Question: What is necessary to make a good Communion?

Answer: To make a good Communion it is necessary to be in the state of sanctifying grace, to have a right intention, and to obey the laws of fasting. (See Q. 257.)

LESSON TWENTY-THIRD: ON THE ENDS FOR WHICH THE HOLY EUCHARIST WAS INSTITUTED


Question: Does he who receives Communion in mortal sin receive the body and blood of Christ?

Answer: He who receives Communion in mortal sin receives the body and blood of Christ, but does not receive His grace, and he commits a great sacrilege.

LESSON TWENTY-THIRD: ON THE ENDS FOR WHICH THE HOLY EUCHARIST WAS INSTITUTED


Question: Is it enough to be free from mortal sin to receive plentifully the graces of Holy Communion?

Answer: 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 faith, hope, and love.

LESSON TWENTY-THIRD: ON THE ENDS FOR WHICH THE HOLY EUCHARIST WAS INSTITUTED


Question: What is the fast necessary for Holy Communion?

Answer: The fast necessary for Holy Communion is to abstain from all food, beverages, and alcoholic drinks for one hour before Holy Communion. Water may be taken at any time. The sick may take food, non-alcoholic drinks, and any medicine up to Communion time.

LESSON TWENTY-THIRD: ON THE ENDS FOR WHICH THE HOLY EUCHARIST WAS INSTITUTED


Question: Is any one ever allowed to receive Holy Communion when not fasting?

Answer: Any one in danger of death is allowed to receive Holy Communion when not fasting or when it is necessary to save the Blessed Sacrament from insult or injury.

LESSON TWENTY-THIRD: ON THE ENDS FOR WHICH THE HOLY EUCHARIST WAS INSTITUTED


Question: When are we bound to receive Holy Communion?

Answer: We are bound to receive Holy Communion, under pain of mortal sin, during the Easter time and when in danger of death.

LESSON TWENTY-THIRD: ON THE ENDS FOR WHICH THE HOLY EUCHARIST WAS INSTITUTED


Question: Is it well to receive Holy Communion often?

Answer: It is well to receive Holy Communion often, as nothing is a greater aid to a holy life than often to receive the Author of all grace and the Source of all good.

LESSON TWENTY-THIRD: ON THE ENDS FOR WHICH THE HOLY EUCHARIST WAS INSTITUTED


Question: What should we do after Holy Communion?

Answer: After Holy Communion we should spend some time in adoring our Lord, in thanking Him for the grace we have received, and in asking Him for the blessings we need.

LESSON TWENTY-THIRD: ON THE ENDS FOR WHICH THE HOLY EUCHARIST WAS INSTITUTED


Question: When and where are the bread and wine changed into the body and blood of Christ?

Answer: The bread and wine are changed into the body and blood of Christ at the Consecration in the Mass.

LESSON TWENTY-FOURTH: ON THE SACRIFICE OF THE MASS


Question: What is the Mass?

Answer: The Mass is the unbloody sacrifice of the body and blood of Christ.

LESSON TWENTY-FOURTH: ON THE SACRIFICE OF THE MASS


Question: What is a sacrifice?

Answer: A sacrifice is the offering of an object by a priest to God alone, and the consuming of it to acknowledge that He is the Creator and Lord of all things.

LESSON TWENTY-FOURTH: ON THE SACRIFICE OF THE MASS


Question: Is the Mass the same sacrifice as that of the Cross?

Answer: The Mass is the same sacrifice as that of the Cross.

LESSON TWENTY-FOURTH: ON THE SACRIFICE OF THE MASS


Question: How is the Mass the same sacrifice as that of the Cross?

Answer: The Mass is the same sacrifice as that of the Cross because the offering and the priest are the same--Christ our Blessed Lord; and the ends for which the sacrifice of the Mass is offered are the same as those of the sacrifice of the Cross.

LESSON TWENTY-FOURTH: ON THE SACRIFICE OF THE MASS


Question: What were the ends for which the sacrifice of the Cross was offered?

Answer: The ends for which the sacrifice of the Cross was offered were: 1st, To honor and glorify God; 2d, To thank Him for all the graces bestowed on the whole world; 3d, To satisfy God's justice for the sins of men; 4th, To obtain all graces and blessings.

LESSON TWENTY-FOURTH: ON THE SACRIFICE OF THE MASS


Question: Is there any difference between the sacrifice of the Cross and the sacrifice of the Mass?

Answer: Yes; the manner in which the sacrifice is offered is different. On the Cross Christ really shed His blood and was really slain; in the Mass there is no real shedding of blood nor real death, because Christ can die no more; but the sacrifice of the Mass, through the separate consecration of the bread and the wine, represents His death on the Cross.

LESSON TWENTY-FOURTH: ON THE SACRIFICE OF THE MASS


Question: How should we assist at Mass?

Answer: We should assist at Mass with great interior recollection and piety and with every outward mark of respect and devotion.

LESSON TWENTY-FOURTH: ON THE SACRIFICE OF THE MASS


Question: Which is the best manner of hearing Mass?

Answer: The best manner of hearing Mass is to offer it to God with the priest for the same purpose for which it is said, to meditate on Christ's sufferings and death, and to go to Holy Communion.

LESSON TWENTY-FOURTH: ON THE SACRIFICE OF THE MASS


Question: What is the Sacrament of Extreme Unction?

Answer: Extreme Unction is the Sacrament which, through the anointing and prayer of the priest, gives health and strength to the soul, and sometimes to the body, when we are in danger of death from sickness.

LESSON TWENTY-FIFTH: ON EXTREME UNCTION AND HOLY ORDERS


Question: When should we receive Extreme Unction?

Answer: We should receive Extreme Unction when we are in danger of death from sickness, or from a wound or accident.

LESSON TWENTY-FIFTH: ON EXTREME UNCTION AND HOLY ORDERS


Question: Should we wait until we are in extreme danger before we receive Extreme Unction?

Answer: We should not wait until we are in extreme danger before we receive Extreme Unction, but if possible we should receive it whilst we have the use of our senses.

LESSON TWENTY-FIFTH: ON EXTREME UNCTION AND HOLY ORDERS


Question: Which are the effects of the Sacrament of Extreme Unction?

Answer: The effects of Extreme Unction are: 1st, To comfort us in the pains of sickness and to strengthen us against temptation; 2d, To remit venial sins and to cleanse our soul from the remains of sin; 3d, To restore us to health, when God sees fit.

LESSON TWENTY-FIFTH: ON EXTREME UNCTION AND HOLY ORDERS


Question: What do you mean by the remains of sin?

Answer: By the remains of sin I mean the inclination to evil and the weakness of the will which are the result of our sins, and which remain after our sins have been forgiven.

LESSON TWENTY-FIFTH: ON EXTREME UNCTION AND HOLY ORDERS


Question: How should we receive the Sacrament of Extreme Unction?

Answer: We should receive the Sacrament of Extreme Unction in the state of grace, and with lively faith and resignation to the will of God.

LESSON TWENTY-FIFTH: ON EXTREME UNCTION AND HOLY ORDERS


Question: Who is the minister of the Sacrament of Extreme Unction?

Answer: The priest is the minister of the Sacrament of Extreme Unction.

LESSON TWENTY-FIFTH: ON EXTREME UNCTION AND HOLY ORDERS


Question: What is the Sacrament of Holy Orders?

Answer: Holy Orders is a Sacrament by which bishops, priests, and other ministers of the Church are ordained and receive the power and grace to perform their sacred duties.

LESSON TWENTY-FIFTH: ON EXTREME UNCTION AND HOLY ORDERS


Question: What is necessary to receive Holy Orders worthily?

Answer: To receive Holy Orders worthily it is necessary to be in the state of grace, to have the necessary knowledge and a divine call to this sacred office.

LESSON TWENTY-FIFTH: ON EXTREME UNCTION AND HOLY ORDERS


Question: How should Christians look upon the priests of the Church?

Answer: Christians should look upon the priests of the Church as the messengers of God and the dispensers of His mysteries.

LESSON TWENTY-FIFTH: ON EXTREME UNCTION AND HOLY ORDERS


Question: Who can confer the Sacrament of Holy Orders?

Answer: Bishops can confer the Sacrament of Holy Orders.

LESSON TWENTY-FIFTH: ON EXTREME UNCTION AND HOLY ORDERS


Question: What is the Sacrament of Matrimony?

Answer: The Sacrament of Matrimony is the Sacrament which unites a Christian man and woman in lawful marriage.


Question: Can a Christian man and woman be united in lawful marriage in any other way than by the Sacrament of Matrimony?

Answer: A Christian man and woman cannot be united in lawful marriage in any other way than by the Sacrament of Matrimony, because Christ raised marriage to the dignity of a Sacrament.


Question: Can the bond of Christian marriage be dissolved by any human power?

Answer: The bond of Christian marriage cannot be dissolved by any human power.


Question: Which are the effects of the Sacrament of Matrimony?

Answer: The effects of the Sacrament of Matrimony are: 1st, To sanctify the love of husband and wife; 2d, To give them grace to bear with each other's weaknesses; 3d, To enable them to bring up their children in the fear and love of God.


Question: To receive the Sacrament of matrimony worthily is it necessary to be in the state of grace?

Answer: To receive the Sacrament of Matrimony worthily it is necessary to be in the state of grace, and it is necessary also to comply with the laws of the Church.


Question: Who has the right to make laws concerning the Sacrament of marriage?

Answer: The Church alone has the right to make laws concerning the Sacrament of marriage, though the state also has the right to make laws concerning the civil effects of the marriage contract.


Question: Does the Church forbid the marriage of Catholics with persons who have a different religion or no religion at all?

Answer: The Church does forbid the marriage of Catholics with persons who have a different religion or no religion at all.


Question: Why does the Church forbid the marriage of Catholics with persons who have a different religion or no religion at all?

Answer: The Church forbids the marriage of Catholics with persons who have a different religion or no religion at all, because such marriages generally lead to indifference, loss of faith, and to the neglect of the religious education of the children.


Question: Why do many marriages prove unhappy?

Answer: Many marriages prove unhappy because they are entered into hastily and without worthy motives.


Question: How should Christians prepare for a holy and happy marriage?

Answer: Christians should prepare for a holy and happy marriage by receiving the Sacraments of Penance and Holy Eucharist; by begging God to grant them a pure intention and to direct their choice; and by seeking the advice of their parents and the blessing of their pastors.


Question: What is a sacramental?

Answer: A sacramental is anything set apart or blessed by the Church to excite good thoughts and to increase devotion, and through these movements of the heart to remit venial sin.

LESSON TWENTY-SEVENTH: ON THE SACRAMENTALS


Question: What is the difference between the Sacraments and the sacramentals?

Answer: The difference between the Sacraments and the sacramentals is: 1st, The Sacraments were instituted by Jesus Christ and the sacramentals were instituted by the Church; 2d, 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.

LESSON TWENTY-SEVENTH: ON THE SACRAMENTALS


Question: Which is the chief sacramental used in the Church?

Answer: The chief sacramental used in the Church is the sign of the Cross.

LESSON TWENTY-SEVENTH: ON THE SACRAMENTALS


Question: How do we make the sign of the Cross?

Answer: 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 Ghost. Amen.

LESSON TWENTY-SEVENTH: ON THE SACRAMENTALS


Question: Why do we make the sign of the Cross?

Answer: We make the sign of the Cross to show that we are Christians and to profess our belief in the chief mysteries of our religion.

LESSON TWENTY-SEVENTH: ON THE SACRAMENTALS


Question: How is the sign of the Cross a profession of faith in the chief mysteries of our religion?

Answer: The sign of the Cross is a profession of faith in the chief mysteries of our religion because it expresses the mysteries of the Unity and Trinity of God and of the Incarnation and death of our Lord.

LESSON TWENTY-SEVENTH: ON THE SACRAMENTALS


Question: How does the sign of the Cross express the mystery of the Unity and Trinity of God?

Answer: The words, In the name, express the Unity of God; the words that follow, of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost, express the mystery of the Trinity.

LESSON TWENTY-SEVENTH: ON THE SACRAMENTALS


Question: How does the sign of the Cross express the mystery of the Incarnation and death of our Lord?

Answer: The sign of the Cross expresses the mystery of the Incarnation by reminding us that the Son of God, having become man, suffered death on the cross.

LESSON TWENTY-SEVENTH: ON THE SACRAMENTALS


Question: What other sacramental is in very frequent use?

Answer: Another sacramental in very frequent use is holy water.

LESSON TWENTY-SEVENTH: ON THE SACRAMENTALS


Question: What is holy water?

Answer: Holy water is water blessed by the priest with solemn prayer to beg God's blessing on those who use it, and protection from the powers of darkness.

LESSON TWENTY-SEVENTH: ON THE SACRAMENTALS


Question: Are there other sacramentals besides the sign of the Cross and holy water?

Answer: Besides the sign of the Cross and holy water there are many other sacramentals, such as blessed candles, ashes, palms, crucifixes, images of the Blessed Virgin and of the saints, rosaries, and scapulars.

LESSON TWENTY-SEVENTH: ON THE SACRAMENTALS


Question: Is there any other means of obtaining God's grace than the Sacraments?

Answer: There is another means of obtaining God's grace, and it is prayer.


Question: What is prayer?

Answer: 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.


Question: Is prayer necessary to salvation?

Answer: Prayer is necessary to salvation, and without it no one having the use of reason can be saved.


Question: At what particular times should we pray?

Answer: We should pray particularly on Sundays and holydays, every morning and night, in all dangers, temptations, and afflictions.


Question: How should we pray?

Answer: We should pray: 1st, With attention; 2d, With a sense of our own helplessness and dependence upon God; 3d, With a great desire for the graces we beg of God; 4th, With trust in God's goodness; 5th, With perseverance.


Question: Which are the prayers most recommended to us?

Answer: The prayers most recommended to us are the Lord's Prayer, the Hail Mary, the Apostles' Creed, the Confiteor, and the Acts of Faith, Hope, Love, and Contrition.


Question: Are prayers said with distractions of any avail?

Answer: Prayers said with wilful distractions are of no avail.


Question: Is it enough to belong to God's Church in order to be saved?

Answer: It is not enough to belong to the Church in order to be saved, but we must also keep the Commandments of God and of the Church.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD


Question: Which are the Commandments that contain the whole law of God?

Answer: The Commandments which contain the whole law of God are these two: 1st, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with thy whole heart, with thy whole soul, with thy whole strength, and with thy whole mind; 2d, Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD


Question: Why do these two Commandments of the love of God and of our neighbor contain the whole law of God?

Answer: These two Commandments of the love of God and of our neighbor contain the whole law of God because all the other Commandments are given either to help us to keep these two, or to direct us how to shun what is opposed to them.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD


Question: Which are the Commandments of God?

Answer: The Commandments of God are these ten.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD


Question: Who gave the Ten Commandments?

Answer: God Himself gave the Ten Commandments to Moses on Mount Sinai, and Christ our Lord confirmed them.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD


Question: What is the first Commandment?

Answer: The first Commandment is: I am the Lord thy God: thou shalt not have strange gods before Me.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD


Question: How does the first Commandment help us to keep the great Commandment of the love of God?

Answer: The first Commandment helps us to keep the great Commandment of the love of God because it commands us to adore God alone.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD


Question: How do we adore God?

Answer: We adore God by faith, hope, and charity, by prayer and sacrifice.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD


Question: How may the first Commandment be broken?

Answer: The first Commandment may be broken by giving to a creature the honor which belongs to God alone; by false worship; and by attributing to a creature a perfection which belongs to God alone.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD


Question: Do those who make use of spells and charms, or who believe in dreams, in mediums, spiritists, fortune-tellers, and the like, sin against the first Commandment?

Answer: Those who make use of spells and charms, or who believe in dreams, in mediums, spiritists, fortunetellers and the like, sin against the first Commandment, because they attribute to creatures perfections which belong to God alone.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD


Question: Are sins against faith, hope and charity also sins against the first Commandment?

Answer: Sins against faith, hope, and charity are also sins against the first Commandment.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD


Question: How does a person sin against faith?

Answer: A person sins against faith: 1st, by not trying to know what God has taught; 2d, by refusing to believe all that God has taught; 3d, by neglecting to profess his belief in what God has taught.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD


Question: How do we fail to try to know what God has taught?

Answer: We fail to try to know what God has taught by neglecting to learn the Christian doctrine.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD


Question: Who are they who do not believe all that God has taught?

Answer: They who do not believe all that God has taught are the heretics and infidels.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD


Question: Who are they who neglect to profess their belief in what God has taught?

Answer: They who neglect to profess their belief in what God has taught are all those who fail to acknowledge the true Church in which they really believe.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD


Question: Can they who fail to profess their faith in the true Church in which they believe expect to be saved while in that state?

Answer: They who fail to profess their faith in the true Church in which they believe cannot expect to be saved while in that state, for Christ has said: "Whoever shall deny Me before men, I will also deny him before My Father who is in heaven."

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD


Question: Are we obliged to make open profession of our faith?

Answer: We are obliged to make open profession of our faith as often as God's honor, our neighbor's spiritual good, or our own requires it. "Whosoever," says Christ, "shall confess Me before men, I will also confess him before My Father who is in heaven."

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD


Question: Which are the sins against hope?

Answer: The sins against hope are presumption and despair.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD


Question: What is presumption?

Answer: Presumption is a rash expectation of salvation without making proper use of the necessary means to obtain it.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD


Question: What is despair?

Answer: Despair is the loss of hope in God's mercy.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD


Question: How do we sin against the love of God?

Answer: We sin against the love of God by all sin, but particularly by mortal sin.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD


Question: Does the first Commandment forbid the honoring of the saints?

Answer: The first Commandment does not forbid the honoring of the saints, but rather approves of it; because by honoring the saints, who are the chosen friends of God, we honor God Himself.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD


Question: Does the first Commandment forbid us to pray to the saints?

Answer: The first Commandment does not forbid us to pray to the saints.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD


Question: What do we mean by praying to the saints?

Answer: By praying to the saints we mean the asking of their help and prayers.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD


Question: How do we know that the saints hear us?

Answer: We know that the saints hear us, because they are with God, who makes our prayers known to them.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD


Question: Why do we believe that the saints will help us?

Answer: We believe that the saints will help us because both they and we are members of the same Church, and they love us as their brethren.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD


Question: How are the saints and we members of the same Church?

Answer: The saints and we are members of the same Church, because the Church in heaven and the Church on earth are one and the same Church, and all its members are in communion with one another.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD


Question: What is the communion of the members of the Church called?

Answer: The communion of the members of the Church is called the communion of saints.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD


Question: What does the communion of saints mean?

Answer: The communion of saints means the union which exists between the members of the Church on earth with one another, and with the blessed in heaven and with the suffering souls in purgatory.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD


Question: What benefits are derived from the communion of saints?

Answer: 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.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD


Question: Does the first Commandment forbid us to honor relics?

Answer: The first Commandment does not forbid us to honor relics, because relics are the bodies of the saints, or objects directly connected with them or with our Lord.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD


Question: Does the first Commandment forbid the making of images?

Answer: The first Commandment does forbid the making of images if they are made to be adored as gods, but it does not forbid the making of them to put us in mind of Jesus Christ, His Blessed Mother, and the saints.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD


Question: Is it right to show respect to the pictures and images of Christ and His saints?

Answer: It is right to show respect to the pictures and images of Christ and His saints, because they are the representations and memorials of them.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD


Question: Is it allowed to pray to the crucifix or to the images and relics of the saints?

Answer: It is 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.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD


Question: Why do we pray before the crucifix and the images and relics of the saints?

Answer: We pray before the crucifix and images and relics of the saints because they enliven our devotion by exciting pious affections and desires, and by reminding us of Christ and of the saints, that we may imitate their virtues.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD


Question: What is the second Commandment?

Answer: The second Commandment is: Thou shalt not take the name of the Lord thy God in vain.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD


Question: What are we commanded by the second Commandment?

Answer: We are commanded by 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.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD


Question: What is an oath?

Answer: An oath is the calling upon God to witness the truth of what we say.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD


Question: When may we take an oath?

Answer: We may take an oath when it is ordered by lawful authority or required for God's honor or for our own or our neighbor's good.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD


Question: What is necessary to make an oath lawful?

Answer: To make an oath lawful it is necessary that what we swear to, be true, and that there be a sufficient cause for taking an oath.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD


Question: What is a vow?

Answer: A vow is a deliberate promise made to God to do something that is pleasing to Him.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD


Question: Is it a sin not to fulfill our vows?

Answer: Not to fulfill our vows is a sin, mortal or venial, according to the nature of the vow and the intention we had in making it.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD


Question: What is forbidden by the second Commandment?

Answer: The second Commandment forbids all false, rash, unjust, and unnecessary oaths, blasphemy, cursing, and profane words.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD


Question: What is the third Commandment?

Answer: The third Commandment is: Remember thou keep holy the Sabbath day.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD


Question: What are we commanded by the third Commandment?

Answer: By the third Commandment we are commanded to keep holy the Lord's day and the holydays of obligation, on which we are to give our time to the service and worship of God.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD


Question: How are we to worship God on Sundays and holydays of obligation?

Answer: We are to worship God on Sundays and holydays of obligation by hearing Mass, by prayer, and by other good works.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD


Question: Are the Sabbath day and the Sunday the same?

Answer: The Sabbath day and the Sunday are not the same. The Sabbath is the seventh day of the week, and is the day which was kept holy in the Old Law; the Sunday is the first day of the week, and is the day which is kept holy in the New Law.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD


Question: Why does the Church command us to keep the Sunday holy instead of the Sabbath?

Answer: The Church commands us to keep the Sunday holy instead of the Sabbath because on Sunday Christ rose from the dead, and on Sunday He sent the Holy Ghost upon the Apostles.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD


Question: What is forbidden by the third Commandment?

Answer: The third Commandment forbids all unnecessary servile work and whatever else may hinder the due observance of the Lord's day.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD


Question: What are servile works?

Answer: Servile works are those which require labor rather of body than of mind.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD


Question: Are servile works on Sunday ever lawful?

Answer: Servile works are lawful on Sunday when the honor of God, the good of our neighbor, or necessity requires them.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD


Question: What is the fourth Commandment?

Answer: The fourth Commandment is: Honor thy father and thy mother.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD


Question: What are we commanded by the fourth Commandment?

Answer: We are commanded by the fourth Commandment to honor, love, and obey our parents in all that is not sin.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD


Question: Are we bound to honor and obey others than our parents?

Answer: We are also bound to honor and obey our bishops, pastors, magistrates, teachers, and other lawful superiors.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD


Question: Have parents and superiors any duties towards those who are under their charge?

Answer: It is the duty of parents and superiors to take good care of all under their charge and give them proper direction and example.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD


Question: What is forbidden by the fourth Commandment?

Answer: The fourth Commandment forbids all disobedience, contempt, and stubbornness towards our parents or lawful superiors.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD


Question: What is the fifth Commandment?

Answer: The fifth Commandment is: Thou shalt not kill.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD


Question: What are we commanded by the fifth Commandment?

Answer: We are commanded by the fifth Commandment to live in peace and union with our neighbor, to respect his rights, to seek his spiritual and bodily welfare, and to take proper care of our own life and health.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD


Question: What is forbidden by the fifth Commandment?

Answer: The fifth Commandment forbids all wilful murder, fighting, anger, hatred, revenge, and bad example.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD


Question: What is the sixth Commandment?

Answer: The sixth Commandment is: Thou shalt not commit adultery.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD


Question: What are we commanded by the sixth Commandment?

Answer: We are commanded by the sixth Commandment to be pure in thought and modest in all our looks, words, and actions.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD


Question: What is forbidden by the sixth Commandment?

Answer: The sixth commandment forbids all unchaste freedom with another's wife or husband; also all immodesty with ourselves or others in looks, dress, words, or actions.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD


Question: Does the sixth Commandment forbid the reading of bad and immodest books and newspapers?

Answer: The sixth Commandment does forbid the reading of bad and immodest books and newspapers.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD


Question: What is the seventh Commandment?

Answer: The seventh Commandment is: Thou shalt not steal.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD


Question: What are we commanded by the seventh Commandment?

Answer: By the seventh Commandment we are commanded to give to all men what belongs to them and to respect their property.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD


Question: What is forbidden by the seventh Commandment?

Answer: The seventh Commandment forbids all unjust taking or keeping what belongs to another.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD


Question: Are we bound to restore ill-gotten goods?

Answer: We are bound to restore ill-gotten goods, or the value of them, as far as we are able; otherwise we cannot be forgiven.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD


Question: Are we obliged to repair the damage we have unjustly caused?

Answer: We are bound to repair the damage we have unjustly caused.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD


Question: What is the eighth Commandment?

Answer: The eighth Commandment is: Thou shalt not bear false witness against thy neighbor.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD


Question: What are we commanded by the eighth Commandment?

Answer: We are commanded by the eighth Commandment to speak the truth in all things and to be careful of the honor and reputation of every one.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD


Question: What is forbidden by the eighth Commandment?

Answer: The eighth Commandment forbids all rash judgments, backbiting, slanders, and lies.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD


Question: What must they do who have lied about their neighbor and seriously injured his character?

Answer: They who have lied about their neighbor and seriously injured his character must repair the injury done as far as they are able, otherwise they will not be forgiven.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD


Question: What is the ninth Commandment?

Answer: The ninth Commandment is: Thou shalt not covet thy neighbor's wife.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD


Question: What are we commanded by the ninth Commandment?

Answer: We are commanded by the ninth Commandment to keep ourselves pure in thought and desire.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD


Question: What is forbidden by the ninth Commandment?

Answer: The ninth Commandment forbids unchaste thoughts, desires of another's wife or husband, and all other unlawful impure thoughts and desires.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD


Question: Are impure thoughts and desires always sins?

Answer: Impure thoughts and desires are always sins, unless they displease us and we try to banish them.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD


Question: What is the tenth Commandment?

Answer: The tenth Commandment is: Thou shalt not covet thy neighbor's goods.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD


Question: What are we commanded by the tenth Commandment?

Answer: By the tenth Commandment we are commanded to be content with what we have, and to rejoice in our neighbor's welfare.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD


Question: What is forbidden by the tenth Commandment?

Answer: The tenth Commandment forbids all desires to take or keep wrongfully what belongs to another.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD


Question: Which are the chief commandments of the Church?

Answer: The chief commandments of the Church are six:

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD


Question: Is it a mortal sin not to hear Mass on a Sunday or a holyday of obligation?

Answer: It is a mortal sin 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.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD


Question: Why were holydays instituted by the Church?

Answer: Holydays were instituted by the Church to recall to our minds the great mysteries of religion and the virtues and rewards of the saints.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD


Question: How should we keep the holydays of obligation?

Answer: We should keep the holydays of obligation as we should keep the Sunday.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD


Question: What do you mean by fast-days?

Answer: By fast-days I mean days on which we are allowed but one full meal.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD


Question: What do you mean by days of abstinence?

Answer: By days of abstinence I mean days on which we are forbidden to eat flesh-meat, but are allowed the usual number of meals.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD


Question: Why does the Church command us to fast and abstain?

Answer: The Church commands us to fast and abstain, in order that we may mortify our passions and satisfy for our sins.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD


Question: Why does the Church command us to abstain from flesh-meat on Fridays?

Answer: The Church commands us to abstain from flesh-meat on Fridays, in honor of the day on which our Saviour died.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD


Question: What is meant by the command of confessing at least once a year?

Answer: By the command of confessing at least once a year is meant that we are obliged, under pain of mortal sin, to go to confession within the year.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD


Question: Should we confess only once a year?

Answer: We should confess frequently, if we wish to lead a good life.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD


Question: Should children go to Confession?

Answer: Children should go to Confession when they are old enough to commit sin, which is commonly about the age of seven years.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD


Question: What sin does he commit who neglects to receive Communion during the Easter time?

Answer: He who neglects to receive Communion during the Easter time commits a mortal sin.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD


Question: What is the Easter time?

Answer: The Easter time is, in this country, the time between the first Sunday of Lent and Trinity Sunday.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD


Question: Are we obliged to contribute to the support of our pastors?

Answer: We are obliged to contribute to the support of our pastors, and to bear our share in the expenses of the church and school.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD


Question: What is the meaning of the commandment not to marry within the third degree of kindred?

Answer: The meaning of the commandment not to marry within the third degree of kindred is that no one is allowed to marry another within the third degree of blood relationship.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD


Question: What is the meaning of the command not to marry privately?

Answer: The command not to marry privately means that none should marry without the blessing of God's priests or without witnesses.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD


Question: What is the meaning of the precept not to solemnize marriage at forbidden times?

Answer: The meaning of the precept not to solemnize marriage at forbidden times is that during Lent and Advent the marriage ceremony should not be performed with pomp or a nuptial Mass.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD


Question: What is the nuptial Mass?

Answer: A nuptial Mass is a Mass appointed by the Church to invoke a special blessing upon the married couple.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD


Question: Should Catholics be married at a nuptial Mass?

Answer: Catholics should be married at a nuptial Mass, because they thereby show greater reverence for the holy Sacrament and bring richer blessings upon their wedded life.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD


Question: When will Christ judge us?

Answer: Christ will judge us immediately after our death, and on the last day.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD


Question: What is the judgment called which we have to undergo immediately after death?

Answer: The judgment we have to undergo immediately after death is called the Particular Judgment.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD


Question: What is the judgment called which all men have to undergo on the last day?

Answer: The judgment which all men have to undergo on the last day is called the General Judgment.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD


Question: Why does Christ judge men immediately after death?

Answer: Christ judges men immediately after death to reward or punish them according to their deeds.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD


Question: What are the rewards or punishments appointed for men's souls after the Particular Judgment?

Answer: The rewards or punishments appointed for men's souls after the Particular Judgment are Heaven, Purgatory, and Hell.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD


Question: What is Hell?

Answer: Hell is a state to which the wicked are condemned, and in which they are deprived of the sight of God for all eternity, and are in dreadful torments.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD


Question: What is Purgatory?

Answer: Purgatory is a state in which those suffer for a time who die guilty of venial sins, or without having satisfied for the punishment due to their sins.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD


Question: Can the faithful on earth help the souls in Purgatory?

Answer: The faithful on earth can help the souls in Purgatory by their prayers, fasts, alms-deeds; by indulgences, and by having Masses said for them.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD


Question: If every one is judged immediately after death, what need is there of a General Judgment?

Answer: There is need of a General Judgment, though every one is judged immediately after death, that the providence of God, which, on earth, often permits the good to suffer and the wicked to prosper, may in the end appear just before all men.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD


Question: Will our bodies share in the reward or punishment of our souls?

Answer: Our bodies will share in the reward or punishment of our souls, because through the resurrection they will again be united to them.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD


Question: In what state will the bodies of the just rise?

Answer: The bodies of the just will rise glorious and immortal.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD


Question: Will the bodies of the damned also rise?

Answer: The bodies of the damned will also rise, but they will be condemned to eternal punishment.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD


Question: What is Heaven?

Answer: Heaven is the state of everlasting life in which we see God face to face, are made like unto Him in glory, and enjoy eternal happiness.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD


Question: What words should we bear always in mind?

Answer: We should bear always in mind these words of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ: "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? 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."

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD


Question: Say the Lord's Prayer.

Answer: 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.

Lesson TWENTY-NINTH--On the Commandments of God


Question: Who made the Lord's Prayer?

Answer: Our Lord Himself made the Lord's Prayer for the use of His disciples and of all the faithful.

Lesson TWENTY-NINTH--On the Commandments of God


Question: Why is the "Our Father" the most excellent of all Prayers?

Answer: The "Our Father" is the most excellent of all prayers because Our Lord Himself made it and because its petitions ask for all we can need for soul or body.

Lesson TWENTY-NINTH--On the Commandments of God


Question: How is the Lord's Prayer divided?

Answer: The Lord's Prayer is divided into seven requests or petitions. Three of these petitions refer to God's honor and glory, and the remaining four to our corporeal or spiritual wants.

Lesson TWENTY-NINTH--On the Commandments of God


Question: Whom do we address as "Our Father" when we say the Lord's Prayer?

Answer: When we say "Our Father" in the Lord's Prayer we address Almighty God, Father, Son and Holy Ghost united in the adorable Trinity.

Lesson TWENTY-NINTH--On the Commandments of God


Question: Why do we say "our" and not "my" Father?

Answer: We say "our" and not "my" Father to remind us that through our creation and redemption, we are all members of the great human family of which God is the Father; and that we should pray for and help one another.

Lesson TWENTY-NINTH--On the Commandments of God


Question: Why do we call God Father?

Answer: We call God Father because He does for us what a good father should do for his children. He gives us our existence; He protects us; He provides for us and teaches us; and because the name of "Father" fills us with love and reverence for him, and with confidence in Him.

Lesson TWENTY-NINTH--On the Commandments of God


Question: Why do we say "Who art in heaven" if God be everywhere?

Answer: We say "who art in heaven" to put us in mind (1) that heaven is our true home for which we were created; (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.

Lesson TWENTY-NINTH--On the Commandments of God


Question: What does "Hallowed be Thy Name" mean?

Answer: 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 all.

Lesson TWENTY-NINTH--On the Commandments of God


Question: What do we ask for in the petition: "Thy kingdom come"?

Answer: In the petition "Thy kingdom come" we ask (1) that God may reign in the souls of all men by His grace, so that they may attain eternal salvation; (2) that the true Church--Christ's kingdom--may spread upon earth till all men embrace the true religion.

Lesson TWENTY-NINTH--On the Commandments of God


Question: Who do God's Will in heaven?

Answer: In heaven the Angels and Saints do God's Will perfectly. They never disobey, or even wish to disobey Him. 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 never offending Him.

Lesson TWENTY-NINTH--On the Commandments of God


Question: What do we ask for by "our daily bread"?

Answer: In the petition for "our daily bread" we ask not merely for bread, but for all that we need for the good of our body or soul.

Lesson TWENTY-NINTH--On the Commandments of God


Question: Why do we say "daily"?

Answer: We say "daily" to teach us that we are not to be avaricious but only prudent in providing for our wants; and that we are to have great confidence in the providence of God.

Lesson TWENTY-NINTH--On the Commandments of God


Question: What do "trespasses" mean?

Answer: "Trespasses" mean here injuries done or offenses given to another, and when God is the person offended, "trespasses" mean sins.

Lesson TWENTY-NINTH--On the Commandments of God


Question: What do you mean by "forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us"?

Answer: 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.

Lesson TWENTY-NINTH--On the Commandments of God


Question: When may we be said to forgive those who trespass against us?

Answer: 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.

Lesson TWENTY-NINTH--On the Commandments of God


Question: What is temptation?

Answer: A temptation is anything that incites, provokes, or urges us to offend God.

Lesson TWENTY-NINTH--On the Commandments of God


Question: What is the best means of overcoming temptation?

Answer: The best means of overcoming temptation is to resist its very beginning, by turning our attention from it; by praying for help to resist it; and by doing the opposite of what we are tempted to do.

Lesson TWENTY-NINTH--On the Commandments of God


Question: Does God tempt us to sin?

Answer: God does not tempt us to sin; but He permits us to be tempted to try our fidelity or punish our pride; and to give us an opportunity of meriting rewards for ourselves by overcoming the temptations.

Lesson TWENTY-NINTH--On the Commandments of God


Question: Can we always resist temptation?

Answer: 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.

Lesson TWENTY-NINTH--On the Commandments of God


Question: Is it a sin to be tempted?

Answer: 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 needlessly expose ourselves to it.

Lesson TWENTY-NINTH--On the Commandments of God


Question: From what do our temptations come?

Answer: Our temptations come either from the devil, our spiritual enemy, or from the world; that is, the wicked persons, places, or things in the world; or from the flesh; that is, our body with its strong passions and evil inclinations.

Lesson TWENTY-NINTH--On the Commandments of God


Question: Should we seek temptation for the sake of overcoming it?

Answer: We must not expose ourselves to temptation, but, on the contrary, carefully avoid it, yet resist it bravely when it assails us.

Lesson TWENTY-NINTH--On the Commandments of God


Question: From what evil do we ask to be delivered?

Answer: We ask to be delivered from every evil of body and mind, but particularly to be delivered from sin, which is the greatest of all evils.

Lesson TWENTY-NINTH--On the Commandments of God


Question: What does "Amen" mean?

Answer: "Amen" means so be it; and expresses a desire that the petition may be granted.

Lesson TWENTY-NINTH--On the Commandments of God


Question: What does Christian mean?

Answer: A Christian is a baptized person who professes to believe all that Christ has taught, and to do all that He has commanded as necessary for our salvation.

Lesson TWENTY-NINTH--On the Commandments of God


Question: Say the Angelical Salutation.

Answer: Hail Mary, full of grace! the Lord is with thee: blessed art thou amongst women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus. Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners, now and at the hour of our death. Amen.

Lesson TWENTY-NINTH--On the Commandments of God


Question: What is a salutation?

Answer: A salutation is the customary words or actions by which the people of a country greet one another.

Lesson TWENTY-NINTH--On the Commandments of God


Question: Why is this salutation called Angelical?

Answer: This salutation is called Angelical because it was given by an angel.

Lesson TWENTY-NINTH--On the Commandments of God


Question: What does "hail" mean?

Answer: "Hail" means, I wish you health. It is an exclamation of respectful greeting.

Lesson TWENTY-NINTH--On the Commandments of God


Question: How is the "Hail Mary" divided?

Answer: The "Hail Mary" is divided into two parts. The first part, made by the Angel Gabriel and St. Elizabeth, contains the praises of the Mother of God; and the second part, added by the Church, begs her intercession for sinners.

Lesson TWENTY-NINTH--On the Commandments of God


Question: Why is the "Hail Mary" usually placed after the Lord's Prayer?

Answer: The "Hail Mary" is usually placed after the Our Father because it is an inspired prayer, the most excellent after the Lord's Prayer, and also that the Blessed Mother may, by her powerful intercession, aid us in obtaining what we ask.

Lesson TWENTY-NINTH--On the Commandments of God


Question: Who was St. Elizabeth?

Answer: St. Elizabeth was the mother of St. John the Baptist and the cousin of the Blessed Virgin.

Lesson TWENTY-NINTH--On the Commandments of God


Question: What answer did the Blessed Virgin make to the words of St. Elizabeth?

Answer: The Blessed Virgin answered St. Elizabeth in the words of the beautiful Magnificat.

Lesson TWENTY-NINTH--On the Commandments of God


Question: What is the Magnificat?

Answer: The Magnificat is the splendid canticle or hymn in which the Blessed Virgin praises God and returns Him thanks for the great things He has done for her. It is usually sung at Vespers in the Church.

Lesson TWENTY-NINTH--On the Commandments of God


Question: Why do we address Mary as "full of grace"?

Answer: We address Mary as "full of grace" because she was never guilty of the slightest sin; was endowed with every virtue, and blessed with a constant increase of grace in her soul.

Lesson TWENTY-NINTH--On the Commandments of God


Question: Why do we say "the Lord is with thee"?

Answer: We say "the Lord is with thee," for besides being with her as He is with all His creatures on account of His presence everywhere; and as He is with the good on account of their virtue, He is with Mary in a very special manner on account of her dignity as Mother of His Son.

Lesson TWENTY-NINTH--On the Commandments of God


Question: Why is Mary called "blessed amongst women"?

Answer: Mary is called "blessed amongst women" on account of her personal holiness, her great dignity as Mother of God, and her freedom from original sin.

Lesson TWENTY-NINTH--On the Commandments of God


Question: Why is Mary called "holy"?

Answer: Mary is called "holy" because one full of grace and endowed with every virtue must be holy.

Lesson TWENTY-NINTH--On the Commandments of God


Question: Why do we need Mary's prayers at the hour of death?

Answer: We need Mary's prayers at the hour of death because at that time our salvation is in greatest danger, and our spiritual enemies most anxious to overcome us.

Lesson TWENTY-NINTH--On the Commandments of God


Question: Why do we say the "Hail Mary"?

Answer: We say the "Hail Mary" to put us in mind of the Incarnation, and to show our devotion to the Mother of God, and our confidence in her assistance.

Lesson TWENTY-NINTH--On the Commandments of God


Question: In what form of prayer is the "Hail Mary" most frequently repeated?

Answer: The "Hail Mary" is most frequently repeated in the recitation of the rosary or beads.

Lesson TWENTY-NINTH--On the Commandments of God


Question: What is the Angelus?

Answer: The Angelus is a prayer giving a brief history of the Incarnation.

Lesson TWENTY-NINTH--On the Commandments of God


Question: Say the Angelus.

Answer: The Angel of the Lord declared unto Mary. And she conceived of the Holy Ghost. Hail Mary, &c. Behold the handmaid of the Lord. Be it done unto me according to Thy Word. Hail Mary, &c. And the Word was made flesh. And dwelt among us. Hail Mary, &c. Pray for us, O Holy Mother of God! That we may be made worthy of the promises of Christ.

Lesson TWENTY-NINTH--On the Commandments of God


Question: At what time is the Angelus usually said?

Answer: The Angelus is said in the evening, it memory of the Incarnation; in the morning, in memory of the Resurrection, and at noon in memory of the Passion of Our Lord.

Lesson TWENTY-NINTH--On the Commandments of God


Question: What does "the Word was made flesh" mean in the Angelus?

Answer: "The Word" means the second person of the Blessed Trinity, and "made flesh" means became man.

Lesson TWENTY-NINTH--On the Commandments of God


Question: What is the Litany of the Blessed Virgin?

Answer: The Litany is a form of prayer in which we address our Blessed Lady by many beautiful titles, such as Mother of God, Virgin Most Pure, Refuge of Sinners, &c., asking her after each to pray for us.

Lesson TWENTY-NINTH--On the Commandments of God


Question: Are there any other Litanies in use besides the Litany of the Blessed Virgin?

Answer: Besides the Litany of the Blessed Virgin there are other Litanies in use, especially the Litany of the Saints, the Litany of the Holy Name of Jesus, the Litany of the Sacred Heart, &c.

Lesson TWENTY-NINTH--On the Commandments of God


Question: Say the Apostles' Creed.

Answer: 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 Ghost, born of the Virgin Mary, suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified; died, and was buried. He descended into hell: the third day He arose again from the dead: He ascended into heaven, 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 Ghost, the Holy Catholic Church, the communion of Saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting. Amen.

Lesson TWENTY-NINTH--On the Commandments of God


Question: What is a creed?

Answer: A creed is a summary or list of the chief truths we believe or profess to believe. It is a compendium of doctrine.

Lesson TWENTY-NINTH--On the Commandments of God


Question: Why is this creed called the Apostles'?

Answer: This creed is called the Apostles' because it came down to us from the Apostles, and also to distinguish it from longer creeds in use in the Church, such as the Nicene Creed, which is said in the Mass; the Athanasian Creed, which is said in the priests' divine Office, and the Creed of Pope Pius IV, which is used on solemn occasions.

Lesson TWENTY-NINTH--On the Commandments of God


Question: Do all these creeds teach the same doctrines?

Answer: All these creeds teach the same doctrines, for the longer creeds are only a fuller explanation of the truths contained in the Apostles' Creed.

Lesson TWENTY-NINTH--On the Commandments of God


Question: How do you know the Apostles were bishops?

Answer: I know the Apostles were bishops because they could administer the Sacraments of Confirmation and Holy Orders and make laws for the Church, as we learn from Holy Scripture, and these powers belong to bishops alone.

Lesson TWENTY-NINTH--On the Commandments of God


Question: Who were the disciples of Our Lord?

Answer: The disciples were the seventy-two chosen followers of Our Lord, whom He sent to preach and perform good works in every city and place whither He Himself was to come. The Apostles also are frequently called "the disciples."

Lesson TWENTY-NINTH--On the Commandments of God


Question: Why did the Apostles leave us a creed?

Answer: The Apostles left us a creed that all who wished to become Christians might have a standard of the truths they must know and believe before receiving Baptism.

Lesson TWENTY-NINTH--On the Commandments of God


Question: How many articles or parts in the Apostles' Creed?

Answer: There are twelve articles or parts in the Apostles' Creed. They refer to God the Father in the works of creation; to God the Son in the works of redemption; to God the Holy Ghost in the works of sanctification; and each article contradicts one or more false doctrines on these subjects.

Lesson TWENTY-NINTH--On the Commandments of God


Question: What does Creation mean?

Answer: To create means to produce out of nothing. God alone has this power, and He alone can be called "Creator."

Lesson TWENTY-NINTH--On the Commandments of God


Question: Had Jesus Christ more than one Father?

Answer: God the Father, the First Person of the Blessed Trinity, is the only real and true Father of Jesus Christ, as the Blessed Virgin is His true Mother. St. Joseph, whom we also call His father, was only His foster-father or guardian upon earth.

Lesson TWENTY-NINTH--On the Commandments of God


Question: By what names is Our Lord called?

Answer: Our Lord is called by many names, such as Our Saviour, Our Redeemer, Jesus Christ, Son of God; Second Person of the Blessed Trinity, the Messias, Son of David, Lamb of God and others to be found in the litanies. Each name recalls to our mind some benefit received or prophesy fulfilled.

Lesson TWENTY-NINTH--On the Commandments of God


Question: Of what religion was Pontius Pilate?

Answer: Pontius Pilate was a pagan; that is, a worshiper of false gods.

Lesson TWENTY-NINTH--On the Commandments of God


Question: Why do we say "died" instead of "was put to death"?

Answer: We say "died" to show that Our Lord gave up His life willingly; for how could He be put to death against His will, who could always restore His life as He did at His resurrection?

Lesson TWENTY-NINTH--On the Commandments of God


Question: What is death?

Answer: Death in man is caused by the separation of the soul from the body, for Adam was made a living being by the union of his soul and body.

Lesson TWENTY-NINTH--On the Commandments of God


Question: Why do we say of Christ "He was buried"?

Answer: We say that "He was buried" to show that He was really dead.

Lesson TWENTY-NINTH--On the Commandments of God


Question: Did "hell" always mean only that state in which the damned are punished?

Answer: The word "hell" was sometimes used to signify the grave or a low place. In the Apostles' Creed it means Limbo.

Lesson TWENTY-NINTH--On the Commandments of God


Question: Is Limbo the same place as Purgatory?

Answer: Limbo is not the same place as Purgatory, because the souls in Purgatory suffer, while those in Limbo do not.

Lesson TWENTY-NINTH--On the Commandments of God


Question: Who were in Limbo when Our Lord descended into it?

Answer: There were in Limbo when Our Lord descended into it the souls of all those who died the friends of God, but could not enter heaven till the Ascension of Our Lord.

Lesson TWENTY-NINTH--On the Commandments of God


Question: Name some holy persons who died before Christ ascended into heaven.

Answer: Among the holy persons who died before Christ ascended into heaven, we may mention: Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Moses, David, the Prophets, St. Ann, St. John the Baptist, and St. Joseph.

Lesson TWENTY-NINTH--On the Commandments of God


Question: What do we mean by "Judge the living and the dead"?

Answer: By the "living" we mean all those who shall be alive upon the earth at the last day, and by the "dead" those who have died before that time. Or the "living" may also mean those who are in a state of grace; and the "dead" those who are in mortal sin.

Lesson TWENTY-NINTH--On the Commandments of God


Question: How many branches or parts of the Church are there?

Answer: There are three branches or parts of the Church, called the Church Militant, the Church Suffering, and the Church Triumphant.

Lesson TWENTY-NINTH--On the Commandments of God


Question: What do we mean by the "Church Militant"?

Answer: By the "Church Militant" or "fighting Church" we mean all the faithful who are still upon earth struggling for their salvation by warring against their spiritual enemies.

Lesson TWENTY-NINTH--On the Commandments of God


Question: What do we mean by the "Church Suffering"?

Answer: By the "Church Suffering" we mean the faithful in Purgatory, who are being purified from the last stains and consequences of their sins.

Lesson TWENTY-NINTH--On the Commandments of God


Question: What do we mean by the "Church Triumphant"?

Answer: By the "Church Triumphant" we mean all the faithful now in heaven, rejoicing with God that they have defeated their spiritual enemies and attained their salvation.

Lesson TWENTY-NINTH--On the Commandments of God


Question: Does the "Communion of Saints" mean anything else?

Answer: The "Communion of Saints" means also that we all share in the merits of Our Lord and in the superabundant satisfaction of the Blessed Virgin and of the Saints, as well as in the prayers and good works of the Church and of the faithful.

Lesson TWENTY-NINTH--On the Commandments of God


Question: Have the Saints their bodies in heaven?

Answer: The Saints have not yet their bodies in heaven, as they will have them after the resurrection on the last day. Our Divine Lord and His blessed Mother are the only persons whose bodies are now in heaven.

Lesson TWENTY-NINTH--On the Commandments of God


Question: Are there Saints in heaven whose names we do not know?

Answer: There are many Saints in heaven whose names we do not know, because all who are admitted into heaven are truly Saints.

Lesson TWENTY-NINTH--On the Commandments of God


Question: To whom do we usually give the name of "Saints"?

Answer: We usually apply the name of "Saints" to those only whom the Church has Canonized.

Lesson TWENTY-NINTH--On the Commandments of God


Question: What is the Canonization of a Saint?

Answer: Canonization is a solemn ceremony by which the Church declares that a certain person, now dead, was remarkable for extraordinary holiness while on earth, and is now in heaven worthy of our veneration.

Lesson TWENTY-NINTH--On the Commandments of God


Question: How does the Canonization of a Saint take place?

Answer: In the Canonization of a Saint (1) the accounts of the person's holy life, heroic virtue, and miracles are collected and sent to the Holy See; (2) those accounts are examined by the Holy Father or his cardinals, and, if found to be true and sufficient, (3) the Saint is Canonized or perhaps only beatified.

Lesson TWENTY-NINTH--On the Commandments of God


Question: What is the difference between the honors conferred on a person by beatification and Canonization?

Answer: Beatification limits the honor to be given to the beatified by restricting it to certain places or persons; whereas Canonization is the highest honor and permits all to venerate the Saint everywhere.

Lesson TWENTY-NINTH--On the Commandments of God


Question: Why does the Church Canonize Saints?

Answer: The Church Canonizes Saints (1) to honor them, and (2) to make us certain that they are in heaven, and may, therefore, be invoked in our prayers.

Lesson TWENTY-NINTH--On the Commandments of God


Question: Can the Church err in the Canonization of a Saint?

Answer: The Church cannot err in matters of faith or morals, and the Canonization of a Saint is a matter of faith and morals.

Lesson TWENTY-NINTH--On the Commandments of God


Question: What is the difference between a Saint and an Angel?

Answer: The Saints lived upon the earth in bodies like our own. The Angels never inhabited the earth, though they visit it and remain for a time with us. They have not now and never will have bodies.

Lesson TWENTY-NINTH--On the Commandments of God


Question: Through what means may we obtain the "forgiveness of sins"?

Answer: We may obtain the "forgiveness of sins" especially through the Sacraments of Baptism and Penance.

Lesson TWENTY-NINTH--On the Commandments of God


Question: What do we mean by the "resurrection of the body"?

Answer: By the "resurrection of the body" we mean that the bodies of the dead shall be restored to life, rise again on the last day, and be united to the souls from which they were separated by death.

Lesson TWENTY-NINTH--On the Commandments of God


Question: How is the resurrection possible when the bodies are reduced to ashes and mingled with the soil?

Answer: The resurrection is possible to God, who can do all things, and who, having created the bodies out of nothing in the beginning, can easily collect and put together their scattered parts by an act of His all-powerful will.

Lesson TWENTY-NINTH--On the Commandments of God


Question: What does "life everlasting" mean?

Answer: "Life everlasting" means endless happiness in heaven; as endless misery in hell may be called "everlasting death."

Lesson TWENTY-NINTH--On the Commandments of God


Question: Is the Apostles' Creed an act of faith?

Answer: The Apostles' Creed is an act of faith, because by it we profess our belief in the truths it contains.

Lesson TWENTY-NINTH--On the Commandments of God


Question: Say the Confiteor and verses after it.

Answer: I confess to Almighty God, to blessed Mary, ever Virgin, to blessed Michael the Archangel, to blessed John the Baptist, to the holy Apostles Peter and Paul, and to all the Saints, that I have sinned exceedingly in thought, word and deed, through my fault, through my fault, through my most grievous fault. Therefore, I beseech blessed Mary, ever Virgin, blessed Michael the Archangel, blessed John the Baptist, the holy Apostles Peter and Paul, and all the Saints, to pray to the Lord our God for me.

Lesson TWENTY-NINTH--On the Commandments of God


Question: What does "Confiteor" mean?

Answer: "Confiteor" is the first word of this prayer in Latin, and means "I Confess."

Lesson TWENTY-NINTH--On the Commandments of God


Question: How is the Confiteor divided?

Answer: The Confiteor is divided into two parts. In the first part we acknowledge our sins in the presence of God and of His Saints and Angels. In the second part we beg the Saints and Angels to aid us in obtaining forgiveness.

Lesson TWENTY-NINTH--On the Commandments of God


Question: What should we bear in mind in saying any prayer, and especially the Confiteor?

Answer: While saying any prayer, and especially the Confiteor, we should bear in mind that we are in the presence of God, and of His Saints and Angels, who see us and hear us, though we can not see or hear them.

Lesson TWENTY-NINTH--On the Commandments of God


Question: Say the Act of Faith.

Answer: 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 canst neither deceive nor be deceived.

Lesson TWENTY-NINTH--On the Commandments of God


Question: Give the substance of an Act of Faith.

Answer: The substance of an Act of Faith is: I believe all that God has revealed and the Catholic Church teaches.

Lesson TWENTY-NINTH--On the Commandments of God


Question: Why do we find Acts of Faith of different lengths?

Answer: We find Acts of Faith of different lengths, because some state more fully than others what God has revealed and the Church teaches.

Lesson TWENTY-NINTH--On the Commandments of God


Question: Say the Act of Hope.

Answer: O my God! relying on Thy infinite goodness and promises, I hope to obtain pardon of my sins, the help of Thy grace, and life ever-lasting, through the merits of Jesus Christ, my Lord and Redeemer.

Lesson TWENTY-NINTH--On the Commandments of God


Question: Give the substance of an Act of Hope.

Answer: The substance of an Act of Hope is: I hope for heaven and the means to obtain it.

Lesson TWENTY-NINTH--On the Commandments of God


Question: Say the Act of Love.

Answer: O my God! I love Thee above all things, with my whole heart and soul, because Thou art all-good and worthy of all love. I love my neighbor as myself for the love of Thee. I forgive all who have injured me, and ask pardon of all whom I have injured.

Lesson TWENTY-NINTH--On the Commandments of God


Question: Give the substance of an Act of Love.

Answer: The substance of an Act of Love is: I love God above all things for His own sake, and my neighbor as myself for the love of God.

Lesson TWENTY-NINTH--On the Commandments of God


Question: How do we show that we love God above all things?

Answer: We show that we love God above all things by keeping His commandments and by never offending Him for any person or thing.

Lesson TWENTY-NINTH--On the Commandments of God


Question: What does loving your neighbor as yourself mean?

Answer: Loving my neighbor as myself does not mean that I must love him as much as myself; but that I must love him with the same kind of love, that is, I must never do to my neighbor what I would not wish my neighbor to do to me; but, on the contrary, do unto others as I would have others do unto me.

Lesson TWENTY-NINTH--On the Commandments of God


Question: Do an "Act of Love" and an "Act of Charity" mean the same thing?

Answer: An "Act of Love" and "Act of Charity" do mean the same thing, because Charity means love, or it means an act of kindness that comes from love.

Lesson TWENTY-NINTH--On the Commandments of God


Question: How may all persons show Charity to their neighbor?

Answer: All persons may show Charity to their neighbor by never injuring his character and by always speaking well of him.

Lesson TWENTY-NINTH--On the Commandments of God


Question: Are we bound to make Acts of Faith, Hope and Love?

Answer: We are bound from time to time during our lives to make Acts of Faith, Hope and Love; otherwise we risk our salvation.

Lesson TWENTY-NINTH--On the Commandments of God


Question: What does "Contrition" mean?

Answer: "Contrition" means a state of grief or deep sorrow for our sins.

Lesson TWENTY-NINTH--On the Commandments of God


Question: Say the Act of Contrition.

Answer: 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.

Lesson TWENTY-NINTH--On the Commandments of God


Question: Give the substance of an Act of Contrition.

Answer: The substance of an Act of Contrition is: I am sorry for my sins, because they have offended God, and I will never sin again.

Lesson TWENTY-NINTH--On the Commandments of God


Question: Why do we find Acts of Hope, Love, and Contrition of different lengths?

Answer: We find Acts of Hope, Love, and Contrition of different lengths, because some explain more fully than others what we hope for, why we love God and why we are sorry for our sins.

Lesson TWENTY-NINTH--On the Commandments of God


Question: Say the Blessing before Meals.

Answer: Bless us, O Lord! and these Thy gifts, which we are about to receive from Thy bounty, through Christ Our Lord. Amen.

Lesson TWENTY-NINTH--On the Commandments of God


Question: Say the Grace after Meals.

Answer: We give Thee thanks for all Thy benefits, O Almighty God, who livest and reignest for ever; and may the souls of the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen.

Lesson TWENTY-NINTH--On the Commandments of God


Question: What does "Grace" at meals mean?

Answer: "Grace" at meals means the thanks we offer God for the food we are about to receive or have just taken.

Lesson TWENTY-NINTH--On the Commandments of God


Question: Why should we say "Grace" at meals.

Answer: We should say "Grace" at meals to show our gratitude to God, who has given us all we possess and daily supplies our wants.

Lesson TWENTY-NINTH--On the Commandments of God


Question: Is it wrong to despise or waste our food?

Answer: It is wrong to despise or waste our food, because we thereby slight the goodness of God, who owes us nothing.

Lesson TWENTY-NINTH--On the Commandments of God


Question: Is it a sin to neglect "Grace" at meals?

Answer: It is not a sin to neglect "Grace" at meals, but only a mark of our ingratitude; for if we are to thank God for all His gifts we should do so especially at the time they are given.

Lesson TWENTY-NINTH--On the Commandments of God


Question: What do you mean here by a "lay person"?

Answer: By a "lay person" I mean here any one who is not a priest.

Lesson TWENTY-NINTH--On the Commandments of God


Question: What is meant by "in case of necessity?"

Answer: In "case of necessity" means here that a person not baptized is in danger of death and there is no priest present to administer the Sacrament.

Lesson TWENTY-NINTH--On the Commandments of God


Question: How is Baptism given by a "lay person"?

Answer: Whoever baptizes must:--

Lesson TWENTY-NINTH--On the Commandments of God


Question: What else is to be observed?

Answer: In baptizing: (1) The water must touch the skin and flow; (2) the same person who pours the water must say the words; (3) parents should not baptize their own children, if there be any other person present who knows how to baptize; (4) a man, if he be present and knows how to administer the Sacrament, should baptize in preference to a woman; (5) the person baptizing must have the intention of doing what the Church does; (6) he must not repeat the baptism after giving it once correctly.

Lesson TWENTY-NINTH--On the Commandments of God


Question: What is this baptism called?

Answer: The baptism given in case of necessity is called private baptism to distinguish it from solemn baptism, which is given in the church with all the ceremonies proper to it.

Lesson TWENTY-NINTH--On the Commandments of God


Question: What do you mean by either sex?

Answer: "Either sex" means man or woman; boy or girl; any person competent to baptize.

Lesson TWENTY-NINTH--On the Commandments of God


Question: When may we say one "has reached the use of reason"?

Answer: We may say one "has reached the use of reason" when he knows the difference between good and bad or right and wrong. Persons acquire this knowledge at about the age of seven years.

Lesson TWENTY-NINTH--On the Commandments of God


Question: What is a Catechism?

Answer: A Catechism is a book in the form of questions and answers treating of any subject, especially of religion.

Lesson TWENTY-NINTH--On the Commandments of God


Question: Of what subject does our Catechism treat?

Answer: Our Catechism treats of religion; that is, of the truths we must believe and of the things we must do to serve God.

Lesson TWENTY-NINTH--On the Commandments of God


Question: Why is it important for us to learn the Catechism?

Answer: It is important for us to learn the Catechism because it teaches us how to serve God: and unless we serve God in this world we can not be saved in the next; therefore, our knowledge of the Catechism affects our whole existence.

Lesson TWENTY-NINTH--On the Commandments of God


Question: What do we mean by the "end of man"?

Answer: By the "end of man" we mean the purpose for which he was created: namely, to know, love, and serve God.


Question: How do you know that man was created for God alone?

Answer: I know that man was created for God alone because everything in the world was created for something more perfect than itself: but there is nothing in the world more perfect than man; therefore, he was created for something outside this world, and since he was not created for the Angels, he must have been created for God.


Question: In what respect are all men equal?

Answer: All men are equal in whatever is necessary for their nature and end. They are all composed of a body and soul; they are all created to the image and likeness of God; they are all gifted with understanding and free will; and they have all been created for the same end--God.


Question: Do not men differ in many things?

Answer: Men differ in many things, such as learning, wealth, power, etc.; but these things belong to the world and not man's nature. He came into this world without them and he will leave it without them. Only the consequences of good or evil done in this world will accompany men to the next.


Question: {1} Who made the world?

Answer: God made the world.


Question: What does "world" mean in this question?

Answer: In this question "world" means the universe; that is, the whole creation; all that we now see or may hereafter see.


Question: {2} Who is God?

Answer: God is the Creator of heaven and earth, and of all things.


Question: {3} What is man?

Answer: Man is a creature composed of body and soul, and made to the image and likeness of God.


Question: Does "man" in the Catechism mean all human beings?

Answer: "Man" in the Catechism means all human beings, either men or women, boys, girls, or children.


Question: What is a creature?

Answer: A creature is anything created, whether it has life or not; body or no body. Every being, person, or thing except God Himself may be called a creature.


Question: {4} Is this likeness in the body or in the soul?

Answer: This likeness is chiefly in the soul.


Question: {5} How is the soul like to God?

Answer: The soul is like to God because it is a spirit that will never die, and has understanding and free will.


Question: Is every invisible thing a spirit?

Answer: Every spirit is invisible--which means can not be seen; but every invisible thing is not a spirit. The wind is invisible, and it is not a spirit.


Question: Has a spirit any other quality?

Answer: A spirit is also indivisible; that is, it can not be divided into parts, as we divide material things.


Question: What do the words "will never die" mean?

Answer: By the words "will never die" we mean that the soul, when once created, will never cease to exist, whatever be its condition in the next world. Hence we say the soul is immortal or gifted with immortality.


Question: Why then do we say a soul is dead while in a state of mortal sin?

Answer: We say a soul is dead while in a state of mortal sin, because in that state it is as helpless as a dead body, and can merit nothing for itself.


Question: What does our "understanding" mean?

Answer: Our "understanding" means the "gift of reason," by which man is distinguished from all other animals, and by which he is enabled to think and thus acquire knowledge and regulate his actions.


Question: Can we learn all truths by our reason alone?

Answer: We can not learn all truths by our reason alone, for some truths are beyond the power of our reason and must be taught to us by God.


Question: What do we call the truths God teaches us?

Answer: Taken together, we call the truths God teaches us revelation, and we call the manner by which He teaches them also revelation.


Question: What is "Free Will"?

Answer: "Free Will" is that gift of God by which we are enabled to choose between one thing and another; and to do good or evil in spite of reward or punishment.


Question: Have brute animals "understanding" and "free will"?

Answer: Brute animals have not "understanding" and "free will." They have not "understanding" because they never change their habits or better their condition. They have not "free will" because they never show it in their actions.


Question: What gift in animals supplies the place of reason?

Answer: In animals the gift of "instinct" supplies the place of reason in guiding their actions.


Question: What is instinct?

Answer: "Instinct" is a gift by which all animals are impelled to follow the laws and habits that God has given to their nature.


Question: Have men as well as brutes "instinct"?

Answer: Men have "instinct," and they show it when placed in sudden danger, when they have not time to use their reason. A falling man instantly grasps for something to support him.


Question: {6} Why did God make you?

Answer: God made me to know Him, to love Him, and to serve Him in this world, and to be happy with Him forever in the next.


Question: Why is it necessary to know God?

Answer: It is necessary to know God because without knowing Him we cannot love Him; and without loving Him we cannot be saved. We should know Him because He is infinitely true; love Him because He is infinitely beautiful; and serve Him because He is infinitely good.


Question: {7} Of which must we take more care, our soul or our body?

Answer: We must take more care of our soul than of our body.


Question: {8} Why must we take more care of our soul than of our body?

Answer: We must take more care of our soul than of our body, because in losing our soul we lose God and everlasting happiness.


Question: {9} What must we do to save our souls?

Answer: To save our souls, we must worship God by faith, hope, and charity; that is, we must believe in Him, hope in Him, and love Him with all our heart.


Question: What does "worship" mean?

Answer: "Worship" means to give divine honor by acts such as the offering of prayer or sacrifice.


Question: {10} How shall we know the things which we are to believe?

Answer: We shall know the things which we are to believe from the Catholic Church, through which God speaks to us.


Question: What do we mean by the "Church, through which God speaks to us"?

Answer: By the "Church, through which God speaks to us," we mean the "teaching Church"; that is, the Pope, Bishops, and priests, whose duty it is to instruct us in the truths and practices of our religion.


Question: {11} Where shall we find the chief truths which the Church teaches?

Answer: We shall find the chief truths which the Church teaches in the Apostles' Creed.


Question: If we shall find only the "chief truths" in the Apostles' Creed, where shall we find the remaining truths?

Answer: We shall find the remaining truths of our Faith in the religious writings and preachings that have been sanctioned by the authority of the Church.


Question: Name some sacred truths not mentioned in the Apostles' Creed.

Answer: In the Apostles' Creed there is no mention of the Real Presence of Our Lord in the Holy Eucharist, nor of the Infallibility of the Pope, nor of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary, nor of some other truths that we are bound to believe.


Question: {12} Say the Apostles' Creed.

Answer: 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 Ghost, born of the Virgin Mary, suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified; died, and was buried. He descended into hell: the third day He arose again from the dead: He ascended into heaven, 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 Ghost, the Holy Catholic Church, the communion of Saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting. Amen.


Question: What is a perfection?

Answer: A perfection is any good quality a thing should have. A thing is perfect when it has all the good qualities it should have.

LESSON SECOND.: ON GOD AND HIS PERFECTIONS.


Question: {13} What is God?

Answer: God is a spirit infinitely perfect.

LESSON SECOND.: ON GOD AND HIS PERFECTIONS.


Question: What do we mean when we say God is "infinitely perfect"?

Answer: When we say God is "infinitely perfect" we mean there is no limit or bounds to His perfection; for He possesses all good qualities in the highest possible degree and He alone is "infinitely perfect."

LESSON SECOND.: ON GOD AND HIS PERFECTIONS.


Question: {14} Had God a beginning?

Answer: God had no beginning; He always was and He always will be.

LESSON SECOND.: ON GOD AND HIS PERFECTIONS.


Question: {15} Where is God?

Answer: God is everywhere.

LESSON SECOND.: ON GOD AND HIS PERFECTIONS.


Question: How is God everywhere?

Answer: God is everywhere whole and entire as He is in any one place. This is true and we must believe it, though we cannot understand it.

LESSON SECOND.: ON GOD AND HIS PERFECTIONS.


Question: {16} If God is everywhere, why do we not see Him?

Answer: We do not see God, because He is a pure spirit and cannot be seen with bodily eyes.

LESSON SECOND.: ON GOD AND HIS PERFECTIONS.


Question: Why do we call God a "pure spirit"?

Answer: We call God a pure spirit because He has no body. Our soul is a spirit, but not a "pure" spirit, because it was created for union with our body.

LESSON SECOND.: ON GOD AND HIS PERFECTIONS.


Question: Why can we not see God with the eyes of our body?

Answer: We cannot see God with the eyes of our body because they are created to see only material things, and God is not material but spiritual.

LESSON SECOND.: ON GOD AND HIS PERFECTIONS.


Question: {17} Does God see us?

Answer: God sees us and watches over us.

LESSON SECOND.: ON GOD AND HIS PERFECTIONS.


Question: Is it necessary for God to watch over us?

Answer: It is necessary for God to watch over us, for without His constant care we could not exist.

LESSON SECOND.: ON GOD AND HIS PERFECTIONS.


Question: {18} Does God know all things?

Answer: God knows all things, even our most secret thoughts, words, and actions.

LESSON SECOND.: ON GOD AND HIS PERFECTIONS.


Question: {19} Can God do all things?

Answer: God can do all things, and nothing is hard or impossible to Him.

LESSON SECOND.: ON GOD AND HIS PERFECTIONS.


Question: When is a thing said to be "impossible"?

Answer: A thing is said to be "impossible" when it cannot be done. Many things that are impossible for creatures are possible for God.

LESSON SECOND.: ON GOD AND HIS PERFECTIONS.


Question: {20} Is God just, holy, and merciful?

Answer: God is all just, all holy, all merciful, as He is infinitely perfect.

LESSON SECOND.: ON GOD AND HIS PERFECTIONS.


Question: Why must God be "just" as well as "merciful"?

Answer: God must be just as well as merciful because He must fulfill His promise to punish those who merit punishment, and because He cannot be infinite in one perfection without being infinite in all.

LESSON SECOND.: ON GOD AND HIS PERFECTIONS.


Question: Into what sins will the forgetfulness of God's justice lead us?

Answer: The forgetfulness of God's justice will lead us into sins of presumption.

LESSON SECOND.: ON GOD AND HIS PERFECTIONS.


Question: Into what sins will the forgetfulness of God's mercy lead us?

Answer: The forgetfulness of God's mercy will lead us into sins of despair.

LESSON SECOND.: ON GOD AND HIS PERFECTIONS.


Question: What does "unity," and what does "trinity" mean?

Answer: "Unity" means being one, and "trinity" means three-fold or three in one.

LESSON THIRD.: ON THE UNITY AND TRINITY OF GOD.


Question: Can we find an example to fully illustrate the mystery of the Blessed Trinity?

Answer: We cannot find an example to fully illustrate the mystery of the Blessed Trinity, because the mysteries of our holy religion are beyond comparison.

LESSON THIRD.: ON THE UNITY AND TRINITY OF GOD.


Question: {21} Is there but one God?

Answer: Yes; there is but one God.

LESSON THIRD.: ON THE UNITY AND TRINITY OF GOD.


Question: {22} Why can there be but one God?

Answer: There can be but one God because God, being supreme and infinite, cannot have an equal.

LESSON THIRD.: ON THE UNITY AND TRINITY OF GOD.


Question: What does "supreme" mean?

Answer: "Supreme" means the highest in authority; also the most excellent or greatest possible in anything. Thus in all things God is supreme, and in the Church the Pope is supreme.

LESSON THIRD.: ON THE UNITY AND TRINITY OF GOD.


Question: When are two persons said to be equal?

Answer: Two persons are said to be equal when one is in no way greater than or inferior to the other.

LESSON THIRD.: ON THE UNITY AND TRINITY OF GOD.


Question: {23} How many persons are there in God?

Answer: In God there are three Divine persons, really distinct, and equal in all things--the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost.

LESSON THIRD.: ON THE UNITY AND TRINITY OF GOD.


Question: What do "divine" and "distinct" mean?

Answer: "Divine" means pertaining to God, and "distinct" means separate; that is, not confounded or mixed with any other thing.

LESSON THIRD.: ON THE UNITY AND TRINITY OF GOD.


Question: {24} Is the Father God?

Answer: The Father is God and the first Person of the Blessed Trinity.

LESSON THIRD.: ON THE UNITY AND TRINITY OF GOD.


Question: {25} Is the Son God?

Answer: The Son is God and the second Person of the Blessed Trinity.

LESSON THIRD.: ON THE UNITY AND TRINITY OF GOD.


Question: {26} Is the Holy Ghost God?

Answer: The Holy Ghost is God and the third Person of the Blessed Trinity.

LESSON THIRD.: ON THE UNITY AND TRINITY OF GOD.


Question: Do "first," "second," and "third" with regard to the persons of the Blessed Trinity mean that one person existed before the other or that one is greater than the other?

Answer: "First," "second," and "third" with regard to the persons of the Blessed 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 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.

LESSON THIRD.: ON THE UNITY AND TRINITY OF GOD.


Question: {27} What do you mean by the Blessed Trinity?

Answer: By the Blessed Trinity I mean one God in three Divine Persons.

LESSON THIRD.: ON THE UNITY AND TRINITY OF GOD.


Question: {28} Are the three Divine Persons equal in all things?

Answer: The three Divine Persons are equal in all things.

LESSON THIRD.: ON THE UNITY AND TRINITY OF GOD.


Question: {29} Are the three Divine Persons one and the same God?

Answer: The three Divine Persons are one and the same God, having one and the same Divine nature and substance.

LESSON THIRD.: ON THE UNITY AND TRINITY OF GOD.


Question: What do we mean by the "nature" and "substance" of a thing?

Answer: By the "nature" of a thing we mean the combination of all the qualities that make the thing what it is. By the "substance" of a thing we mean the part that never changes, and which cannot be changed without destroying the nature of the thing.

LESSON THIRD.: ON THE UNITY AND TRINITY OF GOD.


Question: {30} Can we fully understand how the three Divine Persons are one and the same God?

Answer: We cannot fully understand how the three Divine Persons are one and the same God, because this is a mystery.

LESSON THIRD.: ON THE UNITY AND TRINITY OF GOD.


Question: {31} What is a mystery?

Answer: A mystery is a truth which we cannot fully understand.

LESSON THIRD.: ON THE UNITY AND TRINITY OF GOD.


Question: Is every truth which we cannot understand a mystery?

Answer: Every truth which we cannot understand is not a mystery; but every revealed truth which no one can understand is a mystery.

LESSON THIRD.: ON THE UNITY AND TRINITY OF GOD.


Question: Should we believe truths which we cannot understand?

Answer: We should and often do believe truths which we cannot understand when we have proof of their existence.

LESSON THIRD.: ON THE UNITY AND TRINITY OF GOD.


Question: Give an example of truths which all believe, though many do not understand them.

Answer: All believe that the earth is round and moving, though many do not understand it. All believe that a seed planted in the ground will produce a flower or tree often with more than a thousand other seeds equal to itself, though many cannot understand how this is done.

LESSON THIRD.: ON THE UNITY AND TRINITY OF GOD.


Question: Why must a divine religion have mysteries?

Answer: A divine religion must have mysteries because it must have supernatural truths and God Himself must teach them. A religion that has only natural truths, such as man can know by reason alone, fully understand and teach, is only a human religion.

LESSON THIRD.: ON THE UNITY AND TRINITY OF GOD.


Question: Why does God require us to believe mysteries?

Answer: God requires us to believe mysteries that we may submit our understanding to Him.

LESSON THIRD.: ON THE UNITY AND TRINITY OF GOD.


Question: By what form of prayer do we praise the Holy Trinity?

Answer: We praise the Holy Trinity by a form of prayer called the Doxology, which has come down to us almost from the time of the Apostles.

LESSON THIRD.: ON THE UNITY AND TRINITY OF GOD.


Question: Say the Doxology.

Answer: The Doxology is: "Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost. As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen."

LESSON THIRD.: ON THE UNITY AND TRINITY OF GOD.


Question: Is there any other form of the Doxology?

Answer: There is another form of the Doxology, which is said in the celebration of the Mass. It is called the "Gloria in excelsis" or "Glory be to God on high," &c., the words sung by the Angels at the birth of Our Lord.

LESSON THIRD.: ON THE UNITY AND TRINITY OF GOD.


Question: What is the difference between making and creating?

Answer: "Making" means bringing forth or forming out of some material already existing, as workmen do. "Creating" means bringing forth out of nothing, as God alone can do.


Question: Has everything that exists been created?

Answer: Everything that exists except God Himself has been created.


Question: {32} Who created heaven and earth, and all things?

Answer: God created heaven and earth, and all things.


Question: From what do we learn that God created heaven and earth and all things?

Answer: We learn that God created heaven and earth and all things from the Bible or Holy Scripture, in which the account of the Creation is given.


Question: Why did God create all things?

Answer: God created all things for His own glory and for their or our good.


Question: Did God leave all things to themselves after He had created them?

Answer: God did not leave all things to themselves after He had created them; He continues to preserve and govern them.


Question: What do we call the care by which God preserves and governs the world and all it contains?

Answer: We call the care by which God preserves and governs the world and all it contains His providence.


Question: {33} How did God create heaven and earth?

Answer: God created heaven and earth from nothing by His word only; that is, by a single act of His all-powerful will.


Question: {34} Which are the chief creatures of God?

Answer: The chief creatures of God are angels and men.


Question: How may God's creatures on earth be divided?

Answer: God's creatures on earth may be divided into four classes: (1) Things that exist, as air; (2) Things that exist, grow and live, as plants and trees; (3) Things that exist, grow, live and feel, as animals; (4) Things that exist, grow, live, feel and understand, as man.


Question: {35} What are angels?

Answer: Angels are pure spirits without a body, created to adore and enjoy God in heaven.


Question: If Angels have no bodies, how could they appear?

Answer: Angels could appear by taking bodies to render themselves visible for a time; just as the Holy Ghost took the form of a dove and the devil took the form of a serpent.


Question: Name some persons to whom Angels appeared.

Answer: Angels appeared to the Blessed Virgin and St. Joseph; also to Abraham, Lot, Jacob, Tobias and others.


Question: {36} Were the angels created for any other purpose?

Answer: The angels were also created to assist before the throne of God and to minister unto Him; they have often been sent as messengers from God to man; and are also appointed our guardians.


Question: Are all the Angels equal in dignity?

Answer: All the Angels are not equal in dignity. There are nine choirs or classes mentioned in the Holy Scripture. The highest are called Seraphim and the lowest simply Angels. The Archangels are one class higher than ordinary Angels.


Question: Mention some Archangels and tell what they did.

Answer: The Archangel Michael drove Satan out of heaven; the Archangel Gabriel announced to the Blessed Virgin that she was to become the Mother of God. The Archangel Raphael guided and protected Tobias.


Question: Were Angels ever sent to punish men?

Answer: Angels were sometimes sent to punish men. An Angel killed 185,000 men in the army of a wicked king who had blasphemed God; an Angel also slew the first-born in the families of the Egyptians who had persecuted God's people.


Question: What do our guardian Angels do for us?

Answer: Our guardian Angels pray for us, protect and guide us, and offer our prayers, good works and desires to God.


Question: How do we know that Angels offer our prayers and good works to God?

Answer: We know that Angels offer our prayers and good works to God because it is so stated in Holy Scripture, and Holy Scripture is the Word of God.