Day 53 of Basic Training in Holiness – The Precepts

Day 53 of Basic Training in Holiness – The Precepts

DAY 53 – OUR LADY OF GOOD HELP, PRAY FOR US

THE PRECEPTS

The Precepts of the Catholic Church are a description of the absolute minimum actions required of Catholics regarding the Church. The Church uses these precepts to remind us that Christian life requires a commitment to prayer and active participation in the liturgy and sacraments. If we fall below this bare-minimum level, then, practically speaking, we can hardly consider ourselves to be in full communion with the Catholic Church.

Out of love for Christ and a desire to advance in the spiritual life, you will normally “strive” to do far more than they require.

First Precept: “You shall attend Mass on Sunday and holy days of obligation and rest from servile labor.”

Strive: Attend Mass at least one more time a week. (Most Church parishes celebrate Mass every day of the year!)

Second Precept: “You shall confess your sins at least once a year.”

Strive: Go to confession at least once a month, and immediately after falling to mortal sin. Also, find a regular confessor so he can give you better guidance.

Third Precept: “You shall humbly receive your Creator in Holy Communion at least during the Easter season.”

Strive: Receive the Sacrament of the Eucharist at every Mass if you meet the guidelines for reception (are free from mortal sin, etc.).

Fourth Precept: “You shall observe the prescribed days of fasting and abstinence.”

Strive: Make a habit of practicing penitential and charitable acts beyond those required by the precepts of the Catholic Church. Try to abstain from meat on Fridays throughout the year, for example.

Fifth Precept: “You shall provide for the material needs of the Church.”

Strive: Contribute as much as possible to the material needs of the Church. Consider working toward biblical tithing: 10% of your gross income.

MENTAL PRAYER (15+ Minutes)

Guide to Mental Prayer

PRAY A ROSARY

Miraculous 54 Day Rosary Novena