Question: {87} Why did Christ descend into Limbo?

Answer: Christ descended into Limbo to preach to the souls who were in prison--that is, to announce to them the joyful tidings of their redemption.

LESSON EIGHTH.: ON OUR LORD'S PASSION, DEATH, RESURRECTION, AND ASCENSION.


Question: {88} Where was Christ's body while His soul was in Limbo?

Answer: While Christ's soul was in Limbo His body was in the holy sepulchre.

LESSON EIGHTH.: ON OUR LORD'S PASSION, DEATH, RESURRECTION, AND ASCENSION.


Question: {89} On what day did Christ rise from the dead?

Answer: Christ rose from the dead, glorious and immortal, on Easter Sunday, the third day after His death.

LESSON EIGHTH.: ON OUR LORD'S PASSION, DEATH, RESURRECTION, AND ASCENSION.


Question: Why is the Resurrection the greatest of Christ's miracles?

Answer: The Resurrection is the greatest of Christ's miracles because all He taught and did is confirmed by it and depends upon it. He promised to rise from the dead and without the fulfillment of that promise we could not believe in Him.

LESSON EIGHTH.: ON OUR LORD'S PASSION, DEATH, RESURRECTION, AND ASCENSION.


Question: Has any one ever tried to disprove the miracle of the resurrection?

Answer: Unbelievers in Christ have tried to disprove the miracle of the resurrection as they have tried to disprove all His other miracles; but the explanations they give to prove Christ's miracles false are far more unlikely and harder to believe than the miracles themselves.

LESSON EIGHTH.: ON OUR LORD'S PASSION, DEATH, RESURRECTION, AND ASCENSION.


Question: What do we mean when we say Christ rose "glorious" from the dead?

Answer: When we say Christ rose "glorious" from the dead we mean that His body was in a glorified state; that is, gifted with the qualities of a glorified body.

LESSON EIGHTH.: ON OUR LORD'S PASSION, DEATH, RESURRECTION, AND ASCENSION.


Question: What are the qualities of a glorified body?

Answer: The qualities of a glorified body are: (1) Brilliancy, by which it gives forth light; (2) Agility, by which it moves from place to place as rapidly as an angel; (3) Subtility, by which material things cannot shut it out; (4) Impassibility, by which it is made incapable of suffering.

LESSON EIGHTH.: ON OUR LORD'S PASSION, DEATH, RESURRECTION, AND ASCENSION.


Question: Was Christ three full days in the tomb?

Answer: Christ was not three full days, but only parts of three days in the tomb.

LESSON EIGHTH.: ON OUR LORD'S PASSION, DEATH, RESURRECTION, AND ASCENSION.


Question: {90} How long did Christ stay on earth after His resurrection?

Answer: Christ stayed on earth forty days after His resurrection, to show that He was truly risen from the dead, and to instruct His apostles.

LESSON EIGHTH.: ON OUR LORD'S PASSION, DEATH, RESURRECTION, AND ASCENSION.


Question: Was Christ visible to all and at all times during the forty days He remained on earth after His resurrection?

Answer: Christ was not visible to all nor at all times during the forty days He remained on earth after His resurrection. We know that He appeared to His apostles and others at least nine times, though He may have appeared oftener.

LESSON EIGHTH.: ON OUR LORD'S PASSION, DEATH, RESURRECTION, AND ASCENSION.


Question: How did Christ show that He was truly risen from the dead?

Answer: Christ showed that He was truly risen from the dead by eating and conversing with His Apostles and others to whom He appeared. He showed the wounds in His hands, feet and side, and it was after His resurrection that He gave to His Apostles the power to forgive sins.

LESSON EIGHTH.: ON OUR LORD'S PASSION, DEATH, RESURRECTION, AND ASCENSION.


Question: {91} After Christ had remained forty days on earth, whither did He go?

Answer: After forty days Christ ascended into heaven, and the day on which he ascended into heaven is called Ascension Day.

LESSON EIGHTH.: ON OUR LORD'S PASSION, DEATH, RESURRECTION, AND ASCENSION.


Question: Where did the ascension of Our Lord take place?

Answer: Christ ascended into heaven from Mount Olivet, the place made sacred by His agony on the night before His death.

LESSON EIGHTH.: ON OUR LORD'S PASSION, DEATH, RESURRECTION, AND ASCENSION.


Question: Who were present at the ascension and who ascended with Christ?

Answer: From various parts of Scripture we may conclude there were about 125 persons--though traditions tell us there was a greater number--present at the Ascension. They were the Apostles, the Disciples, the pious women and others who had followed Our Blessed Lord. The souls of the just who were waiting in Limbo for the redemption ascended with Christ.

LESSON EIGHTH.: ON OUR LORD'S PASSION, DEATH, RESURRECTION, AND ASCENSION.


Question: Why is the paschal candle which is lighted on Easter morning extinguished at the Mass on Ascension Day?

Answer: The paschal candle which is lighted on Easter morning signifies Christ's visible presence on earth, and it is extinguished on Ascension Day to show that He, having fulfilled all the prophecies concerning Himself and having accomplished the work of redemption, has transferred the visible care of His Church to His Apostles and returned in His body to heaven.

LESSON EIGHTH.: ON OUR LORD'S PASSION, DEATH, RESURRECTION, AND ASCENSION.


Question: {92} Where is Christ in heaven?

Answer: In heaven Christ sits at the right hand of God the Father Almighty.

LESSON EIGHTH.: ON OUR LORD'S PASSION, DEATH, RESURRECTION, AND ASCENSION.


Question: {93} What do you mean by saying that Christ sits at the right hand of God?

Answer: When I say that Christ sits at the right hand of God I mean that Christ as God is equal to His Father in all things, and that as man He is in the highest place in heaven next to God.

LESSON EIGHTH.: ON OUR LORD'S PASSION, DEATH, RESURRECTION, AND ASCENSION.


Question: {94} Who is the Holy Ghost?

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

LESSON NINTH.: ON THE HOLY GHOST AND HIS DESCENT UPON THE APOSTLES.


Question: Did the Holy Ghost ever appear?

Answer: The Holy Ghost appeared at times under the form of a dove, and again under the form of tongues of fire; for, being a pure spirit without a body, He can take any form.

LESSON NINTH.: ON THE HOLY GHOST AND HIS DESCENT UPON THE APOSTLES.


Question: Is the Holy Ghost called by other names?

Answer: The Holy Ghost is called also the Holy Spirit, the Paraclete, the Spirit of Truth and other names given in Holy Scripture.

LESSON NINTH.: ON THE HOLY GHOST AND HIS DESCENT UPON THE APOSTLES.


Question: {95} From whom does the Holy Ghost proceed?

Answer: The Holy Ghost proceeds from the Father and the Son.

LESSON NINTH.: ON THE HOLY GHOST AND HIS DESCENT UPON THE APOSTLES.


Question: {96} Is the Holy Ghost equal to the Father and the Son?

Answer: The Holy Ghost is equal to the Father and the Son, being the same Lord and God as they are.

LESSON NINTH.: ON THE HOLY GHOST AND HIS DESCENT UPON THE APOSTLES.


Question: {97} On what day did the Holy Ghost come down upon the Apostles?

Answer: The Holy Ghost came down upon the Apostles ten days after the Ascension of our Lord; and the day on which He came down upon the Apostles is called Whitsunday, or Pentecost.

LESSON NINTH.: ON THE HOLY GHOST AND HIS DESCENT UPON THE APOSTLES.


Question: Why is the day on which the Holy Ghost came down upon the Apostles called Whitsunday?

Answer: The day on which the Holy Ghost came down upon the Apostles is called Whitsunday or White Sunday, probably because the Christians who were baptized on the eve of Pentecost wore white garments for some time afterward, as a mark of the purity bestowed upon their souls by the Sacrament of Baptism.

LESSON NINTH.: ON THE HOLY GHOST AND HIS DESCENT UPON THE APOSTLES.


Question: Why is this feast called also Pentecost?

Answer: This feast is called also Pentecost because Pentecost means the fiftieth; and the Holy Ghost came down upon the Apostles fifty days after the resurrection of Our Lord.

LESSON NINTH.: ON THE HOLY GHOST AND HIS DESCENT UPON THE APOSTLES.


Question: {98} How did the Holy Ghost come down upon the Apostles?

Answer: The Holy Ghost came down upon the Apostles in the form of tongues of fire.

LESSON NINTH.: ON THE HOLY GHOST AND HIS DESCENT UPON THE APOSTLES.


Question: What did the form of tongues of fire denote?

Answer: The form of tongues of fire denoted the sacred character and divine authority of the preaching and teaching of the Apostles, by whose words and fervor all men were to be converted to the love of God.

LESSON NINTH.: ON THE HOLY GHOST AND HIS DESCENT UPON THE APOSTLES.


Question: {99} Who sent the Holy Ghost upon the Apostles?

Answer: Our Lord Jesus Christ sent the Holy Ghost upon the Apostles.

LESSON NINTH.: ON THE HOLY GHOST AND HIS DESCENT UPON THE APOSTLES.


Question: Did the Apostles know that the Holy Ghost would come down upon them?

Answer: The Apostles knew that the Holy Ghost would come down upon them; for Christ promised His Apostles that after His Ascension He would send the Holy Ghost, the Spirit of Truth, to teach them all truths and to abide with them forever.

LESSON NINTH.: ON THE HOLY GHOST AND HIS DESCENT UPON THE APOSTLES.


Question: Has any one ever denied the existence of the Holy Ghost?

Answer: Some persons have denied the existence of the Holy Ghost; others have denied that He is a real person equal to the Father and the Son; but all these assertions are shown to be false by the words of Holy Scripture and the infallible teaching of the Church.

LESSON NINTH.: ON THE HOLY GHOST AND HIS DESCENT UPON THE APOSTLES.


Question: What are the sins against the Holy Ghost which Our Lord said will not be forgiven either in this world or in the next?

Answer: The sins against the Holy Ghost which Our Lord said will not be forgiven either in this world or in the next, are sins committed out of pure malice, and greatly opposed to the mercy of God, and are, therefore, seldom forgiven.

LESSON NINTH.: ON THE HOLY GHOST AND HIS DESCENT UPON THE APOSTLES.


Question: {100} Why did Christ send the Holy Ghost?

Answer: Christ sent the Holy Ghost to sanctify His Church, to enlighten and strengthen the Apostles, and to enable them to preach the Gospel.

LESSON NINTH.: ON THE HOLY GHOST AND HIS DESCENT UPON THE APOSTLES.


Question: How was the Church sanctified through the coming of the Holy Ghost?

Answer: The Church was sanctified through the coming of the Holy Ghost by receiving those graces which Christ had merited for His ministers, the bishops and priests, and for the souls of all those committed to their care.

LESSON NINTH.: ON THE HOLY GHOST AND HIS DESCENT UPON THE APOSTLES.


Question: How were the Apostles enlightened through the coming of the Holy Ghost?

Answer: The Apostles were enlightened through the coming of the Holy Ghost by receiving the grace to remember and understand in its true meaning all that Christ had said and done in their presence.

LESSON NINTH.: ON THE HOLY GHOST AND HIS DESCENT UPON THE APOSTLES.


Question: How were the Apostles strengthened through the coming of the Holy Ghost?

Answer: The Apostles were strengthened through the coming of the Holy Ghost by receiving the grace to brave every danger, even death itself, in the performance of their sacred duties.

LESSON NINTH.: ON THE HOLY GHOST AND HIS DESCENT UPON THE APOSTLES.


Question: What does "Apostle," and what does "Gospel" mean?

Answer: "Apostle" means a person sent, and "Gospel" means good tidings or news. Hence the name "Gospel" is given to the inspired history of Our Lord's life and works upon earth.

LESSON NINTH.: ON THE HOLY GHOST AND HIS DESCENT UPON THE APOSTLES.


Question: Name the Apostles.

Answer: The Apostles were: Peter, Andrew, James, John, Philip, Bartholomew, Thomas, Matthew, James, Thaddeus, Simon, and Judas Iscariot, in whose place Mathias was chosen.

LESSON NINTH.: ON THE HOLY GHOST AND HIS DESCENT UPON THE APOSTLES.


Question: Was St. Paul an Apostle?

Answer: St. Paul was an Apostle, but as he was not called till after the Ascension of Our Lord he is not numbered among the twelve. He is called the Apostle of the Gentiles; that is, of all those who were not of the Jewish religion or members of the Church of the Old Law.

LESSON NINTH.: ON THE HOLY GHOST AND HIS DESCENT UPON THE APOSTLES.


Question: How did St. Paul become an Apostle?

Answer: While on his way to persecute the Christians St. Paul was miraculously converted and called to be an Apostle by Our Lord Himself, who spoke to him. St. Paul was called Saul before his conversion.

LESSON NINTH.: ON THE HOLY GHOST AND HIS DESCENT UPON THE APOSTLES.


Question: Who were the Evangelists?

Answer: St. Matthew, St. Mark, St. Luke and St. John are called Evangelists, because they wrote the four Gospels bearing their names, and Evangelia is the Latin name for Gospels. St. Mark and St. Luke were not Apostles, but St. Matthew and St. John were both Apostles and Evangelists.

LESSON NINTH.: ON THE HOLY GHOST AND HIS DESCENT UPON THE APOSTLES.


Question: Why did not the Apostles fully understand when Christ Himself taught them?

Answer: The Apostles did not fully understand when Christ Himself taught them because during His stay with them on earth they were only preparing to become Apostles; and their minds were yet filled with many worldly thoughts and desires that were to be removed at the coming of the Holy Ghost.

LESSON NINTH.: ON THE HOLY GHOST AND HIS DESCENT UPON THE APOSTLES.


Question: {101} Will the Holy Ghost abide with the Church forever?

Answer: The Holy Ghost will abide with the Church forever, and guide it in the way of holiness and truth.

LESSON NINTH.: ON THE HOLY GHOST AND HIS DESCENT UPON THE APOSTLES.


Question: What benefit do we derive from the knowledge that the Holy Ghost will abide with the Church forever?

Answer: From the knowledge that the Holy Ghost will abide with the Church forever we are made certain that the Church can never teach us falsehood, and can never be destroyed by the enemies of Our Faith.

LESSON NINTH.: ON THE HOLY GHOST AND HIS DESCENT UPON THE APOSTLES.


Question: What visible power was given to the Apostles through the coming of the Holy Ghost?

Answer: Through the coming of the Holy Ghost the Apostles received the "gift of tongues," by which they could be understood in every language, though they preached in only one.

LESSON NINTH.: ON THE HOLY GHOST AND HIS DESCENT UPON THE APOSTLES.


Question: Why did such wonderful gifts accompany Confirmation, or the coming of the Holy Ghost, in the first ages of the Church?

Answer: Such wonderful gifts accompanied Confirmation in the first ages of the Church to prove the power, truth and divine character of Christianity to those who otherwise might not believe, and to draw the attention of all to the establishment of the Christian Church.

LESSON NINTH.: ON THE HOLY GHOST AND HIS DESCENT UPON THE APOSTLES.


Question: Why are these signs not continued everywhere at the present time?

Answer: These signs are not continued everywhere at the present time, because now that the Church is fully established and its divine character and power proved in other ways, such signs are no longer necessary.

LESSON NINTH.: ON THE HOLY GHOST AND HIS DESCENT UPON THE APOSTLES.


Question: Were such powers as the "gift of tongues" a part of the Sacrament of Confirmation?

Answer: Such powers as the "gift of tongues" were not a part of the Sacrament of Confirmation, but they were added to it by the Holy Ghost when necessary for the good of the Church.

LESSON NINTH.: ON THE HOLY GHOST AND HIS DESCENT UPON THE APOSTLES.


Question: What is an effect?

Answer: An effect is that which is caused by something else, as smoke, for example, is an effect of fire.

LESSON TENTH.: ON THE EFFECTS OF THE REDEMPTION.


Question: What does redemption mean?

Answer: Redemption means the buying back of a thing that was given away or sold.

LESSON TENTH.: ON THE EFFECTS OF THE REDEMPTION.


Question: What did Adam give away by his sin, and what did Our Lord buy back for him and us?

Answer: By his sin Adam gave away all right to God's promised gifts of grace in this world and of glory in the next, and Our Lord bought back the right that Adam threw away.

LESSON TENTH.: ON THE EFFECTS OF THE REDEMPTION.


Question: {102} Which are the chief effects of the Redemption?

Answer: The chief effects of the Redemption are two: The satisfaction of God's justice by Christ's sufferings and death, and the gaining of grace for men.

LESSON TENTH.: ON THE EFFECTS OF THE REDEMPTION.


Question: Why do we say "chief effects"?

Answer: We say "chief effects" to show that these are the most important but not the only effects of the Redemption--for all the benefits of our holy religion and of its influence upon the world are the effects of the redemption.

LESSON TENTH.: ON THE EFFECTS OF THE REDEMPTION.


Question: Why did God's justice require satisfaction?

Answer: God's justice required satisfaction because it is infinite and demands reparation for every fault. Man in his state of sin could not make the necessary reparation, so Christ became man and made it for him.

LESSON TENTH.: ON THE EFFECTS OF THE REDEMPTION.


Question: {103} What do you mean by grace?

Answer: By grace I mean a supernatural gift of God bestowed on us, through the merits of Jesus Christ, for our salvation.

LESSON TENTH.: ON THE EFFECTS OF THE REDEMPTION.


Question: What does "supernatural" mean?

Answer: Supernatural means above or greater than nature. All gifts such as health, learning or the comforts of life, that affect our happiness chiefly in this world, are called natural gifts, and all gifts such as blessings that affect our happiness chiefly in the next world are called supernatural or spiritual gifts.

LESSON TENTH.: ON THE EFFECTS OF THE REDEMPTION.


Question: What do you mean by "merit"?

Answer: Merit means the quality of deserving well or ill for our actions. In the question above it means a right to reward for good deeds done.

LESSON TENTH.: ON THE EFFECTS OF THE REDEMPTION.


Question: {104} How many kinds of grace are there?

Answer: There are two kinds of grace, sanctifying grace and actual grace.

LESSON TENTH.: ON THE EFFECTS OF THE REDEMPTION.


Question: What is the difference between sanctifying grace and actual grace?

Answer: Sanctifying grace remains with us as long as we are not guilty of mortal sin; and hence, it is often called habitual grace; but actual grace comes to us only when we need its help in doing or avoiding an action, and it remains with us only while we are doing or avoiding the action.

LESSON TENTH.: ON THE EFFECTS OF THE REDEMPTION.


Question: {105} What is sanctifying grace?

Answer: Sanctifying grace is that grace which makes the soul holy and pleasing to God.

LESSON TENTH.: ON THE EFFECTS OF THE REDEMPTION.


Question: {106} What do you call those graces or gifts of God by which we believe in Him, hope in Him, and love Him?

Answer: Those graces or gifts of God by which we believe in Him, and hope in Him, and love Him, are called the Divine virtues of Faith, Hope, and Charity.

LESSON TENTH.: ON THE EFFECTS OF THE REDEMPTION.


Question: What do you mean by virtue and vice?

Answer: Virtue is the habit of doing good, and vice is the habit of doing evil. An act, good or bad, does not form a habit; and hence, a virtue or a vice is the result of repeated acts of the same kind.

LESSON TENTH.: ON THE EFFECTS OF THE REDEMPTION.


Question: Does habit excuse us from the sins committed through it?

Answer: Habit does not excuse us from the sins committed through it, but rather makes us more guilty by showing how often we must have committed the sin to acquire the habit. If, however, we are seriously trying to overcome a bad habit, and through forgetfulness yield to it, the habit may sometimes excuse us from the sin.

LESSON TENTH.: ON THE EFFECTS OF THE REDEMPTION.


Question: {107} What is Faith?

Answer: Faith is a Divine virtue by which we firmly believe the truths which God has revealed.

LESSON TENTH.: ON THE EFFECTS OF THE REDEMPTION.


Question: {108} What is Hope?

Answer: Hope is a Divine virtue by which we firmly trust that God will give us eternal life and the means to obtain it.

LESSON TENTH.: ON THE EFFECTS OF THE REDEMPTION.


Question: {109} What is Charity?

Answer: Charity is a Divine virtue by which we love God above all things for His own sake, and our neighbor as ourselves for the love of God.

LESSON TENTH.: ON THE EFFECTS OF THE REDEMPTION.


Question: Why are Faith, Hope and Charity called virtues?

Answer: Faith, Hope and Charity are called virtues because they are not mere acts, but habits by which we always and in all things believe God, hope in Him, and love Him.

LESSON TENTH.: ON THE EFFECTS OF THE REDEMPTION.


Question: What kind of virtues are Faith, Hope and Charity?

Answer: Faith, Hope and Charity are called infused theological virtues to distinguish them from the four moral virtues--Prudence, Justice, Fortitude and Temperance.

LESSON TENTH.: ON THE EFFECTS OF THE REDEMPTION.


Question: Why do we say the three theological virtues are infused and the four moral virtues acquired?

Answer: We say the three theological virtues are infused; that is, poured into our souls, because they are strictly gifts of God and do not depend upon our efforts to obtain them, while the four moral virtues--Prudence, Justice, Fortitude and Temperance--though also gifts of God, may, as natural virtues, be acquired by our own efforts.

LESSON TENTH.: ON THE EFFECTS OF THE REDEMPTION.


Question: Why do we believe God, hope in Him, and love Him?

Answer: We believe God and hope in Him because He is infinitely true and cannot deceive us. We love Him because He is infinitely good and beautiful and worthy of all love.

LESSON TENTH.: ON THE EFFECTS OF THE REDEMPTION.


Question: What mortal sins are opposed to Faith?

Answer: Atheism, which is a denial of all revealed truths, and heresy, which is a denial of some revealed truths, and superstition, which is a misuse of religion, are opposed to Faith.

LESSON TENTH.: ON THE EFFECTS OF THE REDEMPTION.


Question: Who is our neighbor?

Answer: Every human being capable of salvation of every age, country, race or condition, especially if he needs our help, is our neighbor in the sense of the Catechism.

LESSON TENTH.: ON THE EFFECTS OF THE REDEMPTION.


Question: Why should we love our neighbor?

Answer: We should love our neighbor because he is a child of God, redeemed by Jesus Christ, and because he is our brother created to dwell in heaven with us.

LESSON TENTH.: ON THE EFFECTS OF THE REDEMPTION.


Question: {110} What is actual grace?

Answer: Actual grace is that help of God which enlightens our mind and moves our will to shun evil and do good.

LESSON TENTH.: ON THE EFFECTS OF THE REDEMPTION.


Question: {111} Is grace necessary to salvation?

Answer: Grace is necessary to salvation, because without grace we can do nothing to merit heaven.

LESSON TENTH.: ON THE EFFECTS OF THE REDEMPTION.


Question: {112} Can we resist the grace of God?

Answer: We can, and unfortunately often do, resist the grace of God.

LESSON TENTH.: ON THE EFFECTS OF THE REDEMPTION.


Question: Is it a sin knowingly to resist the grace of God?

Answer: It is a sin, knowingly, to resist the grace of God, because we thereby insult Him and reject His gifts without which we cannot be saved.

LESSON TENTH.: ON THE EFFECTS OF THE REDEMPTION.


Question: Does God give His grace to every one?

Answer: God gives to everyone He creates sufficient grace to save his soul; and if persons do not save their souls, it is because they have not used the grace given.

LESSON TENTH.: ON THE EFFECTS OF THE REDEMPTION.


Question: {113} What is the grace of perseverance?

Answer: The grace of perseverance is a particular gift of God which enables us to continue in the state of grace till death.

LESSON TENTH.: ON THE EFFECTS OF THE REDEMPTION.


Question: Can we merit the grace of final perseverance or know when we possess it?

Answer: We cannot merit the grace of final perseverance, or know when we possess it, because it depends entirely upon God's mercy and not upon our actions. To imagine we possess it would lead us into the sin of presumption.

LESSON TENTH.: ON THE EFFECTS OF THE REDEMPTION.


Question: Can a person merit any supernatural reward for good deeds performed while he is in mortal sin?

Answer: A person cannot merit any supernatural reward for good deeds performed while he is in mortal sin; nevertheless, God rewards such good deeds by giving the grace of repentance; and, therefore, all persons, even those in mortal sin, should ever strive to do good.

LESSON TENTH.: ON THE EFFECTS OF THE REDEMPTION.


Question: Does God reward anything but our good works?

Answer: God rewards our good intention and desire to serve Him, even when our works are not successful. We should make this good intention often during the day, and especially in the morning.

LESSON TENTH.: ON THE EFFECTS OF THE REDEMPTION.


Question: How was the true religion preserved from Adam till the coming of Christ?

Answer: The true religion was preserved from Adam till the coming of Christ by the patriarchs, prophets and other holy men whom God appointed and inspired to teach His Will and Revelations to the people, and to remind them of the promised Redeemer.


Question: Who were the prophets, and what was their chief duty?

Answer: The prophets were men to whom God gave a knowledge of future events connected with religion, that they might foretell them to His people and thus give proof that the message came from God. Their chief duty was to foretell the time, place and circumstances of Our Saviour's coming into the world, that men might know when and where to look for Him, and might recognize Him when He came.


Question: How could they be saved who lived before Christ became man?

Answer: They who lived before Christ became man could be saved by belief in the Redeemer to come and by keeping the Commandments of God.


Question: Was the true religion universal before the coming of Christ?

Answer: The true religion was not universal before the coming of Christ. It was confined to one people--the descendants of Abraham. All other nations worshipped false gods.


Question: {114} Which are the means instituted by Our Lord to enable men at all times to share in the fruits of the Redemption?

Answer: The means instituted by Our Lord to enable men at all times to share in the fruits of His Redemption are the Church and the Sacraments.


Question: {115} What is the Church?

Answer: The Church is the congregation of all those who profess the faith of Christ, partake of the same Sacraments, and are governed by their lawful pastors under one visible Head.


Question: How may the members of the Church on earth be divided?

Answer: The members of the Church on earth may be divided into those who teach and those who are taught. Those who teach, namely, the Pope, bishops and priests, are called the Teaching Church, or simply the Church. Those who are taught are called the Believing Church, or simply the faithful.


Question: What is the duty of the Teaching Church?

Answer: The duty of the Teaching Church is to continue the work Our Lord began upon earth, namely, to teach revealed truth, to administer the Sacraments and to labor for the salvation of souls.


Question: What is the duty of the faithful?

Answer: The duty of the faithful is to learn the revealed truths taught; to receive the Sacraments, and to aid in saving souls by their prayers, good works and alms.


Question: What do you mean by "profess the faith of Christ"?

Answer: By "profess the faith of Christ" we mean, believe all the truths and practice the religion He has taught.


Question: What do we mean by "lawful pastors"?

Answer: By "lawful pastors" we mean those in the Church who have been appointed by lawful authority and who have, therefore, a right to rule us. The lawful pastors in the Church are: Every priest in his own parish; every bishop in his own diocese, and the Pope in the whole Church.


Question: {116} Who is the invisible Head of the Church?

Answer: Jesus Christ is the invisible Head of the Church.


Question: {117} Who is the visible Head of the Church?

Answer: Our Holy Father the Pope, the Bishop of Rome, is the Vicar of Christ on earth and the visible Head of the Church.


Question: What does "vicar" mean?

Answer: Vicar is a name used in the Church to designate a person who acts in the name and authority of another. Thus a Vicar Apostolic is one who acts in the name of the Pope, and a Vicar General is one who acts in the name of the bishop.


Question: Could any one be Pope without being Bishop of Rome?

Answer: One could not be Pope without being Bishop of Rome, and whoever is elected Pope must give up his title to any other diocese and take the title of Bishop of Rome.


Question: {118} Why is the Pope, the Bishop of Rome, the visible Head of the Church?

Answer: The Pope, the Bishop of Rome, is the visible Head of the Church because he is the successor of St. Peter, whom Christ made the chief of the Apostles and the visible Head of the Church.


Question: Why are Catholics called "Roman"?

Answer: Catholics are called Roman to show that they are in union with the true Church founded by Christ and governed by the Apostles under the direction of St. Peter, by divine appointment the Chief of the Apostles, who founded the Church of Rome and was its first bishop.


Question: By what name is a bishop's diocese sometimes called?

Answer: A bishop's diocese is sometimes called his see. The diocese of Rome, on account of its authority and dignity, is called the Holy See, and its bishop is called the Holy Father or Pope. Pope means father.


Question: What do we call the right by which St. Peter or his successor has always been the head of the Church and of all its bishops?

Answer: We call the right by which St. Peter or his successor has always been the head of the Church, and of all its bishops, the Primacy of St. Peter or of the Pope. Primacy means holding first place.


Question: How is it shown that St. Peter or his successor has always been the head of the Church?

Answer: It is shown that St. Peter or his successor has always been the head of the Church: (1) From the words of Holy Scripture, which tell how Christ appointed Peter Chief of the Apostles and head of the Church. (2) From the history of the Church, which shows that Peter and his successors have always acted and have always been recognized as the head of the Church.


Question: How do we know that the rights and privileges bestowed on St. Peter were given also to his successors--the Popes?

Answer: We know that the rights and privileges bestowed on St. Peter were given also to his successors, the Popes, because the promises made to St. Peter by Our Lord were to be fulfilled in the Church till the end of time, and as Peter was not to live till the end of time, they are fulfilled in his successors.


Question: Did St. Peter establish any Church before he came to Rome?

Answer: Before he came to Rome, St. Peter established a Church at Antioch and ruled over it for several years.


Question: {119} Who are the successors of the other Apostles?

Answer: The successors of the other Apostles are the Bishops of the Holy Catholic Church.


Question: How do we know that the bishops of the Church are the successors of the Apostles?

Answer: We know that the bishops of the Church are the successors of the Apostles because they continue the work of the Apostles and give proof of the same authority. They have always exercised the rights and powers that belonged to the Apostles in making laws for the Church, in consecrating bishops and ordaining priests.


Question: {120} Why did Christ found the Church?

Answer: Christ founded the Church to teach, govern, sanctify, and save all men.


Question: {121} Are all bound to belong to the Church?

Answer: All are bound to belong to the Church, and he who knows the Church to be the true Church and remains out of it cannot be saved.


Question: Is it ever possible for one to be saved who does not know the Catholic Church to be the true Church?

Answer: It is possible for one to be saved who does not know the Catholic Church to be the true Church, provided that person: (1) has been validly baptized; (2) firmly believes the religion he professes and practices to be the true religion, and (3) dies without the guilt of mortal sin on his soul.


Question: Why do we say it is only possible for a person to be saved who does not know the Catholic Church to be the true Church?

Answer: We say it is only possible for a person to be saved who does not know the Catholic Church to be the true Church, because the necessary conditions are not often found, especially that of dying in a state of grace without making use of the Sacrament of Penance.


Question: How are such persons said to belong to the Church?

Answer: Such persons are said to belong to the "soul of the church"; that is, they are really members of the Church without knowing it. Those who share in its Sacraments and worship are said to belong to the body or visible part of the Church.


Question: Why must the true Church be visible?

Answer: The true Church must be visible because its founder, Jesus Christ, commanded us under pain of condemnation to hear the Church; and He could not in justice command us to hear a Church that could not be seen and known.


Question: What excuses do some give for not becoming members of the true Church?

Answer: The excuses some give for not becoming members of the true church are: (1) They do not wish to leave the religion in which they were born; (2) There are too many poor and ignorant people in the Catholic Church; (3) One religion is as good as another if we try to serve God in it, and be upright and honest in our lives.


Question: How do you answer such excuses?

Answer: (1) To say that we should remain in a false religion because we were born in it is as untrue as to say we should not heal our bodily diseases because we were born with them; (2) To say there are too many poor and ignorant in the Catholic Church is to declare that it is Christ's Church; for He always taught the poor and ignorant and instructed His Church to continue the work; (3) To say that one religion is as good as another is to assert that Christ labored uselessly and taught falsely; for He came to abolish the old religion and found the new in which alone we can be saved as He Himself declared.


Question: Why can there be only one true religion?

Answer: There can be only one true religion, because a thing cannot be false and true at the same time, and, therefore, all religions that contradict the teaching of the true Church must teach falsehood. If all religions in which men seek to serve God are equally good and true, why did Christ disturb the Jewish religion and the Apostles condemn heretics?


Question: What is an attribute?

Answer: An attribute is any characteristic or quality that a person or thing may be said to have. All perfections or imperfections are attributes.

LESSON TWELFTH.: ON THE ATTRIBUTES AND MARKS OF THE CHURCH.


Question: What is a mark?

Answer: A mark is a given and known sign by which a thing can be distinguished from all others of its kind. Thus a trademark is used to distinguish the article bearing it from all imitations of the same article.

LESSON TWELFTH.: ON THE ATTRIBUTES AND MARKS OF THE CHURCH.


Question: How do we know that the Church must have the four marks and three attributes usually ascribed or given to it?

Answer: We know that the Church must have the four marks and three attributes usually ascribed or given to it from the words of Christ given in the Holy Scripture and in the teaching of the Church from its beginning.

LESSON TWELFTH.: ON THE ATTRIBUTES AND MARKS OF THE CHURCH.


Question: Can the Church have the four marks without the three attributes?

Answer: The Church cannot have the four marks without the three attributes, because the three attributes necessarily come with the marks and without them the marks could not exist.

LESSON TWELFTH.: ON THE ATTRIBUTES AND MARKS OF THE CHURCH.


Question: Why are both marks and attributes necessary in the Church?

Answer: Both marks and attributes are necessary in the Church, for the marks teach us its external or visible qualities, while the attributes teach us its internal or invisible qualities. It is easier to discover the marks than the attributes; for it is easier to see that the Church is one than that it is infallible.

LESSON TWELFTH.: ON THE ATTRIBUTES AND MARKS OF THE CHURCH.


Question: {122} Which are the attributes of the Church?

Answer: The attributes of the Church are three: authority, infallibility, and indefectibility.

LESSON TWELFTH.: ON THE ATTRIBUTES AND MARKS OF THE CHURCH.


Question: What is authority?

Answer: Authority is the power which one person has over another so as to be able to justly exact obedience. Rulers have authority over their subjects, parents over their children, and teachers over their scholars.

LESSON TWELFTH.: ON THE ATTRIBUTES AND MARKS OF THE CHURCH.


Question: From whom must all persons derive whatever lawful authority they possess?

Answer: All persons must derive whatever lawful authority they possess from God Himself, from whom they receive it directly or indirectly. Therefore, to disobey our lawful superiors is to disobey God Himself, and hence such disobedience is always sinful.

LESSON TWELFTH.: ON THE ATTRIBUTES AND MARKS OF THE CHURCH.


Question: {123} What do you mean by the authority of the Church?

Answer: By the authority of the Church I mean the right and power which the Pope and the Bishops, as the successors of the Apostles, have to teach and to govern the faithful.

LESSON TWELFTH.: ON THE ATTRIBUTES AND MARKS OF THE CHURCH.


Question: {124} What do you mean by the infallibility of the Church?

Answer: By the infallibility of the Church I mean that the Church can not err when it teaches a doctrine of faith or morals.

LESSON TWELFTH.: ON THE ATTRIBUTES AND MARKS OF THE CHURCH.


Question: What do we mean by a "doctrine of faith or morals"?

Answer: By a doctrine of faith or morals we mean the revealed teaching that refers to whatever we must believe and do in order to be saved.

LESSON TWELFTH.: ON THE ATTRIBUTES AND MARKS OF THE CHURCH.


Question: How do you know that the Church can not err?

Answer: I know that the Church can not err because Christ promised that the Holy Ghost would remain with it forever and save it from error. If, therefore, the Church has erred, the Holy Ghost must have abandoned it and Christ has failed to keep His promise, which is a thing impossible.

LESSON TWELFTH.: ON THE ATTRIBUTES AND MARKS OF THE CHURCH.


Question: Since the Church can not err, could it ever be reformed in its teaching of faith or morals?

Answer: Since the Church can not err, it could never be reformed in its teaching of faith or morals. Those who say the Church needed reformation in faith or morals accuse Our Lord of falsehood and deception.

LESSON TWELFTH.: ON THE ATTRIBUTES AND MARKS OF THE CHURCH.


Question: {125} When does the Church teach infallibly?

Answer: The Church teaches infallibly when it speaks through the Pope and Bishops united in general council, or through the Pope alone when he proclaims to all the faithful a doctrine of faith or morals.

LESSON TWELFTH.: ON THE ATTRIBUTES AND MARKS OF THE CHURCH.


Question: What is necessary that the Pope may speak infallibly or ex-cathedra?

Answer: That the Pope may speak infallibly, or ex-cathedra, (1) He must speak on a subject of faith or morals; (2) He must speak as the Vicar of Christ and to the whole Church; (3) He must indicate by certain words, such as, we define, we proclaim, &c., that he intends to speak infallibly.

LESSON TWELFTH.: ON THE ATTRIBUTES AND MARKS OF THE CHURCH.


Question: Is the Pope infallible in everything he says and does?

Answer: The Pope is not infallible in everything he says and does, because the Holy Ghost was not promised to make him infallible in everything, but only in matters of faith and morals for the whole Church. Nevertheless, the Pope's opinion on any subject deserves our greatest respect on account of his learning, experience and dignity.

LESSON TWELFTH.: ON THE ATTRIBUTES AND MARKS OF THE CHURCH.


Question: Can the Pope commit sin?

Answer: The Pope can commit sin and he must seek forgiveness in the Sacrament of Penance as others do. Infallibility does not prevent him from sinning, but from teaching falsehood when he speaks ex-cathedra.

LESSON TWELFTH.: ON THE ATTRIBUTES AND MARKS OF THE CHURCH.


Question: What does ex-cathedra mean?

Answer: "Cathedra" means a seat, and "ex" means out of. Therefore, ex-cathedra means speaking from the seat or official place held by St. Peter and his successors as the head of the whole Church.

LESSON TWELFTH.: ON THE ATTRIBUTES AND MARKS OF THE CHURCH.


Question: Why is the chief Church in a diocese called a Cathedral?

Answer: The chief Church in a diocese is called a Cathedral because the bishop's cathedra, that is, his seat or throne, is erected in it, and because he celebrates all important feasts and performs all his special duties in it.

LESSON TWELFTH.: ON THE ATTRIBUTES AND MARKS OF THE CHURCH.


Question: How many Popes have governed the Church from St. Peter to Pius XI.?

Answer: From St. Peter to Pius XI., 261 Popes have governed the Church; and many of them have been remarkable for their zeal, prudence, learning and sanctity.

LESSON TWELFTH.: ON THE ATTRIBUTES AND MARKS OF THE CHURCH.


Question: What does anti-pope mean, and who were the anti-popes?

Answer: Anti-pope means a pretended pope. The anti-popes were men who by the aid of faithless Christians or others unlawfully seized and claimed the papal power while the lawful pope was in prison or exile.

LESSON TWELFTH.: ON THE ATTRIBUTES AND MARKS OF THE CHURCH.


Question: Why must the Pope sometimes warn us on political and other matters?

Answer: The Pope must sometimes warn us on political and other matters, because whatever nations or men do is either good or bad, just or unjust, and wherever the Pope discovers falsehood, wickedness or injustice he must speak against it and defend the truths of faith and morals. He must protect also the temporal rights and property of the Church committed to his care.

LESSON TWELFTH.: ON THE ATTRIBUTES AND MARKS OF THE CHURCH.


Question: What do we mean by the "temporal power" of the Pope?

Answer: By the temporal power of the Pope we mean the right which the Pope has as a temporal or ordinary ruler to govern the states and manage the properties that have rightfully come into the possession of the Church.

LESSON TWELFTH.: ON THE ATTRIBUTES AND MARKS OF THE CHURCH.


Question: How did the Pope acquire and how was he deprived of the temporal power?

Answer: The Pope acquired the temporal power in a just manner by the consent of those who had a right to bestow it. He was deprived of it in an unjust manner by political changes.

LESSON TWELFTH.: ON THE ATTRIBUTES AND MARKS OF THE CHURCH.


Question: How was the temporal power useful to the Church?

Answer: The temporal power was useful to the Church (1) because it gave the Pope the complete independence necessary for the government of the Church and for the defense of truth and virtue. (2) It enabled him to do much for the spread of the true religion by giving alms for the establishment and support of Churches and schools in poor or pagan countries.

LESSON TWELFTH.: ON THE ATTRIBUTES AND MARKS OF THE CHURCH.


Question: What name do we give to the offerings made yearly by the faithful for the support of the Pope and the government of the Church?

Answer: We call the offerings made yearly by the faithful for the support of the Pope and government of the Church "Peter's pence." It derives its name from the early custom of sending yearly a penny from every house to the successor of St. Peter, as a mark of respect or as an alms for some charity.

LESSON TWELFTH.: ON THE ATTRIBUTES AND MARKS OF THE CHURCH.


Question: {126} What do you mean by the indefectibility of the Church?

Answer: By the indefectibility of the Church I mean that the Church, as Christ founded it, will last till the end of time.

LESSON TWELFTH.: ON THE ATTRIBUTES AND MARKS OF THE CHURCH.


Question: What is the difference between the infallibility and indefectibility of the Church?

Answer: When we say the Church is infallible we mean that it can never teach error while it lasts; but when we say the Church is indefectible, we mean that it will last forever and be infallible forever; that it will always remain as Our Lord founded it and never change the doctrines He taught.

LESSON TWELFTH.: ON THE ATTRIBUTES AND MARKS OF THE CHURCH.


Question: Did Our Lord Himself make all the laws of the Church?

Answer: Our Lord Himself did not make all the laws of the Church. He gave the Church also power to make laws to suit the needs of the times, places or persons as it judged necessary.

LESSON TWELFTH.: ON THE ATTRIBUTES AND MARKS OF THE CHURCH.


Question: Can the Church change its laws?

Answer: The Church can, when necessary, change the laws it has itself made, but it cannot change the laws that Christ has made. Neither can the Church change any doctrine of faith or morals.

LESSON TWELFTH.: ON THE ATTRIBUTES AND MARKS OF THE CHURCH.


Question: {127} In whom are these attributes found in their fullness?

Answer: These attributes are found in their fullness in the Pope, the visible Head of the Church, whose infallible authority to teach bishops, priests, and people in matters of faith or morals will last to the end of the world.

LESSON TWELFTH.: ON THE ATTRIBUTES AND MARKS OF THE CHURCH.


Question: {128} Has the Church any marks by which it may be known?

Answer: The Church has four marks by which it may be known: it is One; it is Holy; it is Catholic; it is Apostolic.

LESSON TWELFTH.: ON THE ATTRIBUTES AND MARKS OF THE CHURCH.


Question: {129} How is the Church One?

Answer: The Church is One because all its members agree in one faith, are all in one communion, and are all under one head.

LESSON TWELFTH.: ON THE ATTRIBUTES AND MARKS OF THE CHURCH.


Question: How is it evident that the Church is one in government?

Answer: It is evident that the Church is one in government, for the faithful in a parish are subject to their pastors, the pastors are subject to the bishops of their dioceses, and the bishops of the world are subject to the Pope.

LESSON TWELFTH.: ON THE ATTRIBUTES AND MARKS OF THE CHURCH.


Question: What is meant by the Hierarchy of the Church?

Answer: By the Hierarchy of the Church is meant the sacred body of clerical rules who govern the Church.

LESSON TWELFTH.: ON THE ATTRIBUTES AND MARKS OF THE CHURCH.


Question: How is it evident that the Church is one in worship?

Answer: It is evident that the Church is one in worship because all its members make use of the same sacrifice and receive the same Sacraments.

LESSON TWELFTH.: ON THE ATTRIBUTES AND MARKS OF THE CHURCH.


Question: How is it evident that the Church is one in faith?

Answer: It is evident the Church is one in faith because all Catholics throughout the world believe each and every article of faith proposed by the Church.

LESSON TWELFTH.: ON THE ATTRIBUTES AND MARKS OF THE CHURCH.


Question: Could a person who denies only one article of our faith be a Catholic?

Answer: A person who denies even one article of our faith could not be a Catholic; for truth is one and we must accept it whole and entire or not at all.

LESSON TWELFTH.: ON THE ATTRIBUTES AND MARKS OF THE CHURCH.


Question: Are there any pious beliefs and practices in the Church that are not articles of faith?

Answer: There are many pious beliefs and practices in the Church that are not articles of faith; that is, we are not bound under pain of sin to believe in them; yet we will often find them useful aids to holiness, and hence they are recommended by our pastors.

LESSON TWELFTH.: ON THE ATTRIBUTES AND MARKS OF THE CHURCH.


Question: Of what sin are persons guilty who put firm belief in religious or other practices that are either forbidden or useless?

Answer: Persons who put a firm belief in religious or other practices that are forbidden or useless are guilty of the sin of superstition.

LESSON TWELFTH.: ON THE ATTRIBUTES AND MARKS OF THE CHURCH.


Question: Where does the Church find the revealed truths it is bound to teach?

Answer: The Church finds the revealed truths it is bound to teach in the Holy Scripture and revealed traditions.

LESSON TWELFTH.: ON THE ATTRIBUTES AND MARKS OF THE CHURCH.


Question: What is the Holy Scripture or Bible?

Answer: The Holy Scripture or Bible is the collection of sacred, inspired writings through which God has made known to us many revealed truths. Some call them letters from Heaven to earth, that is, from God to man.

LESSON TWELFTH.: ON THE ATTRIBUTES AND MARKS OF THE CHURCH.


Question: What is meant by the Canon of the Sacred Scriptures?

Answer: The Canon of Sacred Scriptures means the list the Church has prepared to teach us what sacred writings are Holy Scripture and contain the inspired word of God.

LESSON TWELFTH.: ON THE ATTRIBUTES AND MARKS OF THE CHURCH.


Question: Where does the Church find the revealed traditions?

Answer: The Church finds the revealed traditions in the decrees of its councils; in its books of worship; in its paintings and inscriptions on tombs and monuments; in the lives of its Saints; the writings of its Fathers, and in its own history.

LESSON TWELFTH.: ON THE ATTRIBUTES AND MARKS OF THE CHURCH.


Question: Must we ourselves seek in the Scriptures and traditions for what we are to believe?

Answer: We ourselves need not seek in the Scriptures and traditions for what we are to believe. God has appointed the Church to be our guide to salvation and we must accept its teaching us our infallible rule of faith.

LESSON TWELFTH.: ON THE ATTRIBUTES AND MARKS OF THE CHURCH.


Question: How do we show that the Holy Scriptures alone could not be our guide to salvation and infallible rule of faith?

Answer: We show that the Holy Scripture alone could not be our guide to salvation and infallible rule of faith: (1) Because all men cannot examine or understand the Holy Scripture; but all can listen to the teaching of the Church; (2) Because the New Testament or Christian part of the Scripture was not written at the beginning of the Church's existence, and, therefore, could not have been used as the rule of faith by the first Christians; (3) Because there are many things in the Holy Scripture that cannot be understood without the explanation given by tradition, and hence those who take the Scripture alone for their rule of faith are constantly disputing about its meaning and what they are to believe.

LESSON TWELFTH.: ON THE ATTRIBUTES AND MARKS OF THE CHURCH.


Question: {130} How is the Church Holy?

Answer: The Church is Holy because its founder, Jesus Christ, is holy; because it teaches a holy doctrine; invites all to a holy life; and because of the eminent holiness of so many thousands of its children.

LESSON TWELFTH.: ON THE ATTRIBUTES AND MARKS OF THE CHURCH.


Question: {131} How is the Church Catholic or universal?

Answer: The Church is Catholic or universal because it subsists in all ages, teaches all nations, and maintains all truth.

LESSON TWELFTH.: ON THE ATTRIBUTES AND MARKS OF THE CHURCH.


Question: How do you show that the Catholic Church is universal in time, in place, and in doctrine?

Answer: (1) The Catholic Church is universal in time, for from the time of the Apostles to the present it has existed, taught and labored in every age; (2) It is universal in place, for it has taught throughout the whole world; (3) It is universal in doctrine, for it teaches the same everywhere, and its doctrines are suited to all classes of persons. It has converted all the pagan nations that have ever been converted.

LESSON TWELFTH.: ON THE ATTRIBUTES AND MARKS OF THE CHURCH.


Question: Why does the Church use the Latin language instead of the national language of its children?

Answer: The Church uses the Latin language instead of the national language of its children: (1) To avoid the danger of changing any part of its teaching in using different languages; (2) That all its rulers may be perfectly united and understood in their communications; (3) To show that the Church is not an institute of any particular nation, but the guide of all nations.

LESSON TWELFTH.: ON THE ATTRIBUTES AND MARKS OF THE CHURCH.


Question: {132} How is the Church Apostolic?

Answer: The Church is Apostolic because it was founded by Christ on His Apostles, and is governed by their lawful successors, and because it has never ceased, and never will cease, to teach their doctrine.

LESSON TWELFTH.: ON THE ATTRIBUTES AND MARKS OF THE CHURCH.


Question: Does the Church, by defining certain truths, thereby make new doctrines?

Answer: The Church, by defining, that is, by proclaiming certain truths, articles of faith, does not make new doctrines, but simply teaches more clearly and with greater effort truths that have always been believed and held by the Church.

LESSON TWELFTH.: ON THE ATTRIBUTES AND MARKS OF THE CHURCH.


Question: What, then, is the use of defining or declaring a truth an article of faith if it has always been believed?

Answer: The use of defining or declaring a truth an article of faith, even when it has always been believed, is: (1) To clearly contradict those who deny it and show their teaching false; (2) To remove all doubt about the exact teaching of the Church, and to put an end to all discussion about the truth defined.

LESSON TWELFTH.: ON THE ATTRIBUTES AND MARKS OF THE CHURCH.


Question: {133} In which Church are these attributes and marks found?

Answer: These attributes and marks are found in the Holy Roman Catholic Church alone.

LESSON TWELFTH.: ON THE ATTRIBUTES AND MARKS OF THE CHURCH.


Question: How do you show that Protestant Churches have not the marks of the true Church?

Answer: Protestant Churches have not the marks of the true Church, because:

LESSON TWELFTH.: ON THE ATTRIBUTES AND MARKS OF THE CHURCH.


Question: {134} From whom does the Church derive its undying life and infallible authority?

Answer: The Church derives its undying life and infallible authority from the Holy Ghost, the spirit of truth, who abides with it forever.

LESSON TWELFTH.: ON THE ATTRIBUTES AND MARKS OF THE CHURCH.


Question: {135} By whom is the Church made and kept One, Holy, and Catholic?

Answer: The Church is made and kept One, Holy, and Catholic by the Holy Ghost, the spirit of love and holiness, who unites and sanctifies its members throughout the world.

LESSON TWELFTH.: ON THE ATTRIBUTES AND MARKS OF THE CHURCH.


Question: {136} What is a Sacrament?

Answer: A Sacrament is an outward sign instituted by Christ to give grace.

LESSON THIRTEENTH.: ON THE SACRAMENTS IN GENERAL.


Question: Are these three things, namely: An outward or visible sign, the institution of that sign by Christ, and the giving of grace through the use of that sign, always necessary for the existence of a Sacrament?

Answer: These three things, namely: An outward or visible sign, the institution of that sign by Christ, and the giving of grace through the use of that sign, are always necessary for the existence of a Sacrament, and if any of the three be wanting there can be no Sacrament.

LESSON THIRTEENTH.: ON THE SACRAMENTS IN GENERAL.


Question: Why does the Church use numerous ceremonies or actions in applying the outward signs of the Sacraments?

Answer: The Church uses numerous ceremonies or actions in applying the outward signs of the Sacraments to increase our reverence and devotion for the Sacraments, and to explain their meaning and effects.

LESSON THIRTEENTH.: ON THE SACRAMENTS IN GENERAL.


Question: {137} How many Sacraments are there?

Answer: There are seven Sacraments: Baptism, Confirmation, Holy Eucharist, Penance, Extreme Unction, Holy Orders, and Matrimony.

LESSON THIRTEENTH.: ON THE SACRAMENTS IN GENERAL.


Question: Were all the Sacraments instituted by Our Lord?

Answer: All the Sacraments were instituted by Our Lord, for God alone has power to attach the gift of grace to the use of an outward or visible sign. The Church, however, can institute the ceremonies to be used in administering or giving the Sacraments.

LESSON THIRTEENTH.: ON THE SACRAMENTS IN GENERAL.


Question: How do we know there are seven Sacraments and no more or less?

Answer: We know there are seven Sacraments and no more or less because the Church always taught that truth. The number of the Sacraments is a matter of faith, and the Church cannot be mistaken in matters of faith.

LESSON THIRTEENTH.: ON THE SACRAMENTS IN GENERAL.


Question: Why have the Sacraments been instituted?

Answer: The Sacraments have been instituted as a special means through which we are to receive the grace merited for us by Christ. As Christ is the giver of the grace, He has the right to determine the manner in which it shall be given, and one who refuses to make use of the Sacraments will not receive God's grace.

LESSON THIRTEENTH.: ON THE SACRAMENTS IN GENERAL.


Question: Do the Sacraments recall in any way the means by which Our Lord merited the graces we receive through them?

Answer: The Sacraments recall in many ways the means by which Our Lord merited the graces we receive through them. Baptism recalls His profound humility; Confirmation His ceaseless prayer; Holy Eucharist His care of the needy; Penance His mortified life; Extreme Unction His model death; Holy Orders His establishment of the priesthood, and Matrimony His close union with the Church.

LESSON THIRTEENTH.: ON THE SACRAMENTS IN GENERAL.


Question: Give, for example, the outward sign in Baptism and Confirmation.

Answer: The outward sign in Baptism is the pouring of the water and the saying of the words of Baptism. The outward sign in Confirmation is the anointing with oil, the saying of the words of Confirmation and the placing of the bishop's hands over the person he confirms.

LESSON THIRTEENTH.: ON THE SACRAMENTS IN GENERAL.


Question: What is the use of the outward signs in the Sacraments?

Answer: Without the outward signs in the Sacraments we could not know when or with what effect the grace of the Sacraments enters into our souls.

LESSON THIRTEENTH.: ON THE SACRAMENTS IN GENERAL.


Question: Does the outward sign merely indicate that grace has been given, or does the use of the outward sign with the proper intention also give the grace of the Sacrament?

Answer: The outward sign is not used merely to indicate that grace has been given, for the use of the outward sign with the proper intention also gives the grace of the Sacrament. Hence the right application of the outward sign is always followed by the gift of internal grace if the Sacrament be administered with the right intention and received with the right dispositions.

LESSON THIRTEENTH.: ON THE SACRAMENTS IN GENERAL.


Question: What do we mean by the "right intention" for the administration of the Sacraments?

Answer: By the right intention for the administration of the Sacraments we mean that whoever administers a Sacrament must have the intention of doing what Christ intended when He instituted the Sacrament and what the Church intends when it administers the Sacrament.

LESSON THIRTEENTH.: ON THE SACRAMENTS IN GENERAL.


Question: Is there any likeness between the thing used in the outward sign and the grace given in each Sacrament?

Answer: There is a great likeness between the thing used in the outward sign and the grace given in each Sacrament; thus water is used for cleansing; Baptism cleanses the soul; Oil gives strength and light; Confirmation strengthens and enlightens the soul; Bread and wine nourish; the Holy Eucharist nourishes the soul.

LESSON THIRTEENTH.: ON THE SACRAMENTS IN GENERAL.


Question: What do we mean by the "matter and form" of the Sacraments?

Answer: By the "matter" of the Sacraments we mean the visible things, such as water, oil, bread, wine, &c., used for the Sacraments. By the "form" we mean the words, such as "I baptize thee," "I confirm thee," &c., used in giving or administering the Sacraments.

LESSON THIRTEENTH.: ON THE SACRAMENTS IN GENERAL.


Question: Do the needs of the soul resemble the needs of the body?

Answer: The needs of the soul do resemble the needs of the body; for the body must be born, strengthened, nourished, healed in affliction, helped at the hour of death, guided by authority, and given a place in which to dwell. The soul is brought into spiritual life by Baptism; it is strengthened by Confirmation; nourished by the Holy Eucharist; healed by Penance; helped at the hour of our death by Extreme Unction; guided by God's ministers through the Sacrament of Holy Orders, and it is given a body in which to dwell by the Sacrament of Matrimony.

LESSON THIRTEENTH.: ON THE SACRAMENTS IN GENERAL.


Question: {138} Whence have the Sacraments the power of giving grace?

Answer: The Sacraments have the power of giving grace from the merits of Jesus Christ.

LESSON THIRTEENTH.: ON THE SACRAMENTS IN GENERAL.


Question: Does the effect of the Sacraments depend on the worthiness or unworthiness of the one who administers them?

Answer: The effect of the Sacraments does not depend on the worthiness or unworthiness of the one who administers them, but on the merits of Jesus Christ, who instituted them, and on the worthy dispositions of those who receive them.

LESSON THIRTEENTH.: ON THE SACRAMENTS IN GENERAL.


Question: {139} What grace do the Sacraments give?

Answer: Some of the Sacraments give sanctifying grace, and others increase it in our souls.

LESSON THIRTEENTH.: ON THE SACRAMENTS IN GENERAL.


Question: When is a Sacrament said to give, and when is it said to increase, grace in our souls?

Answer: A Sacrament is said to give grace when there is no grace whatever in the soul, or in other words, when the soul is in mortal sin. A Sacrament is said to increase grace when there is already grace in the soul, to which more is added by the Sacrament received.

LESSON THIRTEENTH.: ON THE SACRAMENTS IN GENERAL.


Question: {140} Which are the Sacraments that give sanctifying grace?

Answer: The Sacraments that give sanctifying grace are Baptism and Penance; and they are called Sacraments of the dead.

LESSON THIRTEENTH.: ON THE SACRAMENTS IN GENERAL.


Question: {141} Why are Baptism and Penance called Sacraments of the dead?

Answer: Baptism and Penance are called Sacraments of the dead because they take away sin, which is the death of the soul, and give grace, which is its life.

LESSON THIRTEENTH.: ON THE SACRAMENTS IN GENERAL.


Question: May not the Sacrament of Penance be received by one who is in a state of grace?

Answer: The Sacrament of Penance may be and very often is received by one who is in a state of grace, and when thus received it increases--as the Sacraments of the living do--the grace already in the soul.

LESSON THIRTEENTH.: ON THE SACRAMENTS IN GENERAL.


Question: {142} Which are the Sacraments that increase sanctifying grace in our soul?

Answer: The Sacraments that increase sanctifying grace in our souls are: Confirmation, Holy Eucharist, Extreme Unction, Holy Orders, and Matrimony; and they are called Sacraments of the living.

LESSON THIRTEENTH.: ON THE SACRAMENTS IN GENERAL.


Question: What do we mean by Sacraments of the dead and Sacraments of the living?

Answer: By the Sacraments of the dead we mean those Sacraments that may be lawfully received while the soul is in a state of mortal sin. By the Sacraments of the living we mean those Sacraments that can be lawfully received only while the soul is in a state of grace--i.e., free from mortal sin. Living and dead do not refer here to the persons, but to the condition of the souls; for none of the Sacraments can be given to a dead person.

LESSON THIRTEENTH.: ON THE SACRAMENTS IN GENERAL.


Question: {143} Why are Confirmation, Holy Eucharist, Extreme Unction, Holy Orders, and Matrimony called Sacraments of the living?

Answer: Confirmation, Holy Eucharist, Extreme Unction, Holy Orders, and Matrimony are called Sacraments of the living because those who receive them worthily are already living the life of grace.

LESSON THIRTEENTH.: ON THE SACRAMENTS IN GENERAL.


Question: {144} What sin does he commit who receives the Sacraments of the living in mortal sin?

Answer: He who receives the Sacraments of the living in mortal sin commits a sacrilege, which is a great sin, because it is an abuse of a sacred thing.

LESSON THIRTEENTH.: ON THE SACRAMENTS IN GENERAL.


Question: In what other ways besides the unworthy reception of the Sacraments may persons commit sacrilege?

Answer: Besides the unworthy reception of the Sacraments, persons may commit sacrilege by the abuse of a sacred person, place or thing; for example, by wilfully wounding a person consecrated to God; by robbing or destroying a Church; by using the sacred vessels of the Altar for unlawful purposes, &c.

LESSON THIRTEENTH.: ON THE SACRAMENTS IN GENERAL.


Question: {145} Besides sanctifying grace do the Sacraments give any other grace?

Answer: Besides sanctifying grace the Sacraments give another grace, called sacramental grace.

LESSON THIRTEENTH.: ON THE SACRAMENTS IN GENERAL.


Question: {146} What is sacramental grace?

Answer: Sacramental grace is a special help which God gives, to attain the end for which He instituted each Sacrament.

LESSON THIRTEENTH.: ON THE SACRAMENTS IN GENERAL.


Question: Is the Sacramental grace independent of the sanctifying grace given in the Sacraments?

Answer: The Sacramental grace is not independent of the sanctifying grace given in the Sacraments; for it is the sanctifying grace that gives us a certain right to special helps--called Sacramental grace--in each Sacrament, as often as we have to fulfill the end of the Sacrament or are tempted against it.

LESSON THIRTEENTH.: ON THE SACRAMENTS IN GENERAL.


Question: Give an example of how the Sacramental grace aids us, for instance, in Confirmation and Penance.

Answer: The end of Confirmation is to strengthen us in our faith. When we are tempted to deny our religion by word or deed, the Sacramental Grace of Confirmation is given to us and helps us to cling to our faith and firmly profess it. The end of Penance is to destroy actual sin. When we are tempted to sin, the Sacramental Grace of Penance is given to us and helps us to overcome the temptation and persevere in a state of grace. The sacramental grace in each of the other Sacraments is given in the same manner, and aids us in attaining the end for which each Sacrament was instituted and for which we receive it.

LESSON THIRTEENTH.: ON THE SACRAMENTS IN GENERAL.


Question: {147} Do the Sacraments always give grace?

Answer: The Sacraments always give grace, if we receive them with the right dispositions.

LESSON THIRTEENTH.: ON THE SACRAMENTS IN GENERAL.


Question: What do we mean by the "right dispositions" for the reception of the Sacraments?

Answer: By the right dispositions for the reception of the Sacraments we mean the proper motives and the fulfillment of all the conditions required by God and the Church for the worthy reception of the Sacraments.

LESSON THIRTEENTH.: ON THE SACRAMENTS IN GENERAL.


Question: Give an example of the "right dispositions" for Penance and for the Holy Eucharist.

Answer: The right dispositions for Penance are: (1) To confess all our mortal sins as we know them; (2) To be sorry for them, and (3) To have the determination never to commit them or others again. The right dispositions for the Holy Eucharist are: (1) To know what the Holy Eucharist is; (2) To be in a state of grace, and (3)--except in special cases of sickness--to be fasting from midnight.

LESSON THIRTEENTH.: ON THE SACRAMENTS IN GENERAL.


Question: {148} Can we receive the Sacraments more than once?

Answer: We can receive the Sacraments more than once, except Baptism, Confirmation, and Holy Orders.

LESSON THIRTEENTH.: ON THE SACRAMENTS IN GENERAL.


Question: {149} Why can we not receive Baptism, Confirmation, and Holy Orders more than once?

Answer: We cannot receive Baptism, Confirmation, and Holy Orders more than once, because they imprint a character in the soul.

LESSON THIRTEENTH.: ON THE SACRAMENTS IN GENERAL.


Question: {150} What is the character which these Sacraments imprint in the soul?

Answer: The character which these Sacraments imprint in the soul is a spiritual mark which remains forever.

LESSON THIRTEENTH.: ON THE SACRAMENTS IN GENERAL.


Question: {151} Does this character remain in the soul even after death?

Answer: This character remains in the soul even after death; for the honor and glory of those who are saved; for the shame and punishment of those who are lost.

LESSON THIRTEENTH.: ON THE SACRAMENTS IN GENERAL.


Question: Can the Sacraments be given conditionally?

Answer: The Sacraments can be given conditionally as often as we doubt whether they were properly given before, or whether they can be validly given now.

LESSON THIRTEENTH.: ON THE SACRAMENTS IN GENERAL.


Question: What do we mean by giving a Sacrament conditionally?

Answer: By giving a Sacrament conditionally we mean that the person administering the Sacrament intends to give it only in case it has not been given already or in case the person has the right dispositions for receiving it, though the dispositions cannot be discovered.

LESSON THIRTEENTH.: ON THE SACRAMENTS IN GENERAL.


Question: Give an example of how a Sacrament is given conditionally.

Answer: In giving Baptism, for instance, conditionally--or what we call conditional Baptism--the priest, instead of saying absolutely, as he does in ordinary Baptism: "I baptize thee," &c., says: "If you are not already baptized, or if you are capable of being baptized, I baptize thee," &c., thus stating the sole condition on which he intends to administer the Sacrament.

LESSON THIRTEENTH.: ON THE SACRAMENTS IN GENERAL.


Question: Which of the Sacraments are most frequently given conditionally?

Answer: The Sacraments most frequently given conditionally are Baptism, Penance and Extreme Unction; because in some cases it is difficult to ascertain whether these Sacraments have been given before or whether they have been validly given, or whether the person about to receive them has the right dispositions for them.

LESSON THIRTEENTH.: ON THE SACRAMENTS IN GENERAL.


Question: Name some of the more common circumstances in which a priest is obliged to administer the Sacraments conditionally.

Answer: Some of the more common circumstances in which a priest is obliged to administer the Sacraments conditionally are: (1) When he receives converts into the Church and is not certain of their previous baptism, he must baptize them conditionally. (2) When he is called--as in cases of accident or sudden illness--and doubts whether the person be alive or dead, or whether he should be given the Sacraments, he must give absolution and administer Extreme Unction conditionally.

LESSON THIRTEENTH.: ON THE SACRAMENTS IN GENERAL.


Question: What is the use and effect of giving the Sacraments conditionally?

Answer: The use of giving the Sacraments conditionally is that there may be no irreverence to the Sacraments in giving them to persons incapable or unworthy of receiving them; and yet that no one who is capable or worthy may be deprived of them. The effect is to supply the Sacrament where it is needed or can be given, and to withhold it where it is not needed or cannot be given.

LESSON THIRTEENTH.: ON THE SACRAMENTS IN GENERAL.


Question: What is the difference between the powers of a bishop and of a priest with regard to the administration of the Sacraments?

Answer: The difference between the powers of a bishop and of a priest with regard to the administration of the Sacraments is that a bishop can give all the Sacraments, while a priest cannot give Confirmation or Holy Orders.

LESSON THIRTEENTH.: ON THE SACRAMENTS IN GENERAL.


Question: Can a person receive all the Sacraments?

Answer: A person cannot, as a rule, receive all the Sacraments; for a woman cannot receive Holy Orders, and a man who receives priesthood is forbidden to receive the Sacrament of Matrimony.

LESSON THIRTEENTH.: ON THE SACRAMENTS IN GENERAL.


Question: When was baptism instituted?

Answer: Baptism was instituted, very probably, about the time Our Lord was baptized by St. John, and its reception was commanded when after His resurrection Our Lord said to His Apostles: "All power is given to Me in heaven and in earth. Going, therefore, teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost."


Question: {152} What is Baptism?

Answer: Baptism is a Sacrament which cleanses us from original sin, makes us Christians, children of God, and heirs of heaven.


Question: What were persons called in the first ages of the Church who were being instructed and prepared for baptism?

Answer: Persons who were being instructed and prepared for baptism, in the first ages of the Church, were called catechumens, and they are frequently mentioned in Church history.


Question: What persons are called heirs?

Answer: All persons who inherit or come lawfully into the possession of property or goods at the death of another, are called heirs.


Question: Why, then, are we the heirs of Christ?

Answer: We are the heirs of Christ because at His death we came into the possession of God's friendship, of grace, and of the right to enter heaven, provided we comply with the conditions Our Lord has laid down for the gaining of this inheritance.


Question: What conditions has Our Lord laid down for the gaining of this inheritance?

Answer: The conditions Our Lord has laid down for the gaining of this inheritance are: (1) That we receive, when possible, the Sacraments He has instituted; and (2) That we believe and practice all He has taught.


Question: Did not St. John the Baptist institute the Sacrament of Baptism?

Answer: St. John the Baptist did not institute the Sacrament of Baptism, for Christ alone could institute a Sacrament. The baptism given by St. John had the effect of a Sacramental; that is, it did not of itself give grace, but prepared the way for it.


Question: {153} Are actual sins ever remitted by Baptism?

Answer: Actual sins and all the punishment due to them are remitted by Baptism, if the person baptized be guilty of any.


Question: That actual sins may be remitted by baptism, is it necessary to be sorry for them?

Answer: That actual sins may be remitted by baptism it is necessary to be sorry for them, just as we must be when they are remitted by the Sacrament of Penance.


Question: What punishments are due to actual sins?

Answer: Two punishments are due to actual sins: one, called the eternal, is inflicted in hell; and the other, called the temporal, is inflicted in this world or in purgatory. The Sacrament of Penance remits or frees us from the eternal punishment and generally only from part of the temporal. Prayer, good works and indulgences in this world and the sufferings of purgatory in the next remit the remainder of the temporal punishment.


Question: Why is there a double punishment attached to actual sins?

Answer: There is a double punishment attached to actual sins, because in their commission there is a double guilt: (1) Of insulting God and of turning away from Him; (2) Of depriving Him of the honor we owe Him, and of turning to His enemies.


Question: {154} Is Baptism necessary to salvation?

Answer: Baptism is necessary to salvation, because without it we cannot enter into the kingdom of heaven.


Question: Where will persons go who--such as infants--have not committed actual sin and who, through no fault of theirs, die without baptism?

Answer: Persons, such as infants, who have not committed actual sin and who, through no fault of theirs, die without baptism, cannot enter heaven; but it is the common belief they will go to some place similar to Limbo, where they will be free from suffering, though deprived of the happiness of heaven.


Question: {155} Who can administer Baptism?

Answer: A priest is the ordinary minister of baptism; but in case of necessity anyone who has the use of reason may baptize.


Question: What do we mean by the "ordinary minister" of a Sacrament?

Answer: By the "ordinary minister" of a Sacrament we mean the one who usually does administer the Sacrament, and who has always the right to do so.


Question: Can a person who has not himself been baptized, and who does not even believe in the Sacrament of baptism, give it validly to another in case of necessity?

Answer: A person who has not himself been baptized, and who does not even believe in the Sacrament of baptism, can give it validly to another in case of necessity, provided: (1) He has the use of reason; (2) Knows how to give baptism, and (3) Intends to do what the Church intends in the giving of the Sacrament. Baptism is so necessary that God affords every opportunity for its reception.


Question: Why do the consequences of original sin, such as suffering, temptation, sickness, and death, remain after the sin has been forgiven in baptism?

Answer: The consequences of original sin, such as suffering, temptation, sickness and death, remain after the sin has been forgiven in baptism: (1) To remind us of the misery that always follows sin; and (2) To afford us an opportunity of increasing our merit by bearing these hardships patiently.


Question: Can a person ever receive any of the other Sacraments without first receiving baptism?

Answer: A person can never receive any of the other Sacraments without first receiving baptism, because baptism makes us members of Christ's Church, and unless we are members of His Church we cannot receive His Sacraments.


Question: {156} How is Baptism given?

Answer: Whoever baptizes should pour water on the head of the person to be baptized, and say, while pouring the water: "I baptize thee in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost."


Question: If water cannot be had, in case of necessity, may any other liquid be used for baptism?

Answer: If water cannot be had, in case of necessity or in any case, no other liquid can be used, and the baptism cannot be given.


Question: If it is impossible, in case of necessity, to reach the head, may the water be poured on any other part of the body?

Answer: If it is impossible, in case of necessity, to reach the head, the water should be poured on whatever part of the body can be reached; but then the baptism must be given conditionally; that is, before pronouncing the words of baptism, you must say: "If I can baptize thee in this way, I baptize thee in the name of the Father," &c. If the head can afterward be reached, the water must be poured on the head and the baptism repeated conditionally by saying: "If you are not already baptized, I baptize thee in the name," &c.


Question: Is the baptism valid if we say: "I baptize thee in the name of the Holy Trinity," without naming the Persons of the Trinity?

Answer: The baptism is not valid if we say: "I baptize thee in the name of the Holy Trinity," without naming the Persons of the Trinity; for we must use the exact words instituted by Christ.


Question: Is it wrong to defer the baptism of an infant?

Answer: It is wrong to defer the baptism of an infant, because we thereby expose the child to the danger of dying without the Sacrament.


Question: Can we baptize a child against the wishes of its parents?

Answer: We cannot baptize a child against the wishes of its parents; and if the parents are not Catholics, they must not only consent to the baptism, but also agree to bring the child up in the Catholic religion. But if a child is surely dying, we may baptize it without either the consent or permission of its parents.


Question: {157} How many kinds of Baptism are there?

Answer: There are three kinds of Baptism: Baptism of water, of desire, and of blood.


Question: {158} What is Baptism of water?

Answer: Baptism of water is that which is given by pouring water on the head of the person to be baptized, and saying at the same time, "I baptize thee in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost."


Question: In how many ways was the baptism of water given in the first ages of the Church?

Answer: In the first ages of the Church, baptism of water was given in three ways, namely, by immersion or dipping, by aspersion or sprinkling, and by infusion or pouring. Although any of these methods would be valid, only the method of infusion or pouring is now allowed in the Church.


Question: What are the chief ceremonies used in solemn baptism, and what do they signify?

Answer: The chief ceremonies used in solemn baptism are: (1) A profession of faith and renouncement of the devil to signify our worthiness; (2) The placing of salt in the mouth to signify the wisdom imparted by faith; (3) The holding of the priest's stole to signify our reception into the Church; (4) The anointing to signify the strength given by the Sacrament; (5) The giving of the white garment or cloth to signify our sinless state after baptism; and (6) The giving of the lighted candle to signify the light of faith and fire of love that should dwell in our souls.


Question: Should one who, in case of necessity, has been baptized with private baptism, be afterwards brought to the Church to have the ceremonies of solemn baptism completed?

Answer: One who, in case of necessity, has been baptized with private baptism should afterwards be brought to the Church to have the ceremonies of solemn baptism completed, because these ceremonies are commanded by the Church and bring down blessings upon us.


Question: Is solemn baptism given with any special kind of water?

Answer: Solemn baptism is given with consecrated water; that is, water mixed with holy oil and blessed for baptism on Holy Saturday and on the Saturday before Pentecost. It is always kept in the baptismal font in the baptistry--a place near the door of the Church set apart for baptism.


Question: {159} What is Baptism of desire?

Answer: Baptism of desire is an ardent wish to receive Baptism, and to do all that God has ordained for our salvation.


Question: {160} What is Baptism of blood?

Answer: Baptism of blood is the shedding of one's blood for the faith of Christ.


Question: What is the baptism of blood most commonly called?

Answer: The baptism of blood is most commonly called martyrdom, and those who receive it are called martyrs. It is the death one patiently suffers from the enemies of our religion, rather than give up Catholic faith or virtue. We must not seek martyrdom, though we must endure it when it comes.


Question: {161} Is Baptism of desire or of blood sufficient to produce the effects of Baptism of water?

Answer: Baptism of desire or of blood is sufficient to produce the effects of the Baptism of water, if it is impossible to receive the Baptism of water.


Question: How do we know that the baptism of desire or of blood will save us when it is impossible to receive the baptism of water?

Answer: We know that baptism of desire or of blood will save us when it is impossible to receive the baptism of water, from Holy Scripture, which teaches that love of God and perfect contrition can secure the remission of sins; and also that Our Lord promises salvation to those who lay down their life for His sake or for His teaching.


Question: {162} What do we promise in Baptism?

Answer: In Baptism we promise to renounce the devil, with all his works and pomps.


Question: What do we mean by the "pomps" of the devil?

Answer: By the pomps of the devil we mean all worldly pride, vanities and vain shows by which people are enticed into sin, and all foolish or sinful display of ourselves or of what we possess.


Question: {163} Why is the name of a saint given in Baptism?

Answer: The name of a saint is given in Baptism in order that the person baptized may imitate his virtues and have him for a protector.


Question: What is the Saint whose name we bear called?

Answer: The saint whose name we bear is called our patron saint--to whom we should have great devotion.


Question: What names should never be given in baptism?

Answer: These and similar names should never be given in baptism: (1) The names of noted unbelievers, heretics or enemies of religion and virtue; (2) the names of heathen gods, and (3) nick-names.


Question: {164} Why are godfathers and godmothers given in Baptism?

Answer: Godfathers and godmothers are given in Baptism in order that they may promise, in the name of the child, what the child itself would promise if it had the use of reason.


Question: By what other name are godfathers and godmothers called?

Answer: Godfathers and godmothers are usually called sponsors. Sponsors are not necessary at private baptism.


Question: Can a person ever be sponsor when absent from the baptism?

Answer: A person can be sponsor even when absent from the baptism, provided he has been asked and has consented to be sponsor, and provided also some one answers the questions and touches the person to be baptized in his name. The absent godfather or godmother is then said to be sponsor by proxy and becomes the real godparent of the one baptized.


Question: With whom do godparents, as well as the one baptizing, contract a relationship?

Answer: Godparents, as well as the one baptizing, contract a spiritual relationship with the person baptized (not with his parents), and this relationship is an impediment to marriage that must be made known to the priest in case of their future marriage with one another. The godfather and godmother contract no relationship with each other.


Question: What questions should persons who bring a child for baptism be able to answer?

Answer: Persons who bring a child for baptism should be able to tell: (1) The exact place where the child lives; (2) The full name of its parents, and, in particular, the maiden name, or name before her marriage, of its mother; (3) The exact day of the month on which it was born; (4) Whether or not it has received private baptism, and (5) Whether its parents be Catholics. Sponsors must know also the chief truths of our religion.


Question: {165} What is the obligation of a godfather and a godmother?

Answer: The obligation of a godfather and a godmother is to instruct the child in its religious duties, if the parents neglect to do so or die.


Question: Can persons who are not Catholics be sponsors for Catholic children?

Answer: Persons who are not Catholics cannot be sponsors for Catholic children, because they cannot perform the duties of sponsors; for if they do not know and profess the Catholic religion themselves, how can they teach it to their godchildren? Moreover, they must answer the questions asked at baptism and declare that they believe in the Holy Catholic Church and in all it teaches; which would be a falsehood on their part.


Question: What should parents chiefly consider in the selection of sponsors for their children?

Answer: In the selection of sponsors for their children parents should chiefly consider the good character and virtue of the sponsors, selecting model Catholics to whom they would be willing at the hour of death to entrust the care and training of their children.


Question: What dispositions must adults or grown persons, have that they may worthily receive baptism?

Answer: That adults may worthily receive baptism: (1) They must be willing to receive it; (2) they must have faith in Christ; (3) they must have true sorrow for their sins, and (4) they must solemnly renounce the devil and all his works; that is, all sin.


Question: What is the ceremony of churching?

Answer: The ceremony of churching is a particular blessing which a mother receives at the Altar, as soon as she is able to present herself in the Church after the birth of her child. In this ceremony the priest invokes God's blessing on the mother and child, while she on her part returns thanks to God.


Question: {166} What is Confirmation?

Answer: Confirmation is a Sacrament through which we receive the Holy Ghost to make us strong and perfect Christians and soldiers of Jesus Christ.


Question: When was Confirmation instituted?

Answer: The exact time at which Confirmation was instituted is not known. But as this Sacrament was administered by the Apostles and numbered with the other Sacraments instituted by Our Lord, it is certain that He instituted this Sacrament also and instructed His Apostles in its use, at some time before His ascension into heaven.


Question: Why is Confirmation so called?

Answer: Confirmation is so called from its chief effect, which is to strengthen or render us more firm in whatever belongs to our faith and religious duties.


Question: Why are we called soldiers of Jesus Christ?

Answer: We are called soldiers of Jesus Christ to indicate how we must resist the attacks of our spiritual enemies and secure our victory over them by following and obeying Our Lord.


Question: May one add a new name to his own at Confirmation?

Answer: One may and should add a new name to his own at Confirmation, especially when the name of a saint has not been given in Baptism.


Question: {167} Who administers Confirmation?

Answer: The bishop is the ordinary minister of Confirmation.


Question: Why do we say the bishop is the "ordinary minister" of Confirmation?

Answer: We say the bishop is the ordinary minister of Confirmation because in some foreign missions, where bishops have not yet been appointed, the Holy Father permits one of the priests to administer Confirmation with the Holy Oil blessed by the bishop.


Question: {168} How does the bishop give Confirmation?

Answer: The bishop extends his hands over those who are to be confirmed, prays that they may receive the Holy Ghost, and anoints the forehead of each with holy chrism in the form of a cross.


Question: In Confirmation, what does the extending of the bishop's hands over us signify?

Answer: In Confirmation, the extending of the bishop's hands over us signifies the descent of the Holy Ghost upon us and the special protection of God through the grace of Confirmation.


Question: {169} What is holy chrism?

Answer: Holy chrism is a mixture of olive-oil and balm, consecrated by the bishop.


Question: What do the oil and balm in Holy Chrism signify?

Answer: In Holy Chrism, the oil signifies strength, and the balm signifies the freedom from corruption and the sweetness which virtue must give to our lives.


Question: How many holy oils are used in the Church?

Answer: Three holy oils are used in the Church, namely, the oil of the sick, the oil of catechumens, and holy chrism.


Question: What constitutes the difference between these oils?

Answer: The form of prayer or blessing alone constitutes the difference between these oils; for they are all olive oil, but in the Holy Chrism, balm is mixed with the oil.


Question: When and by whom are the holy oils blessed?

Answer: The holy oils are blessed at the Mass on Holy Thursday by the bishop, who alone has the right to bless them. After the blessing they are distributed to the priests of the diocese, who must then burn what remains of the old oils and use the newly blessed oils for the coming year.


Question: For what are the holy oils used?

Answer: The holy oils are used as follows: The oil of the sick is used for Extreme Unction and for some blessings; the oil of catechumens is used for Baptism and Holy Orders. Holy Chrism is used at Baptism and for the blessing of some sacred things, such as altars, chalices, church-bells, &c., which are usually blessed by a bishop.


Question: {170} What does the bishop say in anointing the person he confirms?

Answer: In anointing the person he confirms the bishop says: "I sign thee with the sign of the cross, and I confirm thee with the chrism of salvation, in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost."


Question: {171} What is meant by anointing the forehead with chrism in the form of a cross?

Answer: By anointing the forehead with chrism in the form of a cross is meant that the Christian who is confirmed must openly profess and practice his faith, never be ashamed of it; and rather die than deny it.


Question: When must we openly profess and practice our religion?

Answer: We must openly profess and practice our religion as often as we cannot do otherwise without violating some law of God or of His Church.


Question: Why have we good reason never to be ashamed of the Catholic faith?

Answer: We have good reason never to be ashamed of the Catholic Faith because it is the Old Faith established by Christ and taught by His Apostles; it is the Faith for which countless Holy Martyrs suffered and died; it is the Faith that has brought true civilization, with all its benefits, into the world, and it is the only Faith that can truly reform and preserve public and private morals.


Question: {172} Why does the bishop give the person he confirms a slight blow on the cheek?

Answer: The bishop gives the person he confirms a slight blow on the cheek, to put him in mind that he must be ready to suffer everything, even death, for the sake of Christ.


Question: Is it right to test ourselves through our imagination of what we would be willing to suffer for the sake of Christ?

Answer: It is not right to test ourselves through our imagination of what we would be willing to suffer for the sake of Christ, for such tests may lead us into sin. When a real test comes we are assured God will give to us, as He did to the Holy Martyrs, sufficient grace to endure it.


Question: {173} To receive Confirmation worthily is it necessary to be in the state of grace?

Answer: To receive Confirmation worthily it is necessary to be in the state of grace.


Question: {174} What special preparation should be made to receive Confirmation?

Answer: Persons of an age to learn should know the chief mysteries of faith and the duties of a Christian, and be instructed in the nature and effects of this Sacrament.


Question: Why should we know the chief mysteries of faith and the duties of a Christian before receiving Confirmation?

Answer: We should know the Chief Mysteries of Faith and the duties of a Christian before receiving Confirmation because as one cannot be a good soldier without knowing the rules of the army to which he belongs and understanding the commands of his leader, so one cannot be a good Christian without knowing the laws of the Church and understanding the commands of Christ.


Question: {175} Is it a sin to neglect Confirmation?

Answer: It is a sin to neglect Confirmation, especially in these evil days when faith and morals are exposed to so many and such violent temptations.


Question: What do we mean by "these evil days"?

Answer: By "these evil days" we mean the present age or century in which we are living, surrounded on all sides by unbelief, false doctrines, bad books, bad example and temptation in every form.


Question: Is Confirmation necessary for salvation?

Answer: Confirmation is not so necessary for salvation that we could not be saved without it, for it is not given to infants even in danger of death; nevertheless, there is a divine command obliging all to receive it, if possible. Persons who have not been confirmed in youth should make every effort to be confirmed later in life.


Question: Are sponsors necessary in Confirmation?

Answer: Sponsors are necessary in Confirmation, and they must be of the same good character as those required at Baptism, for they take upon themselves the same duties and responsibilities. They also contract a spiritual relationship, which, however, unlike that in Baptism, is not an impediment to marriage.


Question: {176} Which are the effects of Confirmation?

Answer: The effects of Confirmation are an increase of sanctifying grace, the strengthening of our faith, and the gifts of the Holy Ghost.

LESSON SIXTEENTH.: ON THE GIFTS AND FRUITS OF THE HOLY GHOST.


Question: {177} Which are the gifts of the Holy Ghost?

Answer: The gifts of the Holy Ghost are Wisdom, Understanding, Counsel, Fortitude, Knowledge, Piety, and Fear of the Lord.

LESSON SIXTEENTH.: ON THE GIFTS AND FRUITS OF THE HOLY GHOST.


Question: {178} Why do we receive the gift of Fear of the Lord?

Answer: We receive the gift of Fear of the Lord to fill us with a dread of sin.

LESSON SIXTEENTH.: ON THE GIFTS AND FRUITS OF THE HOLY GHOST.


Question: {179} Why do we receive the gift of Piety?

Answer: We receive the gift of Piety to make us love God as a Father, and obey Him because we love Him.

LESSON SIXTEENTH.: ON THE GIFTS AND FRUITS OF THE HOLY GHOST.


Question: {180} Why do we receive the gift of Knowledge?

Answer: We receive the gift of Knowledge to enable us to discover the will of God in all things.

LESSON SIXTEENTH.: ON THE GIFTS AND FRUITS OF THE HOLY GHOST.


Question: {181} Why do we receive the gift of Fortitude?

Answer: We receive the gift of Fortitude to strengthen us to do the will of God in all things.

LESSON SIXTEENTH.: ON THE GIFTS AND FRUITS OF THE HOLY GHOST.


Question: {182} Why do we receive the gift of Counsel?

Answer: We receive the gift of Counsel to warn us of the deceits of the devil, and of the dangers to salvation.

LESSON SIXTEENTH.: ON THE GIFTS AND FRUITS OF THE HOLY GHOST.


Question: How is it clear that the devil could easily deceive us if the Holy Ghost did not aid us?

Answer: It is clear that the devil could easily deceive us if the Holy Ghost did not aid us, for just as our sins do not deprive us of our knowledge, so the devil's sin did not deprive him of the great intelligence and power which he possessed as an angel. Moreover, his experience in the world extends over all ages and places, while ours is confined to a few years and to a limited number of places.

LESSON SIXTEENTH.: ON THE GIFTS AND FRUITS OF THE HOLY GHOST.


Question: {183} Why do we receive the gift of Understanding?

Answer: We receive the gift of Understanding to enable us to know more clearly the mysteries of faith.

LESSON SIXTEENTH.: ON THE GIFTS AND FRUITS OF THE HOLY GHOST.


Question: {184} Why do we receive the gift of Wisdom?

Answer: We receive the gift of Wisdom to give us a relish for the things of God, and to direct our whole life and all our actions to His honor and glory.

LESSON SIXTEENTH.: ON THE GIFTS AND FRUITS OF THE HOLY GHOST.


Question: {185} Which are the Beatitudes?

Answer: The Beatitudes are:

LESSON SIXTEENTH.: ON THE GIFTS AND FRUITS OF THE HOLY GHOST.


Question: What are the Beatitudes and why are they so called?

Answer: The Beatitudes are a portion of Our Lord's Sermon on the Mount, and they are so called because each of them holds out a promised reward to those who practice the virtues they recommend.

LESSON SIXTEENTH.: ON THE GIFTS AND FRUITS OF THE HOLY GHOST.


Question: Where did Our Lord usually preach?

Answer: Our Lord usually preached wherever an opportunity of doing good by His Words presented itself. He preached at times in the synagogues or meeting-houses but more frequently in the open air--by the seashore or on the mountain, and often by the wayside.

LESSON SIXTEENTH.: ON THE GIFTS AND FRUITS OF THE HOLY GHOST.