner, having given themselves to fornication and going after other flesh, were made an example, suffering the punishment of eternal fire. (Jude 1:7)
Q. Which are the nine ways of participating in others sins?
A. The nine ways of participating in others sins are: 1. by counsel. 2. by command. 3. by consent. 4. by provocation. 5. by praise or flattery. 6. by concealment. 7. by partaking. 8. by silence. 9. by defense of the ill done
Q. Can one do something that is sinful in itself for a good thing to be done or achieved?
A. No. It is never allowed by GOD, even for a good intention to do anything that is bad in itself. Good ends can never be justified by bad means. It will be sinful to do so. And not rather (as we are slandered and as some affirm that we say) let us do evil that there may come good? Whose damnation is just. (Romans 3:8)
Q. How can sins be best overcome?
A. Sins can be best overcome by guarding against our predominant or ruling sin by the grace of GOD which He gives only to the humble.
Note: Predominant sin, or ruling sin, is the sin into which we fall most frequently and which we find it hardest to resist.
Q. Again, what is Humility?
A. Humility is the virtue by which we recognize who GOD is and who we are, namely He is everything and we are nothing, and that without Him we can do nothing. A complete submission to GOD in everything, in accordance to what He has willed. It is knowing ones place before GOD and taking ones place before GOD. Humility is the foundation of all virtues. Amen I say to you, whosoever shall not receive the kingdom of God as a little child shall not enter into it. (Mark 10:15)
Note: The truly humble reject all praise for themselves or that to another, and refer it all to GOD.
And in JESUS CHRIST, His only Son, our Lord
Q. Did GOD abandon man after he fell into sin?
A. GOD did not abandon man after he fell into sin, but promised him a Redeemer, who was to satisfy for man’s sin and reopen to him the gates of Heaven.
Note: I will put enmities between thee and the woman, and thy seed and her seed: she shall crush thy head, and thou shalt lie in wait for her heel. (Genesis 3:15). This promise of GOD of a redeemer in Genesis is called the Protoevangelium which comes from the Greek words: prōtos which means first and euangelion which means Gospel. It literally means the first Gospel because it is the first announcement of the Messiah and Redeemer JESUS CHRIST. It is the first proclamation of the Gospel. GOD does not abandon mankind. Instead of destroying what He has created, He offers a promise for every human being. Adam and Eve expelled from Paradise, are not left without hope. GOD announces that sin, death and the devil will be crushed and defeated and that there will be redemption, which will come through the offspring of a woman, that is JESUS CHRIST born of the Blessed Virgin Mary, who, on His Cross, crushes the serpent’s head underneath His Cross, defeating sin, death and satan. The response of GOD to mans sin, allows us to know GOD from the beginning, that He is as infinitely just and at the same time infinitely merciful.
Q. Who is the Redeemer?
A. Our GOD and Saviour JESUS CHRIST, is the Redeemer who became man and died for the redemption of mankind. But when the fulness of the time was come, God sent his Son, made of a woman, made under the law: That he might redeem them who were under the law: that we might receive the adoption of sons. (Galatians 4:4,5)
Q. Who is JESUS CHRIST?
A. JESUS CHRIST is GOD; the second Person of the Most Holy Trinity. He is the Son of GOD. He is true GOD and true man in one Divine person. In the beginning was the Word: and the Word was with God: and the Word was God. And the Word was made flesh and dwelt among us (John 1:1;14); For let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus: Who being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: But emptied himself, taking the form of a servant, being made in the likeness of men, and in habit found as a man. (2 Philippians 2:5-7); The Lord [GOD the Father] said to my Lord [GOD the Son]: Sit thou at my right hand: Until I make thy enemies thy footstool. (Psalms 109:1); But I will rejoice in the Lord: and I will joy in God my Jesus.(Habacuc 3:18); Behold a virgin shall be with child, and bring forth a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us. (Matthew 1:23); For we have seen his star in the East, and are come to adore him [JESUS]. (Matthew 2:2); Jesus said to them: Amen, amen, I say to you, before Abraham was made, I AM. (John 8:58); Thomas answered and said to him [JESUS]: My Lord and my God. (John 20:28)
Q. What does the name ”JESUS” mean?
A. The name ”JESUS” means YHWH is our salvation, that is GOD is our salvation. And she shall bring forth a son: and thou shalt call his name Jesus. For he shall save his people from their sins. (Mathew 1:21); For there is no other name under heaven given to men, whereby we must be saved. (Acts of the Apostles 4:12); For which cause, God also hath exalted him and hath given him a name which is above all names: That in the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of those that are in heaven, on earth, and under the earth: And that every tongue should confess that the Lord Jesus Christ is in the glory of God the Father. (Philippians 2:9-11)
Note: The Most Holy Name of JESUS is all powerful. Each time it is said with proper dispositions, GOD is given glory and honour and is an act of love of GOD. Of itself it is an all powerful prayer. The Most Holy Name of JESUS saves us from innumerable evils and delivers us especially from the attacks of the devil. The powers of hell are utterly destroyed by it. It fills our souls with charity, peace and joy. Our salvation is in the Most Holy Name of JESUS. All whatsoever you do in word or in work, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, giving thanks to God and the Father by him. (Colossians 3:17)
Q. What does the name ”CHRIST” signify?
A. The name ”CHRIST” means the same as Messias, and signifies Anointed. The spirit of the Lord is upon me. Wherefore he hath anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor, he hath sent me to heal the contrite of heart, To preach deliverance to the captives and sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised, to preach the acceptable year of the Lord and the day of reward. (Luke 4:18,19)
Note: JESUS is called CHRIST that is Messais or Anointed because he is a priest, a prophet, and a king to all which unction pertains. He was annointed with all the plenitude of Divine grace.
Who was conceived by the HOLY SPIRIT, born of the Virgin Mary
Q. What do you mean by the Incarnation?
A. By the Incarnation I mean that the Son of GOD was conceived and made man by the operation and power of the HOLY SPIRIT, in the chaste womb of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Behold thou shalt conceive in thy womb and shalt bring forth a son: and thou shalt call his name Jesus. He shall be great and shall be called the Son of the Most High. And the Lord God shall give unto him the throne of David his father: and he shall reign in the house of Jacob for ever. And of his kingdom there shall be no end.; The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee and the power of the Most High shall overshadow thee. And therefore also the Holy which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God. (Luke 1:31-33;35)
Q. Is the Blessed Virgin the Mother of GOD?
A. Yes, the Blessed Virgin is the Mother of GOD, because she is the Mother of JESUS CHRIST, who is true GOD and true man at the same time. And it came to pass that when Elizabeth heard the salutation of Mary, the infant leaped in her womb. And Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Ghost. And she cried out with a loud voice and said: Blessed art thou among women and blessed is the fruit of thy womb. And whence is this to me that the mother of my Lord should come to me? (Luke 1:41-43); Is not his mother called Mary (Matthew 13:55)
Note: The Blessed Virgin Mary is the Mother of GOD, in the sense that she contributed the genetic matter to the human form GOD took in JESUS CHRIST.
Q. Was Holy Mary always a Virgin?
A. Yes, Holy Mary was always a Virgin, before, during and after the birth of JESUS CHRIST, and she is called the Virgin of virgins. Therefore the Lord himself shall give you a sign. Behold a virgin shall conceive, and bear a son and his name shall be called Emmanuel. (Isaias 7:14); Before she was in labour, she brought forth; before her time came to be delivered, she brought forth a man child. Who hath ever heard such a thing? and who hath seen the like to this? (Isaias 66:7,8)
Q. On what day was the Son of GOD conceived and made man?
A. The Son of GOD was conceived and made man on Annunciation day, the day on which the Archangel Gabriel announced to the Blessed Virgin Mary that she was to be the Mother of GOD.
Q. On what day was JESUS CHRIST born?
A. JESUS CHRIST was born on Christmas day in a stable at Bethlehem, over nineteen hundred years ago. And it came to pass that when they were there, her days were accomplished that she should be delivered. And she brought forth her first born son and wrapped him up in swaddling clothes and laid him in a manger: because there was no room for them in the inn. (Luke 2:6,7); And the angel said to them: Fear not; for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy that shall be to all the people: For, this day is born to you a Saviour, who is Christ the Lord, in the city of David. And this shall be a sign unto you. You shall find the infant wrapped in swaddling clothes and laid in a manger. (Luke 2:10-12)
Note’s: JESUS CHRIST was born at midnight to signify that he came to take away the darkness of our sins: I am the light of the world. He that followeth me walketh not in darkness, but shall have the light of life. (John 8:12); in Bethlehem because it was the head city of David’s family, and JESUS CHRIST was of David’s race and also because Bethlehem means house of bread and JESUS CHRIST is the bread of life: I am the bread of life. (John 6:48); in a poor stable to teach us to love holy poverty and contempt of this world: Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. (Matthew 5:3); in a wooden manger because the wood of the manger signifies the wood of the Cross, so to let us know He was born in this world to redeem man on the Cross. In a way He lets us know He was born on the Cross. For blessed is the wood, by which justice cometh (Wisdom 14:7); between an ox and an ass, to fulfil the Holy Word of GOD through the prophet Isaias: The ox knoweth his owner, and the ass his master’s crib: but Israel hath not known me, and my people hath not understood. (Isaias 1:3)
JESUS CHRIST was born in a stable because Saint Joseph and the Blessed Virgin Mary were poor and strangers in Bethlehem, and there was no room for them in the inn. This was permitted by Our JESUS CHRIST that we might learn a lesson from His great humility. He came in poverty on His first coming. He will come in all His glory on His second and final coming. The shepherds of Bethlehem, to whom His birth was announced by Angels; and the Three Wise Men or Magi, who were guided to His crib by a miraculous star, were among the first to adore the INFANT JESUS. We recall the adoration of the the Wise Men on the feast of the Epiphany, which means appearance or manifestation, namely, of Our Saviour JESUS CHRIST.
JESUS CHRIST lived on earth about thirty-three years, and led a most holy life in poverty and suffering. The years of His life may be divided into three parts: (1) His childhood, extending from His birth to His twelfth year, when He went with his parents to worship in the Temple of Jerusalem. (2) His hidden life, which extends from His twelfth to His thirtieth year, during which time He dwelt with His parents at Nazareth. (3) His public life, extending from His thirtieth year, from His baptism by Saint John the Baptist to His death; during which time He showed us the way to heaven by teaching His doctrines and giving His example and establishing His only Church the Catholic Church which was conceived at the moment of His Death on the Cross and born on the day of Pentecost.
He who does not contemplate and live the littleness of JESUS CHRIST upon earth will not behold His greatness in heaven.
Q. Who was the foster father or guardian of our Lord JESUS CHRIST while on earth?
A. Saint Joseph, the virgin husband of the Blessed Virgin Mary, was the foster-father or guardian of Our Lord JESUS CHRIST while on earth. Behold thy father and I have sought thee sorrowing. (Luke 2:48); Is not this the carpenter’s son? (Matthew 13:55)
Suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried
Q. What did JESUS CHRIST suffer?
A. JESUS CHRIST suffered a bloody sweat, a cruel scourging, was crowned with thorns, He carried His cross and was crucified on that cross.
Q. What are the Last Seven Words of JESUS CHRIST?
A. The Last Seven Words of JESUS CHRIST are: 1. Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do. (Luke 23:34); 2. Amen I say to thee: This day thou shalt be with me in paradise. (Luke 23:43); 3. Woman, behold thy son. . . . .Behold thy mother. (John 19:26-27); 4. Eli, Eli, lamma sabacthani? [Which in Aramaic means My GOD, My GOD, why hast Thou forsaken me?] (Matthew 27:46, Reference Psalm 21); 5. I thirst. (John 19:28); 6. It is consummated.(John 19:30); 7. Father, into Thy hands I commend my spirit. (Luke 23:46, Reference Psalm 30:6)
Q. On what day and where did JESUS CHRIST die?
A. JESUS CHRIST died on Good Friday, on Mount Calvary. And Jesus crying with a loud voice, said: Father, into thy hands I commend my spirit. And saying this, he gave up the ghost. (Luke 23:46)
Note: And when they were come to the place which is called Calvary, they crucified him there: and the robbers, one on the right hand, and the other on the left. And one of those robbers who were hanged blasphemed him, saying: If thou be Christ, save thyself and us. But the other answering, rebuked him, saying: Neither dost thou fear God, seeing; thou art under the same condemnation? And we indeed justly: for we receive the due reward of our deeds. But this man hath done no evil. And he said to Jesus: Lord, remember me when thou shalt come into thy kingdom. And Jesus said to him: Amen I say to thee: This day thou shalt be with me in paradise. (Luke: 33;39-43) JESUS CHRIST died on the Cross between two theives to signify that He died for the salvation of sinners, but that some are humble repentant sinners who go to Heaven like the good theif Saint Dismas on his right side, who repented by co-operating with the grace from the infinite love and mercy of JESUS CHRIST Cruxificied next to him and by His grace desired and worked to go above into the heavenly kingdom denying himself and bearing his cross united to the Cruxified JESUS CHRIST at his side out of love and service for Him, who rewarded him eternal life with Him in Heaven with the words: Amen I say to thee: This day thou shalt be with me in paradise. (Luke 23:43) [paradise here is not Heaven but the limbo of the just souls where JESUS CHRIST descended after His death; but it presupposes Heaven where Saint Dismas, and the rest of the just souls would be eventually taken by JESUS CHRIST]. And the rest are unrepentant sinners who go to hell due to pride and self love consenting to the temptations of the devil, the world and the flesh, like the bad thief on the left side of JESUS CHRIST, who desired to get off his cross and go downwards into the world and eventually into hell, rejecting the readily available grace from the infinite love and mercy of JESUS CHRIST Cruxificied next to him for his repentance and attainment of salvation into Heaven. If any man will follow me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me. For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: and whosoever shall lose his life for my sake and the gospel shall save it. For what shall it profit a man, if he gain the whole world and suffer the loss of his soul? Or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul: For he that shall be ashamed of me and of my words, in this adulterous and sinful generation: the Son of man also will be ashamed of him, when he shall come in the glory of his Father with the holy angels. (Mark 8:34-38)
Q. Was JESUS CHRIST forced to suffer and die?
A. No; JESUS CHRIST suffered and died of His own will. Therefore doth the Father love me: because I lay down my life, that I may take it again. No man taketh it away from me: but I lay it down of myself. And I have power to lay it down: and I have power to take it up again. (John 10:17,18)
Q. Why did JESUS CHRIST suffer and die?
A. JESUS CHRIST suffered and died to make atonement for the sins of mankind in order to satisfy the justice of GOD, and for the salvation of all men. Who his own self bore our sins in his body upon the tree: that we, being dead to sins, should live to justice (1 Peter 2:24); But he was wounded for our iniquities, he was bruised for our sins: the chastisement of our peace was upon him (Isaias 53:5)
Note: JESUS CHRIST is the only MEDIATOR of justice between GOD and man, because He alone, by His life and death, has atoned for original sin as well as for all the other sins of mankind, and He alone has merited for us all the graces we stand in need. For there is one God: and one mediator of God and men, the man Christ Jesus: Who gave himself a redemption for all, a testimony in due times. (1 Timothy 2:5,6)
Q. What lessons do we learn from the sufferings and death of JESUS CHRIST?
A. From the sufferings and death of JESUS CHRIST we learn the infinite love of GOD, the great evil of sin, the hatred GOD bears to it, and the necessity of satisfying for it.
Q. Which are the chief effects of the Redemption?
A. The chief effects of the Redemption are three: The satisfaction of GOD’s justice by JESUS CHRIST’s sufferings and death, and the gaining of grace for the salvation of men.
Q. What is grace?
A. Grace is a supernatural gift of GOD freely bestowed on us through the merits of JESUS CHRIST for our salvation. Without the grace of GOD we cannot be saved. JESUS CHRIST has said: for without me you can do nothing. (John 15:5). For it is God who worketh in you, both to will and to accomplish, according to his good will. (Philippians 2:13); But by the grace of God, I am what I am. And his grace in me hath not been void: but I have laboured more abundantly than all they. Yet not I, but the grace of God with me (1 Corinthians 15:10); God resisteth the proud and giveth grace to the humble. Be subject therefore to God. (James 4:6,7); Every best gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no change nor shadow of alteration. (James 1:17)
Note’s: From Sacrifice of JESUS CHRIST on the Cross flow all the graces that are bestowed upon us.
The grace of GOD comes only through the Catholic Church, primarily through the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass, which is the self same sacrifice of JESUS CHRIST on the Cross at Calvary in a mystical manner, and the Sacraments and also with the right use of Sacramentals; Prayer, Fasting and Almsdeeds; and by listening to the Word of GOD.
The word Grace comes from the Latin word Gratia which means gratitous gift or favour.
Q. How many kinds of grace are there?
A. There are two kinds of grace, sanctifying grace and actual grace.
Q. What is sanctifying grace?
A. Sanctifying grace is that grace where in GOD the Most Holy Trinity dwells in one’s soul. It is the Divine Life of GOD in ones soul. It is that grace which makes the soul holy and pleasing to GOD.
Sacred Scriptural Reference for Sanctifying Grace - because the charity of God is poured forth in our hearts, by the Holy Ghost who is given to us. (Romans 5:5); And my Father will love him and we will come to him and will make our abode with him. (John 14:23); For you are the temple of the living God: as God saith: I will dwell in them and walk among them. And I will be their God: and they shall be my people. (2 Corinthians 6:16); And I live, now not I: but Christ liveth in me. (Galatians 2:20); For the wages of sin is death. But the grace of God, life everlasting in Christ Jesus our Lord.(Romans 6:23)
Note’s : Only those who are in a state of sanctifying grace are in union with GOD. Without dying in a state of sanctifying grace no one can be saved by GOD to Heaven but will be cast by GOD into hell as He has promised.
Q. How many kinds of sanctifying grace are there?
A. Sanctifying grace is of two kinds: first sanctifying grace and second sanctifying grace.
Note’s: First sanctifying grace is that by means of which one passes from the state of original sin to the state of justice or from mortal sin to the state of justice. To put off, according to former conversation, the old man, who is corrupted according to the desire of error. And be renewed in spirit of your mind: And put on the new man, who according to God is created in justice and holiness of truth. (Ephesians 4:22-24)
Second sanctifying grace is an increase of first sanctifying grace: and he that is just, let him be justified still: and he that is holy, let him be sanctified still. (Apocalypse [Revelation] 22:11)
Q. What is actual grace?
A. Actual grace is that help of GOD which enlightens our mind and moves our will to shun evil, which is all that is contrary to the will of GOD and do good, which is all that is in accordance with the will of GOD.
Q. Can we resist the grace of GOD?
A. We can, resist the grace of GOD because GOD has given us a free will. We have to co-operate with the grace of GOD by using the free will given to us by Him to do His Holy will and save our souls. You stiffnecked and uncircumcised in heart and ears, you always resist the Holy Ghost. (Acts 7:51); To day if you shall hear his voice, harden not your hearts (Psalms 94:8); But by the grace of God, I am what I am. And his grace in me hath not been void: but I have laboured more abundantly than all they. Yet not I, but the grace of God with me (1 Corinthians 15:10)
Q. Is it a sin knowingly to resist the grace of GOD?
A. It is a sin, knowingly, to resist the grace of GOD, because we thereby insult Him and reject His gifts without which we cannot be saved. And again the Lord said to me: I see that this people is stiffnecked: Let me alone that I may destroy them, and abolish their name from under heaven (Deuteronomy 9:13)
Q. Does GOD give His grace to every one?
A. GOD gives to everyone He creates sufficient grace to save their soul; and if persons do not save their souls, it is because they have not co-operated with the sufficient grace given by GOD. For it is thou, O Lord, that hast power of life and death, and leadest down to the gates of death, and bringest back again: A man indeed killeth through malice, and when the spirit is gone forth, it shall not return, neither shall he call back the soul that is received (Wisdom 16:13,14); Before man is life and death, good and evil, that which he shall choose shall be given him: For the wisdom of God is great, and he is strong in power, seeing all men without ceasing. (Ecclesiasticus [Sirach]15:18,19); God hath given him place for penance, and he abuseth it unto pride (Job 24:23); Destruction is thy own, O Israel: thy help is only in me. (Hosea 13:9); Or despisest thou the riches of his goodness and patience and longsuffering? Knowest thou not that the benignity of God leadeth thee to penance? (Romans 2:4)
Q. If JESUS CHRIST died for the salvation of all men, why are not all men saved?
A. JESUS CHRIST died for the salvation of all men, but not all are saved, because not all will acknowledge Him; all do not observe His Law; all do not avail themselves of the means of salvation He has left us. The sower [JESUS CHRIST] went out to sow his seed. And as he sowed, some fell by the way side. And it was trodden down: and the fowls of the air devoured it. And other some fell upon a rock. And as soon as it was sprung up, it withered away, because it had no moisture. And other some fell among thorns. And the thorns growing up with it, choked it. And other some fell upon good ground and, being sprung up, yielded fruit a hundredfold. Saying these things, he cried out: He that hath ears to hear, let him hear. (Luke 8:5-8)
Q. How was our Lord JESUS CHRIST’s body buried?
A. Our Lord JESUS CHRIST’s body was wrapped in a clean linen cloth with the spices and laid in a new sepulchre or tomb cut in a rock, by Saint Joseph of Arimathea and Saint Nicodemus who believed in our Lord JESUS CHRIST. And after these things, Joseph of Arimathea (because he was a disciple of Jesus, but secretly for fear of the Jews), besought Pilate that he might take away the body of Jesus. And Pilate gave leave. He came therefore and took away the body of Jesus. And Nicodemus also came (he who at the first came to Jesus by night), bringing a mixture of myrrh and aloes, about an hundred pound weight. They took therefore the body of Jesus and bound it in linen cloths, with the spices, as the manner of the Jews is to bury. Now there was in the place where he was crucified a garden: and in the garden a new sepulchre, wherein no man yet had been laid. There, therefore, because of the parasceve of the Jews, they laid Jesus: because the sepulchre was nigh at hand. (John 19:38-42); In that day the root of Jesse, who standeth for an ensign of the people, him the Gentiles shall beseech, and his sepulchre shall be glorious. (Isaias 11:10)
He descended into hell, the third day He rose again from the dead
Q. Where did JESUS CHRIST’s soul go after His death?
A. After JESUS CHRIST’s death His soul descended into hell, which is not the hell of the dammed, but a place or state of rest called Limbo, where the souls of the just were waiting for Him.
Note: Hell referred to here is not the most loathsome and dark prison in which the souls of the damned are tormented with the unclean spirits in eternal and inextinguishable fire. This place gehenna, the bottomless pit, is hell strictly so called. Hell here referred to where JESUS CHRIST’s soul descended was not the hell of the dammed, but a place where the souls of the just were detained without experiencing any sort of pain and with the blessed hope of redemption, waiting for Him to liberate them. This place is called Abraham’s bosom. There were in that place among others, Adam and Eve, Abel, Noe, Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Joseph, Moses, Joshua, David, Isaias, Daniel, Job, Tobias, Saint Jospeh the foster-father of JESUS CHRIST, and many others. And it came to pass that the beggar died and was carried by the angels into Abraham’s bosom. (Luke 16:22); And Jesus said to him: Amen I say to thee: This day thou shalt be with me in paradise. (Luke 23:43); Now that he ascended, what is it, but because he also descended first into the lower parts of the earth? (Ephesians 4:9); In which also coming he preached to those spirits that were in prison (1 Peter 3:19); Thou also by the blood of thy testament hast sent forth thy prisoners out of the pit, wherein is no water. (Zacharias 9:11)
Q. On what day did JESUS CHRIST rise from the dead?
A. JESUS CHRIST rose from the dead by His own power, glorious and immortal, on Easter Sunday, the third day after His death. Be not affrighted, you seek Jesus of Nazareth, who was crucified. He is risen: he is not here. Behold the place where they laid him. (Mark 16:6); Remember how he spoke unto you, when he was yet in Galilee, Saying: The Son of man must be delivered into the hands of sinful men and be crucified and the third day rise again. And they remembered his words. (Luke 24:6-7)
Note: JESUS CHRIST did not raise His Blessed Body soon to testify that He was truly dead, and to fulfil the prophecies. He reassumed all the parts of his body, even to the last drop of his vital blood, and the very scattered hairs of his head and retained the stigmas and marks of the sacred wounds to confound the incredulity of men, and to present them often to His Father, as a propitiation of our sins.
Q. What benefit have we by the resurrection?
A. It confirms our faith and hope, that we shall rise again from death: Knowing that he who raised up Jesus will raise us up also with Jesus and place us with you. (2 Corinthians 4:14)
He ascended into heaven, and sitteth at the right hand of GOD, the Father Almighty
Q. After JESUS CHRIST had remained forty days on earth, whither did He go?
A. After forty days JESUS CHRIST ascended into Heaven, and the day on which He ascended into Heaven is called Ascension day. And when he had said these things, while they looked on, he was raised up: and a cloud received him out of their sight. And while they were beholding him going up to heaven, behold two men stood by them in white garments. (Acts of the Apostles 1:9,10)
Q. Explain the words: Sitteth at the right hand of GOD, the Father Almighty.
A. The word sitteth signifies the peaceful possession which JESUS CHRIST has of His glory; and the words: At the right hand of GOD, the Father Almighty, denote that He as GOD is equal to His Father in all things, and that as man He has a place of honour in heaven above all. Who being the brightness of his glory and the figure of his substance and upholding all things by the word of his power, making purgation of sins, sitteth on the right hand of the majesty on high (Hebrews 1:3)
Q. Why did JESUS CHRIST ascend into heaven?
A. JESUS CHRIST ascended into heaven: (1) To take possession of the Kingdom He had merited by His death; (2) To prepare the place of our glory, and to be our Mediator and Advocate with the Father and (3) To send the HOLY SPIRIT upon His Apostles.
From thence He shall come to judge the living and the dead
Q. What is meant by He shall come to judge the living and the dead?
A. He shall come to judge the living and the dead means that at the end of the world JESUS CHRIST, in all His glory, majesty and power attended with legions of angels and the saints, will come from heaven to end the world by fire, judge all men, both good and bad, and to give to each of them the reward or the punishment they shall have merited. For the Son of man shall come in the glory of his Father with his angels: and then will he render to every man according to his works. (Matthew 16:27); And I saw heaven opened: and behold a white horse. And he that sat upon him was called faithful and true: and with justice doth he judge and fight. (Apocalypse [Revelation] 19:11); Thou art worthy, O Lord, to take the book and to open the seals thereof: because thou wast slain and hast redeemed us to God, in thy blood, out of every tribe and tongue and people and nation (Apocalypse [Revelation] 5:9)
Q. What are the three principal signs that will precede the return of JESUS CHRIST and the general judgment?
A. The Sacred Scriptures inform us that the return of JESUS CHRIST and the general judgment will be preceded by these three principal signs: 1. The preaching of the Gospel throughout the world (Matthew 24:14); 2. A general worldwide falling away from the faith [Apostasy] (2 Thessalonians 2:3) and love of GOD (Matthew 24:12); The coming of the Antichrist [the most evil of all evil men ever] (Apocalypse 13:1); (2 Thessalonians 2:3,4).
Q. Who is the Antichrist?
A. The Antichrist a definative man, will be a lawless, deceiving and tyranical false ruler of the world, manifestly for three and a half years, who will manifest himself during the last few years before the end of world, in opposition to GOD and His Catholic Church (1 John 2:18; 2 Thessalonians 2:3-11); (Apocalypse [Revelation] 13:1-9). He will stop the public sacrifice of the Holy Mass around the world (Daniel 8:11,12; 9:27; 11:31; 12:11), persecute the faithful Catholics and seduce men around the world to give him false worship and glory in place of the true worship and glory owed to almighty GOD alone, by presenting a false solution to the apparent problems which will exist in the world due to the worldwide general apostasy [falling away from the faith of GOD] and revolt against GOD. He will force every man and woman around the world to take his gravely sinful character or mark either on their right hand or on their forehead to buy or sell (Apocalypse [Revelation] 13:1-9,15-18) in an evil form of Antichrisitic world wide governance. All those who give false worship to the Antichrist and his image and take his evil character or mark will be cast by GOD into the eternal torments of the fires of hell forever (Apocalypse [Revelation] 14:9-11). GOD JESUS CHRIST on His second coming will kill and destroy the Antichrist with the spirit of his mouth and with the brightness of his coming at the end of the world (2 Thessalonians 2:3-11) and cast him into the eternal torments of the fires of hell to burn and feel forever. (Apocalypse [Revelation] 13:16,17)
You are of God, little children, and have overcome him. Because greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world. (1 John 4:4); Woe to them that go down to Egypt for help, trusting in horses, and putting their confidence in chariots, because they are many: and in horsemen, because they are very strong: and have not trusted in the Holy One of Israel, and have not sought after the Lord. (Isaias 31:1)
Q. Who is the False Prophet of the Antichrist of the end times?
A. The False Prophet of the Antichrist of the end times is a false world teacher who is the main instrument of satan to bring in the manifestation and evil reign of the Antichrist. In Sacred Scripture, in the Book of the Apocalypse [Revelation], he is depicted having horns like a lamb but speaking like a dragon. The two horns denote the two fold authority spiritual and temporal. He will be like the diabolical pagan priests and magicians of old, the principal promoters both of idolatry and persecution. He comes like a lamb, winsomely, with pursuasive words that elicit sympathy and good will from others. Pretending to imitate JESUS CHRIST by an outward sanctity which is face but inwardly will be a ravening wolf. He is a skilled orator whose demonically empowered words will deceive the multitides. He speaks like a dragon mentioned in Sacred Scripture in the Book of the Apocalypse [Revelation] means his message is the message of satan. In other words the false prophet comes with the false message under the guise of peace and light, but he is a servant of satan, whose ultimate message is that of satan, the liar and the murderer from the begining. The false prophets evil mission on earth is to make people to give false worship to the Antichrist including by taking his evil character or mark. By the grace of GOD the elect, will not be deceived by him; they will recall the words of JESUS CHRIST: Then if any man shall say to you, Lo here is Christ, or there: do not believe him. For there shall arise false Christs and false prophets and shall shew great signs and wonders, insomuch as to deceive (if possible) even the elect. Behold I have told it to you, beforehand. (Matthew 24:23-25)
Note: The mention of the False Prophet of the Antichrist of the end times in Sacred Scripture - And I saw another beast [The False Prophet] coming up out of the earth: and he had two horns, like a lamb: and he spoke as a dragon. And he executed all the power of the former beast in his sight. And he caused the earth and them that dwell therein to adore the first beast, whose wound to death was healed.(Apocalypse [Revelation] 13:11,12); And I saw from the mouth of the dragon and from the mouth of the beast and from the mouth of the false prophet, three unclean spirits like frogs.(Apocalypse [Revelation] 16:13); And the beast was taken, and with him the false prophet who wrought signs before him, wherewith he seduced them who received the character of the beast and who adored his image. These two were cast alive into the pool of fire burning with brimstone.(Apocalypse [Revelation] 19:20; And there came down fire from God out of heaven and devoured them: and the devil, who seduced them, was cast into the pool of fire and brimstone, where both the beast And the false prophet shall be tormented day and night for ever and ever. (Apocalypse 20:9,10)
Q. Which are some of the heresies in relation to the end times?
A. Milleniarism, restoration of the Church and world, rapture and zionism.
Q. Who are they that shall be judged?
A. The whole race and progeny of man.
Q. 126. What are the things that shall be judged?
A. All the thoughts, words, and works, even to the secrets of the souls. But I say unto you, that every idle word that men shall speak, they shall render an account for it in the day of judgment. (Matthew 12:36)
Q. How shall the elect, who are the saints and reprobates, who are the damned souls, be placed by JESUS CHRIST?
A. The elect, who are the saints, shall be placed on the right hand; and the reprobates, who are the damned souls, shall be placed on the left hand, of the Just Judge JESUS CHRIST.
Q. With what shall be the sentence of the elect, who are the Saints?
A. ‘Come, ye blessed of my Father, possess you the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world.’ Then shall the king say to them that shall be on his right hand: Come, ye blessed of my Father, possess you the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world. (Matthew 25:34)
Q. With what shall be the sentence of the reprobates, who are the damned?
A. ‘Depart from me, you cursed, into everlasting fire, which was prepared for the devil and his angels.’ Then he shall say to them also that shall be on his left hand: Depart from me, you cursed, into everlasting fire, which was prepared for the devil and his angels. (Matthew 25:41)
Q. What does the living and the dead mean?
A. The living and the dead means that JESUS CHRIST shall judge, not only such as who were living at the time of his second coming, who would soon die the moment he would end the world by fire, but likewise all persons from the creation of the world that have died before his second coming. Also by the living, are meant the angels and saints and by the dead the devils and damned souls.
I believe in the HOLY SPIRIT
Q. Who is the HOLY SPIRIT?
A. The HOLY SPIRIT is GOD, the third Person of the Most Holy Trinity, equally GOD with the Father and the Son. The HOLY SPIRIT is Almighty GOD eternally proceeding from the Father and the Son, and like the Father and the Son He is GOD eternal, infinite, omnipotent, Creator and Lord of all things. He is the sanctifier. He dispenses the graces which JESUS CHRIST merited by the sacrifice of the cross.
Q. From whom does the HOLY SPIRIT proceed?
A. The Holy Spirit proceeds from the Father and the Son, as from one Principle, by way of will and love, from all eternity.
Q. If the Son proceeds from the Father, and the HOLY SPIRIT proceeds from the Father and the Son, it would seem as if the Father and the Son are prior to the HOLY SPIRIT; how then can it be said that all the Three Persons of the Most Holy Trinity are eternal?
A. It is said that all the Three Persons of the Most Holy Trinity are eternal, because the Father has begotten the Son from all eternity, and the Holy Spirit proceeds from the Father and from the Son from all eternity.
Q. On what day did the HOLY SPIRIT come down upon the Apostles and Disciples?
A. The HOLY SPIRIT came down upon the Apostles and Disciples ten days after the Ascension of JESUS CHRIST into Heaven; and the day on which He came down upon the Apostles and Disciples is called Pentecost. And when the days of the Pentecost were accomplished, they were all together in one place: And suddenly there came a sound from heaven, as of a mighty wind coming: and it filled the whole house where they were sitting. And there appeared to them parted tongues, as it were of fire: and it sat upon every one of them. And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost (Acts of the Apostles 2:1-4).
Q. Who sent the HOLY SPIRIT upon the Apostles and the Disciples?
A. GOD the Father and JESUS CHRIST sent the HOLY SPIRIT upon the Apostles and the Disciples. But the Paraclete, the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he will teach you all things and bring all things to your mind, whatsoever I shall have said to you.(John 14:26); But when the Paraclete cometh, whom I will send you from the Father, the Spirit of truth, who proceedeth from the Father, he shall give testimony of me. (John 15:26)
Q. What effects did the HOLY SPIRIT produce in the Apostles?
A. The HOLY SPIRIT confirmed the Apostles in the faith, filled them with light, strength, charity, and an abundance of all His gifts.
Q. Why did the HOLY SPIRIT come down upon the Apostles?
A. The HOLY SPIRIT came down upon the Apostles, to enlighten and strengthen them and enable them to preach the Gospel and plant the Church of JESUS CHRIST, the Catholic Church. But you shall receive the power of the Holy Ghost coming upon you, and you shall be witnesses unto me in Jerusalem, and in all Judea, and Samaria, and even to the uttermost part of the earth. (Acts of the Apostles 1:8)
Q. Was the HOLY SPIRIT sent for the Apostles alone?
A. The HOLY SPIRIT was sent for the whole Church and for every faithful soul.
Q. Will the HOLY SPIRIT abide with the Church until the end of time?
A. The HOLY SPIRIT will abide with the Church until the end of time.
The Holy Catholic Church, the Communion of Saints
Q. Which is the only Church instituted by GOD JESUS CHRIST?
A. The only Church instituted by GOD JESUS CHRIST, who is her head, is the Catholic Church, outside of which there is absolutely no salvation. And I say to thee: That thou art Peter; and upon this rock I will build my church [singular and not plural], and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it. And I will give to thee the keys of the kingdom of heaven. And whatsoever thou shalt bind upon earth, it shall be bound also in heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt loose on earth, it shall be loosed also in heaven. (Matthew 16:18); But if I tarry long, that thou mayest know how thou oughtest to behave thyself in the house of God, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and ground of the truth. (1 Timothy 3:15); But if I tarry long, that thou mayest know how thou oughtest to behave thyself in the house of God, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and ground of the truth. (1 Timothy 3:15) And other sheep I have that are not of this fold: them also I must bring. And they shall hear my voice: And there shall be one fold and one shepherd. (John 10:16); One Lord, one faith, one baptism. (Ephesians 4:5); For we, being many, are one bread, one body: all that partake of one bread. (1 Corinthians 10:17)
Note: The Prophets of the Old Testament spoke more plainly and openly of the Church than of JESUS CHRIST, foreseeing that on this a much greater number may err and be deceived than on the mystery of the Incarnation. For in after ages there would not be wanting wicked men outside and even inside the pale of the Church who, like the ape that would fain pass for a man, would claim that they alone were Catholics, and with no less impiety than effrontery assert that with them alone is the Catholic Church.
Q. What is the Catholic Church?
A. The Catholic Church is a visible union of all the baptized under one invisible Head, GOD JESUS CHRIST, who profess the same faith and the same law of GOD JESUS CHRIST, partake of the same Sacraments, and acknowledge and are governed by the visible head the Pope and other lawful pastors of the Church.
Q. Why did JESUS CHRIST found the Catholic Church?
A. JESUS CHRIST founded the Catholic Church for the glory of GOD and to save the souls of all men by teaching, governing and sanctifying them.
Q. Who is the head of the Catholic Church?
A. GOD JESUS CHRIST is the sole Head of the Catholic Church. The Pope is the Vicar of GOD JESUS CHRIST on earth who represents Him as the visible head of the Catholic Church. And he [JESUS CHRIST] is the head of the body, the church: who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, that in all things he may hold the primacy (Colossians 1:18); And I will lay the key of the house of David upon his [JESUS CHRIST] shoulder: and he shall open, and none shall shut: and he shall shut, and none shall open. (Isaias 22:22); These things saith the Holy One [JESUS CHRIST] and the true one, he that hath the key of David, he that openeth and no man shutteth, shutteth and no man openeth (Apocalypse [Revelation 3:7); And I say to thee: That thou art Peter; and upon this rock I will build my church, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it. And I will give to thee the keys of the kingdom of heaven. And whatsoever thou shalt bind upon earth, it shall be bound also in heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt loose on earth, it shall be loosed also in heaven. (Matthew 16:18,19); When therefore they had dined, Jesus saith to Simon Peter: Simon, son of John, lovest thou me more than these? He saith to him: Yea, Lord, thou knowest that I love thee. He saith to him: Feed my lambs. He saith to him again: Simon, son of John, lovest thou me? He saith to him: yea, Lord, thou knowest that I love thee. He saith to him: Feed my lambs. He said to him the third time: Simon, son of John, lovest thou me? Peter was grieved because he had said to him the third time: Lovest thou me? And he said to him: Lord, thou knowest all things: thou knowest that I love thee. He said to him: Feed my sheep. (John 21:15-17); They therefore that received hisword [GOD’s Doctrine through Peter] were baptized (Acts of the Apostles 2:41)
Q. Does the authority possessed by the members of the Hierarchy, that is, primarily the Pope and the Bishops subordinate to him, come from the people?
A. The authority possessed by the members of the Hierarchy that is, primarily the Pope and the Bishops subordinate to him does not come from the people, and it would be heresy to say it did. It comes solely from GOD JESUS CHRIST. As the Father hath sent me, I also send you. (John 20:21)
Note: Only the Pope has the full and supreme power of jurisdiction over the whole Church given to him by JESUS CHRIST. This full and supreme power of jurisdiction over the whole Church given by JESUS CHRIST to the Pope, who is the servant of GOD and the servant of the servants of GOD, is obviously a limited power, within the scope of his authority. Only GOD and GOD alone has absolute authority. Bishops, priests and other ministers of the Church cannot exercise the power they have received in Holy Orders unless authorized and sent to do so by their lawful superiors. The power can never be taken from them, but the right to use it may be withdrawn for causes laid down in the laws of the Church, or for just, good and necessary reasons in accordance with GOD, which are judged as such by the one having the authority over them. Any use of sacred power without authority is sinful, and all who knowingly take part in such ceremonies are guilty of sin. Amen, amen, I say to you: He that entereth not by the door into the sheepfold but climbeth up another way, the same is a thief and a robber. (John 10:1)
Q. Has the Catholic Church any marks by which it may be known?
A. Yes, the Catholic Church has four marks by which it may be known: it is One, it is Holy, it is Catholic and it is Apostolic.
Note’s: A mark is a given and known sign by which a thing can be distinguished from all others of its kind.
One - because her members have to believe all the same Sacred Divine Truths contained in the Creed, they are all bound by the same Commandments of GOD and of the Church, they all have recourse to the same means of Divine Worship and grace with the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass, the Sacraments and prayer and are under one head JESUS CHRIST and by virtue of Him, His vicar on earth, the visible head, the Pope.
Holy - because her founder, JESUS CHRIST is holy, His holy Doctrine is her Doctrine, her Sacraments are holy, she offers to all the means of holiness, and because of the holiness of so many of her members of different ages.
Catholic (universal) - because she has all the Divinely revealed truths of GOD, she has the authority from JESUS CHRIST to teach all nations, and she exists in all ages.
Apostolic - Because she was founded by JESUS CHRIST on His Apostles and has come down directly from them through the uninterrupted succession of her bishops and because she received from the Apostles of JESUS CHRIST, who alone could give them, her doctrine, her orders, and her mission.
Q. Is the Catholic Church composed of only good members without any bad members?
A. The Catholic Church, as the Sacred Scriptures testify, includes within her fold the good and the bad. That the Catholic Church is composed of the good and the bad we learn from many parables contained in the Gospel. Thus, the kingdom of heaven, that is, the Church militant, the members of the Catholic Church on earth, is compared to a net cast into the sea (Matthew 13:47), to a field in which tares were sown with the good grain (Matthew 13:24,25), to a threshing floor on which the grain is mixed up with the chaff (Matthew 3:12), and also to ten virgins, some of whom were wise, and some foolish (Matthew 25:1,2). And long before, we trace a figure and resemblance of this Church in the ark of Noah, which contained not only clean, but also unclean animals (Genesis 7:1,2,3;7,8).
Note: In the Catholic Church there exists a Divine element and a human element. The Catholic Church, in Her Divine Element, as the unspotted Bride of JESUS CHRIST, is perfectly holy, but in the human element of the Church, that is in her members, there can and does exist sin and unholiness.
Q. To be saved to Heaven is it enough to be any sort of member of the Catholic Church?
A. It is not enough to be any sort of member of the Catholic Church to be saved to Heaven; it is absolutely necessary to be a living member of the Catholic Church to be saved. A living member is one who is in a state of sanctifying grace, that is having the indwelling of GOD in his soul. The dead members of the Catholic Church are those Catholics who are in mortal sin and if they die in that state without repenting, GOD will cast them into the eternal torments of the fires of hell forever as He has promised.
Q. Can anyone be saved outside the Catholic Church established by JESUS CHRIST?
A. Absolutely no one can be saved outside the Catholic Church establised by JESUS CHRIST. There is absolutely no salvation outside JESUS CHRIST through His Catholic Church.
Q. How, then, were the Patriarchs of old, the Prophets, and the other just men of the Old Testament, saved?
A. The just of the Old Testament were saved in virtue of the faith they had in JESUS CHRIST the Redeemer to come and by keeping the Commandments of GOD, by means of which they spiritually belonged to the Catholic Church. I will put enmities between thee and the woman, and thy seed and her seed: she shall crush thy head, and thou shalt lie in wait for her heel. (Genesis 3:15); The sceptre shall not be taken away from Juda, nor a ruler from his thigh, till he come that is to be sent, and he shall be the expectation of nations. (Genesis 49:10); Abraham your father rejoiced that he might see my day: he saw it and was glad. (John 8:56); Abraham obeyed my voice, and kept my precepts and commandments, and observed my ceremonies and laws. (Genesis 26:5)
Q. Why cannot a well meaning person who is not of the Catholic religion be saved?
A. No. A well meaning person who is not of the Catholic religion cannot be saved because there is One Lord, one faith, one baptism (Ephesians 4:5) and without that one faith, it is impossible to please GOD. But without faith it is impossible to please God (Hebrews 11:6). That person will have to get in union with GOD through His Catholic Church and die in a state of sanctifying grace by co-operating with the sufficient grace that will be given to that person by GOD to be saved.
Note: It is false to say that it is a uncharitable thing to say that none can be saved out of the Catholic Church. On the contrary, it is a very great act of charity to assert this Catholic Doctrine most emphatically because this is a Divinely Revealed Truth of GOD. JESUS CHRIST Himself and His Apostles receiving from Him, have taught it in very plain language. It is indeed great charity to warn one’s neighbor when he is in danger of falling into a deep abyss. All those who are out of the Church are in very great danger of falling into the eternal abyss of the torments of hell. It will be very great cruelty not to warn them. There is absolutely no salvation outside JESUS CHRIST through His Catholic Church.
Q. Is there nothing in the Catholic Church that may be reformed?
A. There is nothing in the Catholic Church that may be reformed in her Doctrine because it is from GOD and has once and for all been delivered by Him to her from the beginning to teach, but the manners of such of her clergy and laity who fail to live up to His Doctrine taught by her, ought to be reformed. Do not think that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets. I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil. For amen I say unto you, till heaven and earth pass, one jot, or one tittle shall not pass of the law, till all be fulfilled. (Matthew 5:17,18); But when Cephas [Peter, the Pope]was come to Antioch, I [Paul, the Bishop] withstood him to the face, because he was to be blamed. (Galatians 2:11)
Q. Can the memebers of the Hierarchy that is the Popes, Bishops, Priests and Deacons, fail to live up to the Holy Doctrine of GOD?
A. Yes. Memebers of the Hierarchy that is Popes, Bishops, Priests and Deacons can fail to live up to the Holy Doctrine of GOD for they are human beings with a fallen human nature and a free will to co-operate with or reject the grace of GOD. History has proven this with the lives of many of them that have been very evil. Jesus answered them: Have not I chosen you twelve? And one of you is a devil. Now he meant Judas Iscariot [one of the twelve Apostles and one of the first Bishops of the Church], the son of Simon: for this same was about to betray him, whereas he was one of the twelve.(John 6,71,72); I know that after my departure ravening wolves will enter in among you, not sparing the flock. And of your own selves shall arise men speaking perverse things, to draw away disciples after them. (Acts of the Apostles 20:29,30); For certain men are secretly entered in (who were written of long ago unto this judgment), ungodly men, turning the grace of our Lord God into riotousness and denying the only sovereign Ruler and our Lord Jesus Christ. (Jude 1:4); But there were also false prophets among the people, even as there shall be among you lying teachers who shall bring in sects of perdition and deny the Lord who bought them: bringing upon themselves swift destruction. And many shall follow their riotousness, through whom the way of truth shall be evil spoken of. And through covetousness shall they with feigned words make merchandise of you. Whose judgment now of a long time lingereth not: and their perdition slumbereth not. (Peter 2:1-3); Now the Spirit manifestly saith that in the last times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to spirits of error and doctrines of devils, Speaking lies in hypocrisy and having their conscience seared (1 Timothy 4:1); Thus saith the Lord God: Woe to the shepherds of Israel, that fed themselves: should not the flocks be fed by the shepherds? (Ezechiel 34:2); Nothing under the sun is new, neither is any man able to say: Behold this is new: for it hath already gone before in the ages that were before us. (Ecclesiastes 1:10).
Note’s: In the Old Testament we read that when other scourges were of no avail to turn the people, hardened in sin, from their evil ways, GOD sent upon them the heaviest scourge of all, wicked and corrupt priests. Let us therefore lead good and holy lives and make it our continual prayer, that we may have good priests. It is the duty of the faithful to pray GOD to send them good priests. JESUS CHRIST has said: Pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that he send forth labourers into his harvest. (Matthew 9:38). For unless a priest is enlightened by the HOLY SPIRIT we may apply to him the Words of JESUS CHRIST: And if the blind lead the blind, both fall into the pit. (Matthew 15:14).
Catholics should not be scandalized by the bad lives and obey the false commands of bad clergymen, but do the Holy will of GOD in relation to the situation, which is based on Catholic Doctrine. Then Jesus saith to them: All you shall be scandalized in me this night. For it is written: I will strike the shepherd: and the sheep of the flock shall be dispersed.(Matthew 26:31); And blessed is he whosoever shall not be scandalized in me. (Luke 7:23); But Peter and the apostles answering, said: We ought to obey God rather than men. (Acts of the Apostles 5:29)
Catholics should not become too fixated on the bad things in the Church past and present. It is important to be aware of the general history and context and what is currently going on, in relation to things in the Church, because historical ignorance and ignorance of the present times can cause damage of peoples understanding of things and cause them to presume or beleive things that are not the case, which can be dangerous. JESUS CHRIST has said: A good tree cannot bring forth evil fruit, neither can an evil tree bring forth good fruit. Wherefore by their fruits you shall know them.(Matthew 7:18;20). One does not need to know every single detail for the fruits always tell. Generally one should know what is necessary to be known to navigate things for the greater glory of GOD and the salvation his or her soul and that of others and not get obsessed or paranoid about the bad things.
Q. Notwithstanding the sanctity of the Catholic Church, are not certain Catholics more evil and wicked than non Catholics?
A. Yes, verily, for where sanctity is not present, there evils cannot be so great. No man could be more evil that he that had original justice to lose: nor any man to betray GOD JESUS CHRIST, but he that had eaten at his Table. It is gravely evil and wicked when Catholic’s commit grave sin’s against the Most Holy and High GOD, His Holy Sacraments primarily Him in the Most Holy Eucharist, His Holy Faith, His Holy Church and His Holy faithful children (Catholics living holy lives), especially Baptised children who have not yet reached the age of reason, with grave sacrileges, blasphemies, false doctrines, abuses and persecutions. Therefore no wonder, if some Catholic’s be more evil and wicked than non Catholic’s. Therefore, he [Judas a Catholic] that hath delivered me [JESUS CHRIST] to thee [Pilate, a non Catholic, a pagan] hath the greater sin. (John 19:11); Give not that which is holy to dogs; neither cast ye your pearls before swine (Mathew 7:6); How much more, do you think he deserveth worse punishments, who hath trodden under foot the Son of God and hath esteemed the blood of the testament unclean, by which he was sanctified, and hath offered an affront to the Spirit of grace? For we know him that hath said: Vengeance belongeth to me, and I will repay. And again: The Lord shall judge his people. It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God. (Hebrews 10:29-31); And falling on the ground, he heard a voice saying to him: Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me [in the form of faithful Catholics]? Who said: Who art thou, Lord? And he: I am Jesus whom thou persecutest. (Acts of the Apostles 9:4,5); Do not think that I came to send peace upon earth: I came not to send peace, but the sword. And a man’s enemies shall be they of his own household. (Matthew 10:34;36); And Jesus went into the temple of God and cast out all them that sold and bought in the temple and overthrew the tables of the money changers and the chairs of them that sold doves. And he saith to them: It is written, My house shall be called the house of prayer; but you have made it a den of thieves. (Matthew 21:12,13); And the Lord said to him: Go through the midst of the city, through the midst of Jerusalem: and mark Thau upon the foreheads of the men that sigh, and mourn for all the abominations that are committed in the midst thereof. And to the others he said in my hearing: Go ye after him through the city, and strike: let not your eyes spare, nor be ye moved with pity. Utterly destroy old and young, maidens, children and women: but upon whomsoever you shall see Thau, kill him not, and begin ye at my sanctuary. So they began at the ancient men [bad clergymen] who were before the house [Catholic Church]. (Ezechiel 9:4-6)
Q. What has to be done to know true Catholic Doctrine when memebers of the Hierarchy themselves introduce false teachings into the life of the Catholic Church and attack certain Catholic Doctrines?
A. When members of the Hierarchy themselves introduce false teachings into the life of the Catholic Church and attack certain Catholic Doctrines the true Catholic Doctrine will be known by the rule of Apostolical Tradition, by investigating of the whole Church of every age, what has been taught by our forefathers, from JESUS CHRIST and His Apostles. Those Catholic Doctrines will be able to be traced up to the first ages of the Catholic Church. Thus saith the Lord: Stand ye on the ways, and see, and ask for the old paths, which is the good way, and walk ye in it: and you shall find refreshment for your souls. (Jeremias 16:6); Dearly beloved, taking all care to write unto you concerning your common salvation, I was under a necessity to write unto you: to beseech you to contend earnestly for the faith once delivered to the saints. For certain men are secretly entered in (who were written of long ago unto this judgment), ungodly men, turning the grace of our Lord God into riotousness and denying the only sovereign Ruler and our Lord Jesus Christ. (Jude 1:3,4); Therefore, brethren, stand fast: and hold the traditions, which you have learned, whether by word or by our epistle. (2 Thessalonians 2:14); Whosoever revolteth and continueth not in the doctrine of Christ hath not God. He that continueth in the doctrine, the same hath both the Father and the Son. If any man come to you and bring not this doctrine, receive him not into the house nor say to him: God speed you. (2 John 1:9,10); But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach a gospel to you besides that which we have preached to you, let him be anathema. As we said before, so now I say again: If any one preach to you a gospel, besides that which you have received, let him be anathema. Galatians (1:9,10); I know that after my departure ravening wolves will enter in among you, not sparing the flock. And of your own selves shall arise men speaking perverse things, to draw away disciples after them.(Acts of the Apostles 20:29,30); But there were also false prophets among the people, even as there shall be among you lying teachers who shall bring in sects of perdition and deny the Lord who bought them: bringing upon themselves swift destruction. And through covetousness shall they with feigned words make merchandise of you. Whose judgment now of a long time lingereth not: and their perdition slumbereth not. (Peter 2:1;3);
Note: It is the hallmark of heretics, schismatics and the other enemies of GOD and His Church to weaponize the evils permitted by GOD inside His Church to try to destroy the undestructible Catholic Church and tear the flock apart. The thief cometh not, but for to steal and to kill and to destroy. I am come that they may have life and may have it more abundantly. (John 10:10)
Q. May some errors have been received for faith, and crept insensibly over the whole church, no man perceiving or taking notice of them?
A. No, that is as impossible as that the plague or burning fever of errors should infect or spread itself over a whole kingdom for many years with no man perceiving it, or seeking to prevent it; for nothing causes greater notice to be taken, than any public or notorious change in matters of the Catholic Religion.
Q. Under which sole conditions has GOD gaurenteed that a Pope will always be infallible, that is he cannot err?
A. GOD has gaurenteed that a Pope will always be infallible, that is he cannot err, only when: as pastor and teacher of all Catholics by virtue of his supreme Apostolic authority, without any restraint upon his freedom, he solemly binds the universal Church under pain of anathema with a doctrine regarding faith or morals that is contained in the already delivered and permanently closed unchangeable deposit of faith, which is Divine revelation. This is also called an Ex-Cathedra defination of the Pope. The Pope is not infallible outside these conditions. If only one of the conditions be wanting the character of infallibility lapses. But I have prayed for thee, that thy faith fail not: and thou, being once converted, confirm thy brethren. (Luke 22:32).
Note’s: The Pope is always infallible only under certain conditions because of the promise of JESUS CHRIST given to him in Saint Peter the first Pope, of the unfailing assistance of the HOLY SPIRIT in declaring an Ex-Cathedra defination. It is only with this, and by virtue of this Divine assistance of the HOLY SPIRIT, that the Pope is infallible under certain conditions on matters of Divinely revealed truth, and never of himself, be he a good Pope or an evil Pope. The Pope is not infallible outside these conditions, because the HOLY SPIRIT was not promised to make him infallible in everything, but only when declaring an Ex-Cathedra defination.
Doctrine regarding faith or morals is a Divinely revealed teaching of GOD that refers to whatever we must believe (faith) and whatever we must do (morals) in order to be saved which is only contained in the unchangeable deposit of faith, that is Divine Revelation, which has been permanently closed by GOD upon the death of the Apostle Saint John, who was the last Apostle alive.
An Ex-Cathedra defination declared by a Pope can never be altered by anyone until the end of time, including by the Pope who has made the defination or a future Pope.
Refusing to accept these Ex-Cathedra definations by a Pope, or even doubting them, is a sin of grave matter against faith.
This infallibility of the Pope, which is only under certain conditions, is not a new Doctrine put forward by the Church through the authority of the Pope, which in the first place is something that is not possible; but to settle by her judgment any questions that arise concerning faith or morals, or to expose those who deny and oppose Catholic Doctrine with false teaching by showing clearly that their teaching is false, she has simply defined that the infallibility of the Pope, already contained in Sacred Scripture and in Sacred Revealed Tradition, is a truth revealed by GOD, and therefore to be believed as a dogma or article of faith under pain of anathema.
With this charism of infallibility of the Pope, which is only under certain conditions, JESUS CHRIST provided for the safe maintenance of His Divinely Revealed truth in His Church. This charge He could not entrust to man as mere man, and hence this extraordinary effect must be brought about by extraordinary means. This means, whereby the infallible teaching function is preserved in the Church, is the supernatural grace and assistance of the HOLY SPIRIT.
The charism of infallibility given to the Pope by GOD does not prevent him from sinning, but only from teaching falsehood when declaring an Ex-Cathedra defination. The Pope can commit sin, as he is a human being with a fallen human nature and a free will to co-operate with or reject the grace of GOD, and he must seek the forgiveness of GOD in the Sacrament of Penance (Confession) as others.
Q. Can seperation from the Catholic Church be justified by any cause?
A. Seperation from the Catholic Church can never be justified by any cause whatsoever. He who breaks away from the Catholic Church separates himself from JESUS CHRIST and cannot attain salvation. After this, many of his disciples went back and walked no more with him. Then Jesus said to the twelve: Will you also go away? And Simon Peter answered him: Lord, to whom shall we go? Thou hast the words of eternal life. (John 6:67-69); And I say to thee: That thou art Peter; and upon this rock I will build my church, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it. And I will give to thee the keys of the kingdom of heaven. And whatsoever thou shalt bind upon earth, it shall be bound also in heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt loose on earth, it shall be loosed also in heaven. (Matthew 16:18); And other sheep I have that are not of this fold: them also I must bring. And they shall hear my voice: And there shall be one fold and one shepherd. (John 10:16); One Lord, one faith, one baptism. (Ephesians 4:5)
Q. Can the Catholic Church be ever destroyed or perish?
A. No, the Catholic Church will be persecuted but she can never be destroyed or perish. She will last in her essential form untill the end of the world, because JESUS CHRIST has promised He will be with her till the end of time. This is called the indefectibility of the Church. And I say to thee: That thou art Peter; and upon this rock I will build my church, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it. (Matthew 16:18); And behold I am with you all days, even to the consummation of the world. (Matthew 28:20)
The Church and The State
The state is obliged by GOD to serve Him on the temporal sphere through the Catholic Religion being subject to the authority of the Church in everything that is not sinful, promoting His glory and the salvation of souls. The laws of GOD are the laws of the land. GOD is the Landlord. JESUS CHRIST is the King of Heaven and Earth. He is the King of Kings and the Lord of Lords who has all authority in heaven and earth, and all lawful authority on earth comes from Him. The civil rulers of the State, like the spiritual rulers of the Church, have their authority from GOD. Authority to work for His greater glory and the salvation of souls. KING OF KINGS AND LORD OF LORDS. (Apocalypse [Revelation] 19:16); And Jesus coming, spoke to them, saying: All power is given to me in heaven and in earth. (Matthew 28:18); Let every soul be subject to higher powers. For there is no power but from God: and those that are ordained of God. (Romans 13:1); Jesus answered: Thou [Pilate] shouldst not have any power against me, unless it were given thee from above. (John 19:11).
Catholics, in a nation which is not a Catholic / Christian State, are obliged by GOD to work by His grace, to make it a Catholic / Christian State for His greater glory and the eternal and temporal welfare of the citizens, and in a nation where it exists, they are obliged by Him to maintain it as such, by His grace. It is a sin of grave matter for any Catholic to support an anti-GOD and anti-Catholic / Christian form of State.
The nation that serves GOD through the Catholic Religion will always be safe in GOD and prosperous in the things of Him. Seek ye therefore first the kingdom of God, and his justice, and all these things shall be added unto you. (Matthew 6:33). The nation that does not serve GOD through the Catholic Religion necessarily has to be in chaos and most definately will be destroyed by GOD. Hear the word of the Lord, ye children of Israel, for the Lord shall enter into judgment with the inhabitants of the land: for there is no truth, and there is no mercy, and there is no knowledge of God in the land. Cursing, and lying, and killing, and theft, and adultery, have overflowed, and blood hath touched blood. (Osee [Hosea] 4:1,2); Every kingdom divided against itself shall be brought to desolation; and house upon house shall fall. (Luke 11:17); For the nation and the kingdom that will not serve thee, shall perish (Isaias 60:12); And now, O ye kings, understand: receive instruction, you that judge the earth. Serve ye the Lord with fear: and rejoice unto him with trembling. Embrace discipline, lest at any time the Lord be angry, and you perish from the just way. (Psalms 2:10-12); O Adonai, Lord, great art thou, and glorious in thy power, and no one can overcome thee. Let all thy creatures serve thee: because thou hast spoken, and they were made: thou didst send forth thy spirit, and they were created, and there is no one that can resist thy voice. The mountains shall be moved from the foundations with the waters: the rocks shall melt as wax before thy face. But they that fear thee, shall be great with thee in all things. Woe be to the nation that riseth up against my people: for the Lord almighty will take revenge on them, in the day of judgment he will visit them. For he will give fire, and worms into their flesh, that they may burn, and may feel for ever. (Judith 16:16-21)
To deserve to secure from GOD the blessing of a good ruler be it in the spititual realm or the temporal realm, the people must desist from sin, for it is by Divine permission that wicked men receive power to rule as a punishment for sin, as GOD says by the Prophet Osee: I will give thee a king in my wrath, and will take him away in my indignation. (Osee [Hosea] 13:11)and in Job: Who maketh a man that is a hypocrite to reign for the sins of the people? (Job 34:30). GOD gives people the rulers they deserve. Sin must therefore be done away with in order that the scourge of tyrants may cease. Of course, the fact that GOD punishes people for their sins by giving them bad rulers, does not exonerate those bad rulers from their own culpability for their sins which cannot escape the justice of GOD and which does not excuse people not to act where they have to in accordance with GOD. GOD is merely using the sins of bad rulers as a tool to punish the sins of the people. The will of GOD, which is always good, is sometimes fulfilled, permitted by Him, through the evil will of man.
Q. What is the Communion of Saints?
A. The Communion of Saints is the union of the three parts of the Church, that is, the Church Triumphant who are in Heaven, the Church Suffering who are in Purgatory, and the Church Militant who are on earth. For as the body is one and hath many members; and all the members of the body, whereas they are many, yet are one body: So also is Christ. For in one Spirit were we all baptized into one body, whether Jews or Gentiles, whether bond or free: and in one Spirit we have all been made to drink. For the body also is not one member, but many. (1 Corinthians 12:12-14); So we, being many, are one body in Christ; and every one members one of another (Romans 12:5); For I am sure that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, nor might, Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord(Romans 8:38,39); And another angel came and stood before the altar, having a golden censer: and there was given to him much incense, that he should offer of the prayers of all saints, upon the golden altar which is before the throne of God. And the smoke of the incense of the prayers of the saints ascended up before God from the hand of the angel.(Apocalypse [Revelation] 8:3,4); So I say to you, there shall be joy before the angels of God upon one sinner doing penance. (Luke 15:10); But you are come to mount Sion and to the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem, and to the company of many thousands of angels (Hebrews 12:22); Would to God you could bear with some little of my folly! But do bear with me. (2 Corinthians 1:11); It is therefore a holy and wholesome thought to pray for the dead, that they may be loosed from sins. (2 Machabees 12:46)
Note: Sacred Scriptural Reference’ s for Purgatory - It is therefore a holy and wholesome thought to pray for the dead, that they may be loosed from sins. (2 Machabees 12:46); Be at agreement with thy adversary betimes, whilst thou art in the way with him: lest perhaps the adversary deliver thee to the judge, and the judge deliver thee to the officer, and thou be cast into prison. Amen I say to thee, thou shalt not go out from thence till thou repay the last farthing.(Matthew 25:26); If any man’s work abide, which he hath built thereupon, he shall receive a reward. If any mans work burn, he shall suffer loss: but he himself shall be saved, yet so as by fire. (1 Corinthians 3:14,15)
Q. What benefits are derived from the Communion of Saints?
A. The following benefits are derived from the Communion of Saints: the faithful on earth assist one another by their prayers and good works, and they are aided by the intercession of the saints in Heaven, while both the saints in Heaven and the faithful on earth help the souls in Purgatory.
Q. What benefit do we reap from communion with the Saints in heaven?
A. We partake of the merits which they acquired while on earth, and are assisted by their prayers to GOD in our behalf.
Q. What benefit do the souls in Purgatory receive from our communion with them?
A. We come to the assistance of these our suffering brethren, in order that their pains may be mitigated and shortened and for GOD to liberate them from Purgatory and take them to Heaven.
Q. By what means can we assist the sorrowful souls in Purgatory?
A. By prayers, suffrages, fasts, almsdeeds, and other good works, but most especially by the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass, and the application of indulgences.
Q. What profit do we draw from the communion of the faithful on earth?
A. We share in all the Masses, prayers, and good works of the Catholic Church, and, in general, in all her spiritual goods.
Q. Who are they who do not belong to the Communion of Saints?
A. Those who are damned do not belong to the Communion of Saints in the other life; and in this life, those who are outside the true Church.
Q. Do sinners as dead members of the Church also, as long as they are not cut off, that is excommunicated, from the Church, share in this communion?
A. Sinners as dead members of the Church, that is those in mortal sin, forfeit, indeed, most of the spiritual goods; nevertheless, in virtue of their union with the Church, they still receive various blessings and graces, which help for their conversion.
The Forgiveness of Sins
Q. What is meant by the Forgiveness of Sins?
A. Forgiveness of sins means us that JESUS CHRIST has left to His Church the power of forgiving sins. Peace be to you. As the Father hath sent me, I also send you. When he had said this, he breathed on them; and he said to them: Receive ye the Holy Ghost. Whose sins you shall forgive, they are forgiven them: and whose sins you shall retain, they are retained. (John 20:21-23)
Q. Can the Church forgive every sort of sin?
A. Yes, the Church can forgive all sins, no matter how many or how grave they may be, because JESUS CHRIST has given her full power to bind and to loose.
Q. Who exercises this power of forgiving sins in the Church?
A. Those who exercise the power of forgiving sins in the Church are, first of all, the Pope, who alone possesses this power in all its plenitude; then the bishops, and, dependent upon the bishops, the priests. And I say to thee: That thou art Peter; and upon this rock I will build my church, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it. And I will give to thee the keys of the kingdom of heaven. And whatsoever thou shalt bind upon earth, it shall be bound also in heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt loose on earth, it shall be loosed also in heaven. (Matthew 16:18,19)
Q. How does JESUS CHRIST forgive sins through His Church ?
A. JESUS CHRIST forgives sins through His Church through His merits by conferring the Sacraments instituted by Him for this purpose; especially the Sacraments of Baptism and Penance (Confession).
The Resurrection of the Body
Q. What is meant by The Resurrection of the Body?
A. The Resurrection of the Body means that all men will rise again, every soul resuming the body it had in this life. Behold, I tell you a mystery. We shall all indeed rise again: but we shall not all be changed. In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet: for the trumpet shall sound and the dead shall rise again incorruptible. And we shall be changed. For this corruptible must put on incorruption: and this mortal must put on immortality. And when this mortal hath put on immortality, then shall come to pass the saying that is written: Death is swallowed up in victory. (1 Corinthians 15:51-54; For I know that my Redeemer liveth, and in the last day I shall rise out of the earth. And I shall be clothed again with my skin, and in my flesh I shall see my God. Whom I myself shall see, and my eyes shall behold, and not another: this my hope is laid up in my bosom. (Job 19:25-27)
Note: There will be a vast difference between the bodies of the elect, that is the Saints and the bodies of the damned, that is the reprobates. The bodies of the elect shall have, like the risen JESUS CHRIST, the endowments of glorified bodies. Who will reform the body of our lowness, made like to the body of his glory, according to the operation whereby also he is able to subdue all things unto himself. (Philippians 3:21). The bodies of the damned shall be destitute of all the endowments of a glorified body of the blessed, and shall be in horrible condition bearing upon them the appalling mark of eternal reprobation.
Q. What are the endowments that are to adorn the bodies of the elect?
A. The endowments that shall adorn the bodies of the elect are: 1. Impassibility, by which they can never again be subject to evil, nor to any kind of pain, nor to need of food, of rest or the like. For this corruptible must put on incorruption: and this mortal must put on immortality. (1 Corinthians 15:53); And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes: and death shall be no more. Nor mourning, nor crying, nor sorrow shall be any more, for the former things are passed away. (Apocalypse [Revelation] 21:4); 2. Brightness, by which they shall shine as the sun and as so many stars. Then shall the just shine as the sun, in the kingdom of their Father.(Matthew 13:43); 3. Agility, by which they shall be able to pass in a moment and without fatigue from one place to another and from earth to heaven. The just shall shine, and shall run to and fro like sparks among the reeds. (Wisdom 3:7); 4. Subtlety, by which without hindrance they shall be able to penetrate any body, as did JESUS CHRIST when risen from the dead. Now when it was late the same day, the first of the week, and the doors were shut, where the disciples were gathered together, for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood in the midst and said to them: Peace be to you. (John 20:19)
Note: The bodies of the elect will be changed in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, upon their resurrection.
Q. How will the resurrection of the dead be accomplished?
A. The resurrection of the dead will be accomplished by the virtue of the Omnipotent GOD, to whom nothing is impossible.
Q. When will the resurrection of the dead take place?
A. The resurrection of the dead shall take place at the end of the world, and shall be followed by the General and Final Judgment.
Q. Why does GOD will the resurrection of the body?
A. GOD wills the resurrection of the body, in order that the soul, having done good or evil while united with the body, may also be rewarded or punished along with it.
Q. What benefit have we by the knowledge of the resurrection?
A. It emboldens us to suffer persecution and death itself, in hope of future glory. For I reckon that the sufferings of this time are not worthy to be compared with the glory to come that shall be revealed in us. (Romans 8:18)
Life Everlasting
Q. What is meant by Life Everlasting?
A. Life Everlasting means that, after the present life there is another life, eternally happy for the elect that is the Saints in heaven, or eternally miserable for the damned that is the reprobates in hell. And these shall go into everlasting punishment: but the just, into life everlasting. (Matthew 25:46)
Q. Can we comprehend the bliss of heaven?
A. No, we cannot comprehend the bliss of heaven, because it is beyond the scope of our limited minds, and because the goods of heaven cannot be compared with the goods of this world. But, as it is written: That eye hath not seen, nor ear heard: neither hath it entered into the heart of man, what things God hath prepared for them that love him. (1 Corinthians 2:9)
Q. In what does the happiness of the elect consist?
A. The happiness of the elect consists in for ever seeing, loving and possessing GOD, the source of all good. We see now through a glass in a dark manner: but then face to face. (1 Corinthians 13:12); And I heard a great voice from the throne, saying: Behold the tabernacle of God with men: and he will dwell with them. And they shall be his people: and God himself with them shall be their God. And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes: and death shall be no more. Nor mourning, nor crying, nor sorrow shall be any more, for the former things are passed away. (Apocalypse [Revelation] 21:3,4)
Q. In what does the misery of the damned consist?
A. The misery of the damned consists in being for ever deprived of the vision of GOD and punished with eternal torments in the fires of hell. And if thy eye scandalize thee, pluck it out: it is better for thee with one eye to enter into the kingdom of God than having two eyes to be cast into the hell of fire: Where their worm dieth not, and the fire is not extinguished.(Matthew 9:46,47)
Q. Are the happiness of heaven and the miseries of hell for the soul alone?
A. The happiness of heaven and the miseries of hell at present affect the soul alone, because at present the soul alone is in heaven or in hell; but after the resurrection of the flesh, man in the fullness of his nature, that is, in body and in soul, will be for ever happy or forever tormented.
Q. Shall the bliss of paradise and the miseries of hell be the same for all men?
A. The bliss of heaven in the case of the blessed, and the miseries of hell in the case of the damned, will be the same in substance and in eternal duration; but in measure, or degree, they will be greater or less according to the extent of each one’s merits or demerits.
Q. What will GOD do to the good, that is only Catholics who are faithful to Him unto death, who die in sanctifying grace, that is with the indwelling of Him in their souls?
A. He will take them to Him in heaven forever, to eternally adore Him and be perfectly happy in Him forever.
Q. What will GOD do to the rest, who are the bad, that is the unfaithful Catholics who die in mortal sin and the non Catholics who have rejected Him and His infinite goodness by not converting to Him through His Catholic Church?
A. He justly will cast them into the eternal torments of the fires of hell to burn and feel forever.
Amen
Q. What does the word Amen signify at the end of the Creed?
A. The word Amen at the end of a prayer signifies so be it; at the end of the Creed it signifies so it is, that is to say, “I believe that all things contained in these twelve Articles are most true, and I am more certain of them than if I had seen them with my eyes.”
PART II. SACRAMENTS
The Sacraments in General
Q. What does the doctrine of the Sacraments teach us?
A. The doctrine of the Sacraments shows us the nature and right use of those means which JESUS CHRIST has instituted to remit our sins, give us His grace and infuse into and increase in us the supernatural Divine virtues of faith, hope, and charity for His greater glory and our salvation.
Q. What is a Sacrament?
A. A Sacrament is a visible outward sign instituted by JESUS CHRIST to give His invisible inward grace to sanctify our souls for our salvation.
Note: All the Sacraments were instituted by JESUS CHRIST because GOD alone, the Author of grace, can attach to outward signs the power of giving grace and holiness.
Q. From what have the Sacraments their force and efficacy?
A. From the merits of the Most Holy Blood, and Passion and Death of JESUS CHRIST, which they apply to our souls. Christ died for us. Much more therefore, being now justified by his blood, shall we be saved from wrath through him. (Romans 5:9); But one of the soldiers with a spear opened his side: and immediately there came out blood and water. (John 19:34); Who his own self bore our sins in his body upon the tree: that we, being dead to sins, should live to justice: by whose stripes you were healed. (1 Peter 2:24); But he was wounded for our iniquities, he was bruised for our sins: the chastisement of our peace was upon him, and by his bruises we are healed. (Isaias 53:5); And there are Three who give testimony in heaven, the Father, the Word, and the Holy Ghost. And these three are one. And there are three that give testimony on earth: the spirit and the water and the blood. And these three are one. (1 John 5:7,8)
Note: The Most Holy and Precious Blood of JESUS CHRIST is: Redemption – It is the price paid for our sins, satisfying Divine Justice. Sanctification – It is the source of all Sacramental Grace. Protection – It is a safeguard against the attacks of the devil and temptation. Reparation – It is the means of atonement for the sins of the world. Love – It is the visible expression of the infinite love of GOD. The Most Holy and Precious Blood of GOD JESUS CHRIST shed at Calvary and mystically made present at every Holy Sacrifice of the Mass is the very same Blood that cleanses souls in Holy Baptism, fortifies them in Holy Confirmation, enflames and strengthens them in the Most Holy Eucharist, absolves/forgives them in Penance (Confession), heals them in Extreme Unction, empowers them in Holy Orders and seals them untill death does them apart in Holy Matrimony.
Q. For what end did JESUS CHRIT institute the Sacraments?
A. JESUS CHRIST instituted the Sacraments to be external and visible marks and professions of His holy faith in worship of GOD and to be effectual means of our salvation, and certain remedies against sin.
Q. In what manner do the Sacraments give and cause grace?
A. The Sacraments give and cause grace as a means or instruments only; for GOD is always the principal cause thereof.
Q. What grace do the Sacraments convey?
A. They convey or increase sanctifying grace, and each Sacrament also bestows par- ticular graces, according to the end for which it was ordained.
Q. Do the Sacraments always give grace?
A. The Sacraments always give grace, if we receive them with the right dispositions.
Q. How must the Sacraments be received?
A. The Sacraments must be received with due preparation.
Q. Is it a sin of grave matter to receive a Sacrament unworthily?
A. It is a sin of grave matter to receive a Sacrament unworthily– a serious sacrilege.
Q. What is necessary to constitute a Sacrament?
A. To constitute a Sacrament it is necessary to have the matter, the form, and the minister, who must have the intention to do what the Church does.
Q. Do the Sacraments give grace when administered even by unworthy priests?
A. Yes, because the grace given by the Sacraments does not proceed from him who administers them, but from our Lord JESUS CHRIST, Who ordained them. The minister is only the dispenser of the mysteries of GOD. Let a man so account of us as of the ministers of Christ and the dispensers of the mysteries of God. (1 Corinthians 4:1).
Note: All the Sacraments act ex opere operato which means by the work performed. Ex opere operato in Latin means by the work performed. In other words, the Sacraments produce grace not by the personal merit of the minister, but by the very fact that the Sacrament is validly carried out according to the Church’s intention. The Sacraments act ex opere operato, that is by the very fact of the action’s being performed, because it is JESUS CHRIST who acts in them. JESUS CHRIST himself is present in each Sacrament as the invisible minister, working through the visible human minister. Therefore, the efficacy of the Sacrament does not depend on the moral state of the priest, be he holy or not, as long as he acts validly, because of the power and promise of GOD. Now, to receive the fruits of the Sacraments, one who has come to the use of reason should be properly disposed. There must be a predispositional receptivity to receive the grace that is always available in a validly effected Sacrament. This means reception of grace via the Sacraments is not automatic. But the ex opere operato nature of the Sacraments reminds us that, while a proper disposition is necessary to receive grace in the Sacraments, it isn’t the cause of that grace.
Q. How many Sacraments are there and what are they called?
A. There are Seven Sacraments. They are:
1. Baptism,
2. Confirmation,
3. The Most Holy Eucharist,
4. Penance (Confession),
5. Extreme Unction,
6. Holy Orders,
7. Matrimony.
1. Baptism: Jesus answered: Amen, amen, I say to thee, unless a man be born again of water and the Holy Ghost, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God.(John 3:5)
2. Confirmation: Now, when the apostles, who were in Jerusalem, had heard that Samaria had received the word of God, they sent unto them Peter and John. Who, when they were come, prayed for them that they might receive the Holy Ghost. For he was not as yet come upon any of them: but they were only baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. Then they laid their hands upon them: and they received the Holy Ghost. (Acts 8:14-17); Now he that confirmeth us with you in Christ and that hath anointed us, is God: Who also hath sealed us and given the pledge of the Spirit in our hearts. (2 Corinthians 1:21,22)
3. The Most Holy Eucharist: I am the bread of life .… This is the bread that came down from heaven. Not as your fathers did eat manna and are dead. He that eateth this bread shall live for ever.(John 6:48-59); The whole discourse - (John 6:31-67); And whilst they were at supper, Jesus took bread and blessed and broke and gave to his disciples and said: Take ye and eat. This is my body. And taking the chalice, he gave thanks and gave to them, saying: Drink ye all of this. For this is my blood of the new testament, which shall be shed for many unto remission of sins. (Matthew 26:26-28)
4. Penance (Confession): Whose sins you [Apostles] forgive, they are forgiven them: whose sins you shall retain they are retained. (John 20:23). This power was passed on to other priests - But all things are of God, who hath reconciled us to himself by Christ and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation. For God indeed was in Christ, reconciling the world to himself, not imputing to them their sins. And he hath placed in us the word of reconciliation. (2 Corinthians 5:18-20); If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just, to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all iniquity. (1 John 1:9)
5. Extreme Unction: Is any man sick among you? Let him bring in the priests of the church and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord. And the prayer of faith shall save the sick man. And the Lord shall raise him up: and if he be in sins, they shall be forgiven him. (James 5:14-15)
6. Holy Orders: For it is written in the book of Psalms: Let their habitation become desolate, and let there be none to dwell therein. And his [Judas Iscariot’s one of the first Bishops] bishopric let another take. (Acts of the Apostles 1:20); Paul and Timothy, the servants of Jesus Christ: to all the saints in Christ Jesus who are at Philippi, with the bishops and deacons. (Philippians11:1); And when they had ordained to them priests in every church and had prayed with fasting, they commended them to the Lord, in whom they believed. (Acts of the Apostles 14:22 )
7. Matrimony: But from the beginning of the creation, God made them male and female. For this cause, a man shall leave his father and mother and shall cleave to his wife. And they two shall be in one flesh. Therefore now they are not two, but one flesh. What therefore God hath joined together, let no man put asunder. (Mark 10:6-9); For this cause shall a man leave his father and mother: and shall cleave to his wife. And they shall be two in one flesh. This is a great sacrament: but I speak in Christ and in the church.(Ephesians 5:31,32)
1. Baptism - we are born again to the Divine Life.
2. Confirmation - strenghthens the Divine Life within us.
3. The Most Holy Eucharist - supplies nourishment to the Divine Life within us.
4. Penance (Confession) - restores the Divine Life when it has been lost by mortal sin and increases Divine Life when received in sanctifying grace.
5. Extreme Unction - sustains the Divine Life within us in the hour of our death and restores the Divine Life that has been lost by mortal sin, if contrite but unable to do a Confession.
6. Holy Orders - the line of those who transmit the Divine Life is maintained.
7. Matrimony - the line of those who receive the Divine Life is maintained.
Q. Can we receive the Sacraments more than once?
A. Except for Baptism, Confirmation, and Holy Orders the other Sacraments can be received more than once.
Note: The three Sacraments, Baptism, Confirmation and Holy Orders can be received only once, because each of them imprints a special character on the soul which is a spiritual mark that can never be blotted out or effaced.
Q. Which is the greatest of all the Sacraments?
A. The greatest of all the Sacraments is the Most Holy Eucharist, because it contains not only grace, but also GOD JESUS CHRIST the Author of Grace and of the Sacraments.
Baptism
Q. What is Baptism?
A. Baptism is a Sacrament which cleanses one from original sin, and from actual sin if one is guilty of it, makes one a child of GOD, a temple of the HOLY SPIRIT, a Catholic / Christian and a heir of heaven. And Jesus coming, spoke to them, saying: All power is given to me in heaven and in earth. Going therefore, teach ye all nations: baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Ghost. (Matthew 28:18,19); Jesus answered: Amen, amen, I say to thee, unless a man be born again of water and the Holy Ghost, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God.(John 3:5); This is he that came by water and blood, Jesus Christ: not by water only but by water and blood. (1 John 5:6); He shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost and with fire (Luke 3:16)
Note’s: Original sin is cleansed through the Sacrament of Baptism, but the effects of original sin stay and have to be combated by the grace of GOD.
Actual sins and all the punishment due to them are remitted by Baptism, if the person baptized be guilty of any, provided the person is rightly disposed.
All those in a state of original sin are not in union with GOD. Only those in sanctifying grace are in union with GOD. All those who die in a state of original sin are cast by GOD into hell.
Q. What are the effects of Baptism?
A. It makes us the children of GOD, and remits both original and actual sin, if he that is baptized be guilty of it. Secondly, it infuseth justifying grace into the soul, with habits of faith, hope, and charity, and all supernatural gifts and virtues. For as many of you as have been baptized in Christ have put on Christ. (Galatians 3:27); But you are washed: but you are sanctified: but you are justified: in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ and the Spirit of our God. (1 Corinthians 6:11); Not by the works of justice which we have done, but according to his mercy, he saved us, by the laver of regeneration and renovation of the Holy Ghost. Whom he hath poured forth upon us abundantly, through Jesus Christ our Saviour: That, being justified by his grace, we may be heirs according to hope of life everlasting. (Titus 3:5-7)
Q. What other effect hath Baptism?
A. It makes a spiritual mark or character in the soul, which shall remain for ever, either to ones great joy in heaven, or ones torment in hell.
Q. Is Baptism necessary for salvation?
A. Baptism is absolutely necessary for salvation, because without it no one can enter the kingdom of Heaven. Jesus answered: Amen, amen, I say to thee, unless a man be born again of water and the Holy Ghost, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God.(John 3:5)
Q. Does Baptism gaurentee salvation?
A. For one who has come to the use of reason Baptism does not gaurentee salvation, for it is not enough to be baptized in order to be saved, one must persevere in the sanctifying grace of GOD unto death in order to be saved.
Q. Can the absence of Baptism be supplied in any other way if there was a just reason that it could not be received?
A. The absence of Baptism, if there was a just reason that it could not be received, can be supplied by martyrdom, which is called Baptism of Blood, or by an act of perfect love of GOD or by an act of perfect contrition, along with the desire, of Baptism, and this is called Baptism of Desire.
Note’s: GOD has bound salvation to the Sacrament of Baptism, but He Himself is not bound by His Sacraments.
We know that Baptism of Blood or of Desire will save a person when it is impossible to receive the Baptism of Water, from Sacred Scripture, which teaches that love of GOD and perfect contrition can secure the remission of sins; and also that Our Lord JESUS CHRIST promises eternal salvation to those who lay down their life for His sake or for His teaching.
Q. Why is Baptism the first Sacrament?
A. Baptism is the first Sacrament because by it we are born again, or created anew in JESUS CHRIST, and therefore before it we are not capable of receiving any other Sacrament.
Q. Who can administer Baptism?
A. The priest is the ordinary minister of Baptism; but in case of necessity any one who has the use of reason may baptize.
Q. What is the matter of the Sacrament of Baptism?
A. Natural water only.
Q. What is the form of the Sacrament of Baptism?
A. I baptize thee in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. And Jesus coming, spoke to them, saying: All power is given to me in heaven and in earth. Going therefore, teach ye all nations: baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Ghost. (Matthew 28:18,19)
Q. How is Baptism given?
A. Whoever baptizes should pour water on the head of the person to be baptized, and say, while pouring the water: I baptize thee in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.
Q. What names have to be given and in Baptism?
A. Catholic names have to be given at Baptism.
Note: These and similar names should never be given in baptism: (1) the names of pagan false gods; (2) the names of noted unbelievers, heretics or enemies of the Catholic Religion and Christian virtue; and (3) nick-names.
Q. Why are godfathers and godmothers given in Baptism?
A. Godfathers and godmothers are given in Baptism in order that they may promise, in the name of the child, what the child itself would promise if it had the use of reason and to instruct the child in the duties of the Catholic Religion, if the parents neglect to do so or die.
Note’s: In the selection of godparents for their children parents obliged by GOD to chiefly consider good character and Christian virtue, selecting model Catholics to whom they would be willing at the hour of death to entrust the care and training of their children.
Q. How can infants be baptized, who have no actual faith?
A. Infants who have no actual faith can be baptized in the faith of the Church, and of their godfathers and godmothers.
Q. Is it grievously sinful to defer the Baptism of an infant from Baptising the infant as soon as possible?
A. It is grievously sinful to defer the Baptism of an infant from Baptising the infant as soon as possible, because GOD is not given what is due to Him with the Baptism, and the infant is deprived of being a child of GOD and being exposed to the danger of dying without the Sacrament which is absolutely necessary for salvation.
Q. What dispositions must adults or grown persons, have that they may worthily receive Baptism?
A. That adults may worthily receive Baptism: (1) they must be willing to receive it freely; (2) they must be well instructed in Catholic Doctrine and believe it, primarily the two chief mysteries of the faith: The Unity and Trinity of GOD and the Incarnation and Reedeming Death of our Saviour JESUS CHRIST; (3) they must have true sorrow for their sins and purpose to live up to Catholic Doctrine; (5) they must solemnly renounce the devil and all his works; that is, all sin; and (6) approach the Sacrament with reverence and devotion.
Q. Are we obliged to keep the promises and renunciations made by us at our Baptism?
A. We are certainly obliged to observe the promises and renunciations made by us, which were made for us by our godparents, because it is only on this condition that GOD has received us into His grace. The person baptised is bound to always profess the faith and observe the Law of JESUS CHRIST and of His Church.
Note: This indeed, we promised at the doors of the church when about to be baptised; for we then declared that we renounced the devil and the world, and gave ourselves unreservedly to JESUS CHRIST. But if to be enrolled as soldiers of JESUS CHRIST we consecrated ourselves by so holy and solemn a profession to our Lord, what punishments should we not deserve if after our entrance into the Church, and after having known the will and laws of GOD and received the grace of the Sacraments, we were to form our lives upon the precepts and maxims of the world and the devil, just as though when cleansed in the waters of Baptism, we had pledged our fidelity to the world and to the devil, and not to JESUS CHRIST the Lord and Saviour !
What heart so cold as not to be inflamed with love by the kindness and good will exercised toward us by so great a Lord, who, though holding us in His power and dominion as slaves ransomed by His blood, yet embraces us with such ardent love as to call us not servants, but friends and brethren? This, assuredly, supplies the most just, and perhaps the strongest, claim to induce us always to acknowledge, venerate, and adore Him as our Lord.
Confirmation
Q. What is Confirmation?
A. Confirmation is a Sacrament by which one receives the HOLY SPIRIT to make one a strong Catholic / Christian and a Soldier of JESUS CHRIST. Now he that confirmeth us with you in Christ and that hath anointed us, is God: Who also hath sealed us and given the pledge of the Spirit in our hearts. (2 Corinthians 1:21,22); Now, when the apostles, who were in Jerusalem, had heard that Samaria had received the word of God, they sent unto them Peter and John. Who, when they were come, prayed for them that they might receive the Holy Ghost. For he was not as yet come upon any of them: but they were only baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. (Acts of the Apostles 8:14-16); Having heard these things, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. And when Paul had imposed his hands on them, the Holy Ghost came upon them (Acts of the Apostles 19:5,6)
Q. Which are the effects of Confirmation?
A. The effects of Confirmation are an increase of sanctifying grace, the strengthening of our faith, and the gifts of the HOLY SPIRIT.
Note: The effects of Confirmation appear in the undaunted confidence and sufferings of the apostles, martyrs, and saints of GOD, after they had received it.
Q. Which are the seven gifts of the HOLY SPIRIT?
A. The seven gifts of the HOLY SPIRIT are 1. Wisdom, 2. Understanding, 3. Counsel, 4. Fortitude, 5. Knowledge, 6. Piety, and 7. Fear of the Lord. And the spirit of the Lord shall rest upon him: the spirit of wisdom, and of understanding, the spirit of counsel, and of fortitude, the spirit of knowledge, and of godliness. And he shall be filled with the spirit of the fear of the Lord (Isaias 11:2,3); The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom. Fools despise wisdom and instruction. (Proverbs 1:7)
Note’s: Wisdom, by which our minds are lifted up from earthly and transitory things, enabling us to contemplate GOD and the things that pertain to Him, giving us a relish and love for Him and His things for His sake, and teaching us to direct our whole lives and actions to His honour and glory, and the salvation of our souls and that of our neighbour.
Understanding, by which we are enabled to comprehend more clearly the truths of the faith and the high mysteries of GOD, and have an absolute certitude that they bear such and such a sense and no other.
Counsel, by which we discover the frauds and deceits of the devil, and are not deceived by him and are warned of the dangers to salvation and amidst the doubts and uncertainties of human life, we are enabled to recognise those things that redound more to GOD’s glory, to our own salvation, and that of our neighbour.
Fortitude, whereby we are strengthened and enabled with valour and courage to undergo, despise and conquer all obstacles, dangers and assaults of the enemies of GOD and us, for the sake of GOD.
Knowledge, by which we know and understand the will of GOD in all things, estimating created things at their proper worth, and using them rightly by directing them to our last end, who is GOD.
Piety, by which we love GOD as a Father and be devout and zealous in His service.
Fear of the Lord, which fills us with a dread of sin, withholds us from it, and makes us obedient to GOD’s law out of respect for Him and the fear to offend His Divine Majesty.
Q. What purpose do the gifts of the HOLY SPIRIT serve?
A. The gifts of the HOLY SPIRIT serve to establish us in Faith, Hope and Charity, and to render us prompt in the exercise of those acts of virtue necessary towards attaining the perfection of a Christian life.
Q. Which are the twelve fruits of the HOLY SPIRIT?
A. The twelve fruits of the HOLY SPIRIT are Charity, Joy, Peace, Patience, Benignity, Goodness, Long-suffering, Mildness, Faith, Modesty, Continency, and Chastity. But the fruit of the Spirit is, charity, joy, peace, patience, benignity, goodness, longanimity, Mildness, faith, modesty, continency, chastity. Against such there is no law. (Galatians 5:22,23)
Note’s: Charity by which we love GOD above all things for His own sake, and we love our neighbor as ourselves for the love of GOD.
Joy, by which we are enabled to serve GOD with cheerful hearts.
Peace, which keeps us unmoved in our minds and hearts united to GOD amidst the storms and tempests of the world. The traquility of the order of GOD.
Patience, which enables us to suffer all adversities for the love of GOD.
Benignity, which makes us to will good for all for the love of GOD and causeth an affable sweetness in our manners and conversation for the love of GOD.
Goodness or benevolance, which makes us hurt no man, and do good to all for the love of GOD.
Long-suffering or Longanimity, which is an untired confidence of mind, in expecting the good things of the life to come with GOD in Heaven.
Mildness, which allays in us all the emotions of passion and anger for the love of GOD.
Fidelity, which makes us punctual observers of our covenants and promises for the love of GOD.
Modesty, which observes a becoming deportment in all our outward actions for the love of GOD.
Continency, which makes us not only abstemious in meat and drink, but in all other sensible delights for the love of GOD.
Chastity, which keeps a pure soul in a pure body for the love of GOD.
Q. Why are they called fruits of the HOLY SPIRIT ?
A. They are called fruits of the HOLY SPIRIT because they grow in our souls out of the seven gifts of the HOLY SPIRIT.
Q. Who are they that have these fruits?
A. The children of GOD only, who live with the indwelling of GOD in their souls (state of sanctifying grace). For whosoever are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God. (Romans 8:14)
Q. Which are the class of gifts of the HOLY SPIRIT known as Charismata?
A. The class of gifts of the HOLY SPIRIT known as Charismata are: 1. Gift of speaking with extraordinary wisdom; 3. Gift of speaking with extraordinary knowledge; 3. Gift of extraordinary Faith; 4. Gift of healing; 5. Gift of miracles; 6. Gift of prophecy; 7. Gift of discerning spirits; 8. Gift of tongues; and 9. Gift of interpreting speeches. Now there are diversities of graces, but the same Spirit. And there are diversities of ministries but the same Lord. And there are diversities of operations, but the same God, who worketh all in all. And the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man unto profit. To one indeed, by the Spirit, is given the word of wisdom: and to another, the word of knowledge, according to the same Spirit: To another, faith in the same spirit: to another, the grace of healing in one Spirit: To another the working of miracles: to another, prophecy: to another, the discerning of spirits: to another, diverse kinds of tongues: to another, interpretation of speeches. But all these things, one and the same Spirit worketh, dividing to every one according as he will.; Now you are the body of Christ and members of member. And God indeed hath set some in the church; first apostles, secondly prophets, thirdly doctors: after that miracles: then the graces of healings, helps, governments, kinds of tongues, interpretations of speeches. Are all apostles? Are all prophets? Are all doctors? Are all workers of miracles? Have all the grace of healing? Do all speak with tongues? Do all interpret? But be zealous for the better gifts. And I shew unto you yet a more excellent way. (1 Corinthians 12:4-11;27-31)
Note: The Gift of Extraordinary Faith (1 Corinthians 12:9), is distinguished from the first of the Supernatural Divine virtues or theological virtues by which we assent to all things that are Revealed by GOD. It is a bold, HOLY SPIRIT empowered constant confidence in GOD’s power and goodness, beyond everyday normal trust, for obtaining anything from Him, which can inspire to step out in a magnanimous mission or sustain strong hope in extreeme crisis. It is a transcendent faith free from all presumption possessed by but few, which is the mother of miracles, and which enables its possessors to give a ready assent to the things of GOD. And the Lord said: If you had faith like to a grain of mustard seed, you might say to this mulberry tree: Be thou rooted up and be thou transplanted into the sea. And it would obey you. (Luke 17:6); For, amen I say to you, if you have faith as a grain of mustard seed, you shall say to this mountain: Remove from hence hither, and it shall remove: and nothing shall be impossible to you. (Matthew 17:19)
Q. What are the class of gifts of the HOLY SPIRIT known as Charismata?
A. The class of gifts of the HOLY SPIRIT known as Charismata are extraordinary gifts, that is special graces or charisms, of the HOLY SPIRIT, given by GOD only to certain persons, through the Sacrament of Baptism or the Sacrament of Confirmation, for the benefit of the entire Church.
Note: The term Charismata comes from the Greek word charis meaning grace. The HOLY SPIRIT gives certain persons extraordinary gifts known as Charismata—a class of spiritual gifts meant to serve others and strengthen the Mystical Body of CHRIST, the Church, for the greater glory of GOD and the salvation of souls. These gifts are given freely by the HOLY SPIRIT, not for personal glory which is vain-glory but for the benifit of others. They do not proove the sanctity of the persons possesing them. Unlike the seven Gifts of the HOLY SPIRIT that are to perfects us personally, these empower certain persons to serve others. They are spiritual because the HOLY SPIRIT breathes them into certain persons through the Sacrament of Baptism or the Sacrament of Confirmation. No one should presume to have these gifts without any basis.
Q. Who administers Confirmation?
A. The bishop is the ordinary minister of Confirmation. Now, when the apostles, who were in Jerusalem, had heard that Samaria had received the word of God, they sent unto them Peter [a Bishop] and John [a Bishop]. Who, when they were come, prayed for them that they might receive the Holy Ghost. For he was not as yet come upon any of them: but they were only baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. (Acts of the Apostles 8:14-16)
Q. What is the matter of the Sacrament of Confirmation?
A. Oil, mingled with balm, blessed by a bishop.
Q. What is the form of the Sacrament of Confirmation?
A. I sign thee with the sign of the Cross, I confirm thee with the crism of salvation, in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.
Q. How does the bishop administer Confirmation?
A. The bishop extends his hands over the person who is to be confirmed, prays that he or she may receive the HOLY SPIRIT, and anoints the forehead of the person with holy chrism in the form of a cross.
Q. To receive Confirmation worthily is it necessary to be in the state of sanctifying grace?
A. To receive Confirmation worthily it is absolutely necessary to be in the state of sanctifying grace freed from mortal sin.
Q. What special preparation should be made to receive Confirmation?
A. Persons of an age to learn should know the chief mysteries of the faith and the duties of a Catholic / Christian, be instructed in the nature and effects of this Sacrament, and approach it with reverence and devotion.
Q. At what age should Confirmation be received?
A. Confirmation should be received at least at seven years old.
Is it a sin to neglect Confirmation?
A. It is a sin of grave matter to neglect Confirmation, if it be done out of contempt, or any gross neglect, especially in evil times when faith and morals are exposed to so many and such violent temptations or in a place of persecution because by doing so one is exposed to great danger of denying the faith, against which danger, it was peculiarly ordained by JESUS CHRIST our Lord.
THE MOST HOLY EUCHARIST (The Most Holy Sacrament and The Most Holy Sacrifice of the Mass)
Q. What is the Most Holy Eucharist?
A. The Most Holy Eucharist is the body, blood, soul and divinity of JESUS CHRIST, under the appearances of bread and wine instituted by JESUS CHRIST at the last supper on Maundy Thursday. JESUS CHRIST is really present in the Most Holy Eucharist.
Note: Under the appearances of bread and wine means the figure, the color, the taste, and whatever appears to the senses.
Q. When are the bread and wine changed into GOD JESUS CHRIST, His body, blood, soul and divinity?
A. The bread and wine are changed into GOD JESUS CHRIST, His body, blood, soul and divinity at the consecration by the priest at the Mass.
Note: Only ordained priests have the power from JESUS CHRIST through the Sacrament of Holy Orders to do the consecration.
Q. When did JESUS CHRIST give His priests the power to change bread and wine into Himself?
A. JESUS CHRIST gave His priests the power to change bread and wine into Himself in the Most Holy Eucharist when He said to the Apostles, Do this for a commemoration of Me.
Note: The Church calls the miraculous change of bread and of wine into JESUS CHRIST in the Most Holy Eucharist transubstantiation.
Q. How do the priests exercise this power of changing bread and wine into GOD JESUS CHRIST?
A. The priests exercise this power of changing bread and wine into JESUS CHRIST through the words of consecration in the Mass. THIS IS MY BODY for the consecration of the Bread; THIS IS MY BLOOD for the consecration of the Wine.
Note: JESUS CHRIST is present in the consecrated elements as long as the accidents of bread and wine remain.
Q. Is JESUS CHRIST just as much in a particle of a host as in a whole host?
A. Yes, the same JESUS CHRIST is just as much in a particle of a host as in a whole host.
Q. Is the Body of JESUS CHRIST divided or broken, when the Most Holy Eucharist is divided or broken?
A. No it is not, for He is now immortal and impassible, He cannot die nor suffer any more. Knowing that Christ, rising again from the dead, dieth now no more. (Romans 6:9)
Q. Ought the Most Holy Eucharist to be adored?
A. The Most Holy Eucharist ought to be adored by all, because the Most Holy Eucharist is JESUS CHRIST and adoration is given to GOD alone.
Note’s: As of all the sacred mysteries bequeathed to us by our Lord and Saviour JESUS CHRIST as most infallible instruments of divine grace, there is none comparable to the Most Holy Sacrament of the Eucharist; so, for no crime is there a heavier punishment to be feared from GOD than for the unholy or irreligious use by the faithful of that which is full of holiness, or rather which contains the very author and source of holiness.
GOD has commanded through His Church in an altogether particular manner, for everyone to do all that is in their power to ensure that the Most Holy Eucharist be protected from any and every irreverence or distortion, that all abuses be thoroughly corrected and that this is a most serious duty incumbent upon each and every one, and all are bound to carry it out without any favouritism.
Holy Communion in the hand and Holy Communion-plates not kept while administering Holy Communion can result in throwing the entire Sacred Host or particles of the Sacred Host, who is GOD JESUS CHRIST in the Most Holy Eucharist, on the floor, stamping Him, sweeping Him and putting Him in the garbage. This is a very grave evil. How much more, do you think he deserveth worse punishments, who hath trodden under foot the Son of God (Hebrews 10:29). GOD has commanded through His Church that the Holy Communion-plate for the Holy Communion of the faithful should be retained, so as to avoid the danger of the Sacred Host or some Fragment of it falling. One who throws away the consecrated Species, incurs a latae sententiae excommunication reserved to the Apostolic See (the excommunication takes effect on certain conditions).
Q. When JESUS CHRIST is in the Most Holy Eucharist does He cease to be in Heaven?
A. When JESUS CHRIST is in the Most Holy Eucharist He does not cease to be in Heaven, but is at one and the same time in Heaven and in the Most Holy Eucharist as He is GOD who is omnipresent.
Q. Why did JESUS CHRIST institute the Most Holy Eucharist?
A. JESUS CHRIST instituted the Most Holy Eucharist: 1. To continue His sacrifice on the cross in His Church. 2. To unite us to Himself and to nourish our soul with His body, blood, soul and divinity. 3. To increase sanctifying grace and all virtues in our soul. 4. To lessen our evil inclinations. 5. To be a pledge of everlasting life. 6. To fit our bodies for a glorious resurrection.
Q. Has the Most Holy Eucharist any other effect?
A. The Most Holy Eucharist remits venial sins by disposing us to perform acts of charity and contrition. It preserves us from mortal sin by exciting us to greater fervor and strengthening us against temptation.
Q. What is Holy Communion?
A. Holy Communion is the receiving of GOD JESUS CHRIST, His body, blood, soul and divinity. By means of Holy Communion, Catholics in a state of sanctifying grace are united to one and another in JESUS CHRIST in the Most Holy Eucharist. The chalice of benediction which we bless, is it not the communion of the blood of Christ? And the bread which we break, is it not the partaking of the body of the Lord? For we, being many, are one bread, one body: all that partake of one bread. (1 Corinthians 10:16,17)
Note: When we receive Holy Communion receive GOD. The same GOD who is in Heaven, who created us, who will bring an end to our lives and then judge us.
Q. What are the effects of Holy Communion?
A. 1. By Holy Communion we are united more closely to JESUS CHRIST in a very intimate way. He that eateth my flesh and drinketh my blood abideth in me: and I in him. (John 6:57); 2. It increases in us the fervour of charity towards GOD and our neighbour for the sake of GOD, and aids us to act in uniformity with the will of GOD; 3. Holy Communion imparts actual graces, and also maintains and increases sanctifying grace in the soul; 4. The force of evil concupiscence is lessened by Holy Communion, and we are freed from venial sin by means of it; 5. Holy Communion often affords much refreshment to the soul. 6. It gives us a pledge of future glory and of the resurrection of our body.
Note: When we consume the Most Holy Eucharist, the Most Holy Eucharist consumes us: For our God is a consuming fire. (Hebrews 12:29)
Q. What is necessary to make a good Holy Communion?
A. To make a good Holy Communion it is necessary to be in the state of sanctifying grace; to be fasting for at least one hour from food and all drinks except water; to be dressed modestly; to do a preparation before primarily with fervant acts of faith, hope, charity and contrition and to do a thanksgiving after receiving Holy Communion and to know who we are about to receive and to approach Holy Communion devoutly .
Note’s: For modesty of dress the rule is: clothes are to conceal the body and not to reveal. But every woman praying or prophesying with her head not covered disgraceth her head: for it is all one as if she were shaven. (1 Corinthians 11:5); And the Lord God made for Adam and his wife garments of skins, and clothed them. (Genesis 3:21); And in the midst of the seven golden candlesticks, one like to the Son of man, clothed with a garment down to the feet (Apocalypse 1:13); And the king went in to see the guests: and he saw there a man who had not on a wedding garment. And he saith to him: Friend, how camest thou in hither not having on a wedding garment? But he was silent. Then the king said to the waiters: Bind his hands and feet, and cast him into the exterior darkness. There shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth. (Matthew 22:11-13); And she [the Blessed Virgin Mary] brought forth her first born son [JESUS CHRIST] and wrapped him up in swaddling clothes (Luke 2:7); And the father [father of the prodigal son] said to his servants: Bring forth quickly the first robe and put it on him (Luke 15:22); Or know you not that your members are the temple of the Holy Ghost, who is in you, whom you have from God: and you are not your own? For you are bought with a great price. Glorify and bear God in your body. (1 Corinthians 6:19,20); Know you not that you are the temple of God and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you? But if any man violate the temple of God, him shall God destroy. For the temple of God is holy, which you are. (1 Corinthians 3:16,17); Also it is gravely sinful for a man to wear women’s clothing and for a woman to wear men’s clothing (pants are men’s clothing, so it is sinful for a woman to wear pants). A woman shall not be clothed with man’s apparel, neither shall a man use woman’s apparel: for he that doth these things is abominable before God. (Deuteronomy 22:5)
Though it is not obligated by the Church, it is an exellent practice to fast from midnight before receiving Holy Communion before 12 in the noon and to fast three hours before receiving Holy Communion after 12 in the noon.
Q. What should one who knows that he is in mortal sin do before receiving Holy Communion?
A. One who knows that he is in mortal sin must make a good Confession before going to Holy Communion, for even an act of perfect contrition is not enough without Confession to enable one who is in mortal sin to receive Holy Communion properly.
Q. Does he who goes to Holy Communion in mortal sin receive JESUS CHRIST?
A. He who goes to Holy Communion in mortal sin receives JESUS CHRIST but not His grace; moreover, he commits a great sacrilege and renders himself deserving of sentence of damnation. Therefore, whosoever shall eat this bread, or drink the chalice of the Lord unworthily, shall be guilty of the body and of the blood of the Lord. But let a man prove himself: and so let him eat of that bread and drink of the chalice. For he that eateth and drinketh unworthily eateth and drinketh judgment to himself, not discerning the body of the Lord. Therefore are there many infirm and weak among you: and many sleep. (1 Corinthians 11:27-30)
Q. Is it enough to be free from mortal sin to receive plentifully the graces of Holy Communion?
A. To receive plentifully the graces of Holy Communion it is not enough to be free from mortal sin, but we should be free from all affection to venial sin, and should make acts of lively faith, of firm hope, and of ardent love.
Q. What should we be particular about when receiving Holy Communion?
A. When receiving Holy Communion we should be particular: (1) About the respectful manner in which we approach and return from the altar rail; (2) About our personal neatness and cleanliness; (3) About kneeling, raising our head, opening our mouth and putting forth the tongue in the proper manner to receive GOD JESUS CHRIST; (4) About swallowing the Sacred Host as soon as possible; (5) About removing it carefully with the tongue, in case it should stick to the mouth, but never with the finger under any circumstances.
Q. Is it salutary to receive Holy Communion everyday?
A. It is most salutary to receive Holy Communion worthily everyday as nothing is a greater aid to a holy life than to everyday receive GOD JESUS CHRIST the Author of all grace and the Source of all good, who is the only way to Heaven.
Note: We learn from the Acts of the Apostles that the faithful of the first ages of the Church approached Holy Communion every day. All who then professed the faith and law of JESUS CHRIST burned with such true and sincere charity that, devoting themselves to prayer and other works of piety, they were found prepared to communicate daily. One has to keep in mind the most certain norm: Live in such a manner as to be able to receive every day.
Q. How long does JESUS CHRIST abide within us after Holy Communion?
A. After Holy Communion JESUS CHRIST abides within us by His Real Presence until the Eucharistic species subsists and by His grace as long as we commit no mortal sin.
Note: It is generally assumed that the Eucharistic species remains for about fifteen minutes after its reception. During these minutes GOD JESUS CHRIST resides sacramentally within the persons body.
Q. What is Holy Communion given to the sick in danger of death called?
A. Holy Communion given to the sick in danger of death is called Holy Viaticum, because it supports them on their way from this life to eternity.
Note: We are bound by GOD to receive Holy Communion in danger of death.
Q. What are the duties of a Catholic in regard to JESUS CHRIST in Most Holy Eucharist?
A. The duties of a Catholic in regard to JESUS CHRIST in Most Holy Eucharist are these: He ought to adore Him; 2. receive Him in sactifying grace; 3. visit Him frequently and 4. protect Him.
Q. What is a Spiritual Communion?
A. A Spiritual Communion is an ardent desire to receive GOD JESUS CHRIST in Holy Communion in reality and in an affectionate feeling, as if one had in fact received Him, by which desire, though not obligatory, all preparations and thanksgivings are made which would be done in case of really receiving GOD JESUS CHRIST in the Most Holy Eucharist. It makes us participants in the fruits and graces of the Sacrament of the Most Holy Eucharist. To make a Spiritual Communion it is mandatory to be in a state of sanctifying grace as it is for actual reception of Holy Communion.
Note’s: Though for a Spiritual Communion there is no strict obligation of making special acts other than the ardent desire for our GOD JESUS CHRIST to descend within us while being in a state of sanctifying grace, yet since Spiritual Communion supplements Sacramental Communion, it is appropriate that it must become its faithful copy and be modeled on it in everything that precedes, accompanies and follows it. It therefore also can have its preparation before and its thanksgiving after, its reception.
Those who, having it in their power to receive with fitting preparation the Sacrament of the Most Holy Eucharist in Holy Communion, are yet satisfied with a Spiritual Communion only, deprive themselves of the greatest and most heavenly advantages. This Spiritual Communion will be illusonary, when one can commune Sacramentally, and yet neglects to do so.
Q. Is the Most Holy Eucharist only a Sacrament?
A. The Most Holy Eucharist, besides being a Sacrament, is also the permanent Sacrifice of the New Law which is called the Holy Mass, which JESUS CHRIST instituted and left to His Church to be offered to GOD alone by Him through His priests.
Note: The word Mass, used in English is derived from the word Missa in Latin; and the word Missa, though it may have other derivations, may be well taken from the Hebrew word Missach, which signifies a free voluntary offering.
Q. What is the Holy Mass?
A. The Holy Mass is the same sacrifice of JESUS CHRIST on the cross at Calvary in an in a mystical unbloody manner. It is the highest form of Adoration / Worship given to GOD by the Church. For I have received of the Lord that which also I delivered unto you, that the Lord Jesus, the same night in which he was betrayed, took bread, And giving thanks, broke and said: Take ye and eat: This is my body, which shall be delivered for you. This do for the commemoration of me. In like manner also the chalice, after he had supped, saying: This chalice is the new testament in my blood. This do ye, as often as you shall drink, for the commemoration of me. For as often as you shall eat this bread and drink the chalice, you shall shew the death of the Lord, until he come. (1 Corinthians 11:23-26); And it came to pass, whilst he was at table with them, he took bread and blessed and brake and gave to them. And they told what things were done in the way: and how they knew him in the breaking of bread. (St. Luke 24:30;35); And they were persevering in the doctrine of the apostles and in the communication of the breaking of bread and in prayers. (Acts of the Apostles 2:42)
Q. How did JESUS CHRIST institute the substance or essence of the Holy Mass?
A. JESUS CHRIST instituted the substance or essence of the Holy Mass at his last supper, when he consecrated, that is converted the substance of Bread and Wine into Himself, His own true Body and Blood, Soul and Divinity, and gave the same to his disciples, under the outward forms of bread and wine, commanding them to do what he had done in commemoration of him.
Q. What are the chief parts of the Holy Mass?
A. The chief parts of the Holy Mass are: (1) The Offertory: at which the priest offers to GOD the bread and wine to be changed at the Consecration; (2) The Consecration: at which the bread and wine are changed into GOD JESUS CHRIST His body, blood, soul and divinity; (3) The Communion: at which the priest receives GOD JESUS CHRIST in the Most Holy Eucharist into his own body under the appearance of both bread and wine.
Note: The accessory part is composed of all the ceremonies of the Holy Mass.
Q. What is the necessary matter of the Most Holy Eucharist?
A. Wheaten bread and wine of the grape.
Q. What is the essential form of the Most Holy Eucharist?
A. THIS IS MY BODY for the consecration of the Bread; THIS IS MY BLOOD for the consecration of the Wine.
Q. For what ends then is the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass offered?
A. The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass is offered to GOD for four ends: (1) To adore and honour Him properly, and hence it is called Latreutical; (2) To thank Him for His favours, and hence it is called Eucharistical; (3) To appease Him, make Him due satisfaction for our sins, and to help the souls in Purgatory, and hence it is called Propitiatory; (4) To supplicate Him to obtain all the graces necessary for our salvation and that of others, and hence it is called Impetratory.
Note’s: As the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass is an oblation of infinite value, to offer or to assist at Holy Mass is a good work which surpasses all other good works in excellence.
The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass may also be offered to GOD in honor of the angels or saints.
Not the priest alone, but all the faithful who are present at the Holy Mass, can offer the holy sacrifice united to sacerdotal priesthood of JESUS CHRIST of the officiating priest for a special intention. This may be done either at the commencement of the Holy Mass, or at the offertory, or immediately after the consecration.
Q. Why after consecration of the Bread and the Wine, does the priest elevate, or lift up the consecrated host and chalice?
A. That all the people may adore JESUS CHRIST in the Most Holy Eucharist, as also to signify, that for our sins His Body was lifted on the cross and his Blood shed.
Q. For what other end does the priest elevate the consecrated host and chalice?
A. That he by the virtue of his sacerdotal priesthood of JESUS CHRIST, which he received through the Sacrament of Holy Orders, and the faithful united to that sacerdotal priesthood of JESUS CHRIST by virtue of their royal priesthood of JESUS CHRIST, which they received through the Sacrament of Baptism, may make oblations of JESUS CHRIST in the Most Holy Eucharist unto GOD, which after consecration, is one of the most essential parts of the whole liturgy of the mass, being the very same oblation, wherewith JESUS CHRIST offered himself unto GOD upon the altar of the cross being both Priest and Victim.
Note’s: Sacred Scriptural reference to the sacerdotal priesthood of JESUS CHRIST that is received by men through the Sacrament of Holy Orders - For every high priest taken from among men is ordained for men in the things that appertain to God, that he may offer up gifts and sacrifices for sins (Hebrews 5:1)
Sacred Scriptural reference to the royal priesthood of JESUS CHRIST that is received through the Sacrament Baptism - But you are a chosen generation, a kingly priesthood, a holy nation, a purchased people (1 Peter 2:9).
Catholics / Christians when anointed in Baptism and Confirmation receive grace, to rule themselves as Kings; to foresee future good and evil, as Prophets; and to present to GOD, as Priests, the offerings of good works.
Q. Why is a little water mingled with the wine in the chalice?
A. To signify the Blood and Water flowing from the side of JESUS CHRIST; as also, the union of the faithful with JESUS CHRIST, by virtue of the Sacrament. But one of the soldiers with a spear opened his side: and immediately there came out blood and water. (John 19:34)
Q. Who shares in the fruits of the Holy Mass?
A. The entire Church shares in the fruits of the Holy Mass, but more particularly: (1) First the priest who offers the Holy Mass; (2) Those for whom the Holy Mass is applied, both living and dead (holy and sorrowful souls in purgatory); (3) Those who assist at Holy Mass, the latter being united with the priest; (4) For all the faithful who are in communion with the Catholic Church.
Note’s: By means of the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass the fruits of the Sacrifice of JESUS CHRIST on the Cross are applied to us in most abundant measure. Every Holy Mass is productive of the same fruits, the same profit to the soul as that which resulted from the death of Our Lord JESUS CHRIST on Good Friday. And since the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass is the self same Sacrifice of Our Lord JESUS CHRIST on the cross, it follows as a necessary consequence that its effects are the same.
As the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass is an oblation of infinite value, to offer or to assist at Mass is a good work which surpasses all other good works in excellence.
The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass has a twofold virtue, intrinsic and extrinsic. The intrinsic is what it has of itself, independently of the worthiness of the officiating priest. By the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass the virtues of JESUS CHRIST’s Passion and His merits are applied to our souls in a totally different manner to that of any other works. Hence a man in no wise loses the fruit of the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass if it is offered for him by a priest who is unworthy. Just as the efficacy of the Sacraments does not depend upon the moral character of the priest who dispenses, so the oblation of a bad priest offering the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass has the same intrinsic value as that of a good priest becuase it is the offering of JESUS CHRIST in and of Himself through the sacerdotal priesthood of the priest, which the priest received through the Sacrament of Holy Orders. Hence the first Holy Sacrifice of the Mass offered by JESUS CHRIST Himself at the Last Supper on Maundy Thursday and the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass offered by the most evil priest has the same instrinsic value. Yet on the other hand, the Holy Mass regarded as a good work performed by a believing Catholic / Christian, has a secondary virtue that is extrinsic, which depends upon the sanctity and fervor of priest and people. The holier the priest, the more profound his devotion, the more acceptable is the Sacrifice he offers, and the greater is the benefit accruing from it. Thus it is far preferable to assist at the Mass of a good priest than of a bad one, for the piety and sanctity both of the minister himself, and the faithful who join with him in offering the sacred oblation, enhance its beneficial effect as a good work and incite those present to greater devotion.
To assist at Holy Mass and to hear Holy Mass, means the same thing.
Q. How should we assist at Holy Mass?
A. We should assist at Holy Mass with great interior recollection, piety and devotion of heart and with every outward mark of respect and devotion. And when he had opened the seventh seal, there was silence in heaven, as it were for half an hour. And I saw seven angels standing in the presence of God: and there were given to them seven trumpets. And another angel came and stood before the altar, having a golden censer: and there was given to him much incense, that he should offer of the prayers of all saints, upon the golden altar which is before the throne of God. And the smoke of the incense of the prayers of the saints ascended up before God from the hand of the angel. (Apocalypse [Revelation] 8:1-4)
Note’s: For the proper and respectful assiting at Holy Mass it is important to be in our place before the priest comes to the altar and not to leave it before the priest leaves the altar. With this we also prevent the confusion and distraction caused by late coming and too early leaving. Standing in the doorways, blocking up passages and disputing about places should, out of respect for the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass, be most carefully avoided.
We have to do a preparation before Holy Mass and after Holy Mass we have to thank GOD for making this great Holy Sacrifice to take place, for having allowed us to assist at it, for all the graces received from it and we should ask Him pardon if there were any faults that were committed while assisting at it.
Every Catholic has to love the beauty of the house of the living GOD, especially where He, in the Most Holy Eucharist is present, and must gaurd and take care lest any inappropriate appearance and dress or any irreligious conduct violate it. The faithful should ever forget these words of Our Lord JESUS CHRIST: My house is the house of prayer. (Luke 19:46) and: The zeal of thy house hath eaten me up. (John 2:17)
Q. In assisting at Holy Mass which is the best way to practise true devotion?
A. In assisting at Holy Mass the best way to practise true devotion is the following: (1) From the very beginning to unite our intention to sacerdotal priesthood of JESUS CHRIST of the officiating priest, offering the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass to GOD for the ends for which it was instituted. (2) To be united in each prayer and action of the Sacrifice of the Priest. (3) To meditate on the passion and death of JESUS CHRIST and to heartily detest our sins, which have been the cause of them.
The Advantages of Devout Attendance at Holy Sacrifice of the Mass
By assisting at Holy Mass devoutly one performs an act of highest worship to GOD, the Most Holy Trinity.
The offering of the Holy Mass is the most acceptable of all oblations presented to GOD, the Most Holy Trinity.
There is, by far, no greater form of prayer on earth than Holy Mass, the most perfect form of prayer.
GOD gives an augmentation of grace to the one who assists at Holy Mass devoutly in a state of grace.
He who devoutly assists at Holy Mass will receive a great vigour to enable him to resist mortal sin, and there shall be pardoned to him all venial sins which he may have committed up to that hour provided he is firmly resolved to forsake them.
One Holy Mass devoutly assited at, will do more to mitigate the pains of purgatory than any act of penance, however severe of performance.
Holy Mass is a means of obtaining the grace of a holy and happy death.
The remembrance of the Holy Masses devoutly assited at, in ones life time will be a sweet solace to him in the hour of death, and inspire him with confidence in the Divine mercy of GOD.
Ones felicity in heaven will, moreover, be increased by every Holy Mass he has devoutly assisted at, on earth.
One receives a plethora of graces by assisting at Holy Mass devoutly.
To omit assisting Holy Mass daily merely from carelessness or indolence would be a proof that either one is ignorant of, or foolish, by being indifferent to, the Divine treasures it contains.
Q. What are the effects of the Most Holy Eucharist?
A. It replenisheth the soul with grace, and nourisheth it in spiritual life: he that eateth me, the same also shall live by me.(John 6:58).
Q: What other benefit do we have by from the Most Holy Eucharist?
A. It is a most moving and effectual commemoration of the incarnation, nativity, passion, death, resurrection and ascension of JESUS CHRIST. It is also the most moving and effectual way to keep our minds on the return of JESUS CHRIST in all His glory at the end of time.
Penance (Confession)
Q. What is the Sacrament of Penance (Confession)?
A. Penance is a Sacrament through through which sin’s commited after Baptism are forgiven. Whose sins you [Apostles] forgive, they are forgiven them: whose sins you shall retain they are retained. (John 20:23). [This power was passed on to others - But all things are of God, who hath reconciled us to himself by Christ and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation. For God indeed was in Christ, reconciling the world to himself, not imputing to them their sins. And he hath placed in us the word of reconciliation. For Christ therefore we are ambassadors, God as it were exhorting by us, for Christ, we beseech you, be reconciled to God. (2 Corinthians 5:18-20)]; If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just, to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all iniquity. (1 John 1:9)
Q. Who is the minister of the Sacrament of Penance?
A. The minister of the Sacrament of Penance is a priest authorised by the Church to hear Confessions. A priest who is not authorised by the Church to hear Confessions cannot absolve validly.
Note: A Priest by the virtue of the Sacrament of Holy Orders has received the power from JESUS CHRIST to forgive sins but to use the power to forgive sins he needs to be authorised by the Church.
Q. What is the matter of the Sacrament of Penance ?
A. The sins and confession of the penitent.
Q. What is the form of the Sacrament of Penance (Confession) ?
A. I absolve thee from they sins, in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.
Q. What are the effects of the Sacrament of Penance (Confession) ?
A. It reconciles the one in mortal sin to GOD by restoring sanctifying grace and it increases sanctifying grace in the one who is in a state of sanctifying grace.
Q. What must we do to receive the Sacrament of Penance (Confession) worthily?
A. To receive the Sacrament of Penance (Confession) worthily we must do five things: 1. We must examine our conscience. 2. We must have sorrow for our sins. 3. We must make a firm resolution never more to offend GOD. 4. We must confess our sins to the priest. 5. We must accept and do the penance which the priest gives us.
Q. What is the examination of conscience?
A. The examination of conscience is an earnest effort to recall to mind all the sins we have committed since our last worthy confession based on the Ten Commandments of GOD and the Six Commandments / Precepts of the Church.
Q. What is contrition, or sorrow for sin?
A. Contrition, or hearty sorrow for sin, is a hatred of sin and a true grief of the soul for having offended GOD who is infinitely good, with a firm purpose of sinning no more.
Q. Why should we be sorry for our sins?
A. We should be sorry for our sins, because sin is the greatest of evils and an offense against GOD our Creator, Preserver, Redeemer, and Sanctifier and because mortal sin shuts us out of Heaven and condemns us to the eternal torments of hell.
Q. What do you mean by a firm purpose of sinning no more?
A. By a firm purpose of sinning no more I mean a fixed resolve not only to avoid any kind of sin, but also its near occasions.
Q. What do you mean by the near occasions of sin?
A. By the near occasions of sin I mean all the persons, places, and things that may easily lead us into sin.
Q. What is Confession?
A. Confession is the telling of our sins to a duly authorized priest, for the purpose of obtaining forgiveness.
Note: The duly authorized priest (confessor) has an obligation to keep absolutely secret what a penitent has told to him in the Sacrament of Penance (Confession). This is called the Seal of Confession.
Q. What sins are we bound to confess?
A. We are bound to confess all our mortal sins in kind (the type of mortal sin), number and if there are any circumstances which change their nature. Though not necessary it is good and profitable to confess our venial sins.
Q. What should we do if we cannot remember the number of our sins?
A. If we cannot remember the number of our sins, we should tell the number as nearly as possible.
Q. Is our confession worthy if without our fault trough pure forgetfulness we forget to confess a mortal sin?
A. If without our fault trough pure forgetfulness we forget to confess a mortal sin, our Confession is worthy, and the sin is forgiven, but we have to confess it the next time we go to Confession.
Q. Which are the chief qualities of a good Confession?
The chief qualities of a good Confession are four: it must be humble, sincere, precise and entire.
Humble by making our confession with humble hearts.
Sincere, by confessing our sins plainly, without seeking to lessen or excuse them.
Precise by avoiding superfluous words and circumlocutions.
Entire by confessing not only in what things we have sinned mortally, but also the number of times, as near as we are able to remember and the circumstances, if any, which change their nature.
Q. Is it a grievous offense willfully to conceal a mortal sin in Confession?
A. It is a grievous offense willfully to conceal a mortal sin in Confession, because we thereby tell a lie to the HOLY SPIRIT, and make our Confession worthless.
Q. What must he do who has willfully concealed a mortal sin in Confession?
A. He who has willfully concealed a mortal sin in Confession must not only confess it, but must also confess all the sins he has committed since his last worthy Confession.
Q. Why does the priest give us a penance after Confession?
A. The priest gives us a penance after Confession that we may satisfy GOD for the temporal punishment due to our sins.
Note: Those Catholic’s who die in a state of santifying grace after having received absolution for their mortal sin/sins but before they have fully satisfied the justice of GOD go to Purgatory to satisfy the justice of GOD and be perfectly purified before they can enter Heaven.
Q. Is the penance which the priest gives always sufficient to satisfy all the punishment which remains due to our sins?
A. The penance which the priest gives is not ordinarily sufficient to satisfy all the punishment remaining due to our sins; and hence we must try to supply it by other penances
Q. Which are the chief means by which we satisfy GOD for the temporal punishment due to sin?
A. The chief means by which we satisfy GOD for the temporal punishment due to sin are the three emiment good works: Prayer, Fasting and Almsdeeds and the patient suffering of the ills of life out of love for GOD. Here by prayer is meant every kind of pious exercise, primarily the Holy Mass and receiving Holy Communion, by fasting is meant every kind of mortification and by almsdeeds is meant every spiritual and corporal work of mercy. Prayer is good with fasting and alms more than to lay up treasures of gold. For alms delivereth from death, and the same is that which purgeth away sins, and maketh to find mercy and life everlasting.(Tobias 12:8-9); Water quencheth a flaming fire, and alms resisteth sins (Ecclesiasticus [Sirach] 3:33); But before all things have a constant mutual charity among yourselves: for charity covereth a multitude of sins. (1 Peter 4:8); And mercy exalteth itself above judgment. (James 2:13); And I say to you: Make unto you friends of the mammon of iniquity: that when you shall fail, they may receive you into everlasting dwellings. (Luke 16:9); He must know that he who causeth a sinner to be converted from the error of his way shall save his soul from death and shall cover a multitude of sins. (James 5:20)
Q. Should children go to Confession?
A. Children should go to Confession when they are old enough to commit sin, which is commonly about the age of seven years.
How Make a Confession
Preparation for Confession :
Pray preparing for Confession.
Examine your conscience based on the Ten Commandments of GOD and the Six Commandments / Precepts of the Church, to the best of your ability. Be truly sorry for your sins with a supernatural sorrow, including having the firm sincere purpose to avoid these and all sins in the future, and to give up all occasions of sin. Without this, GOD will not forgive your sins through the priest and your Confession will be a sin of grave sacrilege. Remember, thinking that you may fall into sin again in the future does not negate your good intention here and now – the intention here and now to be done with the sin is sufficient for absolution.
When in the Confessional :
Begin with the Sign of the Cross. Then say: ”Bless me Father for I have sinned, it has been [time] since my last Confession. I am [age] and [status (married with children, widow, single, etc.)]. These are my sins ....”. Confess your sins to the priest, beginning with mortal sins, if any, according to the type of the sin and to the best of your ability how many times you have commited it, and the circumstances, if any, which change their nature.
End your Confession with: ”For these and all my sins I am truly sorry, and I ask GOD pardon with my whole heart, and penance and absolution of you, my Father.”
Accept the penance given by the priest with a sincere intention of performing it. Then, while the priest is giving you absolution, from your heart renew the Act of Contrition.
When the priest finishes giving you absolution, thank GOD from your heart, by saying: ”Thank Thee Almighty GOD, my Father” and end with the Sign of the Cross. Then thank the priest by saying: ”Thank you Father”.
After Exiting the Confessional :
Do your penance as soon as possible. Then pray, thanking GOD for the Confession and for His forgiveness, and ask Him to help you to sincerely love and serve Him everyday, being faithful to Him in all things until the last moment of your life. Then pray a short prayer to GOD for the priest asking GOD to help him do His holy will always.
Q. What if a dying Catholic is in mortal sin, and cannot have a priest to make a Confession due to a just cause?
A. Then nothing but a perfect act of contrition or a perfect act of charity, with the desire to make a Confession will suffice. It being impossible to be saved, without the love of GOD. God is charity: and he that abideth in charity abideth in God, and God in him. (1 John 4:16); He that loveth not abideth in death. (1 John 3:14)
Note: Perfect act of contrition or perfect act of sorrow is a grief of soul for having offended GOD because He is infinitely good and worthy of being loved for His own sake. The sorrow of contrition is a perfect sorrow for two reasons: (1) because it considers the goodness of GOD alone and not our own advantage or loss; (2) because it enables us at once to obtain pardon for sins, even though the obligation to confess them still remains. Perfect sorrow does not obtain pardon of sins independently of Confession, because it always includes the intention to confess them. Perfect sorrow or contrition produces this effect of restoring the soul to the grace of GOD, because it proceeds from charity which cannot exist in the soul together with sin.
Indulgences
Q. What is an Indulgence?
A. An Indulgence is the remission in whole or in part of the temporal punishment due to sin.
Q. How does an indulgence remit those temporal punishments due to sin?
A. By the superabundant merits of JESUS CHRIST and his saints, which it applies to our souls by the special grant of the Church.
Q. When did JESUS CHRIST give his Church power to grant indulgences?
A. When he said to Saint Peter the first Pope: And whatsoever thou shalt bind upon earth, it shall be bound also in heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt loose on earth, it shall be loosed also in heaven. (Matthew 16:19)
Note: We know that the Apostles used this power because Saint Paul remitted part of the Corinthians penance: And to whom you have pardoned any thing, I also. For, what I have pardoned, if I have pardoned any thing, for your sakes have I done it in the person of Christ (2 Corinthians 2:10)
Q. How many kinds of Indulgences are there?
A. There are two kinds of Indulgences: Plenary and Partial. A Plenary Indulgence is the full remission of the temporal punishment due to sin. A Partial Indulgence is the remission of a part of the temporal punishment due to sin.
Q. What must we do to gain an Indulgence?
A. To gain an Indulgence we must be in the state of grace and perform the works enjoined by the Church.
Extreme Unction
Q. What is Extreme Unction?
A. Extreme Unction is the Sacrament which, through the anointing and prayer of the priest, gives health and strength to the soul, and if it is the will of GOD to the body, when one is in danger of death. It is a Sacrament which gives grace to die well. Is any man sick among you? Let him bring in the priests of the church and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord. And the prayer of faith shall save the sick man. And the Lord shall raise him up: and if he be in sins, they shall be forgiven him. (James 5:14-15)
Q. Which are the effects of the Sacrament of Extreme Unction?
A. The effects of Extreme Unction are: 1) It increases sanctifying grace 2) It remits venial sin, and also mortal sin which the sick person, if contrite, is unable to confess and it cleanses the soul from the remains of sin 3) It comforts in the pains of sickness, it gives strength to bear illness patiently, to withstand temptation and to die a holy death; 4) It restores the sick person to health if it is the will of GOD.
Q. Who is the minister of the Sacrament of Extreme Unction?
A. The priest is the minister of the Sacrament of Extreme Unction.
Q. What is the matter of the Sacrament of Extreme Unction?
A. Oil blessed by a bishop.
Q. What is the form of the Sacrament of Extreme Unction?
A. “By his own anointing, and his own most pious mercy, our Lord pardon thee, whatsoever thou hast sinned by thy seeing,” etc. And so of the other senses, repeating the same words.
Q. How should we receive the Sacrament of Extreme Unction?
A. We should receive the Sacrament of Extreme Unction in the state of sanctifying grace, and with lively faith and resignation to the will of GOD.
Q. What is the final preparation we should make for the reception of the last Sacraments?
A. The final preparation we should make for the reception of the last Sacraments consists in an earnest effort to be resigned to GOD’s holy will, to excite ourselves to true sorrow for our sins, to profit by the graces given us, to keep worldly thoughts away from the mind, and to dispose ourselves as best we can for the worthy reception of the Sacraments and the blessings of a good death.
Note’s: Persons dangerously ill should attend to the final arrangement of their temporal or worldly affairs at the very beginning of their illness, that these things may not distract them at the hour of death, and that they may give the last hours of their life entirely to the care of their soul.
Before being anointed the sick man ought to confess his sins, and receive Holy Communion, which is called Holy Viaticum and afterwards receive the Papal blessing, which is also called an Apostolic pardon, which acts as a plenary indulgence. All who may be present, and especially the priest, should pour out their fervent aspirations to GOD, and earnestly commend to His mercy the life and salvation of the sufferer.
In case of serious illness, if the sick person will not consent, or is afraid to receive the Sacraments, or, at least, wishes to put off their reception, we should send for the priest at once and let him do what he thinks best in the case, and thus we will free ourselves from the responsibility of letting a Catholic die without the last Sacraments.
Q. Will Extreme Unction take away mortal sin if the dying person is no longer able to confess?
A. Extreme Unction will take away mortal sin if the dying person is no longer able to confess, provided he entered that state having sorrow for his sins which is necessary for the worthy reception of the Sacrament of Penance.
Holy Orders
Q. What is Holy Orders?
A. Holy Orders is a Sacrament by which bishops, priests, and other ministers of the Church are ordained and receive the power and grace from GOD to perform their sacred duties connected with the worship of GOD and the salvation of souls.
Q. When did JESUS CHRIST institute the Order of the Priesthood?
A. JESUS CHRIST instituted the Order of the Priesthood at the Last Supper on Maundy Thursday when he conferred on the Apostles and their successors the power of consecrating the Most Holy Eucharist.
Q. Who is the Minister of the Sacrament of Holy Orders?
A. The bishop is the Minister of the Sacrament of Holy Orders. And when they [Paul and Barnabas who were Bishops] had ordained to them priests in every church and had prayed with fasting, they commended them to the Lord, in whom they believed. (Acts of the Apostles14:22); For this cause I left thee in Crete: that thou [Titus who was a Bishop] shouldest set in order the things that are wanting and shouldest ordain priests in every city, as I also appointed thee: (Titus 1:5)
Q. Which are the three munera or duties of the ordained?
A. The three munera or duties of the ordained are: 1. Munus docendi, the duty to teach, based on JESUS CHRIST’s role as Prophet. 2. Munus sanctificandi, the duty to sanctify, based on JESUS CHRIST’s role as Priest. 3. Munus regendi, the duty to govern, based on JESUS CHRIST’s role as King.
Q. Can bishops, priests and other ministers of the Church always exercise the power they have received in Holy Orders?
A. Bishops, priests and other ministers of the Church cannot exercise the power they have received in Holy Orders unless authorized and sent to do so by their lawful superiors. Only the Pope has the full and supreme power of jurisdiction over the whole Church given to him by JESUS CHRIST. The power can never be taken from them, but the right to use it may be withdrawn for causes laid down in the laws of the Church, or for just, good and necessary reasons in accordance with GOD, which are judged as such by the one having the authority over them. Any use of sacred power without authority is sinful, and all who knowingly take part in such ceremonies are guilty of sin. Amen, amen, I say to you: He that entereth not by the door into the sheepfold but climbeth up another way, the same is a thief and a robber. (John 10:1)
Note: The full and supreme power of jurisdiction over the whole Church given by JESUS CHRIST to the Pope, who is the servant of GOD and the servant of the servants of GOD, is obviously a limited power, within the scope of his authority. Only GOD and GOD alone has absolute authority.
Q. What motive should he have who embraces the ecclesiastical state?
A. The motive of one who embraces the ecclesiastical state should be only and only the glory of GOD and the salvation of souls.
Q. What is necessary to enter the ecclesiastical state?
A. To enter the ecclesiastical state a Divine vocation, that is a calling from GOD, is necessary before all else.
Q. What should be done to find out whether GOD is calling one to the ecclesiastical state?
A. To find out if GOD is calling one to the ecclesiastical state one should: (1) Fervently pray to GOD to make known His will; (2) Diligently examine whether he has true piety and mastery over sinful passions and unlawful desires, the capacity necessary for the studies, the duties, and the obligations of this state of very high responsibility before GOD, and a constant inclination to such a life from the pure and holy motive of serving GOD alone, fearlessly and faithfully for His honour and greater glory, and the salvation of souls; (3) Consult a holy, learned and prudent director if possible.
Q. If one were to enter the ecclesiastical state without a Divine vocation would he do wrong?
A. If one were to enter the ecclesiastical state without a Divine vocation he would commit a great wrong and run the risk of being lost.
Requirements in Candidates for Orders :
Holiness, Knowledge, Prudence
The burden of this great office, therefore, should not be rashly imposed on anyone, but is to be conferred on those only who by their holiness of life, their knowledge, faith and prudence, are able to bear it.
Divine Call
Let no one take the honour to himself, but he that is called by GOD as Aaron was; and they are called by GOD who are called by the lawful ministers of His Church. It is to those who arrogantly intrude themselves into this ministry that the Lord must be understood to refer when He says: I did not send prophets, yet they ran. Nothing can be more unhappy and wretched than such a class of men as this, and nothing more calamitous to the Church of GOD.
Right Intention
In every action we undertake it is of the highest importance to have a good motive in view, for if the motive is good, the rest proceeds harmoniously. The candidate for Holy Orders, therefore, should first of all be admonished to entertain no purpose unworthy of so exalted an office.
This subject demands all the greater attention, since in these days the faithful often sin gravely in this respect. Some there are who embrace this state to secure the necessaries of life, and who, consequently, seek in the priesthood, just as other men do in the lowest walks of life, nothing more or less than gain. Though both the natural and divine law lay down, as the Apostle remarks, that he who serves the altar should live by the altar; yet to approach the altar for the sake of gain and money is one of the very gravest of sacrileges.
Some are attracted to the priesthood by ambition and love of honours; while there are others who desire to be ordained simply in order that they may abound in riches, as is proved by the fact that unless some wealthy benefice were conferred on them, they would not dream of receiving Holy Orders. It is such as these that our Saviour describes as hirelings, who, in the words of Ezechiel, feed themselves and not the sheep, and whose baseness and dishonesty have not only brought great disgrace on the ecclesiastical state, so much so that hardly anything is now more vile and contemptible in the eyes of the faithful, but also end in this, that they derive no other fruit from their priesthood than was derived by Judas from the Apostleship, which only brought him everlasting destruction.
But they, on the other hand, who are lawfully called by GOD, and who undertake the ecclesiastical state with the single motive of promoting the honour of God, are truly said to enter the Church by the door.
This, however, must not be understood as if the same law did not bind all men equally. Men have been created to honour GOD, and this the faithful in particular, who have obtained the grace of Baptism, should do with their whole heart, their whole soul, and with all their strength.
But those who desire to receive the Sacrament of Orders, should aim not only at seeking the glory of GOD in all things-an obligation admittedly common to all men, and particularly to the faithful -- but also to serve Him in holiness and justice in whatever sphere of His ministry they may be placed. Just as in the army all the soldiers obey the general’s orders, though they all have not the same functions to discharge, one being a centurion, another a prefect, so in like manner, though all the faithful should diligently practice piety and innocence, which are the chief means of honouring GOD, yet they who are in Holy Orders have certain special duties and functions to discharge in the Church. Thus they offer Sacrifice for themselves and for all the people; they explain GOD’s law and exhort and form the faithful to observe it promptly and cheerfully; they administer the Sacraments of JESUS CHRIST our Lord by means of which all grace is conferred and increased; and, in a word, they are separated from the rest of the people to fill by far the greatest and noblest of all ministries.
Some of the Qualifications Necessary for the Priesthood :
Holiness Of Life
The chief and most necessary quality requisite in him who is to be ordained a priest is that he be recommended by integrity of life and morals: first because, by procuring or permitting his ordination while conscious of mortal sin, a man renders himself guilty of a new and enormous crime; and secondly, because the priest is bound to give to others the example of a holy and innocent life.
In this connection pastors should set forth the rules which the Apostle laid down to Titus and Timothy, and he should also explain that those bodily defects, which, by the Lord’s command excluded from the service of the altar in the Old Law, should for the most part be understood of deformities of soul in the New Law. This is why the holy custom has been established in the Church that he who is about to be admitted to orders should first take great care to cleanse his conscience in the Sacrament of Penance.
Competent Knowledge
In the second place there is required of the priest not only that knowledge which concerns the use and administration of the Sacraments; but he should also be versed in the science of Sacred Scripture, so as to be able to instruct the people in the mysteries of the Christian faith and the precepts of the divine law, lead them to piety and virtue, and reclaim them from sin.
The priest’s duties are twofold. The first is to consecrate and administer the Sacraments properly; the second is to instruct the people entrusted to him in all that they must know or do in order to be saved. Hence the words of the Prophet Malachias: The lips of the priest shall keep knowledge, and they shall seek the Law at his mouth; because he is the angel of the Lord of hosts.
Now to fulfil the first of these duties it is enough for him to be endowed with a moderate share of knowledge. As for the second, it is no mere ordinary, but very special knowledge that is required. At the same time, however, it should be remembered that a profound knowledge of abstruse questions is not demanded of all priests in an equal degree. It is enough that each one knows all that is necessary for the discharge of his office and ministry.
Functions of the Priesthood :
The special and principal functions of the sacerdotal order, that is the priesthood, is to offer the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass to GOD and to administer the Sacraments of the Church.
So you also, when you shall have done all these things that are commanded you, say: We are unprofitable servants; we have done that which we ought to do. (Luke 17:10); And the Lord said: Who thinkest thou is the faithful and wise steward, whom his lord setteth over his family, to give them their measure of wheat in due season? Blessed is that servant whom, when his lord shall come, he shall find so doing. (Luke 12:42,43); His lord said to him: Well done, good and faithful servant, because thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will place thee over many things. Enter thou into the joy of thy lord.; For to every one that hath shall be given, and he shall abound: but from him that hath not, that also which he seemeth to have shall be taken away. And the unprofitable servant, cast ye out into the exterior darkness. There shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth. (Matthew 25:21;29,30)
Q. Do those men or their parents sin who, from worldly motives, want the the ecclesiastical state to be embraced without any vocation?
A. Those men or their parents who, for worldly motives, want the ecclesiastical state to be embraced without any vocation commit a very grave sin, because by thus acting they usurp the right GOD has reserved to Himself alone of choosing His own ministers; and they expose themselves or their children to the danger of eternal damnation. I did not send prophets, yet they ran: I have not spoken to them, yet they prophesied. (Jeremias 23:21)
Q. Is it lawful for women to preach and can women be ordained priests?
A. Is it not lawful for women to preach and women cannot be ordained priests. The Church has no authority from GOD whatsoever to confer priestly ordination on women and that this judgment of the Church is to be definitively held by all the Church’s faithful. Let women keep silence in the churches: for it is not permitted them to speak but to be subject, as also the law saith. (1 Corinthians 14:34)
Matrimony
Q. What is Matrimony?
A. Matrimony is a sacrament by which GOD unites a Catholic man and a Catholic woman in a holy and indissoluble union and gives them the grace to love one and another in a holy manner in GOD, help one and another to go to heaven, to bring children into the world and raise from the beginning them in the knowledge, love and service of GOD and leaving them free to choose the state in life GOD has ordained for them.
Note’s: Matrimony was instituted by GOD Himself in the Garden of Paradise, and was raised to the dignity of a Sacrament by JESUS CHRIST in the New Law.
The Sacrament of Matrimony confers upon Catholics who embrace that state both an increase of sanctifying grace, and in addition the special graces necessary to enable them to discharge the duties required of them.
The bond of a Catholic marriage is indissoluble or that it cannot be dissolved except by the death of either husband or wife, because GOD so ordained from the beginning and so JESUS CHRIST our Lord solemnly proclaimed. The bond of marriage can never be dissolved by any human power. What therefore God hath joined together, let no man put asunder.(Mark 10:9)
The sacrament of Matrimony signifies the indissoluble union of GOD JESUS CHRIST with the Church, His Spouse. For this cause shall a man leave his father and mother: and shall cleave to his wife. And they shall be two in one flesh.This is a great sacrament: but I speak in Christ and in the church. (Ephesians 5:31,32)
Q. What are the chief ends of the Sacrament of Matrimony?
A. The chief ends of the Sacrament of matrimony are: (1) To enable the husband and wife to help each other in securing the salvation of their souls; (2) To bring as many children as GOD wants into the world, to raise them up in knowing, adoring, loving and serving GOD and to leave them free to choose the state of life to which they are called by GOD. And now, Lord, thou knowest, that not for fleshly lust do I take my sister to wife, but only for the love of posterity, in which thy name may be blessed for ever and ever. (Tobit [Tobias] 8:9); Yet she shall be saved through child bearing; if she continue in faith and love and sanctification with sobriety. (1 Timothy 2:15); (3) To prevent sins against the holy virtue of purity by faithfully obeying the laws of the marriage state. For they who in such manner receive matrimony, as to shut out God from themselves, and from their mind, and to give themselves to their lust, as the horse and mule, which have not understanding, over them the devil hath power. (Tobit [Tobias] 6:17); Thou shalt not commit adultery. (Exodus 20:14); Marriage honourable in all, and the bed undefiled. For fornicators and adulterers God will judge.(Hebrews 13:4); Adulterers, know you not that the friendship of this world is the enemy of God? (James 4:4); Know you not that the unjust shall not possess the kingdom of God? Do not err: Neither fornicators nor idolaters nor adulterers: Nor the effeminate nor liers with mankind nor thieves nor covetous nor drunkards nor railers nor extortioners shall possess the kingdom of God.(1 Corinthians 6:9,10)
Note’s: Husband and Wife have to help one and other to secure eternal life with GOD in Heaven. They have to bring children into this world as many as GOD determines and raise them to know love and worship GOD so that they can go to Heaven. Contraception in Marriage is a sin of grave matter.
That those about to get married may fulfil their duties in the marriage state before GOD for their salvation, it is particularly necessary that they should be well instructed, before entering it, in the truths and duties of the Catholic religion, for how will they fulfil their duties of their married state which includes to teach their children the truths and duties of the Catholic religion if they are ignorant of them themselves?
Some are called by GOD to the Ecclesiastical State, some to the Religious, others to a Single Life of Chastity in the world; but the immense majority of Catholics are called to the State of Matrimony. But every one hath his proper gift from God: one after this manner, and another after that. (1 Corinthians 7:7)
Q. Which are the effects of the Sacrament of Matrimony?
A. The effects of the Sacrament of Matrimony are: 1st, to sanctify the love of husband and wife in GOD; 2nd, to give them grace to bear with each other’s weaknesses for the sake of GOD; 3rd, to enable them to bring up their children in the fear and love of GOD and to faithfully discharge all the other duties of their married state for the love of GOD.
Q. What do we mean by bearing with each other’s weaknesses?
A. By bearing with each other’s weaknesses we mean that the husband and wife must be patient with each other’s faults, bad habits or dispositions, pardon them easily, and aid each other in overcoming them. Bear ye one another’s burdens: and so you shall fulfil the law of Christ. (Galatians 6:2)
Q. What are the important obligations before GOD of husband and wife to one and another?
A. The husband is obliged to love, protect, cherish and comfort his wife for the sake of GOD and lead her to heaven and the wife is obliged to love, be subject to and obey her husband in everything that is not sinful for the love of GOD and help him to go to heaven. but whosoever is the greater among you, let him be your minister. And he that will be first among you shall be your servant. Even as the Son of man is not come to be ministered unto, but to minister and to give his life a redemption for many (Matthew 20:26-28); Let women be subject to their husbands, as to the Lord: Because the husband is the head of the wife, as Christ is the head of the church. He is the saviour of his body. Therefore as the church is subject to Christ: so also let the wives be to their husbands in all things. Husbands, love your wives, as Christ also loved the church and delivered himself up for it: That he might sanctify it, cleansing it by the laver of water in the word of life: That he might present it to himself, a glorious church, not having spot or wrinkle or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish. So also ought men to love their wives as their own bodies. He that loveth his wife loveth himself. For no man ever hated his own flesh, but nourisheth and cherisheth it, as also Christ doth the church: Because we are members of him, body, of his flesh and of his bones. For this cause shall a man leave his father and mother: and shall cleave to his wife. And they shall be two in one flesh. This is a great sacrament: but I speak in Christ and in the church. (Epehsians 5:22-32); But I would have you know that the head of every man is Christ: and the head of the woman is the man: and the head of Christ is God. For the man is not of the woman: but the woman of the man. For the man was not created for the woman: but the woman for the man [Genesis 2:18]. But yet neither is the man without the woman, nor the woman without the man, in the Lord. For as the woman is of the man, so also is the man by the woman: but all things of God. (1 Corinthians 11:3;8,9;11,12)
Obligations of the State in Life of Married Persons
Peculiar to Husband :
1. Love his wife for the sake of GOD. Husbands, love your wives, as Christ also loved the church and delivered himself up for it: That he might sanctify it (Ephesians 5:25,26)
2. Keep the order of GOD for the love of Him in the family.
Spiritually provide and protect the family for the sake of GOD. Lead and guide his family to Heaven.
3. Temporally provide and protect the family for the love of GOD (clothing, sufficient food, shelter, maintenance, giving alms, reasonable recreation and giving proper gifts).
4. Administer family property honestly and wisely for the love of GOD.
The good shepherd giveth his life for his sheep. But the hireling and he that is not the shepherd, whose own the sheep are not, seeth the wolf coming and leaveth the sheep and flieth: and the wolf casteth and scattereth the sheep, And the hireling flieth, because he is a hireling: and he hath no care for the sheep. (John 10:11-13); Feed the flock of God which is among you, taking care of it, not by constraint but willingly, according to God: not for filthy lucre’s sake but voluntarily: And when the prince of pastors shall appear, you shall receive a never fading crown of glory. (1 Peter 5:2;4); Gentiles lord it over them; and that they that are the greater, exercise power upon them. It shall not be so among you: but whosoever is the greater among you, let him be your minister. And he that will be first among you shall be your servant. Even as the Son of man is not come to be ministered unto, but to minister and to give his life a redemption for many.(Matthew 20:25-28); for me and my house we will serve thee Lord (Joshua 24:15); And the Lord said: Who thinkest thou is the faithful and wise steward, whom his lord setteth over his family, to give them their measure of wheat in due season? Blessed is that servant whom, when his lord shall come, he shall find so doing. Verily I say to you, he will set him over all that he possesseth. (Luke 12:42-44)
Peculiar to Wife :
1. Being submissive to her husband for the love of GOD. Let women be subject to their husbands, as to the Lord: Because the husband is the head of the wife, as Christ is the head of the church. He is the saviour of his body. Therefore as the church is subject to Christ: so also let the wives be to their husbands in all things.(Ephesians 5:22-24)
2. Take care of the corporal nourishment, health and hygeine of the children from conception. The mother is gravely obliged by GOD to feed the child of her own milk unless it was not possible because of a just cause. Knowingly not to do so is a mortal sin for the mother. Even the sea monsters have drawn out the breast, they have given suck to their young:the daughter of my people is cruel, like the ostrich in the desert. (Lamentations 4:3)
3. To raise children by words and example to know, adore, love and serve GOD in this life so that they adore GOD and be forever happy with Him in Heaven. To take care of the Catholic education, secular education in a Catholic way and the general formation of the children for the love of GOD.
4. Taking care of household needs for the love of GOD.
Who shall find a valiant woman? far, and from the uttermost coasts is the price of her. The heart of her husband trusteth in her, and he shall have no need of spoils. She will render him good, and not evil all the days of her life. Favour is deceitful, and beauty is vain: the woman that feareth the Lord, she shall be praised. (Proverbs 31:10-12;30); Happy is the husband of a good wife: for the number of his years is double. A virtuous woman rejoiceth her husband, and shall fulfil the years of his life in peace. A good wife is a good portion, she shall be given in the portion of them that fear God, to a man for his good deeds. (Ecclesiasticus (Sirach) 26:1-3)
Mutual to Husband and Wife :
1. Pray together as husband and wife, pray for one and another and for their children and pray with their children as a family. The Catholic family that prays together to GOD stays together in GOD. Again I say to you, that if two of you shall consent upon earth, concerning anything whatsoever they shall ask, it shall be done to them by my Father who is in heaven. For where there are two or three gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them. (Matthew 18:19,20)
2. Marital debt. Let the husband render the debt to his wife: and the wife also in like manner to the husband. The wife hath not power of her own body: but the husband. And in like manner the husband also hath not power of his own body: but the wife. (1 Corinthians 7:3,4)
3. Mutual support in raising the children from the beginning in the fear and love of GOD, taking care of their spiritual and corporal needs according to their obligations as father and mother, and leading them to GOD in Heaven. And from his infancy he taught him to fear God, and to abstain from all sin. (Tobias [Tobit] 1:10); And you, fathers, provoke not your children to anger: but bring them up in the discipline and correction of the Lord. (Ephesians 6:4).
4. Mutual love both affective and effective for the sake of GOD.
5. Life in common (mutual companionship) for the love of GOD.
6. The well-ordering of domestic affairs.
7. The husband and wife should never allow no one to interfere with them or sow discord between them.
8. Works of charity together as a family.
With three things my spirit is pleased, which are approved before God and men: The concord of brethren, and the love of neighbours, and man and wife that agree well together. (Ecclesiasticus [Sirach] 25)
The Duties of Married People
The more easily to preserve the holy state of marriage from dissensions, the duties of husband and wife as inculcated by Saint Paul and by the Prince of the Apostles Saint Peter, which is in Sacred Scripture must be known.
Duties of a Husband
It is the duty of the husband to treat his wife generously and honourably. It should not be forgotten that Eve was called by Adam his companion. The woman, he says, whom thou gavest me as a companion. Hence it was, according to the opinion of some of the holy Fathers, that she was formed not from the feet but from the side of man; as, on the other hand, she was not formed from his head, in order to give her to understand that it was not hers to command but to obey her husband.
The husband should also be constantly occupied in some honest pursuit with a view to provide necessaries for the support of his family and to avoid idleness, the root of almost every vice.
He is also to keep all his family in order, to correct their morals, and see that they faithfully discharge their duties.
Duties Of A Wife
On the other hand, the duties of a wife are thus summed up by the Prince of the Apostles: Let wives be subject to their husbands. that if any believe not the word, they may be won without the word by the conversation of the wives, considering your chaste conversation with fear. Let not their adorning be the outward plaiting of the hair, or the wearing of gold, or the putting on of apparel: but the hidden man of the heart in the incorruptibility of a quiet and meek spirit, which is rich in the sight of God. For after this manner heretofore the holy women also, who trusted in God, adorned themselves, being in subjection to their own husbands, as Sarah obeyed Abraham, calling him lord.
To train their children in the practice of virtue and to pay particular attention to their domestic concerns should also be especial objects of their attention. The wife should love to remain at home, unless compelled by necessity to go out; and she should never presume to leave home without her husband’s consent.
Again, and in this the conjugal union chiefly consists, let wives never forget that next to God they are to love their husbands, to esteem them above all others, yielding to them in all things not inconsistent with Christian piety, a willing and ready obedience.
Three Things To Be Avoided By Parents
He should also admonish them to guard particularly against three things, in which they but too often transgress.
In the first place, they are not by words or actions to exercise too much harshness towards their children. This is the instruction of Saint Paul in his Epistle to the Colossians: Fathers, he says, provoke not your children to anger, lest they be discouraged. For there is danger that the spirit of the child may be broken, and he become abject and fearful of everything. Hence the pastor should require parents to avoid too much severity and to choose rather to correct their children than to revenge themselves upon them.
Should a fault be committed which requires reproof and chastisement, the parent should not, on the other hand, by undue indulgence, overlook its correction. Children are often spoiled by too much lenity and indulgence on the part of their parents. The pastor, therefore, should deter from such excessive mildness by the warning example of Heli, the high-priest, who, on account of over-indulgence to his sons, was visited with the heaviest chastisements.
Finally, to avoid what is most shameful in the instruction and education of children, let them not propose to themselves aims that are unworthy. Many there are whose sole concern is to leave their children wealth, riches and an ample and splendid fortune; who encourage them not to piety and religion, or to honourable employment, but to avarice, and an increase of wealth, and who, provided their children are rich and wealthy, are regardless of their good name and eternal salvation. Can anything more shameful be thought or expressed? Of such parents it is true to say, that instead of bequeathing wealth to their children, they leave them rather their own wickedness and crimes for an inheritance; and instead of conducting them to heaven, lead them to the eternal torments of hell.
The priest, therefore, should impress on the minds of parents salutary principles and should exhort them to imitate the virtuous example of Tobias, that having properly trained up their children to the service of God and to holiness of life, they may, in turn, experience at their hands abundant fruit of filial affection, respect and obedience.
Duties of Parents Towards their Children
As the law of God commands children to honour, obey, and respect their parents so are there reciprocal duties which parents owe to their children. Parents are obliged to bring up their children in the knowledge and practice of the Catholic religion, and to give them the best rules based on the Law of GOD for the regulation of their lives; so that, instructed and trained in the Catholic religion, they may serve God holily and constantly. It was thus, as we read, that the parents of Susanna acted. Parents have to be to their children guides in the virtues of justice, chastity, modesty and holiness.
Parents are obliged by GOD to take care of the spiritual and corporal needs of their children normally upto the age of eighteen.
Parents are gravely obliged by GOD to Baptise their child as soon as possible after birth. It is a sin of grave matter for parents not to do so. Delay not to be converted to the Lord, and defer it not from day to day. (Ecclesiasticus (Sirach) 5:8); Suffer the little children to come unto me and forbid them not: for of such is the kingdom of God. And embracing them and laying his hands upon them, he blessed them. (Mark 10:14;16)
Parents are gravely obliged by GOD to take care of their corporal needs from conception onwards and never to abandon them.
From when they are very little and onwards parents must teach their children to say their prayers and instruct them on Catholic Doctrine according to their age. It is a sin of grave matter for parents to send their children to any place that teaches corrupted and false doctrines.
GOD has not given the state the right to teach. It is a sin of grave matter for parents to send their children to any school that teaches anything that is contrary to the Catholic Religion given by GOD.
Once they come to the age of reason parents are obliged by GOD to take their children to the Sacrament of Penance (Confession) and the Sacrament of Confirmation, to take them to Holy Mass on Sundays and Holy Days of obligation, and in case of danger of death to call a priest for them to receive the Last Rites which include their Last Sacraments. Parents are obliged by GOD to take their children to receive their first Holy Communion once it is the age for them to do so.
Parents are gravely obliged by GOD never to have their children sleeping with them from the time they are two years old and never to put brother and sister or brother and brother or sister and sister to sleep in the same bed.
Parents should be sure to keep a watchful eye over their children consistently. The are obliged by GOD to keep their children away from bad people, from dangerous company with persons of the other gender, bad places and bad things. It is a sin of grave matter for parents to allow their children to use a mobile phone and use the internet.
When necessary parents are obliged by GOD to correct their children using propotional corporal punishment. He that spareth the rod, hateth his son: but he that loveth him, correcteth him betimes. (Proverbs 13:24); Withhold not correction from a child: for if thou strike him with the rod, he shall not die. Thou shalt beat him with the rod, and deliver his soul from hell. (Proverbs 23:13,14); Folly is bound up in the heart of a child, and the rod of correction shall drive it away. (Proverbs 22:15); Give thy son his way, and he shall make thee afraid (Ecclesiasticus [Sirach] 30:9). The younger they are, the less apt are they to be influenced by mere reason. Just as colts need to be broken, so also must young children, to a certain extent, be subdued by bodily pain and its dread when necessary. Parents should also reward their children when they do something exceptionally good. The seven years of a child are absolutely crucial because during that time associations between good and bad behaviour take place. By punishing bad behaviour and rewarding good behaviour right from the very start of infancy, the foundation of association in the mind of a child begins to be trained during the course of those first seven years of which the child will able to correspond to one of the chief truths of GOD, that is He rewards the good and punishes the bad, rewarding in this life and eternally in the next and punishing in this life and temporally or eternally in the next. And the Lord will reward every one according to his justice, and his faithfulness(1 Kings [1 Samuel] 26:23)
It is sinful for parents to curse their children, to show hatred and cruelty to them, and to beat them without a just cause or when there is a just cause, in access, going with the passion of anger.
There should never be triangulation, where parents favour children over spouse, or children are allowed to start triangulation. Parents should also never show partiality or favouritism towards any of their children, but should treat them all equally.
Childen are under obedience to parents till the age of eighteen, unless they have already begun their vocation for GOD before that and if the children are still living with the parents once they are eighteen, they have to follow the order and rules of the house, set by the father, that pertains to them.
It is a sin of grave matter for parents to obstruct their children from following the call of GOD for their vocation in life for the love and service of Him unless there was a just cause because of a grave reason, which would then be an obligation before GOD to do so.
It is sinful for parents to deprive a child of his or her just inheritance.
After the marriage of their children, the parents should abstain from all interference in their marriage and family affairs, unless it be necessary to come to their assistance. They should not sow seeds of discord in their marriage and family, a thing which GOD detesteth. They should always treat them in a friendly and kind manner for the love of GOD.
Children are a gift from GOD. Behold the inheritance of the Lord are children: the reward, the fruit of the womb. (Psalms 126:3). The surest means of promoting the spiritual as well as temporal welfare of chidren is by training them in the fear and love of GOD. I have been young and now am old; and I have not seen the just forsaken, nor his seed seeking bread. (Psalms 36:25). Only cruel parents will not diligently take care of the spiritual and temporal needs of their children. But if any man have not care of his own and especially of those of his house, he hath denied the faith and is worse than an infidel. (1 Timothy 5:8). Parents should set their children a good example. It is well known how much more influential example is than precept, and that what is seen makes a far more lasting impression than what is heard. The actions of the father and mother are the lesson books of their children. There should not be anything blameworthy for them to see or hear. But he that shall scandalize one of these little ones that believe in me, it were better for him that a millstone should be hanged about his neck, and that he should be drowned in the depth of the sea. (Matthew 18:6). Catholic parents should know this for certain, that if they are culpable for their childs damnation, and they die unrepented, they will be most definately be damned by GOD in the eternal torments of hell. And if the watchman see the sword coming, and sound not the trumpet: and the people look not to themselves, and the sword come, and cut off a soul from among them: he indeed is taken away in his iniquity, but I will require his blood at the hand of the watchman. (Ezechiel 33:6).Good parents who have conscientiously fulfilled their duties before GOD will be able to say when they appear before Him: Those whom thou gavest me have I kept: and none of them is lost (John 17:12).
So you also, when you shall have done all these things that are commanded you, say: We are unprofitable servants; we have done that which we ought to do. (Luke 17:10); His lord said to him: Well done, good and faithful servant, because thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will place thee over many things. Enter thou into the joy of thy lord.; For to every one that hath shall be given, and he shall abound: but from him that hath not, that also which he seemeth to have shall be taken away. And the unprofitable servant, cast ye out into the exterior darkness. There shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth. (Matthew 25:21;29,30)
Obligations of Children towards Parents
Children are obliged by GOD to love, respect and obey their parents for the love of Him. Children, obey your parents in the Lord: for this is just. (Ephesians 6:1). Childen are under obedience to parents till the age of eighteen, unless they have already begun their vocation for GOD before that and if the children are still living with the parents once they are eighteen they have to follow the order and rules of the house, set by the father, that pertains to them. Love and respect towards parents for the love of GOD is always.
Children are obliged by GOD to obey their parents in all things that are in accordance to GOD, but never in such things as are offensive to GOD. Children, obey your parents in the Lord: for this is just. (Ephesians 6:1) Children should never comply to sinful commands of their parents. Children have to correct their parents when they are living in serious sin procceding out of charity, keeping in mind the respect they need to have for them. They should bear with the faults and weaknesses of their parents.
Children are obliged by GOD to pray for their parents, never desire evil or do evil to them, trouble them, bring disgrace upon them, give them sorrow or provoke them.
If their brothers or sisters do something wrong, children have to tell their parents about it in justice proceeding out of charity.
Children are obliged by GOD also to help their parents if there in sicknesss, poverty or old age. It is a sin of grave matter for children not to call a priest when their parents are in need of the Last Rites which include their Last Sacraments. Children must offer Masses to GOD for their faithfully departed parents and pray, offer fasts, other suffrages and almsdeeds to GOD, for their souls.
The Catholic Family is the Domestic Church
From the moment the Sacrament of Matrimony is confected a new Catholic family is formed. The Catholic family is the foundation of the Universal Church and also the foundation of the state, for GOD to be glorified, souls to be saved and peace to be flowing from the tranquility of the order of GOD. As the Catholic family goes so goes the human element of the Church and then so goes the state. Numerous and important advantages flow to Christian society from a knowledge, and an inviolable observance by the faithful of the sanctity of marriage; while from ignorance or disregard of its holiness, many and serious calamities and losses must be brought upon the human element of the Catholic Church and as a result of which upon the State. The Catholic family is obliged by GOD to give Him glory at all times by always being faithful to Him, led by the husband and father, who is the domestic priest and patriarch of the family: but as for me and my house we will serve thee Lord (Joshua 24:15). The Catholic family that does not serve GOD will be destroyed by Him. The Lord will destroy the house of the proud (Proverbs 15:25); The house of the wicked shall be destroyed (Proverbs 14:11).
Each member of a Catholic family starting with the husband and the father, then his wife and the mother, followed by the children, has to excel in JESUS CHRIST by leading a life of Christian virtue, fulfilling his own duty in the family before GOD, by His grace out of love for Him. To the degree this is not done to that degree the family will lack the order and peace of GOD and as a result lack joy and happiness in GOD. If the Divinely established order of GOD for a marriage and a family is not followed there will be disorder and conflict in the family and it can result in having a bad effect on the children.
GOD JESUS CHRIST chose to come into this world in a family to show us how important the role of the Catholic family is for His greater glory and the salvation of souls. The Most Holy Family of JESUS, Mary and Joseph is a model for every Catholic family.
Q. To receive the Sacrament of matrimony worthily is it necessary to be in the state of sanctifying grace?
A. To receive the Sacrament of Matrimony worthily it is necessary to be in the state of sanctifying grace, and it is necessary also to comply with the laws of the Church.
Q. What is necessary to contract a Marriage validly?
A. To contract a Marriage validly it is necessary to be free from every diriment impediment to marriage; and to give consent freely to the marriage contract in the presence of the bishop or parish priest or a priest or a deacon delegated by either of them and of two witnesses.
Note: Impediments to marriage are certain circumstances which render marriage either invalid or unlawful. The former are called diriment impediments and the latter impeding impediments. The faithful are obliged to make known to ecclesiastical authority impediments of which they have knowledge; and for this reason the names of those who intend to get married are published in the Church.
Q. What is necessary to contract a marriage lawfully?
A. To contract a marriage lawfully it is necessary to be free from every impeding impediment to marriage; to be instructed in the principal truths of religion; and, finally, to be in a state of grace; otherwise a sacrilege would be committed.
Q. Who are the Ministers of this Sacrament?
A. The man and woman to be married themselves are the Ministers of this Sacrament, who together confer and receive the Sacrament.
Q. What is the matter of the Sacrament of Matrimony?
A. The mutual consent of the man and woman to be married, and giving themselves to one another.
Q. How should Catholics prepare for a holy and happy marriage?
A. Catholics should prepare for a holy and happy marriage by assisting at Holy Mass, by receiving the Sacraments of Penance and the Most Holy Eucharist; by begging GOD to grant them a pure intention and to direct them to choose the one to get married to who GOD has willed from all eternity; and by seeking the advice of their parents if they are informed about Catholic Doctrine and the advice and blessings of holy and knowledgeble pastors.
Q. When are motives for marriage worthy?
A. Motives for marriage are worthy when persons enter it for the sake of doing GOD’s will and fulfilling the end for which He instituted the Sacrament. Whatever is opposed to the true object of the Sacrament which is the greater glory of GOD and the sanctification and salvation of the husband and wife must be an unworthy motive.
Honourable Courtship
Catholics are obliged by GOD to have a honourable courtship for marriage, following all its rules. Once they are prepared to contract a marriage, the courtship has to be done in the presence of the parents, or if that is not possible in the presence of some respectable adult practicing Catholic person. And if a bethrotal / engagement is made their meeting has to be done only in the same aforementioned manner, that is in the presence of the parents, or if that is not possible in the presence of some respectable adult practicing Catholic person. It is gravely sinful for the ones courting or bethroted / engaged to do otherwise and for the parents to allow their children to do otherwise, even if both were as pure as angels: he that loveth danger shall perish in it. (Ecclesiasticus [Sirach] 3:27). It is gravely sinful to have a long courtship, or a long bethrotal / engagement. A speedy marriage should be insured after a short courtship. When the bethroted / engagement to marry each other is made, the marriage should be fixed at once at no distant date. After adequate numeber of interviews, having made inquiries concerning each other, the ones courting should prayerfully decide whether it is the Holy will of GOD for them to get married to each other. If it is not so, all courting between them should forthwith cease straightaway. It is a sin of grave matter to break a bethrotal / engagement unless there was a just cause because of a grave reason which would then be an obligation before GOD to do so. It is also a sin of grave matter for Parents to oppose a bethrotal / engagement for marriage unless they have solid reasons for doing so, which is an obligation before GOD, and these reasons you should be made known to their child.
Wedding Feast
On the Wedding-day there may, and should, be had a little feast, a little amusement; but in all godliness. Rejoice in the Lord always: again, I say, rejoice. Let your modesty be known to all men. (Philippians 4:4,5). It is gravely sinful and offensive to GOD to have on the table all excess in eating and drinking, all obscene conversations or bad jokes, and all unbecoming dancing, bad music and other sinful amusements; for these things are apt to bring down GOD’s curse. All care and diligence has to be taken to preserve the graces received at Marriage.
Q. Why do many marriages prove unhappy?
A. Many marriages prove unhappy because they are entered not consulting with GOD about them in prayer, without worthy motives, hastily and without His blessings. Marriages are entered into hastily when persons do not sufficiently consider and investigate the character, habits and dispositions of the one they intend to marry. It is wise to look for sincerity and honesty in fearing and loving GOD, solid Christian virtues and lasting Christian qualities in a life-long companion and not to be carried away with characteristics that falsely please only for a time.
Q. What is an annulment?
A. An annulment or decree of nullity is a declaration from the Church that a Marriage did not take place and was invalid because a certain condition for the Sacrament of Matrimony to be valid was not fulfilled.
Q. What are grounds for an annulment?
A. There are a number of grounds that can result in a marriage being considered null:
• Marriages that weren’t conducted properly, before a priest and two witnesses.
• Marriages that suffer from some sort of impediment, meaning the husband and wife were too closely related.
• One spouse was too young.
• Marriages that suffer from “defective consent”.
• When one or both spouses do not believe marriage is an unbreakable, lifelong commitment.
• When there was a clear lacking of faith on the part of one of the persons consenting to the marriage.
• When one person was in another undisclosed relationship at the time of marriage.
• When one or both of the spouses had no intention to bring children into the world.
• One spouse being mentally ill.
• If a person received an automatic excommunication for an abortion or taking part in an abortion and then married in the Catholic Church without having the excommunication lifted by the Church.
• If a spouse concealed children from a prior relationship.
• A past incarceration.
Note: An annulment cannot be given by the authority of the Church when a Marriage is valid which obviously can have no grounds for an annulment. The annulment process has to do with verifying, and not inventing an existence of any ground.
Q. Can a Catholic man and woman be united in lawful marriage in any other way than by the Sacrament of Matrimony?
A. A Catholic man and woman cannot be united in lawful marriage in any other way than by the Sacrament of Matrimony, because JESUS CHRIST raised marriage to the dignity of a Sacrament. It would be a sin of grave matter for a Catholic man and woman to be united in any other way outisde the Sacrament of Matrimony.
Q. Is the state of Virginity superior to Marriage?
A. The state of virginity is highly exalted and strongly recommended in Sacred Scripture as superior to marriage, and as a state of greater perfection and holiness. For our Lord and Saviour JESUS CHRIST taught as follows: All men take not this word, but they to whom it is given. For there are eunuchs, who were born so from their mothers womb: and there are eunuchs, who were made so by men: and there are eunuchs, who have made themselves eunuchs for the kingdom of heaven. He that can take, let him take it. (Matthew 19:11,12). Therefore both he that giveth his virgin in marriage doth well: and he that giveth her not doth better. (1 Corinthians 7:38). These are they who were not defiled with women: for they are virgins. These follow the Lamb whithersoever he goeth. These were purchased from among men, the firstfruits to God and to the Lamb. (Apocalypse [Revelation] 14:4)
Other Means of Grace - Right use of Sacramentals and Prayer, Fasting and Almsdeeds, and Hearing the Word of GOD
Q. Are there any other means of obtaining GOD’s grace than the Holy Mass and the Sacraments?
A. There are other means of obtaining GOD’s grace, they are: Right use of Sacramentals; Prayer, Fasting and Almsdeeds; and Hearing the Word of GOD, through which GOD gives actual graces.
Q. What is a Sacramental?
A. A Sacramental is a blessing by the Church on persons or things to excite good thoughts and to increase devotion. If used with pious dispositions: we receive actual graces, they increase our fear and love of GOD, remit venial sins, and preserve us from temptations and other spiritual and bodily harm, excepting such ills of the body which GOD permits for our spiritual welfare.
Note: Above all in times of temptation or other attacks of evil spirits and in times of sickness, one should have recourse to the help of GOD through the right use of sacramentals.
Q. Who sanctioned the use of Sacramentals?
A. Our Lord JESUS CHRIST Himself sanctioned the use of Sacramentals, but the rite themselves are an institution of the Church. When he had said these things, he spat on the ground and made clay of the spittle and spread the clay upon his eye (John 9:6); For every creature of God is good, and nothing to be rejected that is received with thanksgiving: For it is sanctified by the word of God and prayer. (1 Timothy 4:4,5)
Q. Name some of the Sacramentals?
A. The Sign of the Cross; holy water; blessed crucifixes, statues and images of JESUS CHRIST, the Blessed Virgin Mary and of the saints; blessed salt; blessed oil; blessed ashes and palms; blessed candles; blessed incense; blessed medals, blessed scapulars, a blessing given by a priest and the prayers and ceremonies of the Church.
Note’s: The Sign of the Cross is the chief Sacramental used in the Church.
Sacred Scriptural Reference’s for Holy Water: He went out to the spring of the waters, and cast the salt into it, and said: Thus saith the Lord: I have healed these waters, and there shall be no more in them death or barrenness. And the waters were healed unto this day, according to the word of Eliseus, which he spoke. (4 Kings 2:21,22); Thou shalt sprinkle me with hyssop, and I shall be cleansed: thou shalt wash me, and I shall be made whiter than snow. (Psalms 50:9)
Q. How do we make the Sign of the Cross?
A. We make the Sign of the Cross by putting the right hand to the forehead, then on the breast, and then to the left and right shoulders, saying, “In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, Amen.” For the word of the cross, to them indeed that perish, is foolishness: but to them that are saved, that is, to us, it is the power of God. (1 Corinthians 1:18)
Note’s: In making the Sign of the Cross we make profession of the most important of all the mysteries of our holy religion, which are the doctrine of the Most Holy Trinity and the doctrine of the Incarnation of and Redemption by GOD JESUS CHRIST.
We make the Sign of the Cross to put us in mind of the Most Holy Trinity and to show that we look for grace only through JESUS CHRIST’s merits on the cross. By the Sign of the Cross we profess our faith in JESUS CHRIST incarnated and crucified because it reminds us that he became man and suffered and died on the Cross, for our redemption.
The Sign of the Cross should be made often. It is very pious and powerful devotion. The first Catholics made the Sign of the Cross frequently.
By means of the Sign of the Cross we obtain a blessing from GOD and receive His graces; and especially by it are we protected from the assaults of the devil and from all dangers both to soul and to body.
A common fault with many is to make a wrong Sign of the Cross, without thought or intention, in a hurried motion with the hand and making an inverted cross, which is in no way making the Sign of the Cross.
Q. What is the difference between the Sacraments and the Sacramentals?
A. The difference between the Sacraments and the Sacramentals is: 1. The Sacraments were instituted by JESUS CHRIST and the Sacramentals were sacntioned by JESUS CHRIST and instituted by the Church; 2. The Sacraments give grace of themselves when we place no obstacle in the way; the Sacramentals excite in us pious dispositions, by means of which we may obtain grace.
Q: How may persons sin in using Sacramentals?
A. Persons may sin in using Sacramentals by using them in a way or for a purpose prohibited by the Church; also by believing that the use of Sacramentals will save us in spite of our sinful lives. We must remember that Sacramentals can aid us only through the blessing the Church gives them and through the good dispositions they excite in us. They have, no power in themselves, and to put confidence in them is superstition, which is sinful.
Q. Which are the Three Eminent Good Works?
A. Three Eminent Good Works are Prayer, Fasting and Almsgiving. Prayer is good with fasting and alms more than to lay up treasures of gold. For alms delivereth from death, and the same is that which purgeth away sins, and maketh to find mercy and life everlasting. (Tobias 12:8-9)
Q. What is Prayer?
A. Prayer is the lifting up of our minds and hearts to GOD to adore Him, to thank Him for His benefits, to ask His forgiveness, and to beg of Him all the graces we need, whether for soul or body.
Q. How do we lift up our minds and hearts to GOD in prayer?
A. We lift up our minds and hearts to GOD in prayer by thinking of Him, by adoring, praising, and thanking Him and by begging of Him the blessings for soul and body.
Q. How is prayer divided?
A. Prayer is divided into mental and vocal prayer.
Note’s: Vocal prayer is that expressed audibly in distinct words.
Mental prayer is that made with the mind alone. Mental prayer is most useful to us because it compels us, while we are engaged in it, to keep our attention fixed on GOD, His holy laws and His Holy will and to keep our hearts and minds lifted up to Him. But it must not be pursued to the exclusion of vocal prayer. By means of mental prayer we advance rapidly on the path of Christian perfection in union with GOD.
Q. Can prayer be divided in any other way?
A. Prayer is also divided into private and public prayer.
Note’s: Private prayer is that which each one says individually.
Public prayer is that said by the Sacred Ministers in the name of the Church for the glory of GOD and for the salvation of souls. That prayer also which is said in common and publicly by the faithful, GOD’s house, in processions, pilgrimages, etc. is also called public prayer.
Q. How should we pray?
A. We should always pray in spirit and in truth, with attention and devotion, in humility before GOD, with confidence in Him and in perseverence until the end, resigning to His holy will, always desiring His glory and the salvation of souls. God is a spirit: and they that adore him must adore him in spirit and in truth. (John 4:24); For thy power, O Lord, is not in a multitude, nor is thy pleasure in the strength of horses, nor from the beginning have the proud been acceptable to thee: but the prayer of the humble and the meek hath always pleased thee. (Judith 9:16); The Lord is my light and my salvation, whom shall I fear? The Lord is the protector of my life: of whom shall I be afraid? If armies in camp should stand together against me, my heart shall not fear. If a battle should rise up against me, in this will I be confident. One thing I have asked of the Lord, this will I seek after; that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life. That I may see the delight of the Lord, and may visit his temple. (Psalms 26:1;3,4); For the continual prayer of a just man availeth much. (James 5:16); But he that shall persevere to the end, he shall be saved. (Matthew 24:13); Again the second time, he [JESUS CHRIST] went and prayed, saying: My Father, if this chalice may not pass away, but I must drink it, thy will be done. (Matthew 26:42)
Q. Which are the chief things we should ask of GOD?
A. The chief things we should ask of GOD are His own glory, our eternal salvation and the means of obtaining it.
Note: Although GOD knows all that is necessary for us, He nevertheless wills that we should pray to Him so as to acknowledge Him as the Giver of every good gift, to attest our humble submission to Him, and to merit His favours for ourselves.
Q. Is prayer necessary to salvation?
A. Prayer is absolutely necessary to salvation, and without it no one having the use of reason can be saved.
Note: Prayer is absolutely necessary for sinners as well as for the just. Without prayer sinners cannot obtain sanctifying grace of GOD and be saved and without prayer the just cannot persevere in sanctifying grace of GOD till the end and be saved.
Q. What is the first and best disposition to render our prayers efficacious?
A. The first and best disposition to render our prayers efficacious is to be in the state of sanctifying grace; or if one is not in that state, one has to desire and work to put oneself in it by the graceof GOD. Before prayer prepare thy soul: and be not as a man that tempteth God. (Ecclesiasticus [Sirach] 18:23)
Note’s: The different degrees of prayer: 1. The prayer of the just - It is that which is made use of by the pious and the just who by the grace of GOD resting on the solid foundation of the true faith, rise successively from one degree of prayer and Christian virtue to another, until, at length, they reach that height of Christian perfection in union with GOD, whence they can contemplate the infinite power, goodness, and wisdom of GOD; where, too, they are animated with the assured hope of obtaining not only those blessings which they desire in this life, but also those unutterable rewards which GOD has pledged Himself to grant to him who piously and religiously implores His assistance.
2. The prayer of sinners - Is that of those who are weighed down by the guilt of mortal sin, but who strive, with what is called dead faith, to raise themselves from their condition and to ascend to GOD. The prayers of such persons are not rejected by GOD, but are heard by Him. Of this class was the publican, who, though he did not dare to raise his eyes towards heaven, left the Temple, as our Lord JESUS CHRIST declares, more justified than the Pharisee.
3. The prayer of unbelievers - Is that which is offered by those who have not as yet been illumined with the light of faith; but who, when GOD in His Divine goodness illumines their souls, are strongly moved to the desire and pursuit of truth and most earnestly pray to Him for a knowledge of it. If they persevere in such dispositions, GOD, in His mercy, will not neglect their earnest endeavours, as we see verified by the example of Cornelius the centurion. The doors of the Divine mercy of GOD are closed against none who sincerely ask for mercy.
4. The prayer of the impenitent - Is that of those who not only do not repent of their sins and enormities, but, adding crime to crime, dare frequently to ask pardon of GOD for those sins, in which they are resolved to continue. With such dispositions they would not presume to ask pardon from their fellow-man. The prayer of such sinners is not only not heard by GOD but is an abomination to Him. He that turneth away his ears from hearing the law, his prayer shall be an abomination. (Proverbs 28:9). It is recorded of Antiochus: Then this wicked man prayed to the Lord, of whom he was not to obtain mercy. Whoever lives in this deplorable condition should be vehemently exhorted to wean himself from all affection to sin, and to return to GOD in good earnest and from the heart. And when you stretch forth your hands, I will turn away my eyes from you: and when you multiply prayer, I will not hear: for your hands are full of blood. Wash yourselves, be clean, take away the evil of your devices from my eyes, cease to do perversely, Learn to do well: seek judgment, relieve the oppressed, judge for the fatherless, defend the widow. And then come, and accuse me, saith the Lord: if your sins be as scarlet, they shall be made as white as snow: and if they be red as crimson, they shall be white as wool. If you be willing, and will hearken to me, you shall eat the good things of the land. But if you will not, and will provoke me to wrath: the sword shall devour you because the mouth of the Lord hath spoken it. (Isaias 1:15-20); They are vain works, and worthy to be laughed at, in the time of their visitation they shall perish. (Jeremias 51:18)
Q. Are prayers said with distractions of any avail?
A. Prayers said with wilful distractions are of no avail and are sinful. Prayers have to be said with attention and devotion.
Q. Have we a well-founded hope of obtaining from GOD by means of prayer the helps and graces of which we stand in need?
A. The hope of obtaining from GOD the graces of which we stand in need is founded on the promises of the omnipotent, merciful and all-faithful GOD through the merits of JESUS CHRIST. And I say to you: Ask, and it shall be given you: seek, and you shall find: knock, and it shall be opened to you. For every one that asketh receiveth: and he that seeketh findeth: and to him that knocketh it shall be opened (Luke 11:9,10); You have not chosen me: but I have chosen you; and have appointed you, that you should go and should bring forth fruit; and your fruit should remain: that whatsoever you shall ask of the Father in my name, he may give it you. (John 15:16)
Note’s: We should ask of GOD the graces we stand in need of in the Name of JESUS CHRIST, as He Himself has taught us and as is done by the Church, which ends her prayers with these words: Through our Lord JESUS CHRIST. Amen, amen, I say to you: if you ask the Father any thing in my name, he will give it you. (John 16:23)
We should beg graces of GOD in the Name of JESUS CHRIST because He is our Mediator, and it is through Him alone that we can approach the throne of GOD. For there is one God: and one mediator of God and men, the man Christ Jesus: Who gave himself a redemption for all, a testimony in due times. (1 Timothy 2:5,6)
Q. Does GOD always hear prayers when well said?
A. Yes, GOD always hears prayers when well said; but in the way He knows to be most conducive to our eternal salvation, and not always in the way we wish. To devout prayer and dispositions GOD grants more than is asked. The prayer of him that humbleth himself, shall pierce the clouds: and till it come nigh he will not be comforted: and he will not depart till the most High behold. (Ecclesiasticus [Sirach] 35:21); There are many thoughts in the heart of a man: but the will of the Lord shall stand firm. (Proverbs 19:21); For my thoughts are not your thoughts: nor your ways my ways, saith the Lord. For as the heavens are exalted above the earth, so are my ways exalted above your ways, and my thoughts above your thoughts. (Isaias 55:8,9); For the continual prayer of a just man availeth much. (James 5:16)
Note: Our prayers obtain a speedier answer if they are accompanied by fasting, almsdeeds, a promise, or if we invoke the intercession of the saints on our behalf; a petition is sooner granted if it is proffered by several persons at the same time; also if the suppliant is of the number of the just / elect. Fasting and almsdeeds are the wings of prayer which makes prayer soar swiftly to heaven.
Q. Why does GOD often delay hearing our prayer?
A. GOD delays hearing our prayer for several reasons: 1. That He may try our confidence in Him. 2. That we may long more ardently for His gifts and hold them in higher esteem. 3. That He may keep us near Him and give us occasion to pray with greater fervor and earnestness. 4. By delaying, He wishes to unite Himself more closely to us. 5. GOD often delays granting our prayer, if what we ask for be not profitable to us at the time, but would be so only at a later period.
Q. If prayer is so powerful how is it that many times prayers are not heard by GOD?
A. Many times prayers are not heard by GOD, either because they are asked whilst one does not want to keep all the teachings of GOD given by Him through His Church through the Apostles or things asked are not conducive for the glory of GOD and eternal salvation, or because they are not asked properly. He that turneth away his ears from hearing the law, his prayer shall be an abomination. (Proverbs 28:9); Before prayer prepare thy soul: and be not as a man that tempteth God. (Ecclesiasticus [Sirach] 18:23); But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering. For he that wavereth is like a wave of the sea, which is moved and carried about by the wind. Therefore let not that man think that he shall receive any thing of the Lord. (James 1:6,7)
Q. What effects does prayer produce in us?
A. Prayer makes us honour GOD and recognise our dependence on Him, the Supreme Lord, in all things; it makes us think on heavenly things and detatches us from this world; it makes us advance in Christian virtue for the love of GOD; it disposes us for His Divine blessings; it obtains for us His mercy; it strengthens us against temptation; it comforts us in tribulation; it protects us against the devil; it disarms Divine vengeance; it obtains the remission of the temporal penalty due to sin, and merit an eternal recompense; it aids us in all our needs: in a word it obtains for us from GOD every grace needed, especially the all important grace of final perseverance.
Q. Where ought we to pray?
1. We can and ought to pray in every place, because GOD is everywhere present; 2. The house of GOD is the place especially set apart for prayer; 3. A solitary place is also suitable for prayer.
Q. When we ought to pray?
A. As a matter of fact we ought to pray continually, for Our Lord JESUS CHRIST requires of us: that we ought always to pray and not to faint (Luke 18:1). Pray without ceasing. (1 Thessalonians 5:17). We ought to especially pray: making a Sign of the Cross to GOD when passing a Church or Chapel especially where the Most Holy Sacrament of the Eucharist is present; in the morning and night; before and after meals; in the moments of temptation, affliction and distress; before entering upon an important undertaking; when we receive from GOD an inspiration and desire to pray; at the hour of our death; at the hearing of the death of one of the faithful that was known to us; when a calamity has befallen on someone that is know to us and in times of public calamity. That it might be known to all, that we ought to prevent the sun to bless thee, and adore thee at the dawning of the light.(Wisdom 16:28); I love them that love me: and they that in the morning early watch for me, shall find me. (Proverbs 8:17); Seven times a day I have given praise to thee, for the judgments of thy justice. (Psalms 118:164); And thou shalt have eaten and be full: Take heed deligently lest thou forget the Lord (Deuteronomy 6:12,13); Watch ye: and pray that ye enter not into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak. (Matthew 26:41); Offer to God the sacrifice of praise: and pay thy vows to the most High. And call upon me in the day of trouble: I will deliver thee, and thou shalt glorify me. (Psalms 49:14,15)
Note: Though it is not possible to praise GOD in our minds or with our toungues in each and every moment, but we should desire that our hearts do so.
Q. For whom should we pray?
A. We should pray for all men. For friends and enemies; especially for those related to us, the benefactors GOD sends, our spiritual and temporal superiors, the sorrowful souls in purgatory, Catholics striving to live a holy life, persecuted and suffering Catholics and for the conversion of sinners.
Q. What is a very important and very efficacious way of praying?
A. Short aspiratory or short arrow prayers said frequently during the course of the day and night is a very important and very efficacious way of praying, such as: Making the Sign of the Cross; ”Glory to GOD in the highest”; ”Blessed be GOD now and forever”; ”My GOD and my all”; ”Abba, Father !”; ”My Lord and my GOD”; ”JESUS my GOD for Thee I live and die”; ”Thy will be done”; ”Blessed be the Holy Name of JESUS”; ”Praise Thee JESUS”; Thank Thee JESUS”; ”My JESUS mercy”; ”Stay with me, O Lord”; ”JESUS meek and humble of heart, make my heart like unto Thine.”; ”O GOD, be merciful to me a sinner”; ”O Lord, increase my faith, hope and charity”; ”HOLY SPIRIT, enlighten and strenghten me”; ”The Lord ruleth me and I shall want nothing”; ”If GOD be for us, who is against us?”; ”I can do all things in him who strengtheneth me”; ”Lord remember me in thy Kingdom”; ”Holy Mary and all the Angels and Saints intercede for me”; ”Guide and protect Thy Church, O Lord”; ”Protect and save our family, O Lord”; ”Eternal rest grant unto the souls in purgatory, O Lord”; ”O Lord, help the persecuted and suffering Catholics”; ”O Lord, convert sinners to Thee”.
Note: Short aspiratory or short arrow prayers make us to give glory to GOD and helps to keep us focused on Him, througout the day and during night. One who raises his heart to GOD again and again by such a way of praying, will keep calm and recollected amid the turmoil and distractions of life, for it is a very strong weapon. They refresh us and help us on our way to Heaven as an occasional sip of water does for the traveller on a long journey. Hot water does not get cold if it be placed close to the fire, neither does the warmth of Divine charity die out of our heart if we keep it near to GOD by frequent prayer. There is nothing more certain to preserve us throughout our life in the grace of GOD than unceasing prayer. Also their brevity, enables them to be said with greater fervor than longer prayers. Therefore, whether you eat or drink, or whatsoever else you do, do all to the glory of God. (1 Corinthians 10:31); I will bless the Lord at all times, his praise shall be always in my mouth. (Psalms 33:2); Pray without ceasing. (1 Thessalonians 5:17)
Q. What is Fasting?
A. Fasting is the denial of food on a day whether in whole or by taking at least one meal a day with a small collation in the night, and in abstaining from prohibited kinds of food. Fasting in the broader sense also means every kind of spiritual and corporal mortification. I was clothed with haircloth. I humbled my soul with fasting; and my prayer shall be turned into my bosom. (Psalms 34:13)
Q. What is Abstinence?
A. Abstinence is the denial of certain kinds of food primarily flesh meat, fish, eggs, dairy products and sweets.
Q. What is the good of fasting and abstinence?
A. Fasting and abstinence serves to dispose us better to prayer; to do penance for past sins; and to preserve us from sinning again. Fasting and abstinence is beneficial both for the soul and the body.
Q. Are those who are not able to fast and abstain for just causes exempt from all mortification?
A. Those who are not able to fasting and abstain are not exempt from all mortification, because all are bound to do penance. Always bearing about in our body the mortification of Jesus, that the life also of Jesus may be made manifest in our bodies. For we who live are always delivered unto death for Jesus’ sake: that the life also of Jesus may be made manifest in our mortal flesh. (2 Corinthians 4:10,11); Know you not that they that run in the race, all run indeed, but one receiveth the prize. So run that you may obtain. And every one that striveth for the mastery refraineth himself from all things. And they indeed that they may receive a corruptible crown: but we an incorruptible one. I therefore so run, not as at an uncertainty: I so fight, not as one beating the air. But I chastise my body and bring it into subjection (1 Corinthians 9:24-27)
Q. What is Almsdeeds?
A. Almsdeeds is every spiritual and corporal work of mercy. He that hath the substance of this world and shall see his brother in need and shall shut up his bowels from him: how doth the charity of God abide in him? (1 John 3:17); I have shewed you all things, how that so labouring you ought to support the weak and to remember the word of the Lord Jesus, how he said: It is a more blessed thing to give, rather than to receive. (Acts of the Apostles 20:35); Learn to do well: seek judgment, relieve the oppressed, judge for the fatherless, defend the widow. (Isaias 1:17); But he said: He that shewed mercy to him. And Jesus said to him: Go, and do thou in like manner. (Luke 10:37); Be ye therefore merciful, as your Father also is merciful. (Luke 6:36); Lay not up to yourselves treasures on earth: where the rust, and moth consume, and where thieves break through, and steal. But lay up to yourselves treasures in heaven: where neither the rust nor moth doth consume, and where thieves do not break through, nor steal. (Matthew 6:19,20)
Q. Which are the Chief Spiritual works of Mercy?
A. The Chief Spiritual Works of Mercy are seven: To admonish the sinner; to instruct the ignorant; to counsel the doubtful; to comfort the sorrowful; to bear wrongs patiently; to forgive all injuries; and to pray for the living and the dead. He must know that he who causeth a sinner to be converted from the error of his way shall save his soul from death and shall cover a multitude of sins. (James 5:20); If, when I say to the wicked, Thou shalt surely die: thou declare it not to him, nor speak to him, that he may be converted from his wicked way, and live: the same wicked man shall die in his iniquity, but I will require his blood at thy hand. But if thou give warning to the wicked, and he be not converted from his wickedness, and from his evil way: he indeed shall die in his iniquity, but thou hast delivered thy soul. Moreover if the just man shall turn away from his justice, and shall commit iniquity: I will lay a stumblingblock before him, he shall die, because thou hast not given him warning: he shall die in his sin, and his justices which he hath done, shall not be remembered: but I will require his blood at thy hand. But if thou warn the just man, that the just may not sin, and he doth not sin: living he shall live, because thou hast warned him, and thou hast delivered thy soul. (Ezekiel 3:18-21); To him who is such a one, this rebuke is sufficient, which is given by many. So that on the contrary, you should rather forgive him and comfort him, lest perhaps such a one be swallowed up with overmuch sorrow. (2 Corinthians 2:6,7); In the heart of the prudent resteth wisdom, and it shall instruct all the ignorant. (Proverbs 14:33); Gold and silver make the feet stand sure: but wise counsel is above them both. (Ecclesiasticus [Sirach] 40:25); And some indeed reprove, being judged [admonish the sinner]: But others save, pulling them out of the fire [counsel the doubtful]. And on others have mercy, in fear, hating also the spotted garment which is carnal [instruct the ignorant].(Jude 1:22,23); Bear ye one another’s burdens: and so you shall fulfil the law of Christ. (Galatians 6:2); Bearing with one another and forgiving one another, if any have a complaint against another. Even as the Lord hath forgiven you, so do you also. (Colossians 3:13); Open thy mouth for the dumb, and for the causes of all the children that pass. (Proverbs 31:8); I beseech you therefore, brethren, through our Lord Jesus Christ and by the charity of the Holy Ghost, that you help me in your prayers for me to God (Romans 15:30); pray one for another, that you may be saved.(James 5:16); It is therefore a holy and wholesome thought to pray for the dead, that they may be loosed from sins. (2 Machabees 12:46)
Q. Which are the Chief Corporal Works of Mercy?
A. The Chief Corporal works of Mercy are seven: To feed the hungry; to give drink to the thirsty; to clothe the naked; to ransom the captive; to harbor the harborless; to visit the sick; and to bury the dead. For I was hungry, and you gave me to eat: I was thirsty, and you gave me to drink: I was a stranger, and you took me in: Naked, and you covered me: sick, and you visited me: I was in prison, and you came to me. (Matthew 25:35,36); He fed the hungry, and gave clothes to the naked, and was careful to bury the dead, and they that were slain. (Tobit [Tobias] 1:20); And hospitality do not forget: for by this some, being not aware of it, have entertained angels. (Hebrews 13:2); Open thy mouth for the dumb, and for the causes of all the children that pass. (Proverbs 31:8)
Note’s: The spiritual works of mercy are higher than the corporal works of mercy because the soul is more important than the body.
Prayer, fasting and almsdeeds help to combat the three enemies of the soul, the devil, the world and the flesh and the seven capital sins. Prayer especially to combat the devil; Fasting especially to combat the flesh and Almsdeeds especially to combat the world. Prayer especially to combat pride and anger; Fasting especially to combat sloth, glutonny and lust and Almsdeeds especially to combat avarice and envy.
Q. Has GOD strictly enjoined upon us to help our neighbour in his spiritual and temporal needs according to our ability for the love of Him?
A. GOD has strictly enjoined upon us to help our neighbour in his spiritual and temporal needs according to our ability for the love of Him. He that stoppeth his ear against the cry of the poor, shall also cry himself, and shall not be heard. (Proverbs 21:13); For judgment without mercy to him that hath not done mercy. (James 2:13); In this present time let your abundance supply their want (2 Corinthians 8:14); And unto whomsoever much is given, of him much shall be required (Luke 12:48)
Note: GOD is the Lord of all earthly riches; man is called to be His steward. He is the Almighty Landlord of heaven and earth. The earth is the Lord’s and the fulness thereof: the world, and all they that dwell therein. (Psalms 2:9); The silver is mine, and the gold is mine, saith the Lord of hosts. (Aggæus (Haggai) 2:9)
Q. Who does GOD want us to particularly help?
A. The sorrowful souls in purgatory and poor orphans and widows. I was in prison, and you came to me. (Matthew 25:36); Learn to do well: seek judgment, relieve the oppressed, judge for the fatherless, defend the widow. (Isaias 1:17); Religion clean and undefiled before God and the Father is this: to visit the fatherless and widows in their tribulation and to keep one’s self unspotted from this world. (James 1:27)
Note: Almsdeeds done for the liberation of the sorrowful souls in purgatory, who cannot help themselves, primarily in the form of offering Holy Masses and assisting at Holy Masses for their souls, by receiving the Sacraments and gaining indulgences, praying for their souls, offering to GOD suffrages, fasts, abstinence, mortifications and almsdeeds for them, are excellent forms of almsdeeds.
Q. In what spirit should almsdeeds be performed?
A. 1. Almsdeeds should be done for the love of GOD; 2. We ought not to do good to our neighbor in order to be seen and praised by others or for other bad motives; 3. We should do good to our neighbour promptly and pleasantly. Say not to thy friend: Go, and come again: and to morrow I will give to thee: when thou canst give at present. (Proverbs 3:28); Every one as he hath determined in his heart, not with sadness or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver. (2 Corinthians 9:7); 4. We are only required by GOD to give alms of our superfluity yet He wants us to be generous; 5. We must only give alms to those who are truly in need; 6. Almsdeeds should be done in the order of charity. Therefore, whilst we have time, let us work good to all men, but especially to those who are of the household of the faith.(Galatians 6:10)
Q. Of what benefit are the almsdeeds us?
A. 1. Almsdeeds obtains for us the remission of our sins; that is to say, the sinner obtains the grace of repentance, while the just man receives the pardon of venial sin, and the remission of the temporal penalty. But before all things have a constant mutual charity among yourselves: for charity covereth a multitude of sins. (1 Peter 4:8); And mercy exalteth itself above judgment. (James 2:13); Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy. (Matthew 5:7); A merciful man doth good to his own soul (Proverbs 11:17); 2. By almsgiving we obtain an eternal recompense, provided that at the time we are in a state of grace; 3. Almsdeeds brings down upon us temporal blessings from GOD. He increases our means and gives us bodily health. Give: and it shall be given to you: good measure and pressed down and shaken together and running over shall they give into your bosom. For with the same measure that you shall mete withal, it shall be measured to you again.(Luke 6:38); Blessed is he that understandeth concerning the needy and the poor: the Lord will deliver him in the evil day. (Psalms 40:2); 4. Almsdeeds is a means of obtaining from GOD a speedy answer to prayer. Thy prayers and thy alms are ascended for a memorial in the sight of God. (Acts of the Apostles 10:4); 5. By almsdeeds towards holy Catholics who are poor, we make them, who are close friends of GOD, our friends, who pray for us, and whose prayers have great power with GOD.
Q. How is the Word of GOD heard?
A. The Word of GOD is heard by: listening to good Catholic Doctrinal instruction; reading Catholic Doctrine; hearing good sermons; reading Sacred Scripture according to the interpretation given by GOD through His Catholic Church; and reading good spiritual books. For the word of God is living and effectual and more piercing than any two edged sword; and reaching unto the division of the soul and the spirit, of the joints also and the marrow: and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.(Hebrews 4:12); Sanctify them in truth. Thy word is truth. (John 17:17); Faith then cometh by hearing; and hearing by the word of Christ. (Romans 10:17); Thy word is a lamp to my feet, and a light to my paths. (Psalms 118:105); And as the rain and the snow come down from heaven, and return no more thither, but soak the earth, and water it, and make it to spring, and give seed to the sower, and bread to the eater: So shall my word be, which shall go forth from my mouth: it shall not return to me void, but it shall do whatsoever I please, and shall prosper in the things for which I sent it. (Isaias 55:10,11)
Note’s: If we listen attentively with devotion to what the Word of GOD has to say, we will hear the still soft voice of the HOLY SPIRIT speaking in the silence of our hearts.
Good Sermons on the Holy Gospel and the rest of Sacred Scripture is addressed to those who should have already received knowledge of the elements of Catholic Doctrine. It is, so to speak, bread broken for adults. Catholic Doctrinal instruction on the other hand, is that milk which GOD wills that the faithful desire in all simplicity like newborn babes for their salvation. As newborn babes, desire the rational milk without guile, that thereby you may grow unto salvation (1 Peter 2:2).
One single sentence from Sacred Scripture can nourish the soul, illuminate it and strengthen it. Sacred Scripture is something far superior to a simple exposition of dogma, subdivided into special tracts: it is an ocean of Revealed Truth in which we can taste in advance the joys of eternal life.
The Word of GOD is our navigator in this life, to go to heaven. Those who hear the Word of GOD with attention and devotion, and make a sincere practical application of what they hear will not have great difficulty in attaining eternal salvation. But that on the good ground are they who in a good and perfect heart, hearing the word, keep it and bring forth fruit in patience. (Luke 8:15)
Listening to and reading corrupted doctrine, hearing bad sermons, reading Sacred Scripture with a wrong interpretation and reading bad spiritual books will most definately destroy ones soul. Be not seduced: Evil communications corrupt good manners. (1 Corinthians 15:33); Beware of false prophets, who come to you in the clothing of sheep, but inwardly they are ravening wolves. (Matthew 7:15); If any man come to you and bring not this doctrine, receive him not into the house nor say to him: God speed you. (2 John 1:10)
PART III. THE COMMANDMENTS
The Commandments in General
Q. Is it enough to belong to GOD’s Church the Catholic Church in order to be saved?
A. It is not enough to belong to GOD’s Church in order to be saved, we must also keep His Commandements which are the Ten Commandments of GOD and the Six Commandments or Precepts of the Church by His grace in order to be saved. Not every one that saith to me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven: but he that doth the will of my Father who is in heaven, he shall enter into the kingdom of heaven. Many will say to me in that day: Lord, Lord, have not we prophesied in thy name, and cast out devils in thy name, and done many miracles in thy name? And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, you that work iniquity. (Matthew 7:21-23); If you love me, keep my commandments. (John 14:15)
Note: GOD has given us Commandments in order that He be glorified, and to make us happy in Him, in time and eternity in heaven. The Commandments of GOD are Commandments of love which by His grace sets man free from the yoke of fallen human nature and attain a supernatural life in union with GOD in time and eternity in Heaven. For the beginning of her is the most true desire of discipline. And the care of discipline is love: and love is the keeping of her laws: and the keeping of her laws is the firm foundation of incorruption: And incorruption bringeth near to God. Therefore the desire of wisdom bringeth to the everlasting kingdom. (Wisdom 6:18-21). I looked for thy salvation, O Lord: and I loved thy commandments. (Psalms 118:166).
GOD is not a tyrant who wants to crush man with demands but a infinitely good and wise Father who alone knows what is best for man whom He created. Catholicism / Christianity is not a religion of fear but of the redeeming love of GOD. Fear is not in charity: but perfect charity casteth out fear, because fear hath sin. And he that feareth is not perfected in charity. (1 John 4:18). By the fear, which a perfect charity and love of GOD excludes, we may understand a fear of temporal losses in this world, of the loss of goods, of banishment, of torments, of death itself, which the love of GOD made so many glorious martyrs contemn; or an anxious servile fear of temporal punishment in purgatory or eternal punishment in the next world eternally in hell, for the more perfect charity and the love of GOD is, so much the more doth it banish this imperfect and servile fear; but as perfect charity does not exclude a love, and constant desire of loving GOD our infinitely good Father with a filial love, for His greater glory and for whose enjoyment we were created, so it does not exclude a fear of displeasing, offending, and losing him by sin. Perfect charity, or love, banisheth human fear, that is, the fear of men; as also all perplexing fear, which makes men mistrust or despair of GOD’s mercy; and that kind of servile fear, which makes them fear the punishment of sin more than the offence offered to GOD who is infinitely good. But it no way excludes the wholesome fear of GOD’s judgments, so often instructed in Sacred Scripture, nor that fear and trembling with which we are told to work out our salvation. Wherefore, my dearly beloved, (as you have always obeyed, not as in my presence only but much more now in my absence) with fear and trembling work out your salvation.(Philippians 2:12)
Mans liberty comes from GOD with the free will given to him by GOD and that liberty does not consist in doing whatever man wills, but whatever is ordained by GOD. If this liberty is misused it puts man in danger of temporal and eternal consequences. If used as ordained by GOD it will result in temporal and eternal rewards from Him. Only GOD who is the Creator and Ruler of heaven and earth has rights over everything. It is all about the rights of GOD. Man has no rights of himself save the rights He has been given by GOD his Creator, which are GOD’s rights, rights to know, love and serve Him in this life according to His Divinely revealed will, for His glory, and the temporal and eternal good of man which consists in Him alone. GOD’s Commandments give man true freedom, which consists in being detached from created things and being attached totally to GOD by His grace. It is the sinner who falls under the yoke of an ignominious servitude and slavery of sin and evil by consenting to the devil, the world and the flesh, in rebellion to the infinite goodness of GOD. Now the Lord is a Spirit. And where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty. (2 Corinthians 3:17).
Q. What is the difference between the Ten Commandments of GOD and the Commandments / Precepts of the Church?
A. The Ten Commandments of GOD were given by GOD Himself to Moses on Mount Sinai and JESUS CHRIST our Lord confirmed them; the Commandments / Precepts of the Church were given on different occasions by the lawful authorities of the Church. The Ten Commandments given by GOD Himself cannot be changed by the Church; but the Commandments / Precepts made by the Church itself may be changed by its authority as necessity requires.
Q. What does GOD teach us about the Commandments?
A. Through the Commandments GOD teaches us all that we are to do to please Him by doing His Holy will - all of which is summed up in loving GOD above all things for His sake and our neighbour as ourselves for the love of GOD. Master, which is the great commandment in the law? Jesus said to him: Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with thy whole heart and with thy whole soul and with thy whole mind. This is the greatest and the first commandment. And the second is like to this: Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. On these two commandments dependeth the whole law and the prophets. (Matthew 22:36-40); If you love me, keep my commandments. (John 14:15); Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with thy whole heart, and with thy whole soul, and with thy whole strength. And these words which I command thee this day, shall be in thy heart: And thou shalt tell them to thy children, and thou shalt meditate upon them sitting in thy house, and walking on thy journey, sleeping and rising. And thou shalt bind them as a sign on thy hand, and they shall be and shall move between thy eyes. And thou shalt write them in the entry, and on the doors of thy house. (Deuteronomy 6:4-9); Keep therefore and do the things which the Lord God hath commanded you: you shall not go aside neither to the right hand, nor to the left. (Deuteronomy 5:32)
Q. Do we have to keep the Commandments to be saved?
A. Yes, we have to keep the commandments to be saved because we are all bound to to live, according to the Holy will of GOD who created us, and because a serious transgression against even one of them is enough to merit hell. But if thou wilt enter into life, keep the commandments. (Matthew 19:17); And behold a certain lawyer stood up, tempting him [JESUS] and saying, Master, what must I do to possess eternal life? But he said to him: What is written in the law? How readest thou? He answering, said: Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with thy whole heart and with thy whole soul and with all thy strength and with all thy mind: and thy neighbour as thyself. And he said to him: Thou hast answered right. This do: and thou shalt live. (Luke 10:25-28); He that turneth away his ears from hearing the law, his prayer shall be an abomination. (Proverbs 28:9)
Note: All the teachings of GOD through His Catholic Church have to be obeyed out of love for Him, for His greater glory, for the salvation of ones soul and the salvation of the souls of others. And whosoever shall keep the whole law, but offend in one point, is become guilty of all. (Saint James 2:10)
Q. By what kind of sins are the Commandments broken?
A. By mortal sins only; for venial sins are not strictly speaking contrary to the end of the Commandments, which is charity.
Q. Are we able to keep the Commandments?
A. Yes without doubt we are able to observe, GOD’s Commandments, because GOD never commands anything that is impossible, and because He gives grace to observe them to those who ask it as they should. For this is the charity of God: That we keep his commandments. And his commandments are not heavy. (1 John 5:3); For my yoke is sweet and my burden light. (Matthew 11:30); There was in the days of Herod, the king of Judea, a certain priest named Zachary, of the course of Abia: and his wife was of the daughters of Aaron, and her name Elizabeth. And they were both just before God, walking in all the commandments and justifications of the Lord without blame. (Luke 1:4,5)
Note: GOD is not a tyrant to command impossibilities under pain of eternal damnation, as he doth the keeping His Commandments. His Commandments are Commandments of love which when kept, gives us true peace, joy and happiness.
The Ten Commandments of GOD in General
Q. Who gave the Ten Commandments?
A. GOD Himself gave the Ten Commandments to Moses on Mount Sinai, and JESUS CHRIST our Lord confirmed them. Behold I set forth in your sight this day a blessing and a curse: A blessing, if you obey the commandments of the Lord your God, which I command you this day: A curse, if you obey not the commandments of the Lord your God, but revolt from the way which now I shew you (Deuteronomy 11:26-28)
Q. Why are the Ten Commandments of GOD so named?
A. The Ten Commandments of GOD are so named because GOD Himself has stamped them on the soul of every man; promulgated them, engraved on two tables of stone, on Mount Sinai and JESUS CHRIST has confirmed them.
Note: All persons, from the beginning of the world, were obliged to keep the Ten Commandments because GOD Himself has stamped them on the soul of every man. It was always sinful to commit idolatry, blaspheme GOD, murder, steal or violate any of the Ten Commandments, though they were not written till the time of Moses.
Q. Did JESUS CHRIST abolish the Ten Commandments of GOD given to Moses and give new commandments?
A. Absolutely not. It would be a grave heresy, which is false teaching, to say so. JESUS CHRIST came not to abolish the Commandments but to fulfill them. Do not think that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets. I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil. For amen I say unto you, till heaven and earth pass, one jot, or one tittle shall not pass of the law, till all be fulfilled. (Matthew 5:17,18)
Q. Which are the Ten Commandments of GOD?
A. The Ten Commandments of GOD are these ten:
1. I am the Lord thy GOD; thou shalt not have strange gods before.
2. Thou shalt not take the the Name of the Lord thy GOD in vain.
3. Remember thou keep holy the Sabbath Day.
4. Honour thy father and thy mother.
5. Thou shalt not kill.
6. Thou shalt not commit adultery.
7. Thou shalt not steal.
8. Thou shalt not bear false witness against thy neighbour.
9. Thou shalt not covet thy neighbours wife.
10. Thou shalt not covet thy neighbours goods.
And the Lord spoke all these words: I am the Lord thy God, who brought thee out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of bondage. Thou shalt not have strange gods before me. Thou shalt not make to thyself a graven thing, nor the likeness of any thing that is in heaven above, or in the earth beneath, nor of those things that are in the waters under the earth. Thou shalt not adore them, nor serve them: I am the Lord thy God, mighty, jealous, visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children, unto the third and fourth generation of them that hate me: And shewing mercy unto thousands to them that love me, and keep my commandments. Thou shalt not take the name of the Lord thy God in vain: for the Lord will not hold him guiltless that shall take the name of the Lord his God in vain. Remember that thou keep holy the sabbath day. Six days shalt thou labour, and shalt do all thy works. But on the seventh day is the sabbath of the Lord thy God: thou shalt do no work on it, thou nor thy son, nor thy daughter, nor thy manservant, nor thy maidservant, nor thy beast, nor the stranger that is within thy gates. For in six days the Lord made heaven and earth, and the sea, and all things that are in them, and rested on the seventh day: therefore the Lord blessed the seventh day, and sanctified it. Honour thy father and thy mother, that thou mayst be longlived upon the land which the Lord thy God will give thee. Thou shalt not kill. Thou shalt not commit adultery. Thou shalt not steal. Thou shalt not bear false witness against thy neighbour. Thou shalt not covet thy neighbour’s house; neither shalt thou desire his wife, nor his servant, nor his handmaid, nor his ox, nor his ass, nor any thing that is his. (Exodus 20: 1-17)
Note’s: The first three of the Ten Commandments of GOD refer to GOD directly which is the love of GOD above all things for His sake and the last seven of the Ten Commandments of GOD refer to the love of GOD through our neighbour which is the love of our neigbour for the sake of GOD.
The Ten Commandments of GOD contain the whole law of GOD which is : 1st. Thou shalt love the Lord thy GOD with thy whole heart, with thy whole soul, with thy whole mind, and with thy whole strenghth; and 2nd. Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself for the love of GOD.
In each of the Commandments we should consider its positive part and its negative part, that is, what it commands and what it forbids.
Divine Law, the Law directly given by GOD which consists of 1. Faith, that is, what we must believe in order to save our souls and 2. Morals, that is, what we must do and what we must not do in order to save our souls can never change because GOD does not change.
The commandments forbid not only whatever violates them, but also whatever may lead to their violation.
The Decalogue, that is the Ten Commandments of GOD, is the summary and epitome of all laws: Although the Lord had spoken many things, He gave to Moses only two stone tablets, called “tables of testimony,” to be placed in the Ark. For if carefully examined and well understood, whatever else is commanded by GOD will be found to depend on the Ten Commandments which were engraved on those two tables, just as these Ten Commandments, in turn, are reducible to two, the love of GOD and of our neighbour, on which depend the whole law and the prophets.
First Commandment: I am the Lord thy GOD; thou shalt not have strange gods before Me
Q. In the words of the First Commandment: Thou shalt not have strange gods before Me, what does GOD command us?
A. By the words of the First Commandment: Thou shalt not have strange gods before Me, GOD commands us to acknowledge, adore, love and serve Him alone as our Sovereign Lord with all out heart, mind, soul and strenghth.
Q. What is forbidden by GOD through the First Commandment?
A. In the First Commandment GOD forbids giving a creature the honour which belongs to Him alone; ingratitude to GOD; murmuring against GOD; neglecting prayer and study of the Catholic religion; wilfull distraction while praying; not working to posses eternal life with GOD in Heaven; sins of presumption and despair; absorbing anti Catholic material; joining in non Catholic worship; idolatry; eastern philosophies and practices (yoga, etc.); halloween; new age philosophies and practices; superstition; disrespect and irreverence to Him in the Most Holy Eucharist; sacrileges, especially against Him in the Most Holy Eucharist; simony; heresy; schism; denying GOD in front of others; indiferrence to the Catholic religion; neglecting to work for the honour and glory of GOD by propogating the Catholic religion according to ones state in life; opposing the Catholic religion; voting for anti Catholic forms of government; all association with anti Catholic sects; associating with people who will have a bad influence upon your spiritual life in union with GOD; all dealings with the devil; consulting the souls of the dead by means of spiritism; offering food to the dead; occult practices (witchcraft, ouija boards, seances, palm reading, tarot cards, hypnotism, divination, astrology, black magic, sorcery, etc.); giving credence to and promoting a private revelation that contradicts Catholic Doctrine; egoism; vanity; being engrossed in material interests and worldy things; human respect; and every other sin against the Catholic religion.
Note’s: Idolatry is the giving to any creature, for example, to a statue, to an image, or to a man, the supreme worship of adoration that belongs to GOD alone. It is when one identifies something other than GOD as GOD, transfering the worship due to GOD to the adoration of an idol, which is a high treason against the majesty of GOD, and a highly heinous sin. In a broader sense, idolatry is putting anything above GOD. Little children, keep yourselves from idols. Amen. (1 John 5:21)
Superstition is the ascribing to any action or any thing whatever a supernatural virtue which it does not possess. Attributing to a creature a perfection which belongs to GOD alone.
A sacrilege is the profanation anything that is sacred.
Simony is buying or selling of sacred things, which have GOD alone as their owner and master.
Heresy is a culpable error of the intellect by which some truth of faith is obstinately denied. Denial of one article of the faith makes one a heretic.
Schism is the breaking away from the authority of the Pope or those who are in communion with him.
Human respect is the sin of denying GOD before man in order to please man for self interest, which is putting man above GOD, a kind of idolatry. JESUS CHRIST has said: But he that shall deny me before men, I will also deny him before my Father who is in heaven. (Saint Matthew 10:33); For do I now persuade men, or God? Or do I seek to please men? If I yet pleased men, I should not be the servant of Christ. (Galatians 1:10); Whatsoever you do, do it from the heart, as to the Lord, and not to men: Knowing that you shall receive of the Lord the reward of inheritance. Serve ye the Lord Christ. (Colossians 3:23,24)
When one breaks any of the Commandments from the Second to the last, that is the Tenth, one breaks the First Commandment, as one puts something else above GOD.
Q. Through the First Commandment does GOD forbid us to honour and pray to the Angels and Saints?
A. Through The First Commandment GOD does not forbid us to honour and pray to the angels and saints, but rather approves of it, because by honouring the Angels and Saints, who are the chosen friends of GOD, we honour GOD Himself and we pray to them to pray to GOD for us, which is an intercession. And the glory which thou hast given me, I have given to them (John 17:22); And another angel came and stood before the altar, having a golden censer: and there was given to him much incense, that he should offer of the prayers of all saints, upon the golden altar which is before the throne of God. And the smoke of the incense of the prayers of the saints ascended up before God from the hand of the angel. (Apocalypse [Revelation] 8:3,4); When thou didst pray with tears, and didst bury the dead, and didst leave thy dinner, and hide the dead by day in thy house, and bury them by night, I [Saint Raphael the Archangel] offered thy prayer to the Lord. And because thou wast acceptable to God, it was necessary that temptation should prove thee. And now the Lord hath sent me to heal thee, and to deliver Sara thy son’s wife from the devil. For I am the angel Raphael, one of the seven, who stand before the Lord. (Tobit [Tobias] 12:12-15); And the third day, there was a marriage in Cana of Galilee: and the mother of Jesus was there. And Jesus also was invited, and his disciples, to the marriage. And the wine failing, the mother of Jesus saith to him: They have no wine [intercession]. And Jesus saith to her: Woman, what is that to me and to thee? My hour is not yet come. His mother saith to the waiters: Whatsoever he shall say to you, do ye. Now there were set there six waterpots of stone, according to the manner of the purifying of the Jews, containing two or three measures apiece. Jesus saith to them: Fill the waterpots with water. And they filled them up to the brim. And Jesus saith to them: Draw out now and carry to the chief steward of the feast. And they carried it. And when the chief steward had tasted the water made wine and knew not whence it was, but the waiters knew who had drawn the water: the chief steward calleth the bridegroom, And saith to him: Every man at first setteth forth good wine, and when men have well drunk, then that which is worse. But thou hast kept the good wine until now. (John 2:1-10); And after the Lord had spoken these words to Job, he said to Eliphaz the Themanite: My wrath is kindled against thee, and against thy two friends, because you have not spoken the thing that is right before me, as my servant Job hath. Take unto you therefore seven oxen and seven rams, and go to my servant Job, and offer for yourselves a holocaust, and my servant Job shall pray for you: his face I will accept, that folly be not imputed to you: for you have not spoken right things before me, as my servant Job hath. So Eliphaz the Themanite, and Baldad the Suhite, and Sophar the Naamathite went, and did as the Lord had spoken to them, and the Lord accepted the face of Job. The Lord also was turned at the penance of Job, when he prayed for his friends. (Job 42:7-10); And they stoned Stephen, invoking and saying: Lord Jesus, receive my spirit. And falling on his knees, he cried with a loud voice, saying: Lord, lay not his sin to their charge: And when he had said this, he fell asleep in the Lord. (Acts of the Apostles 7:58-59)
Note’s: Adoration is given to GOD alone and no other. This is called Latria; To the Saints of GOD is given Veneration for the honour and glory of GOD. This is called Dulia. In that a Special Veneration is given to the Blessed Virgin Mary being the Mother of GOD and the greatest of the Saints of GOD. This is called Hyper-Dulia.
If Catholic’s on earth can ask other Catholic’s on earth to pray to GOD for them, then it is obvious that Catholics can ask the Angels and Saints of GOD in Heaven to pray to GOD for them. Brethren, pray for us. (1 Thessalonians 5:25)
Q. When we pray to the Angels and Saints are we praying to them in and of themselves?
A. When we pray to the Angels and Saints, we do not pray to them in and of themselves but we pray to them to pray to GOD for us. Praying to them in and of themselves would be idolatry and sinful. They cannot do anything in and of themselves without GOD.
Note: Example: When we say: Saint Anne pray for us, we pray to Saint Anne to pray to GOD for us and not to Saint Anne in and of herself, as she cannot do anything without GOD. Saint Anne is the Mother of the Blessed Virgin Mary.
Q. Through the First Commandment does GOD forbid the making of images?
A. Through the First Commandment GOD does forbid the making of images if they are made to be adored as gods, but He does not forbid the making of them to put us in mind of Himself and also of the Blessed Virgin Mary, and the saints for His sake.
Note’s: GOD Himself commanded Moses to make statues, as, for example, the two statues of the Cherubim for the Ark, and the Brazen Serpent in the desert.
Sacred Scriptural Reference’s for Images and Statues - Thou shalt make also a propitiatory of the purest gold: the length thereof shall be two cubits and a half, and the breadth a cubit and a half. Thou shalt make also two cherubims of beaten gold, on the two sides of the oracle. Let one cherub be on the one side, and the other on the other. Let them cover both sides of the propitiatory, spreading their wings, and covering the oracle, and let them look one towards the other, their faces being turned towards the propitiatory wherewith the ark is to to be covered. In which thou shalt put the testimony that I will give thee. (Exodus 25:18-21); And the Lord said to him: Make a brazen serpent, and set it up for a sign: whosoever being struck shall look on it, shall live. Moses therefore made a brazen serpent, and set it up for a sign: which when they that were bitten looked upon, they were healed. (Numbers 21:8,9); And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the desert, so must the Son of man be lifted up: (John 3:14)
Q. How do you prove it lawful to paint GOD the Father like an old man, seeing he is pure spirit, and hath no body?
A. Because GOD the Father appeared to the prophet Daniel in the shape of an old man: I beheld till thrones were placed, and the ancient of days [GOD the Father] sat: his garment was white as snow, and the hair of his head like clean wool: his throne like flames of fire: the wheels of it like a burning fire. (Daniel 7:9). But this is to be understood, that the correct pictures Catholics make, are not the proper images of GOD the Father, but the shape wherein he appeared to Daniel. And the like is to be understood of the pictures of angels, to wit, that they are not proper images of them, according to their spiritual substance, but of the shape they have appeared to men.
Q. Has GOD willed that the relics of the Saints be honoured for His sake?
A. Yes, it is GOD’s will to honour the relics of the Saints for His sake, because their bodies were living members of JESUS CHRIST and temples of the HOLY SPIRIT, and will rise gloriously to eternal life.
Note: Sacred Scriptural Reference’s for Relics- And some that were burying a man, saw the rovers, and cast the body into the sepulchre of Eliseus. And when it had touched the bones of Eliseus, the man came to life and stood upon his feet. (4 Kings 13:21); And God wrought by the hand of Paul more than common miracles. So that even there were brought from his body to the sick, handkerchiefs and aprons: and the diseases departed from them: and the wicked spirits went out of them. (Acts of the Apostles 19:11,12)
Q. Does GOD allow to pray to the crucifix or to the images and relics of the saints?
A. GOD absolutely does not allowed to pray to the crucifix or images and relics of the saints, for they have no life, nor power to help us, nor sense to hear us. It would be idolatry and sinful to do so.
Q. Why do we pray before the crucifix and the images and relics of the saints?
A. We pray before the crucifix and images and relics of the saints because they help us to lift our minds and hearts to GOD, they enliven our devotion by exciting pious affections and desires, and by reminding us of JESUS CHRIST, that we may follow His Holy example, and also the Blessed Virgin Mary and the saints, that we may imitate their holy virtues.
Q. Is there not some danger of idolatry in the frequent use of blessed images and relics?
A. Truely none at all; for it is not possible that any rational man, who is well instructed in Catholicism / Christianity, would conceive or think a piece of painted wood or marble, is that true GOD and true man, JESUS CHRIST, who was born of the Virgin Mary, died on the cross, arose from the dead, ascended into heaven, and sits now on the right hand of GOD.
Q. But how, if such inconveniences happen, at least by accident?
A. The abuse has to be corrected and mended and not the good institution, that cannot be taken away, be called to be taken away or blamed; for man’s fallen nature is subject to hurt itself, even in the best things, which must not therefore be given over.
Q. How prove you that dead and inanimate things, for example, churches, crosses, water, salt, oil, candles, incense, medals, bread, and the like, are capable of sanctity and honour for the sake of GOD?
A. First from the Angel saying to Moses and to Joshua respectively, to take the shoes off thier feet because the ground whereon they stood was holy ground. And he said: Come not nigh hither, put off the shoes from thy feet; for the place, whereon thou standest, is holy ground.(Exodus 3:5); Loose, saith he, thy shoes from off thy feet: for the place whereon thou standest is holy. And Josue did as was commanded him. (Joshua 5:16). Second, out of where we read, that the temple sanctifieth the gold, and the altar the gift. Woe to you, blind guides, that say, Whosoever shall swear by the temple, it is nothing; but he that shall swear by the gold of the temple is a debtor. Ye foolish and blind: for whether is greater, the gold or the temple that sanctifieth the gold? And whosoever shall swear by the altar, it is nothing; but whosoever shall swear by the gift that is upon it is a debtor. Ye foolish and blind: for whether is greater, the gift or the altar that sanctifieth the gift? He therefore that sweareth by the altar sweareth by it and by all things that are upon it. And whosoever shall swear by the temple sweareth by it and by him that dwelleth in it. (Matthew 23:16-21). Third where the mountain Tabor is called a holy mount, because JESUS CHRIST was transfigured upon it. And this voice, we heard brought from heaven, when we were with him in the holy mount. (2 Peter 1:18) and For every creature of God is good, and nothing to be rejected that is received with thanksgiving: For it is sanctified by the word of God and prayer. (Timothy 4:4,5).
Q. How prove you that pilgrimages to holy places, as to the Holy Mount Calvary, the Holy Mount Tabor, and the Holy Sepulchre of JESUS CHRIST, are laudable and pious practices?
A. Because GOD himself commanded, that thrice a year all the people should come up into Jerusalem, to adore and make their offerings to Him. Three times in a year shall all thy males appear before the Lord thy God in the place which he shall choose: in the feast of unleavened bread, in the feast of weeks, and in the feast of tabernacles. (Deuteronomy 16:16). And secondly, from the example of JESUS CHRIST Himself, and that of the Blessed Virgin Mary and Saint Joseph: And his parents went every year to Jerusalem, at the solemn day of the pasch. And when he was twelve years old, they going up into Jerusalem, according to the custom of the feast (Luke 2;41,42).
The Second Commandment: Thou shalt not take the the Name of the Lord thy GOD in vain
Q. What are we commanded by GOD through the Second Commandment?
A. We are commanded by GOD through the Second Commandment to speak with reverence of GOD and of the saints, and of all holy things, and to keep our lawful oaths and vows.
Q. What is forbidden by GOD through the Second Commandment?
A. Through the Second Commandment GOD forbids blasphemy; uttering the Name of GOD irreverently; using the words of Sacred Scripture in a bad or worldly sense; cursing; profane words; and all false, rash, unjust and unnecessary oaths.
Note’s: Blasphemy is any word or action intended as an insult to GOD.
Many people have the very bad habit of thoughtlessly exclaiming at every trifle that surprises them: “Good Lord!”; “My God!” and the like. This is sinful. Any careless, flippant use of the name of GOD is sinful. And let not the naming of God be usual in thy mouth, and meddle not with the names of saints, for thou shalt not escape free from them. (Ecclesiasticus [Sirach] 23:10). GOD will not hold him guiltless that shall take His name in vain. And they who hear such things spoken to them have to correct the speaker. Those who truly love GOD cannot stand by unmoved and hear His Most Holy Name, which is worthy of profoundest reverence, profaned.
It is sinful to use the words of Sacred Scripture in a bad or worldly sense, to joke in them or ridicule their sacred meaning, or in general to give them any meaning but the one we believe GOD has intended them to convey.
Third Comandment: Remember thou keep holy the Sabbath Day
Q. What are we commanded by GOD through the Third Commandment?
A. We are commanded by GOD through the Third Commandment to keep holy His day (the Lord’s day), which is Sunday, and the Holy Days of obligation, on which we are to give our time to the service and worship of GOD.
Q. How are we to worship GOD on Sundays and Holy Days of obligation?
A. We are to worship GOD on Sundays by assisting at Holy Mass with attention and devotion, by prayer, and by other good works.
Note’s: Sunday, which means the Lord’s Day, was substituted for Saturday by the Apostles whom JESUS CHRIST had given authority, because it was on that day that our Lord rose from the dead. And on the first day of the week, when we were assembled to break bread (Acts of the Apostles 20:7); I was in the spirit on the Lord’s day and heard behind me a great voice, as of a trumpet (Apocalypse [Revelation] 1:10)
Some of the good works by which a good Catholic sanctifies the Lord’s day are: receiving the Sacraments of Penance and the Most Holy Eucharist, by prayer, hearing sermons, attending Christian Doctrine and the Divine Office (Daily prayer of the Church), reading spiritual books, and performing works of charity and mercy.
Q. What is forbidden by GOD through the Third Commandment?
A. Through the Third Commandment GOD forbids all unnecessary servile work on Sundays; profanation of His Day and Holy Days of obligation with debauchery, drunkeness and sinful amusements; public spectacles; and whatever else may hinder the due observance of the His day and the Holy Days of obligation.
Fourth Commandment: Honour thy father and thy mother
Q. What are we commanded by GOD through the Fourth Commandment?
A. Through the Fourth Commandment, Honour thy father and thy mother, GOD commands us to honour, respect and love our parents for His sake, obey them in all that is not sinful, and assist them in their spiritual and temporal needs. And he [The Child JESUS] went down with them and came to Nazareth and was subject to them [St. Joseph and Holy Mary].(Luke 2:51)
Note: Children are obliged to love, respect and obey their parents for the love of GOD. Childen are under obedience to parents till the age of eighteen, unless they have already begun their vocation for GOD before that and if the children are still living with the parents once they are eighteen they have to follow the order and rules of the house, set by the father, that pertains to them.Love and respect towards parents for the love of GOD is always.
Q. What other persons does this Commandment include?
A. This Commandment also includes all superiors; the husband for the wife; both ecclesiastical and civil rulers and teachers and employers whom consequently have to be respected and obeyed in everything that is not sinful.
Q. Why should we refuse to obey parents or superiors who command us to sin?
A. We should refuse to obey parents or superiors who command us to sin because they are not then acting with GOD’s authority, but contrary to it and in violation of His laws. GOD has given superiors the authority to see that His holy will is done by those whom He has placed under them and not to go against it. But Peter and the apostles answering, said: We ought to obey God rather than men. (Acts of the Apostles 5:29).
Q. What are the duties of parents towards their children?
A. Parents are bound to love their children for the sake of GOD conducting them to heaven; to provide and protect them spiritually and temporally; to bring them up in the knowledge and practice of the Catholic religion and to educate them in the necessary secular things in a Catholic way; to give them good example; to keep them from the occasions of sin; to correct their faults; and to help them to embrace the state of life to which GOD has called them. But he that shall scandalize one of these little ones that believe in me, it were better for him that a millstone should be hanged about his neck, and that he should be drowned in the depth of the sea. (Matthew 18:6); And they were mingled among the heathens, and learned their works: And served their idols, and it became a stumblingblock to them. And they sacrificed their sons, and their daughters to devils. (Psalms 105:35-37)
Note: It is a sin of grave matter for parents not to Baptise their child as soon as possible after birth.
Q. What are the duties of all Superiors towards those placed under them by GOD?
A. Superiors, according to their state in life, are bound by GOD to help those placed under them by Him to love Him and attain eternal life with Him in Heaven and be just in relation to their temporal welfare.
Note: It is sinful for a Catholic to strive for a position he is not competent to fill.
Fifth Commandment: Thou shalt not kill
Q. What is forbidden by GOD through the Fifth Commandment?
A. Through the Fifth Commandment GOD forbids all wilful murder (includes killing of a child in the mothers womb and euthanasia); unjust war; human torture; suicide; contraception; steralization; I.V.F. or artificial insemination; transgenderism; transhumanism; fighting; unjust anger; quarelling; hatred; resentment; revenge; insults; unforgiving spirit; irritating words or actions; contempt of others; envy; jealousy; sadness at anothers prosperity; seriously desiring evil to befall upon another; rejoicing over evil befallen upon another; blackmail; causing enemities between others; mutilation of the body; tatooing the body: neither shall you make in yourselves any figures or marks. I am the Lord. (Leviticus 19:28); neglect of bodily health; use of narcotics; drunkensess; gluttony; placing oneself in occasions of sin; neglecting, according to ones state in life, to help those in spiritual need; and all that is harmful to the soul or body of oneself or ones neighbour.
Q. How can harm be done to another’s spiritual life?
A. Harm can be done to another’s spiritual life by scandal or bad example and inducing others to sin.
Note’s: He commits a much more greater sin who destroys the spiritual life of his neighbor than he who kills his physical life.
If one does not love ones neighbour for the love of GOD one does not love ones neighbour. If one leads ones neighbour to hell one hates ones neighbour.
Q. What should he do who has injured another in the life of either body or soul?
A. He who has injured another must not only confess his sin, but must also repair the harm by compensating his neighbour for the loss he has sustained, by retracting the errors taught, and by giving good example.
Q. Are there cases in which it is lawful to kill?
A. It is lawful to kill: (1) In self defense, when we are unjustly attacked and have no other means of saving our own lives; (2) in a just war, when the safety of the nation require it; (3) by capital punishment, which is the lawful execution of a criminal, fairly tried and found guilty of a crime punishable by death when the preservation of law and order and the good of the society require such execution. In those days, after Moses was grown up, he went out to his brethren: and saw their affliction, and an Egyptian striking one of the Hebrews, his brethren. And when he had looked about this way and that way, and saw no one there, he slew the Egyptian and hid him in the sand. (Exodus 2:11,12); All things have their season, and in their times all things pass under heaven. A time of love, and a time of hatred. A time of war, and a time of peace. (Ecclesiastes 3:1,8); For he is God’s minister to thee, for good. But if thou do that which is evil, fear: for he beareth not the sword in vain. For he is God’s minister: an avenger to execute wrath upon him that doth evil.(Romans 13:4); Pilate therefore saith to him: Speakest thou not to me? Knowest thou not that I have power to crucify thee, and I have power to release thee? Jesus answered: Thou shouldst not have any power against me, unless it were given thee from above. (John 19:10,11); But the other answering, rebuked him, saying: Neither dost thou fear God, seeing; thou art under the same condemnation [capital punishment]? And we indeed justly: for we receive the due reward of our deeds [justly deserve capital punishment].(Luke 23:40,41); And Elias [Elijah] said to them: Take the prophets of Baal, and let not one of them escape. And when they had taken them, Elias brought them down to the torrent Cison, and killed them there. (3 Kings 18:40)
Q. What is just anger?
A. Zeal for GOD’s glory is called just anger. Such was the anger Our Lord JESUS CHRIST displayed, when He with a scourge of little cords drove the sellers of oxen, sheep and doves and the money changers out of the Temple after pouring out the money of the money changers and overthrowing their tables (John 2:13-17), or Moses, when, returning from the Mount, he saw the people worshipping the golden calf. Just anger is not really anger; it is the offspring of charity, and like charity, is patient, kind, calm, and not actuated by hatred. Just anger is lawful: Be ye angry, and sin not (Psalms 4:5). That anger alone is sinful which desires to take personal revenge. But he that shall deny me before men, I will also deny him before my Father who is in heaven. Do not think that I came to send peace upon earth: I came not to send peace, but the sword. (Saint Matthew 10:33,34); Cursed be he that doth the work of the Lord deceitfully: and cursed be he that withholdeth his sword from blood. (Jeremias 48:10); I know thy works, that thou art neither cold nor hot. I would thou wert cold or hot. But because thou art lukewarm and neither cold nor hot, I will begin to vomit thee out of my mouth. (Apocalype 3:15,16)
Note: JESUS CHRIST is the lamb of GOD (John 1:29) and also the lion of Judah (Apocalypse[Revelation] 5:5). The HOLY SPIRIT appeared in the form of a dove (Luke 3:22) and of fire (Acts of the Apostles 2:2-4). The holy work of GOD is done gently and zealously, and whoever is wanting in gentleness and zeal is not under the influence of GOD.
Sixth Commandment: Thou shalt not commit adultery
Q. What are we commanded by GOD through the Sixth Commandment?
A. Through the the Sixth Commandment we are commanded by GOD to be pure in thought and chaste and modest in all our looks, words, and actions.
Q. What does GOD forbid through the Sixth Commandment?
A. Through the Sixth Commandment, Thou shalt not commit adultery, GOD forbids every look, every act and every word contrary to chastity and also infidelity in marriage. Know you not that the unjust shall not possess the kingdom of God? Do not err: Neither fornicators nor idolaters nor adulterers: Nor the effeminate nor liers with mankind nor thieves nor covetous nor drunkards nor railers nor extortioners shall possess the kingdom of God. (1 Corinthians 6:9)
Note’s: Some of the sins forbidden by GOD through the Sixth Commandment specifically are: adultery; spiritual adultery; fornication; solitary sins of the flesh; sodomy; viewing impurity; reading impurity; lust in the heart; immodest dressing; immodest posture; transvesting / cross dressing - a man wearing womens clothing or a women wearing mens clothing; and destroying the innocence of another especially that of children.
For modesty of dress the rule is: clothes are to conceal the body and not to reveal. But every woman praying or prophesying with her head not covered disgraceth her head: for it is all one as if she were shaven. (1 Corinthians 11:5); And the Lord God made for Adam and his wife garments of skins, and clothed them. (Genesis 3:21); And in the midst of the seven golden candlesticks, one like to the Son of man, clothed with a garment down to the feet (Apocalypse 1:13); And the king went in to see the guests: and he saw there a man who had not on a wedding garment. And he saith to him: Friend, how camest thou in hither not having on a wedding garment? But he was silent. Then the king said to the waiters: Bind his hands and feet, and cast him into the exterior darkness. There shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth. (Matthew 22:11-13); And she [the Blessed Virgin Mary] brought forth her first born son [JESUS CHRIST] and wrapped him up in swaddling clothes (Luke 2:7); And the father [father of the prodigal son] said to his servants: Bring forth quickly the first robe and put it on him (Luke 15:22); Or know you not that your members are the temple of the Holy Ghost, who is in you, whom you have from God: and you are not your own? For you are bought with a great price. Glorify and bear God in your body. (1 Corinthians 6:19,20); Know you not that you are the temple of God and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you? But if any man violate the temple of God, him shall God destroy. For the temple of God is holy, which you are. (1 Corinthians 3:16,17)
It is gravely sinful for a man to wear women’s clothing and for a woman to wear men’s clothing (pants are men’s clothing, so it is gravely sinful for a woman to wear pants). A woman shall not be clothed with man’s apparel, neither shall a man use woman’s apparel: for he that doth these things is abominable before God. (Deuteronomy 22:5);
Q. Why is lust hateful in the sight of GOD?
A. Because it defiles in man the image of GOD, and the temple of the HOLY SPIRIT. Know you not that you are the temple of God and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you? But if any man violate the temple of God, him shall God destroy. For the temple of God is holy, which you are. (1 Corinthians 3:16,17)
Q. What must we avoid in order to preserve ourselves chaste?
A. To preserve ourselves chaste we must shun idleness and all sloth; have temperance in food and drink; keep custody of the eyes: I made a covenant with my eyes, that I would not so much as think upon a virgin. (Job 31:1); dress modestly; shun bad companions, the reading of bad books and papers, the sight of indecent statues or pictures, the evils of music, internet, television, theatres and cinemas, dangerous conversations, and all other occasions of sin.
Q. What must we do to observe the Sixth Commandment of GOD?
A. To be able to observe the Sixth Commandment of GOD, we ought to pray often and from our hearts to GOD; take the Most Holy Name of JESUS in a devout manner frequently; ask the Blessed Virgin Mary, the Mother of purity, her intercession; remember that GOD watches us at all times; think on death, judgement, on the Divine chastisements, primarily the eternal torments of hell, and on the Passion of JESUS CHRIST; guard the senses; practice Christian mortification; frequent the Sacraments with the proper dispositions and by doing almsdeeds.
Seventh Commandment: Thou shalt not steal.
Q. What are we commanded by GOD through the Seventh Commandment?
A. Through the Seventh Commandment we are commanded by GOD to give to all men what belongs to them and to respect their property.
Q. What is forbidden by GOD through the Seventh Commandment?
A. Through the Seventh Commandment GOD forbids all unjust taking and all unjust keeping of what belongs to another, and also every other way of wronging our neighbour in his property.
Q. Are we bound to restore ill-gotten goods?
A. We are bound to restore ill-gotten goods, or the value of them, as far as we are able; otherwise we cannot be forgiven.
Q. Are we obliged to repair the damage we have unjustly caused?
A. We are bound to repair the damage we have unjustly caused.
Q. What are some of the ways that the Seventh Commandment is broken?
The Seventh Commandment is broken by stealing, theft, roberry, fraud, usury, by refusing to pay debts or wages due, by not working as in duty bound, by unjust gain by buying or selling and any other act of injustice directed against ones neighbours goods.
Q. What is usury?
A. Usury is a sin whereby one receive’s, or to hope’s for some money or moneys’ worth, as gain, above the principle, immediately out of the consideration of loan. Simply put usury is charging interest on loan. There can be no circumstance to charge interest on a loan. Usury in its very nature is evil. Usury kills. It is murder. Lord, who shall dwell in thy tabernacle? or who shall rest in thy holy hill? He that hath not put out his money to usury, nor taken bribes against the innocent: He that doth these things, shall not be moved for ever. (Psalms 14:1,5); Hath not lent upon usury, nor taken any increase(Ezechiel 18:8); That giveth upon usury, and that taketh an increase: shall such a one live? he shall not live. Seeing he hath done all these detestable things, he shall surely die, his blood shall be upon him. (Ezechiel 18:13); lend, hoping for nothing thereby: and your reward shall be great, and you shall be the sons of the Highest. (Luke 6:35)
Q. By what else is the Seventh Commandment broken?
A. The Seventh Commandment is also broken by unjustly causing ones neighbour to lose what he has; by injuring him in his possessions; by borrowing or buying with the intention of never repaying; by begging under the false pretext of being poor; by preventing another from making just gains; by damaging property held in custody; by aiding thieves; by wounding or killing the stock of another; by receiving, concealing or buying stolen goods; by fraud or embezzlement ; by price fixing; by violating copyrights; cozenage in gaming; by the imposition of unjust taxes on the subjects by civil rulers and by subjects not paying their due just taxes to the state; by taking bribes and giving bribes; by being stingy with temporal goods; by wasting temporal goods; by neglecting to help the poor in their temporal needs; and by breaking a promise of Marriage.
Q. What does GOD command by the Seventh Commandment command?
A. By the Seventh Commandment GOD commands us to respect the property of others, to give the labourer fair wages, and to observe justice in all that concerns what belongs to others.
Eighth Commandment: Thou shalt not bear false witness against thy neighbour
Q. What are we commanded by GOD through the Eighth Commandment?
A. We are commanded by GOD through the Eighth Commandment to speak the truth in all things, and to be careful of the honour and reputation of every one.
Q. What is forbidden by GOD through the Eighth Commandment?
A. Through the Eighth Commandment GOD forbids all lies; hypocrisy; rash judgments, backbiting; calumny; detraction; flattery; listening with pleasure when our neighbour is spoken against; encouraging another when he speaks against our neighbour; breaking a secret without just cause; and forgery.
Note’s: GOD is truth Himself, consequently He hates every kind of falsehood, especially lying, hypocrisy, and flattery.
Lie is a sin which consists in asserting as true or false by word or act that which one does not believe to be really the case. The liar is like the devil and a child of the devil. You are of your father the devil: and the desires of your father you will do. He was a murderer from the beginning: and he stood not in the truth, because truth is not in him. When he speaketh a lie, he speaketh of his own: for he is a liar, and the father thereof. (John 8:44)
Hypocrisy or dissimulation is acting a lie. This sin is committed when we speak or act differently to what we think and feel.
Rash judgment is believing or suspecting a person guilty of sin without a sufficient cause.
Backbiting is saying evil things of another in his absence.
Calumny is is telling lies about another with the intention of injuring him.
Detraction is revealing the sins of another without necessity.
Flattery is deceiving another by falsely praising him or others for the purpose of profiting thereby.
Six things there are, which the Lord hateth, and the seventh his soul detesteth: Haughty eyes, a lying tongue, hands that shed innocent blood, A heart that deviseth wicked plots, feet that are swift to run into mischief, A deceitful witness that uttereth lies, and him that soweth discord among brethren. (Proverbs 6:16-19)
Sins of the tongue are avoided by checking talkativeness and being guarded in speech. Avoiding talkativeness is a great preventive opposed to lying, from which talkative persons can scarcely abstain, and also other evils will be obviated.
Q. Will a good reason for telling a lie excuse it?
A. No reason, however good, will excuse the telling of a lie, because a lie is always bad in itself. It is never allowed, even for a good intention to do a thing that is bad in itself.
Q. What must they do who have lied about their neighbor and injured his character?
A. They who have lied about their neighbour and injured his character must repair the injury done as far as they are able, otherwise they will not be forgiven.
Q. Is it ever allowed by GOD to tell the faults of another?
A. It is allowed by GOD to tell the faults of another when it is necessary to make them known in justice, procceding out of charity. As I hear, so I judge. And my judgment is just: because I seek not my own will but the will of him that sent me. (John 5:30); And why, even of yourselves, do you not judge that which is just? (Luke 12:57); Judge not according to the appearance: but judge just judgment. (John 7:24); If, when I say to the wicked, Thou shalt surely die: thou declare it not to him, nor speak to him, that he may be converted from his wicked way, and live: the same wicked man shall die in his iniquity, but I will require his blood at thy hand. But if thou give warning to the wicked, and he be not converted from his wickedness, and from his evil way: he indeed shall die in his iniquity, but thou hast delivered thy soul. Moreover if the just man shall turn away from his justice, and shall commit iniquity: I will lay a stumblingblock before him, he shall die, because thou hast not given him warning: he shall die in his sin, and his justices which he hath done, shall not be remembered: but I will require his blood at thy hand. But if thou warn the just man, that the just may not sin, and he doth not sin: living he shall live, because thou hast warned him, and thou hast delivered thy soul. (Ezekiel 3:18-21); Open thy mouth for the dumb, and for the causes of all the children that pass. (Proverbs 31:8)
Note: GOD requires of us to make good judgements so that we can do His holy will. Even so every good tree bringeth forth good fruit, and the evil tree bringeth forth evil fruit. A good tree cannot bring forth evil fruit, neither can an evil tree bring forth good fruit. Every tree that bringeth not forth good fruit, shall be cut down, and shall be cast into the fire. Wherefore by their fruits you shall know them.(Matthew 7:17-20). What GOD forbids is judgements that are sinful. Judge not, that you may not be judged. For with what judgment you judge, you shall be judged: and with what measure you mete, it shall be measured to you again. (Matthew 7:1,2)
Q. How should we be interested in our good character?
A. As far as the honour and glory of GOD, the good of our neighbour, and the duties of our state of life demand.
Q. In what manner should we take care of our reputation?
A. We should take care of it only by making use of the lawful means to preserve it, especially by leading a virtuous Christian life in union with GOD, and by avoiding, to the best of our ability, even the very appearance of evil.
Q. In what manner may we best avoid the sins of the tongue?
A. 1. By never talking thoughtlessly, bearing in mind that we have to give an account to GOD of every idle word: But I say unto you, that every idle word that men shall speak, they shall render an account for it in the day of judgment. (Matthew 12:36); and, 2. By keeping our heart free from ambition, envy, hatred, vengeance, and all inordinate affections.
Ninth Commandment: Thou shalt not covet thy neighbours wife
Q. What are we commanded by the Ninth Commandment?
A. We are commanded by the Ninth Commandment to keep ourselves pure interiorly, that is, in thought and desire.
Q. What does GOD through the Ninth Commandment forbid?
A. Through the Ninth Commandment GOD expressly forbids every desire contrary to that fidelity which husband and wife vowed to observe when contracting marriage; and it also forbids every guilty thought or desire of anything that is prohibited by the Sixth Commandment. JESUS CHRIST has said: But I say to you, that whosoever shall look on a woman to lust after her, hath already committed adultery with her in his heart. (Matthew 5:28)
Tenth Commandment: Thou shalt not covet thy neighbours goods
Q. What are we commanded by GOD through the Tenth Commandment?
A. Through the Tenth Commandment we are commanded by GOD to be content with what we have, and to rejoice in our neighbor’s welfare.
Q. What is forbidden by GOD through the Tenth Commandment?
A. Theough the Tenth Commandment GOD forbids all desires to take or keep wrongfully what belongs to another.
Note’s: GOD forbids the desire of another’s goods, because He wishes us to be just even in thought and will, and to hold ourselves completely aloof from all unjust acts.
Secret sins by which the last two of the Ten Commandments are broken, often inflict deeper wounds in the soul than those which are committed openly and publicly, and are more dangerous than them.
The Commandments / Precepts of the Church in General
Q. Are not the Commandments / Precepts of the Church also Commandments of GOD?
A. The Commandments of the Church, which are also called the Precepts of the Church, are also Commandments of GOD, for they are made by His authority and under the guidance of the HOLY SPIRIT; nevertheless, the Church can change or abolish its own Commandments, while it cannot change or abolish the Commandments given directly by GOD Himself. GOD has given the Church through the Pope and whom he delegates the authority to make laws of the Church to enforce His Divine Law for His greater glory and the salvation of souls.
Note: Basically the Commandments / Precepts of the Church are Commandments of GOD in praxis (practice). They are not two different things and cannot be separated. The Commandments / Precepts of the Church are Commandments of GOD although indirectly through the authority of His Church under the guidance of the HOLY SPIRIT.
Q. When does the obligation to observe the Commandments / Precepts of the Church begin to bind?
A. As a rule the obligation to observe the Commandments / Precepts of the Church begins to bind us as soon as one comes to the age of reason.
Q. Is it a sin to transgress a Commandment of the Church?
A. Knowingly to transgress a Commandment of the Church / Precept of the Church in grave matter is a mortal sin.
Q. Who can dispense from a Commandment / Precept of the Church?
A. Only the Pope, or one who has received from him the power to do so, can dispense from a Commandment / Precept of the Church.
Q. Which are the Commandments / Precepts of the the Church?
A. 1. To hear Mass on all Sundays and Holy Days of Obligation.
2. To fast and abstain on the days appointed.
3. To confess at least once a year.
4. To receive the Most Holy Eucharist during the Easter time.
5. To contribute to the support of the Church.
6. Not to marry persons who are not Catholics, or who are related within the fourth degree of kindred, nor privately with out witnesses, nor to solomnize marriage at forbidden times and to observe all the Marriage Laws of the Church.
Note: A Catholic is obliged to know and keep the Commandments / Precepts of the Church which are in force.
First Commandment / Precept: To hear Mass on all Sundays and Holy Days of Obligation
Q. Is it a sin of grave matter not to hear Mass on a Sunday or a Holyday of Obligation?
A. It is a sin of grave matter not to hear Mass on a Sunday or a Holyday of Obligation unless we are excused for a serious reason. They also commit a mortal sin who, having others under their charge, hinder them from hearing Mass, without a sufficient reason.
Q. What is a serious reason excusing one from the obligation of hearing Mass?
A. A serious reason excusing one from the obligation of hearing Mass is any reason that makes it impossible or very difficult to attend Mass, such as severe illness, great distance from the Church or any other grave cause.
Q. Why were holydays instituted by the church?
A. Holydays were instituted by the Church to recall to our minds the great mysteries of religion and the virtues and rewards of the saints.
Q. How should we keep the holydays of obligation?
A. We should keep the holydays of obligation as we should keep the Sunday.
Note: We are obliged to know and keep the Holy Days of obligation in the Diocese where we are present.
Second Commandment / Precept: To fast and abstain on the days appointed
Q. Which are the days appointed for fasting and abstinence by the Church?
A. The Days appointed for fasting are Ash Wednesday and Good Friday and the days appointed for abstinence are Ash Wednesday and all the Fridays throughout the year, unless a solemnity should fall on Friday.
Note: Though not obligated by the Church, Catholics have to fast on a regular basis throughout the year especially on Fridays. Always bearing about in our body the mortification of Jesus, that the life also of Jesus may be made manifest in our bodies. For we who live are always delivered unto death for Jesus’ sake: that the life also of Jesus may be made manifest in our mortal flesh. (2 Corinthians 4:10,11)
Q. For how long has one to be fasting before receiving Holy Communion?
A. Before receiving Holy Communion one has to fast for at least one hour from food and all drinks except water.
Note: Though it is not obligated by the Church, it is an exellent practice to fast from midnight before receiving Holy Communion before 12 in the noon and to fast three hours before receiving Holy Communion after 12 in the noon.
Q. What do you mean by fast-days?
A. By fast-days I mean days on which we are allowed maximum one full meal and two smaller meals that are together not equal to the one full meal.
Q. What do you mean by days of abstinence?
A. By days of abstinence, I mean days on which we are forbidden to eat flesh-meat, but are allowed the usual number of meals.
Q. Who are bound to fast and do abstinence?
A. Every Catholic from eighteen to fifty nine years of age is bound to fast and every Catholic who is fourteen years of age and above is bound to abstain, unless dispensed, or excused for some good reason.
Q. Why does the Church command us to fast and abstain?
A. The Church commands us to fast and abstain in order that we may mortify our passions and satisfy for our sins.
Note: By our passions are meant our sinful desires and inclinations. Mortifying them means restraining them and overcoming them so that they have less power to lead us into sin.
Q. Are those who are not bound to fast and abstain exempt from all mortification?
A. Those who are not bound by the obligation of fasting or abstinence are not exempt from all mortification, because all are bound to do penance.
Q. What fasting has the greatest merit?
A. The fasting imposed by the Church on certain days of the year, and particularly during Lent, has the greatest merit.
Q. Why does the Church command us to abstain from fleshmeat on Fridays?
A. The Church commands us to abstain from flesh-meat on Fridays in honour of the day on which our GOD and Saviour JESUS CHRIST died.
Q. For what purpose has Lent been instituted?
A. Lent has been instituted as a penitential season to imitate in some way the rigorous fast of forty days undergone by JESUS CHRIST in the desert, and to prepare us by penitential exercises to celebrate the Feast of Easter devoutly.
Q. What is the purpose of Advent?
A. The purpose of Advent, a penitential season, is to prepare us to celebrate devoutly the Feast of our Lord JESUS CHRIST’s Nativity, that is Christmas which is from the Mass of the birth of JESUS CHRIST.
Note: The word Advent is from the Latin word Adventus, which means coming or arrival. The Season of Advent, which has the four Sundays of Advent, preceding Christmas Day, is a reminder of our GOD and Saviour JESUS CHRIST’s first coming in lowliness, by his birth in the flesh to redeem the world, and His second and final coming in all glory and majesty to end the world by fire and judge the living and the dead.
Q. What is the purpose of Vigils on the preceeding day before a principal Feast?
A. The purpose of Vigils on the preceeding day before a principal Feast is to prepare us to celebrate the principal Feasts devoutly.
Third Commandment / Precept: To confess at least once a year
Q. What is meant by the Command / Precept of Confessing at least once a year?
A. By the Command / Precept of Confessing at least once a year is meant that the Church obliges all Catholics who have come to the age of reason, under pain of mortal sin, to go to Confession within the year unless it was not possible because of a just cause.
Q. Should children go to confession?
A. Children should go to confession when they are old enough to commit sin, which is commonly about the age of seven years.
Q. Should we confess only once a year?
A. We should confess frequently, if we wish to lead a holy life.
Q. Should we go to confession at our usual time even if we think we have not committed sin since our last confession?
A. We should go to confession at our usual time even if we think we have not committed sin since our last confession, because the Sacrament of Penance has for its object not only to forgive sins, but also to bestow grace and strengthen the soul against temptation.
Fourth Commandment / Precept: To receive the Most Holy Eucharist during the Easter time
Q. What sin does he commit who neglects to receive Holy Communion during the Easter time?
A. He who neglects to receive Holy Communion during the Easter time commits a mortal sin unless it was not possible because of a just cause.
Q. What is the Easter time?
A. The Easter time is, the time between the first Sunday of Lent and Trinity Sunday.
Note: The period to fulfill the Easter Duty stated by the Bishop of the Diocese where one lives has to be known.
Q. Are we bound to receive Holy Communion at other times besides Easter?
A. We are also bound to receive Holy Communion when in danger of death.
Fifth Commandment / Precept: To contribute to the support of the Church
Q. Are we obliged to contribute to the support of the Church?
A. We are obliged to contribute to the support of the Church.
Note: In cases when an authority or authorities of the Church are doing things against the Laws of GOD it will be sinful to support in those circumstances because that is not the support of the Church but supporting work against GOD and His Church.
Sixth Commandment / Precept: Not to marry persons who are not Catholics, or who are related within the fourth degree of kindred, nor privately with out witnesses, nor to solomnize marriage at forbidden times and to observe all the Marriage Laws of the Church
Q. What is the meaning of the command not to marry privately?
A. The command not to marry privately means that a marriage should be contracted before the local bishop or parish priest, or a priest or deacon delegated by either of them, and before two witnesses.
PART VI: THE LORD’S PRAYER
The Lords Prayer or The Our Father in General
Q. Which is the most excellent of all prayers?
A. The most excellent of all prayers is that which JESUS CHRIST taught us, that is to say, the Our Father. (Matthew 6:9-13)
Q. Why is the Our Father the most excellent of all prayers?
A. The Our Father is the most excellent of all prayers because GOD JESUS CHRIST Himself composed it and taught it to us. It has five excellent qualities which are required in all prayer. A prayer must be confident, ordered, suitable, devout and humble. It is the standard and model of all other prayers.
Q. Is the Our Father also the most efficacious of all prayers?
A. Yes, it is also the most efficacious of prayers, because it is the most acceptable to GOD, since in it we pray in the very words His Divine Son has taught us.
Q. Why is the our Father called the the prayer Lord’s prayer?
A. The our father is called the Lord’s prayer precisely because, JESUS CHRIST our Lord has taught it to us with His own mouth.
Q. How is the Lord’s prayer or Our Father divided?
A. The Lord’s prayer or Our father is divided into seven requests or petitions preceded by an introduction. Three of these petitions refer to GOD’s honour and glory, and the remaining four to our spiritual spiritual and corporeal wants.
Q. What does the Lord’s Prayer or Our Father teach us?
A. The Our Father teaches us how we are to pray. It teaches us about the glory that has to be given to GOD and all that we are to hope from Him and all we are to ask of Him.
Q. Say the Lord’s prayer.
A. Our Father, who art in heaven,
Hallowed be Thy Name;
Thy kingdom come;
Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread;
And forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us
And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. Amen.
Thus therefore shall you pray: Our Father who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our supersubstantial bread. And forgive us our debts, as we also forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation. But deliver us from evil. Amen. (Matthew 6:9-13)
Note: We should say the Our Father every day, because every day we have to give GOD glory and we have need of GOD’s help to do His Holy will.
Our Father Who Art in Heaven
Q. How does the Our Father begin?
A. The Our Father begins with: Our Father who art in Heaven.
Q. When invoking GOD in the beginning of the Lord’s Prayer, why do we call Him Our Father?
A. In the beginning of the Lord’s Prayer we call GOD Our Father, to foster confidence in His infinite goodness by the remembrance that we are his children.
Q. Whom do we address as “Our Father” when we say the Lord’s Prayer?
A. When we say “Our Father” in the Lord’s Prayer we address Almighty GOD, Father, Son and Holy Spirit united in the adorable Most Holy Trinity.
Q. GOD being in every place, why do we say: Who art in heaven?
A. GOD is in every place; but we say: Our Father who art in heaven, (1) to raise our hearts to heaven where GOD manifests His glory to His children; (2) that in heaven we shall see GOD face to face as He is; (3) that heaven is the place where GOD will be for all eternity, with the blessed; (4) that heaven is our true home for which we were created.
Hallowed be Thy Name
Q. What does “Hallowed be Thy Name” mean?
A. Hallowed means set apart for a holy or sacred use, and thus comes to mean treated or praised as holy or sacred. “Thy name” means GOD Himself and all relating to Him, and by this petition we ask that GOD may be known, loved and served by ourselves in particular and by all.
Q. Why do we first of all ask that the Name of GOD may be sanctified?
A. We first of all ask that the Name of GOD may be sanctified, because the glory of GOD should be nearer to our hearts than all other goods and interests.
Q. How can we promote the glory of GOD?
A. We can promote the glory of GOD by prayer, by directing to Him all our thoughts, affections and actions in accordance to His Holy Will and by good example.
Q. Who are these that say this petition ill?
A. Such as those who dishonour the name of GOD by blaspheming, swearing, lying, cursing, scurrilous disclosures and uttering the Name of GOD in a joke or in any irreverent way.
Thy Kingdom Come
Q. What do we ask for in the Second Petition: “Thy kingdom come”?
A. In the Second Petition “Thy kingdom come” we ask (1) that GOD may reign in the our souls and the souls of all men by His grace, so that they may attain eternal salvation; (2) that the true Church, the Catholic Church--JESUS CHRIST’S kingdom--may spread upon earth till all men embrace the true religion; (3) that we may be one day admitted into the Heavenly kingdom for which we were created and where we shall be perfectly happy.
Q. Who say this petition ill?
A. Such as are willing slaves to sin, to the devil, the world and the flesh.
Thy Will be Done on Earth as it is in Heaven
Q. What do we ask in the Third Petition: ”Thy will be done on earth as it is in Heaven”?
A. In the Third Petition: ”Thy will be done on earth as it is in Heaven”, we beg the grace to do the will of GOD in all things by obeying His Commandments as promptly as the Angels and Saints obey Him in Heaven; and we also beg the grace to correspond to divine inspirations and to live resigned to the will of GOD should He send us tribulations.
Note: In heaven the Angels and Saints do GOD’s will perfectly. In the petition, “Thy Will be done on earth as it is in heaven,” we pray that all GOD’s creatures may imitate the Angels and Saints in heaven by doing His Holy will.
Q. Is it necessary to do the will of GOD?
A. It is absolutely necessary to do the will of GOD because JESUS CHRIST has said that they alone who have done the will of His Father shall enter into the Kingdom of Heaven.
Q. Should we always recognise the will of GOD in prosperity as well as in adversity?
A. Both in prosperity and adversity we should always recognise the will of GOD, who directs or permits all things for our good.
Give us this Day our Daily Bread
Q. What do we ask for by “our daily bread”?
A. In the petition for “our daily bread” we ask not merely for bread, but for all that we need for the good of our soul and body.
Q. What do we ask of GOD for our soul?
A. For our soul we ask of GOD the sustenance of our spiritual life, that is, we pray to GOD to give us His grace of which we stand in continual need.
Q. How is the life of the soul principally nourished?
A. The life of the soul is nourished principally by the food of the Holy Word of GOD and by the Most Holy Eucharist. Not in bread alone doth man live, but in every word that proceedeth from the mouth of God. (Matthew 4:4); I am the bread of life. Your fathers did eat manna in the desert: and are dead. This is the bread which cometh down from heaven: that if any man eat of it, he may not die. (John 6:48-50); And they were persevering in the doctrine of the apostles and in the communication of the breaking of bread and in prayers. (Acts of the Apostles 2:42)
Q. What do we ask of GOD for our body?
A. For the body we ask all that is necessary for the sustainment of our temporal life which is needed to love and serve GOD.
Q. Why do we say “daily”?
A. We say “daily” to teach us that we are not to be avaricious nor be solicitous regarding the future, but only prudent in providing for our wants, desiring that which is necessary for us; and that we are to have great confidence in the providence of GOD.
Q. Why do we say: Give us bread, and not: Give me bread?
A. We say: Give us, rather than, Give me, to remind us that as everything comes from GOD, so if He gives us His gifts in abundance, He does it in order that we may share what we do not need with the poor.
Q. Who say this petition ill?
A. Such as are cold and careless in coming to the Sacraments, and in hearing Divine service, or exhortations; and such as ascribe their temporal goods and blessings to their own industry and providence, and not to any special bounty or gift of GOD.
And Forgive us our Trespasses as we Forgive those who Trespasses Against us
Q. What do you mean by “forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us”?
A. In this petition we declare to GOD that we have forgiven all who have injured or offended us, and ask Him to reward us by pardoning our sins.
Q. Why are our sins called debts?
A. Our sins are called debts, because we must satisfy GOD’s justice for them either in this life or in the next.
Q. When may we be said to forgive those who trespass against us?
A. We may be said to forgive our enemies when we act, and, as far as possible, feel toward them as if they had never injured us.
Q. Can those who do not forgive their neighbour hope that GOD will pardon them?
A. Those who do not forgive their neighbour have no reason to hope that GOD will pardon them; especially since they condemn themselves when they ask GOD to forgive them as they forgive their neighbour.
Q. Who say this petition ill?
A. Such as those who bear malice against their neighbour, and seek revenge.
And Lead us not into Temptation
Q. What do we ask in the Sixth Petition: And lead us not into temptation?
A. In the Sixth Petition: And lead us not into temptation, we ask GOD to deliver us from temptation either by not allowing us to be tempted, or by giving us grace not to be conquered.
Q. What is temptation?
A. A temptation is anything that incites, provokes, or urges us to offend GOD.
Q. Is it a sin to be tempted?
A. It is not a sin to be tempted, because we cannot prevent it. It is sinful only to consent or yield to the temptation or voluntarily expose ourselves to it. On the contrary it is a great occasion of merit, if we resist it as we ought. Blessed is the man that endureth temptation: for, when he hath been proved, he shall receive the crown of life which God hath promised to them that love him. (James 1:12);
Q. Is there any sin in those motions of concupiscence, which we feel an suffer against our wills?
A. There is no sin, for nothing is sin, which is not voluntary and deliberate. Nay, if resisted they become the occasion of merit to us. To them were liable the most perfect saints, and even the Apostles themselves. And lest the greatness of the revelations should exalt me, there was given me a sting of my flesh, an angel of Satan, to buffet me. For which thing, thrice I besought the Lord that it might depart from me. And he said to me: My grace is sufficient for thee: for power is made perfect in infirmity. Gladly therefore will I glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may dwell in me. (2 Corinthians 12 12:7-9)
Q. Does GOD tempt us to sin?
A. GOD does not tempt us to sin; but He permits us to be tempted to try our fidelity or punish our pride; to increase our virtue; and to give us an opportunity of meriting rewards for ourselves by overcoming the temptations.
Q. From what do temptations come?
A. Temptations come from the Three Enemies of our Soul: 1. The devil, our spiritual enemy; 2. The world, that is, bad persons, bad places and bad things in the world; 3. The flesh; that is, our body with its strong evil passions and evil inclinations due to the effects of original sin. Be sober and watch: because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, goeth about seeking whom he may devour. Whom resist ye, strong in faith: knowing that the same affliction befalls, your brethren who are in the world. (1 Peter 5:8,9); We know that we are of God and the whole world is seated in wickedness. (1 John 5:19); Love not the world, nor the things which are in the world. If any man love the world, the charity of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world is the concupiscence of the flesh and the concupiscence of the eyes and the pride of life, which is not of the Father but is of the world. And the world passeth away and the concupiscence thereof: but he that doth the will of God abideth for ever. (1 John 2:15-17)
Q. Can a man live in this world, and be free from all temptations?
A. Morally speaking he cannot: The life of man upon earth is a warfare (Job 7:1)
Q. Can we always resist temptation?
A. We can always resist temptation if we wish, for GOD always gives us sufficient grace and never permits us to be tempted above our strength. And God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that which you are able: but will make also with temptation issue, that you may be able to bear it. (1 Corinthians 10:13); I can do all things in him who strengtheneth me. (Philippians 4:13); But resist the devil: and he will fly from you. (James 4:7); But I see another law in my members, fighting against the law of my mind and captivating me in the law of sin that is in my members. Unhappy man that I am, who shall deliver me from the body of this death? The grace of God, by Jesus Christ our Lord. (Romans 7:23-25)
Q. What is the best means of overcoming temptation?
A. The best means of overcoming temptation is to resist its very beginning; by calling upon the Most Holy Name of JESUS; by praying to GOD for the help to resist it; by turning our attention from it; by flying dangerous occasions; by guarding our senses, and by doing the opposite of what we are tempted to do; by avoiding idleness and keeping ourselves occupied in the service of GOD according to our state in life; by mortifications; by receiving the sacraments frequently and by doing almsdeeds.
Note: We must not expose ourselves to temptation, but, on the contrary, carefully avoid it, yet resist it bravely when it assails us.
Q. Who are they that say this petition ill?
A. Such as those who place themselves in the occasion of sin, and wilfully expose themselves unto temptations.
But Deliver us from Evil
Q. What do we ask in the Seventh Petition: But deliver us from evil?
A. In the Seventh Petition: But deliver us from evil, we ask GOD to free us from evils, past, present, and future of body and mind, and particularly from the greatest of all evils which is sin, and from eternal damnation, which is its penalty.
Q. Why do we say: Deliver us from evil and not: From evils?
A. We say: Deliver us from evil, and not, from evils, because we should not desire to be exempt from all the evils of this life, but only from those which are not good for our souls; and hence we beg liberation from evil in general, that is, from whatever GOD sees would be bad for us. And the God of peace crush Satan under your feet speedily. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you. (Romans 16:20)
Note: It is lawful to beg liberation from some evil in particular but always in bowing to the will of GOD, who may even ordain that particular affliction for the good of our soul.
Q. How do the tribulations, which GOD sends us, help us?
A. Tribulations help us to do penance for our sins, to practise virtue, and above all to imitate JESUS CHRIST, our GOD and our Head, to whom it is fitting we should conform ourselves in our sufferings, if we wish to have a share in His glory.
Q. Who say this petition ill?
A. They who commit their evils before GOD, and multiply their sins without remorse.
Amen
Q. What does “Amen” mean?
A. “Amen” means so be it; so I do desire; thus do I pray the Lord; thus do I hope. It is the seal of the Lord’s Prayer.
CONCLUDING PART
The Most Essential Truths of the Faith
Q. Name some of the most essential truths of the faith.
A. Some of the most essential truths of the faith are: (1) That there is but one GOD who is infinitely good and He rewards the good and punishes the bad. The hand of our God is upon all them that seek him in goodness: and his power and strength, and wrath upon all them that forsake him. (1 Esdras 8:22). (2) That in GOD there are three Divine Persons: the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, and these three Divine Persons are called the MOST HOLY TRINITY. (3) That JESUS CHRIST, the Second Person of the Most Holy Trinity, became man and died for our redemption. (4) That the grace of GOD which is bestowed by Him only through His Catholic Church is absolutely necessary for our salvation. (5) That the human soul is immortal. And the dust return into its earth, from whence it was, and the spirit return to God, who gave it. (Ecclesiastes 12:7) Heaven only for those who die in state of sanctifying grace. Hell for all those who die in a state of mortal sin or in a state of original sin alone.
On The Last Things: Death, Judgement, Purgatory, Heaven And Hell
Q. What is death?
A. Death is the seperation of the soul from the body. We are mortal, and shall for certain die; how soon, we are uncertain, and therefore we must be always prepared for it. And as it is appointed unto men once to die, and after this the judgment (Hebrews 9:27); Watch ye therefore, because you know not the day nor the hour. (Matthew 25:13)
Q. What is the best preparation for death?
A. Living a godly life of union with GOD through charity with the help of His grace, to be often doing penance for our sins, keeping our focus: on Jesus, the author and finisher of faith (Hebrews 12:2), to remember often that: For he that will save his life, shall lose it: and he that shall lose his life for my sake, shall find it. (Matthew 16:25) and: thesufferings of this time are not worthy to be compared with the glory to come that shall be revealed in us. (Romans 8:18), and: having a desire to be dissolved and to be with Christ, a thing by far the better. (Philippians 1:23).
Q. When will JESUS CHRIST judge us?
A. JESUS CHRIST will judge us immediately after our death and on the last day. And as it is appointed unto men once to die, and after this the judgment (Hebrews 9:27); Behold, I come quickly: and my reward is with me, to render to every, man according to his works. (Apocalypse [Revelation] 22:12)
Q. What is the judgment called which we have to undergo immediately after death?
A. The judgment which we have to undergo immediately after death is called the Particular Judgment.
Q. What is the judgment called which all men have to undergo on the last day?
A. The judgment which all men have to undergo on the last day is called the General and Final Judgment.
Q. What is one of the best preparation from this judgment?
A. To remember often that: every idle word that men shall speak, they shall render an account for it in the day of judgment. (Matthew 12:36); It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God. (Hebrews 10:31); and: But if we would judge ourselves, we should not be judged. (1 Corinthians 11:31). Therefore, whilst we have time, let us work(Galatians 5:10) as wise: redeeming the time, because the days are evil (Ephesians 5:16); the night cometh, when no man can work. (John 9:4). Behold, now is the acceptable time: behold, now is the day of salvation. (2 Corinthians 6:2).
Note: We should live in such a way for GOD, being His faithful children (faithful Catholics) with all that we are and have, that we are ready to meet JESUS CHRIST our GOD with great confidence at any moment.
Q. What are the rewards or punishments appointed for men’s souls after the Particular Judgment?
A. The rewards or punishments appointed for men’s souls after the Particular Judgment are Heaven, Purgatory, and Hell.
Q. What is Purgatory?
A. Purgatory is temporal place in which those suffer the punishment of fire for a certain time who die guilty of venial sins and or die without having satisfied for the punishment due to their sins as nothing defiled can enter into the presence of GOD in Heaven. There shall not enter into it [Heaven] any thing defiled (Apocalypse [Revelation] 21:27)
Note: Sacred Scriptural Reference’ s for Purgatory - It is therefore a holy and wholesome thought to pray for the dead, that they may be loosed from sins. (2 Machabees 12:46); Be at agreement with thy adversary betimes, whilst thou art in the way with him: lest perhaps the adversary deliver thee to the judge, and the judge deliver thee to the officer, and thou be cast into prison. Amen I say to thee, thou shalt not go out from thence till thou repay the last farthing.(Matthew 25:26); If any man’s work abide, which he hath built thereupon, he shall receive a reward. If any mans work burn, he shall suffer loss: but he himself shall be saved, yet so as by fire. (1 Corinthians 3:14,15)
Purgatory is a temporal place that will be ended by GOD at the end of time.
Q. Are the souls in Purgatory sure of going to Heaven?
A. The souls in Purgatory are sure of going to Heaven as soon as they are completely purified of the satisfaction they have to make to GOD and are made worthy to enter into the presence of GOD in Heaven.
Q. What is Heaven?
A. Heaven is a place of everlasting life in which the saints / elect will adore GOD seeing Him face to face, will be made like unto Him in glory, shall for ever reign with Him in his kingdom and enjoy perfect eternal happiness. And I heard a great voice from the throne, saying: Behold the tabernacle of God with men: and he will dwell with them. And they shall be his people: and God himself with them shall be their God. And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes: and death shall be no more. Nor mourning, nor crying, nor sorrow shall be any more, for the former things are passed away. (Apocalypse [Revelation] 21:3,4); But, as it is written: That eye hath not seen, nor ear heard: neither hath it entered into the heart of man, what things God hath prepared for them that love him. (1 Corinthians 2:9)
Q. What is Hell?
A. Hell is a place of fire and brimstone (sulphur) to which the wicked / reprobates are condemned by GOD, in which they are deprived of His sight and are in dreadful torments for all eternity. If anyone dies in only one unrepented mortal sin or in a state of original sin that one will most definitely be cast by GOD into the torments of Hell forever. But the fearful and unbelieving and the abominable and murderers and whoremongers and sorcerers and idolaters and all liars, they shall have their portion in the pool burning with fire and brimstone, which is the second death. (Apocalypse [Revelation] 21:8); Then he shall say to them also that shall be on his left hand: Depart from me, you cursed, into everlasting fire, which was prepared for the devil and his angels. (Matthew 25:41); And if thy hand scandalize thee, cut it off: it is better for thee to enter into life, maimed, than having two hands to go into hell, into unquenchable fire: Where their worm dieth not, and the fire is not extinguished. And if thy foot scandalize thee, cut it off: it is better for thee to enter lame into life everlasting than having two feet to be cast into the hell of unquenchable fire: Where their worm dieth not, and the fire is not extinguished. And if thy eye scandalize thee, pluck it out: it is better for thee with one eye to enter into the kingdom of God than having two eyes to be cast into the hell of fire: Where their worm dieth not, and the fire is not extinguished. (Mark 9:42-47); If any one abide not in me, he shall be cast forth as a branch and shall wither: and they shall gather him up and cast him into the fire: and he burneth. (John 15:6); And the smoke of their torments, shall ascend up for ever and ever: neither have they rest day nor night (Apocalypse [Revelation] 14:11); Humble thy spirit very much: for the vengeance on the flesh of the ungodly is fire and worms.(Ecclesiasticus [Sirach] 7:19)
Note: In hell the damned suffer the torment of loss and the torment of the senses. From the words used by JESUS CHRIST to the damned: Depart from me [torment of loss], you cursed, into everlasting fire [torment of senses] (Matthew 25:41), we learn that they suffer the torment of the loss of GOD forever as they are banished and deprived forever by Him from His vision condemned to suffer the torment of the senses. The torment of loss is the greatest of the sufferings of hell as GOD is lost forever. The greater the value of what is lost, the greater is the pain of the loss. The damned have lost GOD who is infinite, hence their pain is infinite. How keenly does he suffer who is cut off from the sight of the beauty of creation by blindness; yet how much greater is his suffering who is deprived of the sight of the infinite beauty and majesty of GOD forever.
The damned in hell shall suffer from remorse of conscience for all eternity: Where their worm dieth not (Mark 9:43). In hell the damned shall be ever dying, and yet never die; hence it is called eternal death: They are laid in hell like sheep: death shall feed upon them. (Psalms 48:15)
Those who are cast into hell can never get out of there. They will be tormented in hell without any end. Which of you can dwell with devouring fire? which of you shall dwell with everlasting burnings? (Isaias 33:14); And these shall go into everlasting punishment (Matthew 25:46)
Q. Will our bodies share in the reward or punishment of our souls?
A. Our bodies will share in the reward or punishment of our souls, because through the resurrection at the general judgment they will again be united to them. The bodies of the just will rise glorious and immortal and go to Heaven. The bodies of the damned reprobates will also rise but absolutely horrible and will be cast by GOD into Hell.
Q. What profit is there in the frequent memory of all these things?
A. Very great: In all thy works remember thy last end, and thou shalt never sin. (Ecclesiasticus (Sirach) 7:40)
Heaven or Hell, the Choice is Ones to Make
The infinitely good GOD has given it in the power of man to choose Him in this life and attain heaven with Him for eternity or to not choose Him and go to the eternal torments in hell. Which dost thou prefer? To love the world and go to eternal perdition, or to love GOD and enter into life everlasting? The choice is ones to make. He is a fool of all fools who for the sake of this passing world plays away eternal life with GOD. Every man is become foolish by his knowledge: every founder is confounded by his idol, for what he hath cast is a lie, and there is no breath in them. They are vain works, and worthy to be laughed at, in the time of their visitation they shall perish. (Jeremias 51:17,18). The choice to live and die for GOD has to be made with a resolute will, before it is late. Behold, now is the acceptable time: behold, now is the day of salvation. (2 Corinthians 6:2). Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord. From henceforth now, saith the Spirit, that they may rest from their labours. For their works follow them. (Apocalypse [Revelation] 14:13)
On Acts of Faith, Hope, Charity and Contrition
Q. Say the Act of Faith.
A. O my GOD, I firmly believe that Thou art one GOD in three divine Persons, Father, Son, and Holy Ghost. I believe that Thy divine Son became man and died for our sins and that he will come to judge the living and the dead. I believe these and all the truths which the Holy Catholic Church teaches because Thou hast revealed them who art eternal truth and wisdom, who can neither deceive nor be deceived.
In this faith I intend to live and die. Amen.
Q. Give the substance of an Act of Faith.
A. The substance of an Act of Faith is: I believe all that GOD has revealed and all that He teaches through His Catholic Church.
Christian Faith
1. Christian faith is the firm conviction arrived at with the grace of GOD, that all that GOD has revealed through His Catholic Church through the Apostles is true.
2. Faith is concerned with many things which we cannot perceive with our senses and cannot grasp with our understanding yet we act quite in accordance with reason when we believe, because we know for certain that the truths of faith are revealed to us by GOD who is infinite truth and wisdom and who can neither deceive nor be deceived.
3. The Christian faith comprises all the Doctrines of the Catholic faith revealed by GOD through the Apostles.
4. Faith is a gift of GOD, since the power to believe can only be attained through the grace of GOD.
Q. Say the Act of Hope.
A. O Lord GOD, I hope by Thy grace
for the pardon of all my sins
and after life here to gain eternal happiness because Thou hast promised it who are infinitely powerful, faithful, kind, and merciful.
In this hope I intend to live and die. Amen.
Q. Give the substance of an Act of Hope.
A. The substance of an Act of Hope is: I hope for heaven and the help from GOD to obtain it.
Christian Hope
1. The Essence of Christian Hope.
Christian hope is the confident expectation of all those things which GOD has promised us with regard to the fulfilment of His will. Have confidence in the Lord with all thy heart, and lean not upon thy own prudence. In all thy ways think on him, and he will direct thy steps. (Proverbs 3:5,6); For whether we live, we live unto the Lord: or whether we die, we die unto the Lord. Therefore, whether we live or whether we die, we are the Lord’s. (Romans 14:8)
1. As the reward of carrying out His will, GOD has promised us eternal happiness and the means required for obtaining it.
2. Christian hope is based on faith. Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering (for he is faithful that hath promised) (Hebrews 10:23)
3. He only who carries out GOD’s will can hope for the good things promised by Him. Not every one that saith to me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven: but he that doth the will of my Father who is in heaven, he shall enter into the kingdom of heaven. (Mathew 7:21); Being confident of this very thing: that he who hath begun a good work in you will perfect it unto the day of Christ Jesus. (Philippians 1:6)
4. A wholesome fear of falling into sin must always accompany Christian hope. Wherefore, he that thinketh himself to stand, let him take heed lest he fall. (1 Corinthians 10:12); But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency may be of the power of God and not of us. (2 Corinthians 4:7)
Note: Between, hope and confidence in GOD, and a wholesome fear of GOD, we should stay humble before GOD.
5. Christian hope is necessary for salvation. For we are saved by hope. (Romans 8:24)
6. Christian hope is a gift of GOD.
2. The Advantage of Christian Hope.
1. He who hopes in GOD enjoys the special protection of GOD. My children behold the generations of men: and know ye that no one hath hoped in the Lord, and hath been confounded.(Ecclesiasticus [Sirach] 22:11)
2. He who hopes in GOD can obtain everything from Him. Amen I say to you that whosoever shall say to this mountain, Be thou removed and be cast into the sea, and shall not stagger in his heart, but believe that whatsoever he saith shall be done; it shall be done unto him. (Mark 11:23)
3. He who hopes in GOD is strengthened by GOD. I can do all things in him who strengtheneth me. (Philippians 4:13)
4. He who hopes in GOD is impelled to the performance of good works and heroic acts for the love of GOD.
3. The Object of Christian Hope.
1. The Christian must not rely on his own powers, on in men, nor on earthly things but only on GOD. Wherefore, he that thinketh himself to stand, let him take heed lest he fall. (1 Corinthians 10:12); Thus saith the Lord: Cursed be the man that trusteth in man, and maketh flesh his arm, and whose heart departeth from the Lord. Blessed be the man that trusteth in the Lord, and the Lord shall be his confidence. (Jeremias 17:5;7); Woe to them that go down to Egypt for help, trusting in horses, and putting their confidence in chariots, because they are many: and in horsemen, because they are very strong: and have not trusted in the Holy One of Israel, and have not sought after the Lord. (Isaias 31:1); Put not your trust in princes: In the children of men, in whom there is no salvation. His spirit shall go forth, and he shall return into his earth: in that day all their thoughts shall perish. Blessed is he who hath the God of Jacob for his helper, whose hope is in the Lord his God (Psalms 145:2-5)
Note: He who puts his trust in himself or in men is lost but he alone who trusts in GOD can do all things in accordance with His will, by His grace. He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same beareth much fruit: for without me you can do nothing. (John 15:5)
2. The Christian must not despair because GOD is infinitely good and merciful. A sacrifice to God is an afflicted spirit: a contrite and humbled heart, O God, thou wilt not despise. (Psalms 50:19)
3. The Christian must never presume on his trust in GOD’s mercy.
4. The Christian may never tempt GOD. And Jesus answering, said to him: It is said: Thou shalt not tempt the Lord thy God. (Luke 4:12)
Q. Say the Act of Charity.
A. O Lord GOD, I love Thee above all things and I love my neighbour for Thy sake because Thou art the highest, infinite and perfect good, worthy of all my love. In this love I intend to live and die. Amen.
Q. Give the substance of an Act of Charity.
A. The substance of an Act of Charity is: I love GOD above all things for His own sake, and my neighbour as myself for the love of GOD.
The Love of GOD
1. We ought to love GOD (1), because GOD in His love commands this and in justice we owe it to Him; (2), because He is infinite goodness, essentially the highest beauty and sovereign perfection; (3), because He loves us with an infinite love and continually bestows benefits upon us.
2. Our love to GOD is chiefly manifested by thinking of Him constantly, by avoiding whatever might separate us from Him, by laboring to promote His glory, and willingly accepting all that comes from His hand.
3. We must love GOD with all our faculties, and above all things else in the whole world.
4. The love of GOD is of great advantage to us: through it we are united to GOD here on earth, our minds are enlightened, our will is strengthened, we obtain pardon of sin, peace of soul, manifold proofs of GOD’s favor, and after death celestial joys.
5. The merit of our good works and the degree of our future felicity is in proportion to the magnitude of our love for GOD.
God is charity. (1 John 4:8). This means He loves Himself above all things for His sake and He loves everyone He has created for His sake. And He hath given us this most clear proof of His love in that He sent His only Begotten Son JESUS CHRIST to save us through His suffering and death on the Cross. He is infinite affection, and loves infinitely, and therefore ought to be supremely loved by us in return. So by His Divine love through grace, according to the best of our ability, we have to love Him above all things for His sake and love everyone starting with ourselves for His sake.
Charity is supernatural love. The charity of GOD, which is the love by which GOD loves us and through which we can love GOD above all things for His sake and our neighbour as ourselves for the love of Him, perfected with us, or in us, and so possesseth our souls, as to give us a humble confidence of our salvation, when we shall appear before His tribunal at the day of judgment: because as He is, we also are in this world. As GOD is always loving us, and giving us marks and effects of His love, so we in this world by his Divine love through grace are always loving Him and our neighbour as ourselves for His sake, and increasing in this love of His, which gives us a confidence of our salvation. In this is charity: not as though we had loved God, but because he hath first loved us, and sent his Son to be a propitiation for our sins.; And we have known and have believed the charity which God hath to us. God is charity: and he that abideth in charity abideth in God, and God in him. In this is the charity of God perfected with us, that we may have confidence in the day of judgment: because as he is, we also are in this world.; Let us therefore love God: because God first hath loved us. (1 John 4:10;16,17;19)
Note: The love of GOD does not consist in great sweetness of devotion or some other feeling, but in a fervent determination to strive by the grace of GOD to please Him in all things, in avoiding all that would offend Him, and in working for the increase of His glory and honor and for the growth of His Church, the Catholic Church. These are the signs of the love of GOD.
Q. How do we show that we love GOD above all things?
A. We show that we love GOD above all things by keeping His commandments and by never offending Him for any person, place or thing.
Q. What is love of myself for the love of GOD?
A. The love of myself for the love of GOD is that I have to help myself according to my state in life, to love GOD in this life by which I will have peace, joy and happiness here on earth and will attain eternal life with GOD in Heaven consisting of perfect perpetual felicity, which is the only thing that is best for me.
Note: Among all classes of men each one is his own nearest neighbour. Consequently every man ought to love himself for the love of GOD first in the order of charity among all men.
Q. What does loving your neighbour as yourself for the love of GOD mean?
A. Loving my neighbour as myself for the love of GOD means that I must help him according to my state in life, in the order of charity, to love GOD in this life by which he will have peace, joy and happiness here on earth and will attain eternal life with GOD in Heaven consisting of perfect perpetual felicity, which is the only thing that is best for him. Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. (Matthew 22:39).
Note: If one does not love ones neighbour for the love of GOD, then one does not love ones neighbour. For if you love them that love you, what reward shall you have? do not even the publicans this? And if you salute your brethren only, what do you more? do not also the heathens this? (Matthew 5:46). If one does things that leads ones neighbour to hell one hates ones neighbour. All things therefore whatsoever you would that men should do to you, do you also to them.(Matthew 7:12)
Q. Are we also bound to love our enemies?
A. JESUS CHRIST, has commanded us to love our enemies in these words: But I say to you, Love your enemies: do good to them that hate you: and pray for them that persecute and calumniate you: That you may be the children of your Father who is in heaven, who maketh his sun to rise upon the good, and bad, and raineth upon the just and the unjust. For if you love them that love you, what reward shall you have? do not even the publicans this? And if you salute your brethren only, what do you more? do not also the heathens this? Be you therefore perfect, as also your heavenly Father is perfect. (Matthew 5:44-48). We must forgive them, pray for them, and show charity towards them as well as we are able.
The Love of the World is Diametrically Opposed to the love of GOD
God is charity. (1 John 4:8). If one does not love GOD above all and his neighbour as himself for the love of GOD, he will by default love a creature above all because every mans heart is designed by GOD to love, however cruel or depraved he may be, so that in his free will he can choose to supernaturally love GOD with his heart by the grace given to him by GOD. If he rejects giving his heart to GOD by deafult he will cling to some person, place or thing out of self love. With the love of the world one will most definately have in this life the loss of union with GOD by His indwelling in his soul, which is sanctifying grace, and consequently the loss of eternal felicity with Him in the next, while being tormented for all eternity in hell.
The love of the world blinds the soul of man, and leads him away from GOD. In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of unbelievers (2 Corinthians 4:4). When earthly things intervene between GOD and the soul, the soul becomes dark. Hence worldlings cannot comprehend the teaching of the Gospel; it is foolishness to them. But the sensual man perceiveth not these things that are of the Spirit of God. For it is foolishness to him: and he cannot understand, because it is spiritually examined. (1 Corinthians 2:14).
The love of the world destroys interior peace, and makes men fear death greatly. The worldling is a stranger to the interior peace of GOD. The two are not compatible. To satisfy the heart that only strives after the pleasures of time and sense is trying to fill a vessel that has holes in it. And since the votaries of the world can never attain interior peace, they want a constant change of amusement, as one who cannot sleep turns restlessly from side to side in the hope of finding rest. JESUS CHRIST alone can give us true contentment. He has said: Peace I leave with you: my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, do I give unto you. (John 14:27). Ones heart can never have rest until it rests in the infinitely good, living and life giving GOD ! The lover of the world fears death so much, because he will be parted from his idols, and because they will be put to an end upon death. He has, besides, an inward presentiment of what will follow after death. On account of this all who love the world are filled with apprehension and even despair in the hour of death. The prisoner fears nothing so much as the summons to appear before the judge; and the sinner, though he is never free from alarm, dreads the moment above all when his soul will leave the body and enter the presence of the Divine Judge JESUS CHRIST. If the false joys which the devil offers the worldling are thus mixed with bitterness in this life, what will the torments be with him and the rest of the devils and the damned in hell hereafter?
The love of the world gives rise to hatred of GOD and of His children. If the world hate you, know ye that it hath hated me before you. If you had been of the world, the world would love its own: but because you are not of the world, but I have chosen you out of the world, therefore the world hateth you. (John 15:18,19).
A man who loves the world cannot possibly have the love of GOD within him. Just as a ring which encircles one finger cannot at the same time encircle another, so the human heart cannot love GOD if love binds it to some earthly object. If any man love the world, the charity of the Father is not in him. (1 John 2:15). It is not possible to look sincerely and honestly at GOD while being one with the world. The lover of the world is therefore an enemy of GOD. Whosoever therefore will be a friend of this world becometh an enemy of God.(James 4:4)
Q. What is the highest act of Charity?
A. To give our life for GOD’s honour and glory, and the salvation of our neighbour.
Q. Are we bound to make Acts of Faith, Hope and Charity?
A. We are bound from time to time during our lives to make Acts of Faith, Hope and Charity; otherwise we risk our salvation.
Note: Faith Hope and Charity and not independent of each other, but are deeply intertwined. Faith in GOD is the key that brings forth Hope in Him, which is the catalyst, and as a result of which His Charity, the greatest of the three will be flowing through that soul for the honour and glory of Him. Being justified therefore by faith, let us have peace with God, through our Lord Jesus Christ: By whom also we have access through faith into this grace wherein we stand: and glory in the hope of the glory of the sons of God. And not only so: but we glory also in tribulation, knowing that tribulation worketh patience; And patience trial; and trial hope; And hope confoundeth not: because the charity of God is poured forth in our hearts, by the Holy Ghost who is given to us. (Romans 5: 1-5). For our God is a consuming fire.(Hebrews 12:29).
Q. What does Contrition mean?
A. Contrition means a state of grief or deep sorrow for our sins.
Q. Say the Act of Contrition.
A. O my GOD ! I am heartily sorry for having offended Thee, and I detest all my sins, because I dread the loss of heaven and the pains of hell, but most of all because they offend Thee, my GOD, who art all-good and deserving of all my love. I firmly resolve, with the help of Thy grace, to confess my sins, to do penance, and to amend my life. Amen.
Q. Give the substance of an Act of Contrition.
A. The substance of an Act of Contrition is: I am sincerely sorry for my sins, because they have offended GOD who is infinitely good, and I will never sin again and avoid all occasions of sin for the love of Him.
On Trust and Confidence in GOD
Trust in GOD is the reliance we have on Him that we shall obtain from Him all that He has promised. Confidence in GOD is the result that ensues from the trust in Him.
We are completely dependent on GOD’s mercy and grace to attain eternal salvation. We must trust that GOD, who desires our salvation more than we can ever desire it, will give us, as He has promised, all the means we need to pass through life’s challenges that He puts on our paths and achieve our eternal destiny with Him in heaven. All we have to do is our indispensible part of co-operating with the gaurenteed sufficient grace of GOD during its finite period and not receive it in vain. And we helping do exhort you that you receive not the grace of God in vain. For he saith: In an accepted time have I heard thee and in the day of salvation have I helped thee. Behold, now is the acceptable time: behold, now is the day of salvation. (2 Corinthians 6:1,2). For God hath not appointed us unto wrath: but unto the purchasing of salvation by our Lord Jesus Christ (1 Thessalonians 5:9).
The saints had a profound awareness of GOD’s presence in their lives — so profound that they didn’t seek miraculous confirmation or run after signs and wonders. It is easy for our minds to sink into past memories, or to be stirred into agitation thinking about the future. We must instead train ourselves to focus and live the here and now with GOD and for GOD by His never failing help and grace. Learning how to live in the present moment for GOD requires constant discipline in GOD. Intentional recollection of His presence, which surrounds and sustains us, is a great aid to train our minds to seek GOD’s will for us in the present moment. This recollection is called: practicing the presence of GOD. To do this we simply turn our mental gaze to the thought of GOD’s omnipresence which includes His presence in Heaven, His dwelling within our souls through sanctifying grace, and His presence in the Most Holy Eucharist, and speak to Him as we complete the good works of the day He wants us to do, with commitment, out of love and service to Him according to our state in life. Have confidence in the Lord with all thy heart, and lean not upon thy own prudence. In all thy ways think on him, and he will direct thy steps. (Proverbs 3:5,6). When distracted the mind may be easily brought back to the remembrance of GOD’s presence by the simple reflection: ”GOD is here”; ”He sees me at all times”; ”I belong to Him and for Him I live and die.”
Living in the present moment allows us to experience GOD’s Divine providence in the smallest details of our lives. This is the true spiritual reality which we must begin to live in our minds and hearts and which will enable us to experience the true peace, joy and happiness that comes with living out GOD’s will according to His good pleasure for His greater glory and the salvation of souls.
Trust and confidence in GOD and fear of GOD must ever be equally present in us. It is wrong that there should be only fear of GOD without trust and confidence in Him, for this is despair. It is also wrong that there should be no fear at all; if a man thinks his salvation already secure he sins by presumption. We should always know that GOD is our loving Father, and that if we are obeying all of His Commandments, and trying our best to live His teachings by His grace, with our thoughts, words, and deeds, then we certainly have His blessings and omnipotent protection on us and around us totally, trusting in Him with confidence, to take care of us no matter what the situation and rest assured with a moral certitude that He will take us to heaven to dwell with Him for all eternity. I have fought a good fight: I have finished my course: I have kept the faith. As to the rest, there is laid up for me a crown of justice which the Lord the just judge will render to me in that day: and not only to me, but to them also that love his coming. (2 Timothy 4:7,8). This can only be taken down by ones sinful actions, by which one proclaims that one prefers the ways of the devil, the world and the flesh, to the ways of GOD.
Question: ”Do I sincerely trust in GOD and have confidence in Him?” If you pause in answering this question or if in your heart you know the answer is not a resounding yes, then you need to bring to mind the reality of the sovereignty of the infinitely good, omnipotent GOD. Blessed be the man that trusteth in the Lord, and the Lord shall be his confidence. And he shall be as a tree that is planted by the waters, that spreadeth out its roots towards moisture: and it shall not fear when the heat cometh. And the leaf thereof shall be green, and in the time of drought it shall not be solicitous, neither shall it cease at any time to bring forth fruit. (Jeremias 17:7,8)
The greater and more persistent your trust and confidence in GOD, the more abundantly you will receive all that you ask. For, amen I say to you, if you have faith as a grain of mustard seed, you shall say to this mountain: Remove from hence hither, and it shall remove: and nothing shall be impossible to you. (Matthew 17:19). Those whose hearts are enlarged by confidence in GOD run swiftly on the path of perfection. They not only run, they fly; because, having placed all their hope in GOD, they are no longer weak as they once were. They become strong with the strength of GOD, which is given to all who put their trust in Him. But they that hope in the Lord shall renew their strength, they shall take wings as eagles, they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint. (Isaias 40:31). Let us go therefore with confidence to the throne of grace: that we may obtain mercy and find grace in seasonable aid. (Hebrews 4:16)
The past to GOD’s infinite mercy, the present to His never failing love and the future to His secure Fatherly providence. A radical childlike trust and confidence in GOD always. If God be for us, who is against us? (Romans 8:31)
On the Duty of Gratitude and Thanksgiving to GOD
1. GOD requires of us that we should be grateful for the benefits we receive. We are bound to render thanks to GOD in justice proceeding out of love for Him. We have to be always thankful to GOD for all the blessings He has bestowed on us. And one of them, when he saw that he was made clean, went back, with a loud voice glorifying God. And he fell on his face before his feet, giving thanks. And this was a Samaritan. And Jesus answering, said: Were not ten made clean? And where are the nine? There is no one found to return and give glory to God, but this stranger. (Luke 17:15-18); In all things give thanks for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you all. (1 Thessalonians 5:18); Bless the Lord, O my soul: and let all that is within me bless his holy name. Bless the Lord, O my soul, and never forget all he hath done for thee. (Psalms 102:2)
2. Gratitude to GOD obtains fresh favors from Him, whereas ingratitude brings His punishment. GOD withdraws many blessings from man because he takes no heed of them and neglects to render thanks to the Giver; He also sends calamities as a chastisement upon the unthankful. He that rendereth evil for good, evil shall not depart from his house. (Proverbs 17:13).
3. Judas Iscariot had received the greatest kindness from GOD JESUS CHRIST, yet he betrayed Him, and his end was terrible. The grateful soul is a friend of GOD; whereas the devil takes possession of the thankless.
Note: We have to thank our benefactors for the help received, which only comes from GOD, without whom they would never able to render help.
The Christian Under Suffering
1. No one can attain to eternal salvation without suffering patiently for the love of GOD. There is only one way to heaven, the way of the cross of ones life united to the way of the Cross of JESUS CHRIST by His grace. Our pilgrimage in this life to heaven is nothing but a following of JESUS CHRIST crucified, in union with Him, by His grace. And he that taketh not up his cross, and followeth me, is not worthy of me.(Matthew 10:38); Ought not Christ to have suffered these things and so, to enter into his glory? (Luke 24:26); through many tribulations we must enter into the kingdom of God. (Acts of the Apostles 14:21); In your patience you shall possess your souls. (Luke 21:19); For patience is necessary for you: that, doing the will of God, you may receive the promise. (Hebrews 10:36); But he that shall persevere to the end, he shall be saved. (Matthew 24:13)
Note: The infinitely good GOD wishes us never to lose sight of the Cross.
2. All suffering comes from GOD, and is a sign of His love and favour. For whom the Lord loveth he chastiseth: and he scourgeth every son whom he receiveth. (Hebrews 12:6); I counsel thee to buy of me gold, fire tried, that thou mayest be made rich and mayest be clothed in white garments : and that the shame of thy nakedness may not appear. Such as I love, I rebuke and chastise. (Apocalypse [Revelation] 3:18,19); And because thou wast acceptable to God, it was necessary that temptation should prove thee. (Tobias 12:13); For gold and silver are tried in the fire, but acceptable men in the furnace of humiliation. (Ecclesiasticus [Sirach] 2:5)
Note: We must never think from whence crosses come, they come from GOD. It is always GOD who gives us this way of proving our love to Him.
3. GOD sends suffering to the sinner not only in justice as a punishment for his sins but also in His love and mercy to bring him back into the right way, and to save him from eternal death. The thinking beforehand turneth away the understanding, and a grievous sickness maketh the soul sober. (Ecclesiasticus [Sirach] 31:2); But esteeming these very punishments to be less than our sins deserve, let us believe that these scourges of the Lord, with which like servants we are chastised, have happened for our amendment, and not for our destruction. Judith 8:27); And he [JESUS CHRIST] said: A certain man had two sons. And the younger of them said to his father: Father, give me the portion of substance that falleth to me. And he divided unto them his substance. And not many days after, the younger son, gathering all together, went abroad into a far country: and there wasted his substance, living riotously. And after he had spent all, there came a mighty famine in that country: and he began to be in want. And he went and cleaved to one of the citizens of that country. And he sent him into his farm to feed swine. And he would fain have filled his belly with the husks the swine did eat: and no man gave unto him. And returning to himself, he said: How many hired servants in my father’s house abound with bread, and I here perish with hunger! I will arise and will go to my father and say to him: Father, I have sinned against heaven and before thee. I am not worthy to be called thy son: make me as one of thy hired servants. And rising up, he came to his father. And when he was yet a great way off, his father saw him and was moved with compassion and running to him fell upon his neck and kissed him. (Luke 15:11-20); Neither dost thou fear God, seeing; thou art under the same condemnation? And we indeed justly: for we receive the due reward of our deeds. But this man hath done no evil. And he said to Jesus: Lord, remember me when thou shalt come into thy kingdom. And Jesus said to him: Amen I say to thee: This day thou shalt be with me in paradise. (Luke 23:40-43)
4. GOD sends suffering to the just man to try him, whether he loves GOD or creatures. And his wife said to him: Dost thou still continue in thy simplicity? bless God and die. And he said to her: Thou hast spoken like one of the foolish women: If we have received good things at the hand of God, why should we not receive evil? In all these things Job did not sin with his lips. (Job 2:9,10); Naked came I out of my mother’s womb, and naked shall I return thither: the Lord gave, and the Lord hath taken away: as it hath pleased the Lord, so is it done: blessed be the name of the Lord. In all these things Job sinned not by his lips, nor spoke he any foolish thing against God.(Job 1:21,22); For this is thankworthy: if, for conscience towards God, a man endure sorrows, suffering wrongfully. For what glory is it, if, committing sin and being buffeted for it, you endure? But if doing well you suffer patiently: this is thankworthy before God. For unto this are you called: because Christ also suffered for us, leaving you an example that you should follow his steps. Who did no sin, neither was guile found in his mouth. (1 Peter 2:19-22); And thou hast patience and hast endured for my name and hast not fainted. (Apocalypse 2:3); Every branch in me that beareth not fruit, he will take away: and every one that beareth fruit, he will purge it, that it may bring forth more fruit. (John 15:2)
5. Sufferings then in a way are no real evil, but are benefits from the hand of GOD. And Tobias said: I bless thee, O Lord God of Israel, because thou hast chastised me, and thou hast saved me (Tobias [Tobit] 11:17); But if you partake of the sufferings of Christ, rejoice that, when his glory shall be revealed, you may also be glad with exceeding joy. (1 Peter 4:13); For I reckon that the sufferings of this time are not worthy to be compared with the glory to come that shall be revealed in us.(Romans 8:18); For that which is at present momentary and light of our tribulation worketh for us above measure, exceedingly an eternal weight of glory. (2 Corinthians 4:17); And we know that to them that love God all things work together unto good: to such as, according to his purpose, are called to be saints. (Romans 8:28); Amen, amen, I say to you, that you shall lament and weep, but the world shall rejoice: and you shall be made sorrowful, but your sorrow shall be turned into joy. (John 16:20)
Note’s: There are many things which seem as bad and which are called such; but if the designs of GOD were understood they would be called graces. For the word of the cross, to them indeed that perish, is foolishness: but to them that are saved, that is, to us, it is the power of God. For the foolishness of God is wiser than men: and the weakness of God is stronger than men. (1 Corinthians 1:18;25); For my thoughts are not your thoughts: nor your ways my ways, saith the Lord. For as the heavens are exalted above the earth, so are my ways exalted above your ways, and my thoughts above your thoughts. (Isaias 55:8,9); And he answered them: Fear not: can we resist the will of God? You thought evil against me: but God turned it into good, that he might exalt me, as at present you see, and might save many people. (Genesis 50:19,20). We seldom discover at first sight the wisdom of GOD in things happening around us. But that is not necessary, for the faith and confidence with which we throw ourselves into the arms of GOD are of far greater benefit to us than if we saw and understood all things.
A true Catholic / Christian counts His blessings from GOD primarily by the number of crosses GOD sends him.
6. The cross of JESUS CHRIST is light, sweet, sanctifying and lifegiving for those who by His grace, embrace it in humility with alacrity, out of love for Him. His grace renders it easy and light, as He himself helps to bear it by His grace. Catholics living in union with GOD find immense interior joy and peace in suffering, because suffering united to cross of JESUS CHRIST is the very escense of Christian life on earth ordained by the infinitely perfect GOD, and that Christian joy and peace lightens the burden. Come to me all you that labor and are burdened, and I will refresh you. Take up my yoke upon you, and learn of me, because I am meek, and humble of heart: And you shall find rest to your souls. For my yoke is sweet and my burden light. (Matthew 11:28-30); But God forbid that I should glory, save in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ: by whom the world is crucified to me, and I to the world. (Galatians 6:14); And all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution. (2 Timothy 3:12); Looking on Jesus, the author and finisher of faith, who, having joy set before him, endured the cross, despising the shame, and now sitteth on the right hand of the throne of God.(Hebrews 12:2); And he said to me: My grace is sufficient for thee: for power is made perfect in infirmity. Gladly therefore will I glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may dwell in me. For which cause I please myself in my infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses, for Christ. For when I am weak, then am I powerful. (2 Corinthians 12:9,10)
7. The short sufferings for the love of GOD in this world have no proportion, nor can be put in balance with the future endless glory and happiness in GOD, which is promised and prepared for in heaven for those who love Him. For I reckon that the sufferings of this time are not worthy to be compared with the glory to come that shall be revealed in us.(Romans 8:18); Amen, amen, I say to you, that you shall lament and weep, but the world shall rejoice: and you shall be made sorrowful, but your sorrow shall be turned into joy. A woman, when she is in labour, hath sorrow, because her hour is come; but when she hath brought forth the child, she remembereth no more the anguish, for joy that a man is born into the world. So also you now indeed have sorrow: but I will see you again and your heart shall rejoice. And your joy no man shall take from you. (John 16:20-22); Blessed are ye that hunger now: for you shall be filled. Blessed are ye that weep now: for you shall laugh. (Luke 6:21); And I heard a great voice from the throne, saying: Behold the tabernacle of God with men: and he will dwell with them. And they shall be his people: and God himself with them shall be their God. And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes: and death shall be no more. Nor mourning, nor crying, nor sorrow shall be any more, for the former things are passed away. (Apocalypse [Revelation] 21:3,4); But, as it is written: That eye hath not seen, nor ear heard: neither hath it entered into the heart of man, what things God hath prepared for them that love him. (1 Corinthians 2:9)
8. For these reasons we should be patiently rejoicing under suffering, and thank GOD for it. I exceedingly abound with joy in all our tribulation. (2 Corinthians 7:4); Rejoice in the Lord always: again, I say, rejoice. (Philippians 4:4); Always rejoice. (1 Thessalonians 5:16)
Note: He who is able to joyfully thank GOD more in the times of adversity than in the times of prosperity has arrived at the summit of Christian perfection in union with GOD.
On Christian Perfection in Union with GOD
Q. What are the aspirations after Christian perfection in union with GOD?
1. GOD requires of all the just that they should aspire to Christian perfection in union with Him. 2. The most sublime example of Christian perfection is found in Our Lord JESUS CHRIST. The saints are also patterns of Christian perfection. 3. The perfection of the Christian consists in charity towards GOD and his neighbour for the sake of GOD, and in detachment of heart from the things of this world and uniformity with the Holy will of GOD in all things according to His good pleasure. 4. He who makes Christian perfection his aim will attain it surely but slowly by the grace of GOD. 5. There is no state or calling of life in which Christian perfection in union with GOD is not possible.
Q. What are the general means for the attainment of Christian perfection in union with GOD?
A. The general means of attaining Christian perfection in union with GOD are: 1. Order and regularity. 2. Unremitting prayer. 3. Frequent confession, daily Mass, and daily Holy Communion in a state of sanctifying grace. 4. Spiritual reading and meditation on the truths of GOD. 5. Love of solitude in GOD. 6. Fidelity in small things. 7. A habit of self-control. 8. Abstinence from all that is superfluous, especially in regard to eating and drinking and other mortification’s on a regular basis. 9. Supererogatory acts for the Glory of GOD and supererogatory works of mercy, according to ones state in life, with the intention of pleasing GOD alone. 10. Proper recreation.
Note’s: Order and regularity is conducive to equanimity of mind and rapid advancement in sanctity. But let all things be done decently and according to order. (1 Corinthians 14:40). It is necessary to have a daily regula or regimen consisting of a normal fixed time: for early rising, for praying, for meals, for work, for recreation, retiring to rest, in the night being early, etc. Dis-order can never lead to GOD, for all that He ordains is regulated in perfect order.
By unremitting prayer graces in abundant measure are obtained and many temptations are held aloof. Our Lord JESUS CHRIST admonishes us: Watch ye: and pray that ye enter not into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak. (Matthew 26:41). Pray without ceasing. (1 Thessalonians 5:17). Habituation of short aspiratory / short arrow prayers is a must for attaining and maintaining Christian perfection in union with GOD. By all prayer and supplication praying at all times in the spirit: and in the same watching with all instance (Ephesians 6:18)
Sins once properly confessed, it is true, are forgiven by GOD; yet it is highly advisable, though not obligatory upon us, to go to Confession on a regular basis, as everytime we go to Confession in a state sanctifying grace we get an increase of sanctifying grace, it helps us to resist temptations and it is an excellent preparation for our death, the day nor the hour of which is not known to us. And if, after Confession, we daily assist at Holy Mass with attention and devotion and approach Holy Communion daily, in state of santifying grace, with childlike humility, having no attatchment to any venial sin, we shall increase in Christian perfection like no other, just as a tree which is planted near crystal clear running waters grows to great height and be well prepared to meet JESUS CHRIST our GOD at our judgement with a moral certitude of attaining eternal life with Him. We admire the sanctity of the early Catholics / Christians; let us remember that they daily assisted at Holy Mass and communicated daily in a state of sanctifying grace. And they were persevering in the doctrine of the apostles and in the communication of the breaking of bread and in prayers. (Acts of the 2:42)
If we would profit by spiritual reading, it must be done with deliberation, and not too much at a time, and above all, we must be careful and choose good spiritual books. Many books are like fungi, not food, but poison.Be not seduced: Evil communications corrupt good manners. (1 Corinthians 15:33). Spiritual reading is like a mirror in which we can see the state of our soul before GOD and discern the Christian virtues of which we stand in need and the helps to attain them. We should above all read and reflect on Catholic Doctrine, on Sacred Scripture according to the interpretation given by GOD through His Catholic Church and most specifically on the life of our Lord JESUS CHRIST, keeping our state in life in mind, by which we shall feel ourselves powerfully moved to imitate His glorious example according to our state in life. Let not the book of this law depart from thy mouth: but thou shalt meditate on it day and night, that thou mayst observe and do all things that are written in it: then shalt thou direct thy way, and understand it. (Joshua 1:8). Meditation on the truths of GOD is supremely useful; it enlightens our understanding, and moves our will to the pursuit of what GOD wills, and gives us peace of mind. The truths of GOD are like a fire, standing near which we receive light and warmth. They impart nourishment to our souls; they are a food that satisfies. Through meditation the saints attained sanctity. Blessed is the man who hath not walked in the counsel of the ungodly, nor stood in the way of sinners, nor sat in the chair of pestilence: But his will is in the law of the Lord, and on his law he shall meditate day and night. And he shall be like a tree which is planted near the running waters, which shall bring forth its fruit, in due season. And his leaf shall not fall off: and all whatsoever he shall do shall prosper. (Psalms 1-3). But above all we must make a practical application of the spiritual reading and meditation otherwise it will be futile for us.
With solitude in GOD, we obtain many actual graces; we are preserved from temptation and from sin, grow closer to GOD and increase in Christian virtue. In solitude we can listen to the voice of GOD clearly, in the depths of our hearts and not in tumult. And he said to him: Go forth, and stand upon the mount before the Lord: and behold the Lord passeth, and a great and strong wind before the Lord, overthrowing the mountains, and breaking the rocks in pieces: but the Lord is not in the wind. And after the wind, an earthquake: but the Lord is not in the earthquake. And after the earthquake, a fire: but the Lord is not in the fire. And after the fire, a whistling of a gentle air. (3 Kings 19:11,12); Therefore, behold I will allure her, and will lead her into the wilderness: and I will speak to her heart. (Osee [Hosea] 2:14). Our Lord JESUS CHRIST was wont to take Himself to solitary places, where He spent a long time in prayer. And rising very early, going out, he went into a desert place: and there he prayed. (Mark 1:35); And he retired into the desert; and prayed. (Luke 5:16).
By fidelity in small things greater graces are obtained and grave sins more easily avoided. To him who is faithful in small things GOD gives greater graces. He that is faithful in that which is least is faithful also in that which is greater: and he that is unjust in that which is little is unjust also in that which is greater. (Luke 16:10). Whosoever is attentive to small things makes rapid progress in Christian virtue. Contempt of trifles shows secret pride. he that contemneth small things, shall fall by little and little. (Ecclesiasticus [Sirach] 19:1)
Self-conquest is the mark of a true Catholic / Christian. Our Lord JESUS CHRIST says: If any man will follow me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me. (Mark 8:34), that is to say, he that will be My disciple must practise self-abnegation for My sake. He who can rule himself is a king; for instead of being led captive by his passions, he dominates them. The patient man is better than the valiant: and he that ruleth his spirit, than he that taketh cities. (Proverbs 16:32). Self-control enlightens the understanding and fortifies the will. It is the parent of meekness and patience.
No gourmand can be a good soldier of JESUS CHRIST. Among superfluities are costly lifestyle, splendid dress, movie-going, giving and taking part in superflous entertainments, banquets, etc. Take from me the greediness of the belly, and let not the lusts of the flesh take hold of me, and give me not over to a shameless and foolish mind. (Ecclesiasticus [Sirach] 23:6). Talkativeness is also to be avoided. And if any man think himself to be religious, not bridling his tongue but deceiving his own heart, this man’s religion is vain. (James 1:26). Those who take great delight in such things will never attain Christian perfection in union with GOD; the HOLY SPIRIT cannot dwell in a heart that is filled with the love of earthly things. For many walk, of whom I have told you often (and now tell you weeping) that they are enemies of the cross of Christ: Whose end is destruction: whose God is their belly: and whose glory is in their shame: who mind earthly things. (Philippians 3:18,19); Be sober and watch: because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, goeth about seeking whom he may devour. (1 Peter 5:8)
Acts of supererogation, which are acts beyond the call of duty, when done prudently according to ones state in life, are a certain means of attaining Christian perfection in union with GOD. GOD will reward any Catholic in this life and in eternity, who does more than he is obliged to do.
lt is GOD’s will that we should enjoy proper recreation, leisure and relaxation. We must take right recreation, leisure and relaxation in due time, for it is a means of renewing one’s strength to love and serve GOD after one’s work is done. We should, however, sanctify it by a good intention, and by the remembrance of GOD, keeping the thought of GOD present to our mind, and keep within the bounds of modesty. And the apostles coming together unto Jesus, related to him all things that they had done and taught. And he said to them: Come apart into a desert place, and rest a little. (Mark 6:30,31)
Q. When are we perfect in union with GOD?
A. We are perfect in union with GOD when we are free from all inordinate love of the world and of ourselves, and love GOD above all, and all in GOD, by His grace. Who then shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation? Or distress? Or famine? Or nakedness? Or danger? Or persecution? Or the sword? (As it is written: For thy sake, we are put to death all the day long. We are accounted as sheep for the slaughter.) But in all these things we overcome, because of him that hath loved us. For I am sure that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, nor might, Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord. (Romans 8:35-39)
Q. How shall we reach this perfection?
A. By imitating JESUS CHRIST. Jesus spoke to them, saying: I am the light of the world. He that followeth me walketh not in darkness, but shall have the light of life.(John 8:12)
Q. What particular means have been pointed out by JESUS CHRIST to reach perfection in union with GOD?
A. The three special means of attaining Christian perfection in union with GOD.
Q. What are the three special means of attaining Christian perfection of union with GOD?
A. The three special means of attaining Christian perfection are the three Evangelical Counsels: Poverty, Chastity and Obedience.
Note’s: The Evangelical Counsels lead to higher perfection, because by their means with the grace of GOD, the three evil concupiscences in man, namely, the concupiscence of the flesh, the concupiscence of the eyes and the pride of life, are completely destroyed and the chief obstacles in the way of his salvation are removed. Poverty especially to destroy the concupiscence of the eyes; Chastity especially to destroy the concupiscence of the flesh; and Obedience especially to destroy the pride of life.
Though not every Catholic is called by GOD to observe the evangelical counsels in a strict manner by taking a vow, yet the other Catholics should always keep them in mind and put them in practice according to their state in life in a manner best conducive for their spiritual life in GOD.
Q. Name the eight Beatitudes?
A. The Beatitudes are: (1) Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. (2) Blessed are the meek, for they shall possess the land. (3) Blessed are they that mourn, for they shall be comforted. (4) Blessed are they that hunger and thirst after justice, for they shall be filled. (5) Blessed are the merciful, for they shall obtain mercy. (6) Blessed are the clean of heart, for they shall see GOD. (7) Blessed are the peace-makers, for they shall be called the children of GOD. (8) Blessed are they that suffer persecution for justice’ sake for of such is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are the meek: for they shall possess the land. Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be comforted. Blessed are they that hunger and thirst after justice: for they shall have their fill. Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy. Blessed are the clean of heart: they shall see God. Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God. Blessed are they that suffer persecution for justice’ sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are ye when they shall revile you, and persecute you, and speak all that is evil against you, untruly, for my sake: Be glad and rejoice for your reward is very great in heaven. For so they persecuted the prophets that were before you. (Matthew 5:3-12)
Q. What is the meaning and use of the Beatitudes in general?
A. (1) In general the Beatitudes embrace whatever pertains to the perfection of Christian life, and they invite us to the practice of the highest Christian virtues; (2) In different forms they all promise the same reward, namely, sanctifying grace in this life and eternal glory in the next; (3) They offer us encouragement and consolation for every trial and affliction because: all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution. (2 Timothy 3:12)
Q. Why did JESUS CHRIST propose the Beatitudes to us?
A. JESUS CHRIST proposed the Beatitudes to us to make us detest the maxims of the world, and to invite us to love and practise the maxims of the gospel for the greater glory of GOD and the salvation of souls.
Note’s: The poor in spirit are, those who acknowledge that before GOD they are poor; whose hearts are detached from riches; who would not offend GOD to possess or retain anything that this world can give; who make good use of riches should they have any willingly giving it for the glory of GOD; who do not seek them, if they have none being satisfied with whatever GOD provides for them; who humbly submit to their condition in life when it cannot be improved by lawful means for the sake of GOD; and who suffer the loss of such things with resignation to the will of GOD when deprived of them.
The meek are those who for the love of GOD act kindly towards their neighbour; bear patiently with his defects; preserve their composure without being provoked to anger, with the offences and injuries they receive from him; and who patiently endure all trials that come from GOD for His sake.
They that mourn, yet are called happy, are they who suffer tribulations with resignation for the love of GOD, and out of love for Him, bewail their own sins and those of the world with the evils and scandals that prevail in it.
They that hunger and thirst after justice, are those who ardently desire to increase daily more and more in divine grace and in the exercise of good and virtuous works for the love of GOD
The merciful are those who love their neighbour in GOD and for GOD’s sake, compassionate his miseries, spiritual as well as corporal, and endeavour to succour him according to their means and position with spiritual and corporal works of mercy.
The clean of heart are those who for the love of GOD retain no affection for sin and keep aloof from it, and who above all else keep their thoughts, desires, words and works pure and modest, avoiding every sort of impurity for the love of GOD.
The peacemakers are those who preserve peace with GOD and as a result of which preserve peace with themselves in GOD, and their neighbour in GOD, and who endeavour to bring about peace and concord in GOD where there is variance.
They who suffer persecution for justice’ sake are those who patiently bear derision, reproof, and persecution for the sake of the faith and of the law of JESUS CHRIST. Our GOD JESUS CHRIST says of those who suffer for His sake: Be glad and rejoice for your reward is very great in heaven (Matthew 5:12). Persecutions are the precious stones wherewith the crowns of the saints are adorned in heaven. You must suffer with JESUS CHRIST here, if you would reign with Him thereafter in Heaven. There is no greater honour upon earth than to suffer for GOD. And they indeed went from the presence of the council, rejoicing that they were accounted worthy to suffer reproach for the name of Jesus. (Acts of the Apostles 5:41); Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his saints. (Psalms 115:6)
The beatitudes begin with the promise of the kingdom of heaven, and with it they end. This is to signify that eternal felicity is the reward of all the intervening beatitudes. What is promised to the poor in spirit as their reward under the name of the kingdom of heaven, is the same as the land which the meek are to possess, the comfort promised to those who mourn, the satisfaction which is to be the portion of those who hunger and thirst after justice, the mercy to be obtained by the merciful, the contemplation of GOD which the clean of heart are to enjoy, the adoption of the peacemakers as the children of GOD, and the kingdom of heaven which belongs to the persecuted.
The Three Degrees of the Spiritual Life of Union with GOD
Q. What are the Three Degrees or Stages of the Spiritual Life of Union with GOD?
A. Three Degrees or Stages of the Spiritual Life of Union with GOD are: 1. The Purgative Stage (the beginners); 2. The Illuminative Stage (the advanced); and 3. The Unitive Stage (the perfect)
Note’s The First Degree may be called the animal life; this is the life of those who run after sensible devotion, which GOD generally gives to beginners, to allure them onwards by that sweetness to the spiritual life in Him, just as an animal is drawn on by a sensible object. Here the cheif meditation should be on the Last Things: Death, Judgement, Purgatory, Heaven and Hell. Here mortals sins are cheifly purged out.
The Second Degree may be called the human life; this is the life of those who do not experience any sensible sweetness, but through Christian virtue by the help of the grace of GOD, combat their own passions. Here the cheif meditation should be on the Passion and Death of Our Lord JESUS CHRIST. Mortal sins being purged out before entering into this stage, here those venial sins that are still existing are purged out.
The Third Degree may be called the angelic life; this is the life which they come to, who, having been exercised for a long time in the taming of their own passions through Christian virtue by the help of GOD’s grace, receive from GOD a quiet tranquil in Him, and almost angelic life, even in this world, feeling no trouble or repugnance in anything while loving and serving GOD for His sake alone in uniformity to His Holy will according to His good pleasure. Here the cheif meditation should be on the contemplation of the Divine infinite goodness of GOD and of everlasting celestial joys. Those venial sins that were still existing were purged out before entering this stage.
These Three Degrees or Stages correspond in the supernatural life to the three stages of man’s natural life: 1. Purtgative to childhood, the period of mental and physical weakness; 2. Illuminative to adolescence, the period of development; and 3. Unitive to manhood, the period of maturity.
The order in which the Beatitudes are enumerated shows us the Three Degrees, or stages, of the spiritual life of union with GOD: (1), All sinful inclinations must be combated, by means of humility, meekness, sorrow for sin; (2), Our sanctification must be effected by means of striving after perfection and the practice of works of mercy; and (3), We must be united to GOD, by cleanness of heart, by peaceableness, and patient endurance of suffering for the love of Him.
1. The Purgative Stage is getting out of hell in this life; 2. The Illuminative Stage is getting out of Purgatory in this life and 3. The Unitive Stage is getting into Heaven directly after this life.
Of these Three Degrees it is well to persevere in the Second by the grace of GOD, because the infinitely good GOD will grant the Third in His own good and perfect time.
There is no end to the way of Christian perfection in union with GOD in this life: and he that is just, let him be justified still: and he that is holy, let him be sanctified still. (Apocalypse [Revelation] 22:11). For the love of GOD is without limit. Be you therefore perfect, as also your heavenly Father is perfect. (Matthew 5:48); Be ye holy, because I the Lord your God am holy. (Leviticus 19:2)
The glory one gives GOD in heaven and ones ones happiness there will be in proportion to the efforts one makes on earth to become holy.
GOD rewards our good intention and desire to serve Him. I am he that searcheth the reins and hearts. And I will give to every one of you according to your works. (Apocalypse [Revelation] 2:23). We should make this good intention especially in the morning, and often during the day.
On Christian Joy and Peace in Union With GOD
Christian joy in union with GOD is a fruit of the HOLY SPIRIT. This supernatural joy comes from gratitude and praise in knowing the love and mercy of JESUS CHRIST, and from trusting in His promise of everlasting life with Him. Christian Joy will be fully realized only in heaven, where the soul possesses GOD without obstacles in the beatific vision: but I will see you again and your heart shall rejoice. And your joy no man shall take from you. (John 16:22). These things I have spoken to you, that my joy may be in you, and your joy may be filled. (John 15:11); for the joy of the Lord is our strength. (2 Esdras [Nehemiah] 8:10)
Christian peace in union with GOD is fruit of the HOLY SPIRIT. This supernatural peace is not experienced as the absence of conflict or even of pain; rather, it is experienced as a serenity of soul that perseveres through conflict and pain due to the total trust and confidence in GOD. Peace is the tranquility of the order of GOD. These things I have spoken to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you shall have distress. But have confidence. I have overcome the world. (John 16:33); Peace I leave with you: my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, do I give unto you. Let not your heart be troubled: nor let it be afraid.(John 14:27)
Christian joy and peace in union with GOD, being the second and third fruits of the HOLY SPIRIT in hierarchial order, flow forth from the first fruit of the HOLY SPIRIT namely charity. The necessary result of the charity of GOD is Christian joy and Christian peace. They are a sure sign of the presence of GOD in ones soul. Nothing in a finite world can bring the infinite joy and peace of GOD. Only co-operating with the grace of GOD can.
It is impossible, for anyone living in sin, separated from GOD to have true joy and peace, and for anyone living in union with GOD to have true misery. True happiness is impossible without inner joy and peace which can only be possesed by those who have the charity of GOD with the indwelling of Him in their souls.
The Christian living in joy and peace in union with GOD, is under no trouble or anxiety, for their one desire is that the will of GOD should be done, and they rejoice in contributing to this no matter what the circumstances.Rejoice in the Lord always: again, I say, rejoice. (Philipians 4:4); And the peace of God, which surpasseth all understanding, keep your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 4:7). The Christian living in joy and peace in union with GOD has a foretaste of heaven on earth.
Amen, amen, I say to you: If any man keep my word, he shall not see death for ever. (John 8:51)
I am the door. By me, if any man enter in, he shall be saved: and he shall go in and go out, and shall find pastures. The thief cometh not, but for to steal and to kill and to destroy. I am come that they may have life and may have it more abundantly. (John 10:9,10)
Love God all thy life, and call upon him for thy salvation. (Ecclesiasticus [Sirach] 13:18). Always rejoice. Pray without ceasing. In all things give thanks for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you all. From all appearance of evil refrain yourselves. And may the God of peace himself sanctify you in all things: that your whole spirit and soul and body may be preserved blameless in the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. He is faithful who hath called you, who also will do it.(1 Thessalonians 5:16-18;22-24)
The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen. (Apocalypse 22:21)
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Important Note: It is of utmost importance to be well versed with the unchangeable Teachings of GOD once and for all given by Him through His Catholic Church through the Apostles, especially in these end times of apostasy [apostasy means falling away from the faith of GOD] foretold by GOD through Sacred Scripture (2 Thessalonians 2:3), which has been flowing forth from the many false prophets, including primarily those who are members of the hierarchy of the Catholic Church. GOD JESUS CHRIST has clearly foretold that in the end times - And many false prophets shall rise and shall seduce many. (Matthew 24:11); Now the Spirit manifestly saith that in the last times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to spirits of error and doctrines of devils, Speaking lies in hypocrisy and having their conscience seared (1 Timothy 4:1); For there shall be a time when they will not endure sound doctrine but, according to their own desires, they will heap to themselves teachers having itching ears: And will indeed turn away their hearing from the truth, but will be turned unto fables. (2 Timothy 4:3,4); But you, my beloved, building yourselves upon your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Ghost, Keep yourselves in the love of God, waiting for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ, unto life everlasting. (Jude 1:20,21); Watch ye, therefore, praying at all times, that you may be accounted worthy to escape all these things that are to come and to stand before the Son of man. (Luke 21:36)