FAITH
Chapter One

1. Who made you?
God made me.

2. Why did God make you?
God made me to know Him, love Him and serve Him in this
world, and be happy with Him forever in the next.
(See QQ 169, 320, 336, 339, etc.)

3. To whose image and likeness did God make you?
God made me to his own image and likeness.

4. Is this likeness to God in your body, or in your soul?
This likeness to God is chiefly in my soul.

5. How is your soul like to God?
My soul is like to God because it is a spirit, and is immortal.

6. What do you mean when you say that your soul is immortal?
When I say my soul is immortal, I mean that my soul can
never die.

7. Of which must you take most care, of your body or of your soul?
I must take most care of my soul; for Christ has said,
'What doth it profit a man if he gain the whole world,
and suffer the loss of his own soul?' Matt. 16:26
(In Catholic theology, the soul and body are not
opposed to each other. The human body is a temple of
the Holy Spirit, made to the image and likeness of God.
Salvation is for the whole person, both body and soul.)

8. What must you do to save your soul?
To save my soul I must worship God by Faith, Hope and
Charity; that is, I must believe in him, I must hope in
him, and I must love him with my whole heart.

Chapter Two

9. What is faith?
Faith is a supernatural gift of God, which enables us
to believe without doubting whatever God has revealed.

10. Why must you believe whatever God has revealed?
I must believe whatever God has revealed because God
is the very truth, and can neither deceive nor be deceived.

11. How are you to know what God has revealed?
I am to know what God has revealed by the testimony,
teaching, and authority of the Catholic Church.

12. Who gave the Catholic Church divine authority to teach?
Jesus Christ gave the Catholic Church divine
authority to teach, when he said, 'Go ye and teach all nations.'
Matt.28:19

THE APOSTLES' CREED

13. What are the chief things which God has revealed?
The chief things which God has revealed are contained in the Apostles' Creed.

14. Say the Apostles' Creed.
I believe in God, the Father Almighty, Creator of
heaven and earth; - and in Jesus Christ, his only
Son, our Lord; - who was conceived by the Holy
Spirit, born of the Virgin Mary; - suffered under
Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried;
- he descended into hell; the third day he rose again
from the dead; - he ascended into heaven; is seated
at the right hand of God the Father Almighty; - from
thence he shall come to judge the living and the
dead. - I believe in the Holy Spirit; - the Holy
Catholic Church; the Communion of Saints; - the
forgiveness of sins; - the resurrection of the body; - and life everlasting.
Amen.

15. How is the Apostles' Creed divided?
The Apostles' Creed is divided into twelve parts or articles.

FIRST ARTICLE OF THE CREED

16. What is the first article of the Creed?
The first article of the Creed is, 'I believe in God,
the Father Almighty, Creator of heaven and earth'.

17. What is God?
God is the supreme Spirit, who alone exists of
himself, and is infinite in all perfections.

18. Why is God called Almighty?
God is called 'Almighty' because he can do all
things: 'With God all things are possible'.
Matt 19:26

19. Why is God called Creator of heaven and earth?
God is called 'Creator of heaven and earth' because
he made heaven and earth, and all things, out of
nothing, by his word.

20. Had God any beginning?
God had no beginning: he always was, he is, and he
always will be.

21. Where is God?
God is everywhere.

22. Does God know and see all things?
God knows and sees all things, even our most secret
thoughts.

23. Has God any body?
God has no body; he is a spirit.

24. Is there only one God?
There is only one God.

25. Are there three Persons in God?
There are three Persons in God: God the Father, God
the Son, and God the Holy Spirit.

26 Are these three Persons three Gods?
These three Persons are not three Gods: the Father,
the Son, and the Holy Spirit are all one and the same God.

27. What is the mystery of the three Persons in one God called?
The mystery of the three Persons in one God is called
the mystery of the Blessed Trinity.

28. What do you mean by a mystery?
By a mystery I mean a truth which is above reason,
but revealed by God.

29. Is there any likeness to the Blessed Trinity in your soul?
There is this likeness to the Blessed Trinity in my
soul: that as in one God there are three Persons, so
in my one soul there are three powers.

30. Which are the three powers of your soul?
The three powers of my soul are my memory, my under-
standing, and my will.

THE SECOND ARTICLE OF THE CREED

31. What is the second article of the Creed?
The second article of the Creed is, 'and in Jesus
Christ, his only Son, our Lord'.

32. Who is Jesus Christ?
Jesus Christ is God the Son, made man for us.

33. Is Jesus Christ truly God?
Jesus Christ is truly God.

34. Why is Jesus Christ truly God?
Jesus Christ is truly God because be has one and the
same nature with God the Father.

35. Was Jesus Christ always God?
Jesus Christ was always God, born of the Father from
from all eternity.

36. Which Person of the Blessed Trinity is Jesus Christ?
Jesus Christ is the Second Person of the Blessed
Trinity.

37. Is Jesus Christ truly man?
Jesus Christ is truly man.

38. Why is Jesus Christ truly man?
Jesus Christ is truly man because he has the nature of
man, having a body and soul like ours.

39. Was Jesus Christ always man?
Jesus Christ was not always man. He has been man only
from the time of his Incarnation.

40. What do you mean by the Incarnation?
I mean by the Incarnation that God the Son took to
himself the nature of man: 'the Word was made Flesh'.

41. How many natures are there in Jesus Christ?
There are two natures in Jesus Christ, the nature of
God and the nature of man.

42. Is there only one Person in Jesus Christ?
There is only one Person in Jesus Christ, which is the
Person of God the Son.

43. Why was God the Son made man?
God the Son was made man to redeem us from sin and
hell, and to teach us the way to heaven.

44. What does the holy name Jesus mean?
The holy name JESUS means Saviour. Matt. 1:21

45. What does the name Christ mean?
The name CHRIST means Anointed.

46. Where is Jesus Christ?
As God, Jesus Christ is everywhere. As God made man,
he is in heaven, and in the Blessed Sacrament of the
Altar.

THE THIRD ARTICLE OF THE CREED

47. What is the third article of the Creed?
The third article of the Creed is, 'who was conceived
by the Holy Spirit, born of the Virgin Mary'.

48. What does the third article mean?
The third article means that God the Son took a Body
and Soul like ours, in the womb of the Blessed Virgin
Mary, by the power of the Holy Spirit.

49. Had Jesus Christ any father on earth?
Jesus Christ had no father on earth: St. Joseph was
only his guardian or foster-father.

50. Where was our Saviour born?
Our Saviour was born in a stable at Bethlehem.

51. On what day was our Saviour born?
Our Saviour was born on Christmas Day.

THE FOURTH ARTICLE OF THE CREED

52. What is the fourth article of the Creed?
The fourth article of the Creed is, 'suffered under
Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died and buried'.

53. What were the chief sufferings of Christ?
The chief sufferings of Christ were: first, his agony,
and his sweat of blood in the Garden; secondly, his
being scourged at the pillar, and crowned with thorns;
and thirdly, his carrying his cross, his crucifixion,
and his death between two thieves.

54. What are the chief sufferings of our Lord called?
The chief sufferings of our Lord are called the
Passion of Jesus Christ.

55. Why did our Saviour suffer?
Our Saviour suffered to atone for our sins, and to
purchase for us eternal life.

56. Why is Jesus Christ called our Redeemer?
Jesus Christ is called our Redeemer because his
precious blood is the price by which we were ransomed.

57. On what day did our Saviour die?
Our Saviour died on Good Friday.

58. Where did our Saviour die?
Our Saviour died on Mount Calvary.

59. Why do we make the sign of the cross?
We make the sign of the cross - first, to put us in
mind of the Blessed Trinity: and secondly, to remind
us that God the Son died for us on the Cross.

60. In making the sign of the cross how are we reminded of the Blessed Trinity?
In making the sign of the cross we are reminded of the
Blessed Trinity by the words, 'In the name of the
Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit'.

61. In making the sign of the cross how are we reminded
that Christ died for us on the Cross?
In making the sign of the cross we are reminded that
Christ died for us on the Cross by the very form of
the cross which we make upon ourselves.

THE FIFTH ARTICLE OF THE CREED

62. What is the fifth article of the Creed?
The fifth article of the Creed is, 'he descended into
hell; the third day he rose again from the dead'.

63. What do you mean by the words, 'he descended into hell'?
By the words, 'he descended into hell', I mean that,
as soon as Christ was dead, his blessed Soul went down
into that part of hell called Limbo.

64. What do you mean by Limbo?
By Limbo I mean a place of rest, where the souls of
the just who died before Christ were detained.

65. Why were the souls of the just detained in Limbo?
The souls of the just were detained in Limbo because
they could not go up to the kingdom of heaven till
Christ had opened it for them.

66. What do you mean by the words, 'the third day he rose again from the dead'?
By the words, 'the third day he rose again from the
dead,' I mean that, after Christ had been dead and
buried part of three days, he raised his blessed Body
to life again on the third day.

67. On what day did Christ rise again from the dead?
Christ rose again from the dead on Easter Sunday.

THE SIXTH ARTICLE OF THE CREED

68. What is the sixth article of the Creed?
The sixth article of the Creed is, 'he ascended into
heaven; is seated at the right hand of God the Father
Almighty'.

69. What do you mean by the words, 'he ascended into heaven'?
By the words, 'he ascended into heaven', I mean that
our Saviour went up Body and Soul into heaven on
Ascension Day, forty days after his resurrection.

70. What do you mean by the words, 'is seated at the right hand of God the Father Almighty'?
By the words, 'is seated at the right hand of God the
Father Almighty.' I do not mean that God the Father
has hands, for he is a spirit; but I mean that Christ,
as God, is equal to the Father and, as man, is in the
highest place in heaven.

THE SEVENTH ARTICLE OF THE CREED

71. What is the seventh article of the Creed?
The seventh article of the Creed is, 'from thence he
shall come to judge the living and the dead'.

72. When will Christ come again?
Christ will come again from heaven at the last day, to
judge all mankind.

73. What are the things Christ will judge?
Christ will judge our thoughts, words, works, and
omissions.

74. What will Christ say to the wicked?
Christ will say to the wicked: 'Depart from me, ye
cursed, into everlasting fire, which was prepared for
the devil and his angels. Matt. 25:41

75. What will Christ say to the just?
Christ will say to the just: 'Come, ye blessed of my
father, possess ye the kingdom prepared for you'.
Matt.25:34

76. Will every one be judged at death, as well as at the last day?
Every one will be judged at death, as well as at the
last day: 'It is appointed unto men once to die; and
after this, the judgment'. Heb. 9:27

THE EIGHTH ARTICLE OF THE CREED

77. What is the eighth article of the Creed?
The eighth article of the Creed is, 'I believe in the
Holy Spirit'.

78. Who is the Holy Spirit?
The Holy Spirit is the Third Person of the Blessed Trinity.

79. From whom does the Holy Spirit proceed?
The Holy Spirit proceeds from the Father and the Son.

80. Is the Holy Spirit equal to the Father and to the Son?
The Holy Spirit is equal to the Father and to the Son,
for he is the same Lord and God as they are.

81. When did the Holy Spirit come down on the Apostles?
The Holy Spirit came down on the Apostles on
Pentecost, in the form of 'parted tongues, as it were,
of fire.
Acts 2:3

82. Why did the Holy Spirit come down on the Apostles?
The Holy Spirit came down on the Apostles to confirm
their faith, to sanctify them, and to enable them to
found the Church.

THE NINTH ARTICLE OF THE CREED

83. What is the ninth article of the Creed?
The ninth article of the Creed is, 'the Holy Catholic
Church; the Communion of Saints'.

84. What is the Catholic Church?
The Catholic Church is the union of all the faithful
under one Head.

85. Who is the Head of the Catholic Church?
The Head of the Catholic Church is Jesus Christ.

86. Has the Church a visible Head on earth?
The Church has a visible Head on earth - the Bishop of
Rome, who is the Vicar of Christ.

87. Why is the Bishop of Rome the Head of the Church?
The Bishop of Rome is the Head of the Church because
he is the successor of St. Peter, whom Christ
appointed to be the Head of the Church.

88. How do you know that Christ appointed St. Peter to be the Head of the Church?
I know that Christ appointed St. Peter to be the Head
of the Church because Christ said to him; 'Thou art
Peter,and upon this rock I will build my Church, and
the gates of hell shall not prevail against it. And
to thee I will give the keys of the kingdom of
heaven'.
Matt. 16:18,19

89. What is the Bishop of Rome called?
The Bishop of Rome is called the Pope, which word
signifies Father.

90. Is the Pope the Spiritual Father of all Christians?
The Pope is the Spiritual Father of all Christians.

91. Is the Pope the Shepherd and Teacher of all Christians?
The Pope is the Shepherd and Teacher of all
Christians, because Christ made St. Peter the Shepherd
of the whole flock when he said: 'Feed my lambs, feed
my sheep'. He also prayed that his 'faith' might
never fail, and commanded him to 'confirm' his
brethren.
Jn.21:15-17,Lk.22:32

92. Is the Pope infallible?
The Pope is infallible.

93. What do you mean when you say that the Pope is infallible?
When I say that the Pope is infallible, I mean that
the Pope cannot err when, as Shepherd and Teacher of
all Christians, he defines a doctrine concerning faith
or morals, to be held by the whole Church.

94. Has the Church of Christ any marks by which we may know her?
The Church of Christ has four marks by which we may
know her: she is One - she is Holy - she is Catholic -
she is Apostolic.

95. How is the Church One?
The Church is One because all her members agree in one
Faith, have all the same Sacrifice and Sacraments, and
are all united under one Head.

96. How is the Church Holy?
The Church is Holy because Jesus Christ, Her Founder
is holy, teaches a holy doctrine, and offers to all
the means of holiness.

97. What does the word Catholic mean?
The word Catholic means universal.

98. How is the Church Catholic or universal?
The Church is Catholic or universal because she
subsists in all ages, teaches all nations, and is the
source of all Truth.

99. How is the Church Apostolic?
The Church is Apostolic because it was founded by
Christ on the apostles and, according to His Divine
Will, has always been governed by their lawful successors.

100. Can the Church err in what she teaches?
The Church cannot err in what she teaches as to faith
or morals, for she is our infallible guide in both.

101. How do you know that the Church cannot err in what she teaches?
I know that the Church cannot err in what she teaches
because Christ promised that the gates of hell shall never prevail against his Church; that the Holy Spirit
shall teach her all things; and that he himself will
be with her all days, even to the consummation of the
world. Matt. 16:18, John 14:16-26, Matt. 28:20

102. What do you mean by the Communion of Saints?
By the Communion of Saints I mean that all the members
of the Church, in heaven, on earth, and in purgatory,
are in communion with each other, as being one body in Jesus Christ.

103. How are the faithful on earth in communion with each
other?
The faithful on earth are in communion with each other
by professing the same faith, obeying the same
authority, and assisting each other with their prayers
and good works.

104. How are we in communion with the Saints in heaven?
We are in communion with the Saints in heaven by
honoring them as the glorified members of the Church,
and also by our praying to them, and by their praying
for us.

105. How are we in communion with the souls in purgatory?
We are in communion with the souls in purgatory by
helping them with our prayers and good works: 'It is a
holy and wholesome thought to pray for the dead, that
they may be loosed from sins'.

106. What is purgatory?
Purgatory is a place where souls suffer for a time
after death on account of their sins.

107. What souls go to purgatory?
Those souls go to purgatory that depart this life in
venial sin; or that have not fully paid the debt of
temporal punishment due to those sins of which the
guilt has been forgiven.

108. What is temporal punishment?
Temporal punishment is punishment which will have an
end, either in this world, or in the world to come.

109. How do you prove that there is a purgatory?
I prove that there is a purgatory from the constant
teaching of the Church; and from the doctrine of Holy
Scripture, which declares that God will render to
every man according to his works; that nothing defiled
shall enter heaven; and that some will be saved, "as
one who has gone through fires".
Matt. 16:27, Apoc. 21:27.1, Cor. 3:15

THE TENTH ARTICLE OF THE CREED

110. What is the tenth article of the Creed?
The tenth article of the Creed is, 'the forgiveness of
sins'.

111. What do you mean by 'the forgiveness of sins'?
By 'the forgiveness of sins' I mean that Christ has
left the power of forgiving sins to the Pastors of his
Church. Jn.20:23

112. By what means are sins forgiven?
Sins are forgiven principally by the Sacraments of
Baptism and Penance.

113. What is sin?
Sin is an offense against God, by any thought, word,
deed or omission against the law of God.

114. How many kinds of sin are there?
There are two kinds of sin, original sin and actual sin.

115. What is original sin?
Original sin is that guilt and stain of sin which we
inherit from Adam, who was the origin and head of all
mankind.

116. What was the sin committed by Adam?
The sin committed by Adam was the sin of
disobedience when he ate the forbidden fruit.

117. Have all mankind contracted the guilt and stain of original sin?
All mankind have contracted the guilt and stain of
original sin, except the Blessed Virgin, who, through
the merits of her Divine Son, was conceived without
the least guilt or stain of original sin.

118. What is this privilege of the Blessed Virgin called?
This privilege of the Blessed Virgin is called the Immaculate Conception.

119. What is actual sin?
Actual sin is every sin which we ourselves commit.

120. How is actual sin divided?
Actual sin is divided into mortal sin and venial sin.

121. What is mortal sin?
Mortal sin is a serious offence against God.

122. Why is it called mortal sin?
It is called mortal sin because it is so serious that it kills the soul and deserves hell.

123. How does mortal sin kill the soul?
Mortal sin kills the soul by depriving it of
sanctifying grace, which is the supernatural life of
the soul.

124. Is it a great evil to fall into mortal sin?
It is the greatest of all evils to fall into mortal sin.

125. Where will they go who die in mortal sin?
They who die in mortal sin will go to hell for all eternity.

126. What is venial sin?
Venial sin is an offense which does not kill the soul,
yet displeases God, and often leads to mortal sin.

127. Why is it called venial sin?
It is called venial sin because it is more easily
pardoned than mortal sin.

THE ELEVENTH ARTICLE OF THE CREED

128. What is the eleventh article of the Creed?
The eleventh article of the Creed is, 'the
resurrection of the body'.

129. What do you mean by 'the resurrection of the body'?
By the resurrection of the body I mean that we shall
all rise again with the same bodies at the day of judgment.

THE TWELFTH ARTICLE OF THE CREED

130. What is the twelfth article of the Creed?
The twelfth article of the Creed is, 'life
everlasting'.

131. What does 'life everlasting' mean?
'Life everlasting' means that the good shall live
forever in the glory and happiness of heaven.

132. What is the glory and happiness of heaven?
The glory and happiness of heaven is to see, love, and
enjoy God forever.

133. What does the Scripture say of the happiness of heaven?
The Scripture says of the happiness of heaven: 'That
eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither hath it
entered into the heart of man, what things God hath
prepared for them that love him'. 1 Cor. 2:9

134. Shall not the wicked also live forever?
The wicked also shall live and be punished forever in
the fire of hell.

Chapter Three

135. Will Faith alone save us?
Faith alone will not save us without good works;
we must also have Hope and Charity.

136. What is Hope?
Hope is a supernatural gift of God, by which we
firmly trust that God will give us eternal life
and all means necessary to obtain it, if we do
what he requires of us.

137. Why must we hope in God?
We must hope in God because he is infinitely
good, infinitely powerful, and faithful to his
promises.

138. Can we do any good work of ourselves towards our salvation?
We can do no good work of ourselves towards our
salvation; we need the help of God's grace.

139. What is Grace?
Grace is a supernatural gift of God, freely bestowed upon us for our sanctification and salvation.

140. How must we obtain God's grace?
We must obtain God's grace chiefly by prayer and the holy Sacraments.

141. What is prayer?
Prayer is the raising up of the mind and heart to God.

142. How do we raise up our mind and heart to God?
We raise up our mind and heart to God by thinking
of God; by adoring, praising, and thanking him;
and by begging of him all blessings for soul and body.

143. Do those pray well who, at their prayers, think neither of God nor of what they say?
Those who, at their prayers, think neither of God
nor of what they say, do not pray well; but they
offend God, if their distractions are wilful.

144. Which is the best of all prayers?
The best of all prayers is the 'Our Father', or the Lord's Prayer.

145. Who made the Lord's Prayer?
Jesus Christ himself made the Lord's Prayer.

146. Say the Lord's Prayer.
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.

147. In the Lord's Prayer who is called 'our Father'?
In the Lord's Prayer God is called 'our Father'.

148. Why is God called 'our Father'?
God is called 'our Father' because he is the
Father of all Christians, whom he has made his
children by Holy Baptism.

149. Is God also the Father of all mankind?
God is also the Father of all mankind because he
made them all, and loves and preserves them all.

150. Why do we say, 'our' Father, and not 'my' Father?
We say 'our' Father, and not 'my' Father, because,
being all brethren, we are to pray not for our-
selves only, but also for all others.

151. When we say, 'hallowed be thy name', what do we pray for?
When we say 'hallowed be thy name' we pray that
God may be known, loved, and served by all his
creatures.

152. When we say, 'thy kingdom come', what do we pray for?
When we say, 'thy kingdom come', we pray that God
may come and reign in the hearts of all by His
grace in this world, and bring us all hereafter
to his heavenly kingdom.

153. When we say, 'thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven', what do we pray for?
When we say, 'thy will be done on earth as it is
in heaven', we pray that God may enable us, by his
grace, to do his will in all things, as the
Blessed do in heaven.

154. When we say, 'give us this day our daily bread', what do we pray for?
When we say, 'give us this day our daily bread',
we pray that God may give us daily all that is
necessary for soul and body.

155. When we say, forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us', what do we pray for?
When we say, 'forgive us our trespasses, as we
forgive those who trespass against us', we pray
that God may forgive us our sins, as we forgive
others the injuries they do to us.

156. When we say, 'lead us not into temptation', what do we pray for?
When we say 'lead us not into temptation', we pray
that God may give us grace not to yield to
temptation.

157. When we say, 'deliver us from evil', what do we pray for?
When we say, 'deliver us from evil', we pray that
God may free us from all evil, both of soul and
body.

158. Should we ask the Angels and Saints to pray for us?
We should ask the Angels and Saints to pray for
us, because they are our friends and brethren, and
because their prayers have great power with God.

159. How can we show that the Angels and Saints know what passes on earth?
We can show that the Angels and Saints know what
passes on earth from the words of Christ: 'There
shall be joy before the Angels of God upon one
sinner doing penance. Luke 15:10

160. What is the chief prayer to the Blessed Virgin which the Church uses?
The chief prayer to the Blessed Virgin which the
church uses is the Hail Mary.

161. Say the Hail Mary.
Hail Mary, full of grace; the Lord is with thee;
blessed art thou among 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.

162. Who made the first part of the Hail Mary?
The Angel Gabriel and St. Elizabeth, inspired by the Holy Spirit, made the first part of the Hail Mary.

163. Who made the second part of the Hail Mary?
The Church of God, guided by the Holy Spirit, made the second part of the Hail Mary.

164. Why should we frequently say the Hail Mary?
We should frequently say the Hail Mary to put us
in mind of the Incarnation of the Son of God; and
to honor our Blessed Lady, the Mother of God.

165. Have we another reason for often saying the Hail Mary?
We have another reason for often saying the Hail
Mary - to ask our Blessed Lady to pray for us
sinners at all times, but especially at the hour
of our death.

166. Why does the Catholic Church show great devotion to the Blessed Virgin?
The Catholic Church shows great devotion to the
Blessed Virgin because she is the Immaculate
Mother of God.

167. How is the Blessed Virgin Mother of God?
The Blessed Virgin is Mother of God because Jesus
Christ, her son, who was born of her as man, is
not only man, but is also truly God.

168. Is the Blessed Virgin our Mother also?
The Blessed Virgin is our Mother also because,
being the brethren of Jesus, we are the children
of Mary.

168a. What do we mean by the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin?
By the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin we mean
that by the power of God, Mary, at the completion
of her life, was taken body and soul into
everlasting glory to reign as Queen of heaven and earth.

168b. Is the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin an article of faith?
The Assumption of the Blessed Virgin is an article of Faith because it has been solemnly defined by the infallible authority of the Church.

Chapter Four

169. What is Charity?
Charity is a supernatural gift of God by which we
love God above all things, and our neighbor as
ourselves for God's sake.

170. Why must we love God?
We must love God because he is infinitely good in
himself and infinitely good to us.

171. How do we show that we love God?
We show that we love God by keeping his command-
ments: for Christ says: 'If you love me, keep my
commandments. John 14:15, Mt. 19:16, Rom. 13:8-10

172. How many Commandments are there?
There are ten Commandments.

173. Say the TEN Commandments
I am the Lord thy God, who brought thee out of the
land of Egypt, and out of the house of bondage.
1. Thou shalt not have strange gods before me.
Thou shalt not make to thyself any graven thing,
nor the likeness of any thing that is in heaven
above, nor in the earth beneath, nor of those
things that are in the waters under the earth.
Thou shalt not adore them nor serve them.
2. Thou shalt not take the name of the Lord thy
God in vain.
3. Remember that thou keep holy the Sabbath day.
4. Honor thy father and thy mother.
5. Thou shalt not kill.
6. Thou shalt not commit adultery.
7. Thou shalt not steal.
8. Thou shalt not bear false witness against thy
neighbour.
9. Thou shalt not covet thy neighbor's wife.
10. Thou shalt not covet thy neighbor's goods.

174. Who gave the ten Commandments?
God gave the ten Commandments to Moses in the Old
Law, and Christ confirmed them in the New.

175. What is the First Commandment?
The first Commandment is, 'I am the Lord thy God,
who brought thee out of the land of Egypt, and
out of the house of bondage. Thou shalt not have
strange gods before me. Thou shalt not make to
thyself any graven thing, nor the likeness of
anything that is in heaven above, nor in the earth
beneath, nor of those things that are in the
waters under the earth. Thou shalt not adore them
nor serve them.

176. What are we commanded to do by the first Commandment?
By the first Commandment we are commanded to
worship the one, true, and living God, by Faith,
Hope, Charity, and Religion.

177. What are the sins against Faith?
The sins against Faith are all false religions,
wilful doubt, disbelief, or denial of any article
of Faith, and also culpable ignorance of the doc-
trines of the Church.

178. How do we expose ourselves to the danger of losing our Faith?
We expose ourselves to the danger of losing our
Faith by neglecting our spiritual duties, reading
bad books, going to non-Catholic schools.

179. What are the sins against Hope?
The sins against Hope are despair and presumption.

180. What are the chief sins against Religion?
The chief sins against Religion are the worship
of false gods or idols, and the giving to any
creature whatsoever the honor which belongs to God alone.

181. Does the first Commandment forbid the making of images?
The first Commandment does not forbid the making
of images, but the making of idols; that is, it
forbids us to make idols to be adored or honored
as gods.

182. Does the first Commandment forbid dealing with the devil and superstitious practices?
The first Commandment forbids all dealing with the
devil and superstitious practices, such as
consulting spiritualists and fortune-tellers, and
trusting to charms, omens, dreams, and such like
fooleries.

183. Are all sins of sacrilege and simony also forbidden by the first Commandment?
All sins of sacrilege and simony are also forbidden by the first Commandment.

184. Is it forbidden to give divine honor or worship to the Angels and Saints?
It is forbidden to give divine honor or worship
to the Angels and Saints, for this belongs to God alone.

185. What kind of honor or worship should we give to the Angels and Saints?
We should pay to the Angels and Saints an inferior
honor or worship, for this is due to them as the
servants and special friends of God.

186. What honor should we give to relics, crucifixes, and holy pictures?
We should give to relics, crucifixes, and holy
pictures a relative honor, as they relate to
Christ and his Saints, and are memorials of them.

187. Do we pray to relics and images?
We do not pray to relics or images, for they
can neither see, nor hear, nor help us.

188. What is the second Commandment?
The second Commandment is, 'Thou shalt not take
the name of the Lord thy God in vain'.

189. What are we commanded by the second Commandment?
By the second Commandment we are commanded to
speak with reverence of God and all holy persons
and things, and to keep our lawful oaths and
vows.

190. What does the second Commandment forbid?
The second Commandment forbids all false, rash,
unjust, and unnecessary oaths; as also
blaspheming, cursing and profane words.

191. Is it ever lawful to swear or to take an oath?
It is lawful to swear, or take an oath, only
when God's honor, or our own, or our neighbour's
good requires it.

192. What is the third Commandment?
The third Commandment is 'Remember that thou keep
holy the Sabbath day.

193. What are we commanded by the third Commandment?
By the third Commandment we are commanded to keep
the Sunday holy.

194. How are we to keep the Sunday holy?
We are to keep the Sunday holy by praying and
participating in Mass and resting from servile works.

195. Why are we commanded to rest from servile works?
We are commanded to rest from servile works that
we may have time and opportunity for prayer, going
to the Sacraments, hearing instructions, and
reading good books.

196. What is the fourth Commandment?
The fourth Commandment is, 'Honor thy father and
thy mother'.

197. What are we commanded by the fourth Commandment?By the fourth Commandment we are commanded to
love, reverence, and obey our parents in all that
is not sin.

198. Are we commanded to obey our parents only?
We are commanded to obey, not only our parents,
but also our bishops and pastors, the civil
authorities, and our lawful superiors.

199. Are we bound to assist our parents in their wants?
We are bound to assist our parents in their wants,
both spiritual and temporal.

200. Are we bound in justice to contribute to the support of our pastors?
We are bound in justice to contribute to the
support of our pastors; for St. Paul says; ' The
Lord ordained that they who preach the Gospel
should live by the Gospel'. Cor.9:14

201. What is the duty of parents towards their children?
The duty of parents towards their children is to
provide for them, to instruct and correct them,
and to give them a good Catholic education.

202. What is the duty of masters, mistresses, and other superiors?
The duty of masters, mistresses, and other
superiors is to take proper care of those under
their charge, and to enable them to practice their
religious duties.

203. What does the fourth Commandment forbid?
The fourth Commandment forbids all contempt,
stubbornness, and disobedience to our parents
and lawful superiors.

204. Is it sinful to belong to a Secret Society?
It is sinful to belong to any Secret Society that
plots against the Church or State, or to any
Society that by reason of its secrecy is condemned
by the Church; for St. Paul says: 'Let every soul
be subject to the higher powers; he that resisteth
the power resisteth the ordinance of God; and they
that resist purchase to themselves damnation.
Rom. 13:1,

205. What is the fifth Commandment?
The fifth Commandment is, 'Thou shalt not kill'.

206. What does the fifth Commandment forbid?
The fifth Commandment forbids all wilful murder, fighting, quarreling, and injurious words; and also scandal and bad example.

207. Does the fifth Commandment forbid anger?
The fifth Commandment forbids anger, and still
more, hatred and revenge.

208. Why are scandal and bad example forbidden by the fifth Commandment?
Scandal and bad example are forbidden by the fifth
Commandment, because they lead to the injury and
spiritual death of our neighbour's soul.

209. What is the sixth Commandment?
The sixth Commandment is, 'Thou shalt not commit
adultery'.

210. What does the sixth Commandment forbid?
The sixth Commandment forbids all sins of impurity
with another's wife or husband.

211. Does the sixth Commandment forbide whatever is contrary to holy purity?
The sixth Commandment forbids whatever is contrary
to holy purity in looks, words, or actions.

212. Are immodest plays and dances forbidden by the sixth Commandment?
Immodest plays and dances are forbidden by the sixth Commandment, and it is sinful to look at them.

213. Does the sixth Commandment forbid immodest songs, books, and pictures?
The sixth Commandment forbids immodest songs,
books and pictures, because they are most
dangerous to the soul, and lead to mortal sin.

214. What is the seventh Commandment?
The seventh Commandment is, 'Thou shalt not steal'.

215. What does the seventh Commandment forbid?
The seventh Commandment forbids all unjust taking
away, or keeping what belongs to another.

216. Is all manner of cheating in buying and selling forbidden by the seventh Commandment?
All manner of cheating in buying and selling is
forbidden by the seventh Commandment, and also
every other way of wronging our neighbor.

217. Are we bound to restore ill-gotten goods?
We are bound to restore ill-gotten goods if we
are able, or else the sin will not be forgiven;
we must also pay our debts.

218. Is it dishonest for workers to waste their
employer's time or property?
It is dishonest for workers to waste their
employer's time or property, because it is
wasting what is not their own.

219. What is the eighth Commandment?
The eighth Commandment is, 'Thou shalt not bear false witness against thy neighbour'.

220. What does the eighth Commandment forbid?
The eighth Commandment forbids all false
testimony, rash judgment, and lies.

221. Are calumny and detraction forbidden by the eighth Commandment?
Calumny and detraction are forbidden by the eighth Commandment, and also tale-bearing and any words which injure our neighbour's character.

222. If you have injured your neighbour by speaking ill of him, what are you bound to do?
If I have injured my neighbour by speaking ill
of him, I am bound to make him satisfaction by
restoring his good name as far as I can.

223. What is the ninth Commandment?
The ninth Commandment is, 'Thou shalt not covet thy neighbour's wife'.

224. What does the ninth Commandment forbid?
The ninth Commandment forbids all wilful consent
to impure thoughts and desires, and all wilful
pleasure in the irregular motions of the flesh.

225. What sins commonly lead to the breaking of the sixth and ninth Commandments?
The sins that Commonly lead to the breaking of the
sixth and ninth Commandments are gluttony,
drunkenness, and intemperance, and also idleness,
bad company, and the neglect of prayer.

226. What is the tenth Commandment?
The tenth Commandment is 'Thou shalt not covet thy
neighbour's goods'.

227. What does the tenth Commandment forbid?
The tenth Commandment forbids all envious and
covetous thoughts and unjust desires of our
neighbour's goods and profits.

CHAPTER FIVE

228. Are we bound to obey the Church?
We are bound to obey the Church, because Christ
has said to the pastors of the Church: 'He that
heareth you, heareth me: and he that despiseth
you, despiseth me.' Luke 10:16

229. What are the chief Commandments of the Church?
The chief Commandments of the Church are:
1. To keep the Sundays and Holydays of Obligation
holy, by attending Mass and resting from servile
works.
2. To keep the days of fasting and abstinence
appointed by the Church.
3. To go to confession at least once a year.
4. To receive the Blessed Sacrament at least once
a year.
5. To contribute to the support of our pastors.
6. Not to marry within certain degrees of
kindred, nor to solemnize marriage at the
forbidden times.
7. To join in the missionary spirit and
apostolate of the Church.

230. What is the first Commandment of the Church?
The first Commandment of the Church is, 'To keep
the Sundays and Holydays of Obligation holy, by
attending Mass and resting from servile works'.

231. Which are the Holydays of Obligation observed in the United States?
The Holydays of Obligation observed in the United States are: Solemnity of the Holy Mother of God, January 1; the Ascension; the Assumption of Our
Lady, August 15; All Saints' Day, November 1; the
Immaculate Conception, December 8; Christmas Day,
December 25.

232. Are Catholics bound to attend Mass on Sundays and Holydays of Obligation?
Catholics are under a serious obligation to attend
Mass on Sundays and Holydays of Obligation unless
prevented by other serious duties or by ill-health.

233. Are parents, masters, and mistresses bound to provide that those under their charge shall attend Mass on Sundays and Holydays of Obligation?
Parents, masters, and mistresses are bound to
provide that those under their charge shall attend
Mass on Sundays and Holydays of Obligation.

234. What is the second Commandment of the Church?
The second Commandment of the Church is, 'To keep
the days of fasting and abstinence appointed by
the Church'.

235. What are fasting days?
Fasting days are days on which we are allowed to
take only one full meal. The obligation of fasting
is restricted to those who have completed their
18th year until they have begun their 60th.

236. Which are the fasting days?
The fasting days are Ash Wednesday and Good Friday.

237. What are days of abstinence?
Days of abstinence are days on which we are forbidden to take flesh-meat and anything made from meat.

238. Which are the days of abstinence?
The days of abstinence in the United States are
Ash Wednesday and Good Friday and all the Fridays
in Lent. The age at which abstinence becomes
binding is 14.

239. Why does the Church command us to fast and abstain?
The Church commands us to fast and abstain so that we may mortify the flesh and satisfy God for our sins.

240. How often should we go to Confession?
If we have been guilty of serious sin we should go
to Confession as soon as possible but never less
than once a year.

241. How soon are children bound to go to Confession?
Children are bound to go to Confession as soon as
they have come to the use of reason, and are
capable of serious sin.

242. When are children generally supposed to come to the use of reason?
Children are generally supposed to come to the use
of reason about the age of seven years.

243. What is the fourth Commandment of the Church?
The fourth Commandment of the Church is, 'To
receive the Blessed Sacrament at least once a
year, and that at Easter or thereabouts'.

244. How soon are Christians bound to receive the Blessed Sacrament?
Christians are bound to receive the Blessed
Sacrament as soon as they are capable of distin-
guishing the Body of Christ from ordinary bread,
and are judged to be sufficiently instructed.

245. What is the fifth Commandment of the Church?
The fifth Commandment of the Church is, 'To
contribute to the support of our pastors'.

246. Is it a duty to contribute to the support of religion?
It is a duty to contribute to the support of
religion according to our means, so that God may
be duly honored and worshipped, and the kingdom
of his Church extended.

247. What is the sixth Commandment of the Church?
The sixth Commandment of the Church is, 'Not
to marry within certain degrees of kindred, nor
to solemnize marriage at the forbidden times'.

248. Which are the times in which it is forbidden to marry with solemnity?
Now, marriage may be contracted at any time of
the year. However, the pastor shall advise the
spouses to take into account the special character
of the liturgical season and abstain from
excessive festivity during Advent and Lent.

CHAPTER SIX

249. What is a Sacrament?
A Sacrament is an outward sign of inward grace,
ordained by Jesus Christ, by which grace is given
to our souls.

250. Do the Sacraments always give grace?
The Sacraments always give grace to those who
receive them worthily.

251. Whence have the Sacraments the power of giving grace?
The Sacraments have the power of giving grace from
the merits of Christ's Precious Blood which they
apply to our souls.

252. Ought we to have a great desire to receive the Sacraments?
We ought to have a great desire to receive the
Sacraments, because they are the chief means of
our salvation.

253. Is a character given to the soul by any of the Sacraments?
A character is given to the soul by the Sacraments
of Baptism, Confirmation, and Holy Orders.

254. What is a character?
A character is a mark or seal on the soul which
cannot be effaced, and therefore the Sacrament
conferring it may not be repeated.

255. How many Sacraments are there?
There are seven Sacraments: Baptism, Confirmation,
Holy Eucharist, Penance, the Anointing of the
Sick, Holy Orders, and Matrimony.

256. What is Baptism?
Baptism is a Sacrament which cleanses us from
original sin, makes us Christians, children of
God, and members of the Church.

257. Does Baptism also forgive actual sins?
Baptism also forgives actual sins, with all
punishment due to them, when it is received in
proper disposition by those who have been guilty
of actual sin.

258. Who is the ordinary minister of Baptism?
The ordinary minister of Baptism is a Bishop, a
priest or a deacon; in case of necessity such as
danger of death, any one may baptize.

259. How is Baptism given?
Baptism is given by pouring water on the head of
the child, saying at the same time these words:
'I baptize you in the name of the Father, and of
the Son, and of the Holy Spirit'.

260. What do we promise in Baptism?
We promise in Baptism to renounce the devil and
all his works and pomps.

261. Is Baptism necessary for salvation?
Baptism is necessary for salvation, because Christ
has said: 'Unless a man be born again of water and
the Holy Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom
of God'. John 3:5

262. What is Confirmation?
Confirmation is a Sacrament by which we receive
the Holy Spirit, in order to make us strong and
perfect Christians and soldiers of Jesus Christ.

263. Who is the ordinary minister of Confirmation?
The ordinary minister of Confirmation is a Bishop.

264. How does the Bishop administer the Sacrament of Confirmation?
The Bishop administers the Sacrament of
Confirmation by praying that the Holy Spirit may
come down upon those who are to be confirmed; and
by laying his hand on them, and making the sign of
the cross with chrism on their foreheads, at the
same time pronouncing certain words.

265. What are the words used in Confirmation?
The words used in Confirmation are these: 'N.,
be sealed with the Gift of the Holy Spirit'.

266. What is the Sacrament of the Holy Eucharist?
The Sacrament of the Holy Eucharist is the true Body and Blood of Jesus Christ, together with his Soul and Divinity, under the appearances of bread and wine.

267. How are the bread and wine changed into the Body and Blood of Christ?
The bread and wine are changed into the Body and
Blood of Christ by the power of God, to whom
nothing is impossible or difficult.

268. When are the bread and wine changed into the Body
and Blood of Christ?
The bread and wine are changed into the Body and
Blood of Christ when the words of consecration,
ordained by Jesus Christ, are pronounced by the
priest in Holy Mass.

269. Why has Christ given himself to us in the Holy Eucharist?
Christ has given himself to us in the Holy
Eucharist to be the life and the food of our
souls. 'He that eateth me, the same also shall
live by me', 'He that eateth this bread shall live
forever'. John 6:58,59

270. Is Christ received whole and entire under either under either kind alone?
Christ is received whole and entire under either kind alone.

271. In order to receive the Blessed Sacrament worthily what is required?
In order to receive the Blessed Sacrament worthily
it is required that we be in a state of grace and
keep the prescribed fast; water does not break
this fast.

272. What is it to be in a state of grace?
To be in a state of grace is to be free from
mortal sin, and pleasing to God.

273. Is it a great sin to receive Holy Communion in mortal sin?
It is a great sin to receive Holy Communion in
mortal sin; 'for he that eateth and drinketh
unworthily, eateth and drinketh judgment to
himself'. Cor. 11:29

274. Is the Blessed Eucharist a Sacrament only?
The Blessed Eucharist is not a Sacrament only; it
is also a sacrifice.

275. What is a sacrifice?
A sacrifice is the offering of a victim by a
priest to God alone, in testimony of his being the
Sovereign Lord of all things.

276. What is the Sacrifice of the New Law?
The Sacrifice of the New Law is the Holy Mass.

277. What is the Holy Mass?
The Holy Mass is the Sacrifice of the Body and
Blood of Jesus Christ, really present on the
altar under the appearances of bread and wine, and
offered to God for the living and the dead.

278. Is the Holy Mass one and the same Sacrifice with that of the Cross?
The Holy Mass is one and the same Sacrifice with
that of the Cross, inasmuch as Christ, who offered
himself, a bleeding victim, on the Cross to his
heavenly Father, continues to offer himself in an
unbloody manner on the altar, through the ministry
of his priests.

279. For what ends is the Sacrifice of the Mass offered?
The Sacrifice of the Mass is offered for four
ends: first, to give supreme honor and glory to
God; secondly, to thank him for all his benefits;
thirdly, to satisfy God for our sins and to obtain
the grace of repentance; and fourthly, to obtain
all other graces and blessings through Jesus
Christ.

280. Is the Mass also a memorial of the Passion and Death of our Lord?
The Mass is also a memorial of the Passion and
Death of our Lord, for Christ at his last supper
said: 'Do this for a commemoration of me'.
Luke 22:19

281. What is the Sacrament of Penance?
Penance is a Sacrament whereby the sins, whether
mortal or venial, which we have committed after
Baptism are forgiven.

282. Does the Sacrament of Penance increase the grace of God in the soul?
The Sacrament of Penance increase the grace of God
in the soul, besides forgiving sin; we should,
therefore, often go to confession.

283. When did our Lord institute the Sacrament of Penance?
Our Lord instituted the Sacrament of Penance when
he breathed on his Apostles and gave them power to
forgive sins, saying: 'Whose sins you shall
forgive, they are forgiven.' John 20:23

284. How does the priest forgive sins?
The priest forgives sins by the power of God, when he pronounces the words of absolution.

285. What are the words of absolution?
The words of absolution are: 'I absolve you from
your sins, in the name of the Father, and of the
Son, and of the Holy Spirit'.

286. Are any conditions of forgiveness required on the part of the penitent?
Three conditions for forgiveness are required onthe part of the penitent -Contrition, Confession,
and Satisfaction.

287. What is Contrition?
Contrition is a hearty sorrow for our sins,
because by them we have offended so good a God,
together with a firm purpose of amendment.

288. What is a firm purpose of amendment?
A firm purpose of amendment is a resolution to avoid, by the grace of God, not only sin, but also
the dangerous occasions of sin.

289. How may we obtain a hearty sorrow for our sins?
We may obtain a hearty sorrow for our sins by
earnestly praying for it, and by making use of
such considerations as may lead us to it.

290. What consideration concerning God will lead us to sorrow for our sins?
This consideration concerning God will lead us to
sorrow for our sins: that by our sins we have
offended God, who is infinitely good in himself
and infinitely good to us.

291. What other consideration concerning our Saviour will lead us to sorrow for our sins?
This consideration concerning our Saviour will
lead us to sorrow for our sins: that our Saviour
died for our sins, and that those who sin griev-
ously 'crucify again to themselves the Son of God,
making him a mockery'. Heb. 6:6

292. Is sorrow for our sins, because by them we have lost heaven and deserved hell, sufficient when we go to confession?
Sorrow for our sins, because by them we have lost
heaven and deserved hell, is sufficient when we go
to confession.

293. What is perfect contrition?
Perfect contrition is sorrow for sin arising
purely from the love of God.

294. What special value has perfect contrition?
Perfect contrition has this special value: that by
it our sins are forgiven immediately, even before
we confess them; but nevertheless, if they are
serious, we are strictly bound to confess them
afterwards.

295. What is confession?
Confession is to accuse ourselves of our sins to a priest approved by the Bishop.

296. What if a person willfully conceals a serious sin in confession?
If a person willfully conceals a serious sin in
confession he is guilty of a great sacrilege, by
telling a lie to the Holy Spirit in making a bad confession.

297. How many things have we to do in order to prepare for confession?
We have four things to do in order to prepare for
confession: first, we must heartily pray for grace
to make a good confession; secondly, we must
carefully examine our conscience; thirdly, we must
take time and care to make a good act of
contrition; and fourthly, we must resolve by the
help of God to renounce our sins, and to begin a
new life for the future.

298. What is satisfaction?
Satisfaction is doing the penance given us by the priest.

299. Does the penance given by the priest always make full satisfaction for our sins?
The penance given by the priest does not always
make full satisfaction for our sins. We should
therefore add to it other good works and penances,
and try to gain Indulgences.

300. What is an Indulgence?
An Indulgence is a remission, granted by the
Church, of the temporal punishment which often
remains due to sin after its guilt has been
forgiven.

301. What is the Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick?
This Sacrament is the anointing of the sick with
holy oil, accompanied with prayer.

302. When is the Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick given?
The Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick is
given when we are in danger of death by sickness.

303. What are the effects of the Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick?
The effects of the Sacrament of the Anointing of
the Sick are to comfort and strengthen the soul,
to remit sin, and even to restore health, when God
sees it to be expedient.

304. What authority is there in Scripture for the Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick?
The authority in Scripture for the Sacrament of
the Anointing of the Sick is in the 5th chapter of
St. James, where it is said: 'Is any one sick
among you? Let him bring in the priests of the
Church; and let them pray over him, anointing him
with oil in the name of the Lord. And the prayer
of faith shall save the sick man; and the Lord
shall raise him up; and if he be in sins they
shall be forgiven him'. James 5:14-15

305. What is the Sacrament of Holy Orders?
Holy Orders is the Sacrament by which bishops,
priests, and deacons of the Church are ordained,
and receive power and grace to perform their
sacred duties.

306. What is the Sacrament of Matrimony?
Matrimony is the Sacrament which sanctifies the
contract of a Christian marriage, and gives a
special grace to those who receive it worthily.

307. What special grace does the Sacrament of Matrimony
The Sacrament of Matrimony gives to those who
receive it worthily a special grace, to enable
them to bear the difficulties of their state, to
love and be faithful to one another, and to bring
up their children in the fear of God.

308. Is it a sacrilege to contract marriage in serious sin, or in disobedience to the laws of the Church?
It is a sacrilege to contract marriage in serious
sin, or in disobedience to the laws of the Church,
and, instead of a blessing, the guilty parties
draw upon themselves the anger of God. For a marriage of a Catholic to be valid there must bepresent
1. either the Bishop or the Parish Priest, or another Priest duly delegated, and
2. two witnesses.

309. What is a 'mixed marriage'?
A 'mixed marriage' is a marriage in which only one
partner is a Catholic.

310. Does the Church encourage mixed marriages?
The Church does not encourage mixed marriages and
considers them dangerous.

311. Does the Church sometimes permit mixed marriages?
The Church sometimes permits mixed marriages by
granting a dispensation, and under special
conditions.

311a. What does the Catholic partner of a mixed marriage promise?
The Catholic partner of a mixed marriage promises
to do everything possible to preserve the faith
and have all children of the marriage baptized and
brought up in the Catholic religion.

312. Can any human power dissolve the bond of marriage?
No human power can dissolve the bond of marriage, because Christ has said: 'What God has joined together, let not man put asunder'. Matt. 19:6

CHAPTER SEVEN

313. Which are the Theological Virtues?
The Theological Virtues are 'Faith, Hope, and
Charity'. 1 Cor. 13:13

314. Why are they called Theological Virtues?
They are called Theological Virtues because they
relate immediately to God.

315. What are the chief mysteries of Faith which every Christian is bound to know?
The chief mysteries of Faith which every Christian
is bound to know are the Unity and Trinity of God,
who will render to every man according to his
works, and the Incarnation, Death, and
Resurrection of our Saviour.

316. Which are the Cardinal Virtues?
The Cardinal Virtues are 'Prudence, Justice, Fortitude, and Temperance'. Wisdom 8:7

317. Why are they called Cardinal Virtues?
They are called Cardinal Virtues because they are,
as it were, the hinges on which all other moral
virtues turn.

318. Which are the seven gifts of the Holy Spirit?
The seven gifts of the Holy Spirit are:
1. Wisdom 3. Counsel 5. Knowledge
2. Understanding 4. Fortitude 6. Piety
7. Fear of the Lord
Is. 11:2,3

319. Which are the twelve fruits of the Holy Spirit?
1. Charity 5. Benignity 9. Faith
2. Joy 6. Goodness 10. Modesty
3. Peace 7. Longanimity 11. Continency
4. Patience 8. Mildness 12. Chastity
Gal. 5:22

320. Which are the two great precepts of Charity?
The two great precepts of Charity are:
1. 'Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with thy
whole heart, and with thy whole soul, and
with thy whole mind, and with thy whole strength'.
2. 'Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself'.
Mark 12:30,31

321. Which are the seven Corporal Works of Mercy?
The seven Corporal Works of Mercy are:
1. To feed the hungry 4. To harbor the harbor-
2. To give drink to the less
thirsty. 5. To visit the sick
3. To clothe the naked 6. To visit the imprisoned
7. To bury the dead
Matt. 25; Tobias 12

322. Which are the seven Spiritual Works of Mercy?
The seven Spiritual Works of Mercy are:
1. To convert the sinner
4. To comfort the sor-
2. To instruct the ignorant rowful
3. To counsel the doubtful
5. To bear wrongs patiently
6. To forgive injuries
7. To pray for the living and the dead

323. Which are the eight Beatitudes?
The eight Beatitudes are:
1. Blessed are the poor in spirit; for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
2. Blessed are the meek; for they shall possess the land.
3. Blessed are they that mourn; for they shall be comforted.
4. Blessed are they that hunger and thirst after justice; for they shall have their fill.
5. Blessed are the merciful; for they shall
obtain mercy.
6. Blessed are the clean of heart; for they shall see God.
7. Blessed are the peacemakers; for they shall be called the children of God.
8. Blessed are they that suffer persecution for justice' sake; for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
Matt. 5:3-10

324. Which are the seven capital sins or vices and their contrary virtues?
The seven capital sins or vices and their contrary
virtues are:
CAPITAL SINS CONTRARY VIRTUES
1. Pride 1. Humility
2. Covetousness 2. Liberality
3. Lust 3. Chastity
4. Anger 4. Meekness
5. Gluttony 5. Temperance
6. Envy 6. Brotherly Love
7. Sloth 7. Diligence

325. Why are they called capital sins?
They are called capital sins because they are the sources from which all other sins take their rise.

326. Which are the six sins against the Holy Spirit?
The six sins against the Holy Spirit are:
1. Presumption 4. Envy of another's
2. Despair spiritual good
3. Resisting the known 5. Obstinacy in sin
truth 6. Final impenitence

327. Which are the four sins crying to heaven for vengeance?
1. Wilful murder
2. The sin of Sodom
3. Oppression of the poor
4. Defrauding labourers of their wages.
Gen. 4, Gen. 18, Exod. 2, James 5

328. When are we answerable for the sins of others?
We are answerable for the sins of others when-
ever we either cause them, or share in them,
through our own fault.

329. In how many ways may we either cause or share the guilt of another's sin?
We may either cause or share the guilt of
another's sin in nine ways:
1. By counsel
2. By command
3. By consent in sin
4. By provocation 8. By silence
5. By Praise or Flattery 9. By defending the ill done.
6. By concealment
7. By being a partner

330. Which are the three eminent Good Works?
The three eminent Good Works are Prayer, Fasting,
and Almsdeeds.

331. Which are the Evangelical Councils?
The Evangelical Councils are voluntary Poverty,
perpetual Chastity and entire Obedience.

332. What are the four last things to be ever remembered?
The four last things to be ever remembered are
Death, Judgment, Hell, and Heaven.
Ecclus 7:40

CHAPTER EIGHT

333. What rule of life must we follow if we hope to be saved?
If we hope to be saved, we must follow the rule
of life taught by Jesus Christ.

334. What are we bound to do by the rule of life taught by Jesus Christ?
By the rule of life taught by Jesus Christ we
are bound always to hate sin and to love God.

335. How must we hate sin?
We must hate sin above all other evils, so as to
be resolved never to commit a wilful sin, for the
love or fear of anything whatsoever.

336. How must be love God?
We must love God above all things, and with our
whole heart.

337. How must we learn to love God?
We must learn to love God by begging of God to
teach us to love him: 'O my God, teach me to
love you'.

338. What will the love of God lead us to do?
The love of God will lead us often to think how
good God is; often to speak to him in our hearts;
and always to seek to please him.

339. Does Jesus Christ also command us to love one another?
Jesus Christ also commands us to love one another - that is, all persons without exception - for his sake.

340. How are we to love one another?
We are to love one another by wishing well to one
another, and praying for one another; and by never
allowing ourselves any thought, word or deed to
the injury of anyone.

341. Are we also bound to love our enemies?
We are also bound to love our enemies; not only
by forgiving them from our hearts, but also by
wishing them well, and praying for them.

342. Has Jesus Christ given us another great rule?
Jesus Christ has given us another great rule in
these words 'if any man will come after me, let
him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and
follow me'. Luke 9:23

343. How are we to deny ourselves?
We are to deny ourselves by giving up our own
will, and by going against our own humors,
inclinations, and passions.

344. Why are we bound to deny ourselves?
We are bound to deny ourselves because our natural
inclinations are prone to evil from our very
childhood; and, if not corrected by self-denial,
they will certainly carry us to hell.

345. How are we to take up our cross daily?
We are to take up our cross daily by submitting
daily with patience to the labours and sufferings
of this short life, and by bearing them willingly
for the love of God.

346. How are we to follow our Blessed Lord?
We are to follow our Blessed Lord by walking
in his footsteps and imitating his virtues.

347. What are the principal virtues we are to learn of our Blessed Lord?
The principal virtues we are to learn of our
Blessed Lord are meekness, humility, and
obedience.

348. Which are the enemies we must fight against all the days of our life?
The enemies which we must fight against all the
days of our life are the devil, the world, and
the flesh.

349. What do you mean by the devil?
By the devil I mean Satan and all his wicked
angels, who are ever seeking to draw us into
sin, that we may be damned with them.

350. What do you mean by the world?
By the world I mean the false maxims of the world
and the society of those who love the vanities,
riches and pleasures of this world better than
God.

351. Why do you number the devil and the world amongst the enemies of the soul?
I number the devil and the world amongst the
enemies of the soul because they are always seek-
ing, by temptation and by work or example, to
carry us along with them in the broad road that
leads to damnation.

352. What do you mean by the flesh?
By the flesh I mean our own corrupt inclinations
and passions, which are the most dangerous of all
our enemies.

353. What must we do to hinder the enemies of our soul from drawing us into sin?
To hinder the enemies of our soul from drawing
us into sin, we must watch, pray, and fight
against all their suggestions and temptations.

354. In the warfare against the devil, the world, and the flesh, on whom must we depend?
In the warfare against the devil, the world,
and the flesh we must depend not on ourselves
but on God only; 'I can do all things in him
who strengtheneth me'. Philip. 4:13

CHAPTER NINE

355. How should you begin the day?
I should begin the day by making the sign of the
cross as soon as I awake in the morning, and by
saying some short prayer, such as, 'O my God, I
offer my heart and soul to your'.

356. How should you rise in the morning?
I should rise in the morning diligently, dress
myself modestly, and then kneel down and say my
morning prayers.

357. Should you also attend Mass if you have time and opportunity?
I should also attend Mass if I have time and
opportunity, for to attend Mass is by far the best
and most profitable of all devotions.

358. Is it useful to make daily meditation?
It is useful to make daily meditation, for such was the practice of all the Saints.

359. On what ought we to meditate?
We ought to meditate especially on the four last
things, and the Life and Passion of our Blessed Lord.

360. Ought we frequently to read good books?
We ought frequently to read good books, such as
the Holy Gospels, the Lives of the Saints, and
other spiritual works, which nourish our faith and
piety, and arm us against the false maxims of the
world.

361. And what should you do as to your eating, drinking, sleeping, and amusements?
As to my eating, drinking, sleeping, and
amusements, I should use all these things with
moderation, and with a desire to please God.

362. Say the grace before meals?
"Bless us, O Lord, and these your gifts, which we
are about to receive from your bounty, through
Christ our Lord. Amen."

363. Say the grace after meals?
"We give you thanks, almighty God, for all your
benefits, who live and reign, world without end."
May the souls of the faithful departed through the
mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen.

364. How should you sanctify your ordinary actions and employments of the day?
I should sanctify my ordinary actions and
employments of the day by often raising up my
heart to God whilst I am about them, and saying
some short prayer to him.

365. What should you do when you find yourself tempted to sin?
When I find myself tempted to sin I should make
the sign of the cross on my heart and call on God
as earnestly as I can, saying, 'Lord, save me, or
I perish.'

366. If you have fallen into sin, what should you do?
If I have fallen into sin I should cast myself in
spirit at the feet of Christ, and humbly beg his
pardon by a sincere act of contrition.

367. When God send you any cross, or sickness, or pain, what should you say?
When God sends me any cross, or sickness, or pain,
I should say, 'Lord, your will be done. I take
this for my sins'.

368. What prayers would you do well to say often to yourself during the day?
I should do well to say often to myself during the
day such prayers as -
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to
the Holy Spirit, as it was in the beginning, is
now and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.
In all things may the most holy, the most just,
and the most lovable Will of God be done, praised,
and exalted above all forever.
O Sacrament most holy, O Sacrament divine, all
praise and all thanksgiving be every moment thine.
Praised be Jesus Christ, praised for evermore.
My Jesus, mercy; Mary, help.

369. How should you finish the day?
I should finish the day by kneeling down and
saying my night prayers.

370. After your night prayers what should you do?
After my night prayers I should observe due
modesty in going to bed; occupy myself with
the thoughts of death; and endeavor to compose
myself to rest at the foot of the Cross, and give
my last thoughts to my crucified Saviour.