The Precepts of the Catholic Church

If you find yourself with 5 or 10 minutes to fill at the end of class, take that time to teach your students about the Precepts of the Catholic Church.  The Catechism says, “The precepts of the Church are set in the context of a moral life bound to and nourished by liturgical life.” CCC 2041

They remind us that we should have within us a commitment to prayer, and participation in the liturgy and the Sacraments. And they represent the required behavior for all faithful Catholics. If time permits, discuss with the students how one might go beyond these required minimums.  For instance,

1. Go to confession on a regular schedule, say every three months.
2. Attend Mass on First Fridays or First Saturdays, or on special feast days (in addition to Holy Days of Obligation).
3. Schedule time to pray each day.
4. Make a daily examination of conscience (Daily Examen).
5. Spend some time alone with our Lord by attending Eucharistic Adoration.
6. Learn a new prayer and commit it to memory.
7. Volunteer your time at your local parish.

Click on the link below to download an infographic.  Feel free to use it as a handout for your students.

Precepts of the Church