The Precepts of the Church

The Catechism moves from a discussion on the Magisterium and the Moral Life (CCC 2032-2040) to discuss the obligations that the faithful have to Holy Mother Church. The precepts provide a minimum in order to help us grow in our love for our Lord and to desire to move beyond the minimum to even great demonstrations of our love.

2041   The precepts of the Church are set in the context of a moral life bound to and nourished by liturgical life. the obligatory character of these positive laws decreed by the pastoral authorities is meant to guarantee to the faithful the indispensable minimum in the spirit of prayer and moral effort, in the growth in love of God and neighbor:

2042   The first precept ("You shall attend Mass on Sundays and on holy days of obligation and rest from servile labor.") requires the faithful to sanctify the day of commemorating the Resurrection of the Lord as well as the principal liturgical feasts honoring the mysteries of the Lord, the Blessed Virgin Mary, and the saints; in the first place, by participating in the Eucharistic celebration, in which the Christian community is gathered, and by resting from those works and activities which could impede such sanctification of these days.
   The second precept ("You shall confess your sins at least once a year.") ensures preparation for the Eucharist by the reception of the sacrament of reconciliation, which continues Baptism's work of conversion and forgiveness.
   The third precept ("You shall receive the sacrament of the Eucharist at least during the Easter season.") guarantees as a minimum the reception of the Lord's Body and Blood in connection with the Paschal feasts, the origin and center of the Christian liturgy.

2043   The fourth precept ("You shall observe the prescribed days of fasting and abstinence.") ensures the times of ascesis and penance which prepare us for the liturgical feasts; they help us acquire mastery over our instincts and freedom of heart.
   The fifth precept ("You shall help to provide for the needs of the Church") means that the faithful are obliged to assist with material needs of the Church, each according to his own ability.

Catechism of the Catholic Church

---

This post is from the Holy Comforter Catholic Church eNewsletter which is sent out once a week via email. If you would like to subscribe to the eNewsletter, click here.