what belongs to another.



LESSON THIRTY-FIFTH
ON THE FIRST AND SECOND COMMANDMENTS OF THE CHURCH


389. Q. Which are the chief commandments of the Church?
A. The chief commandments of the Church are six:

1. To hear Mass on Sundays and holydays of obligation.
2. To fast and abstain on the days appointed.
3. To confess at least once a year.
4. To receive the Holy Eucharist during the Easter time.
5. To contribute to the support of our pastors.
6. Not to marry persons who are not Catholics, or who are related to us
within the third degree of kindred, nor privately without witnesses,
nor to solemnize marriage at forbidden times.

390. Q. Is it a mortal sin not to hear Mass on a Sunday or a holyday of
obligation?
A. It is a mortal sin not to hear Mass on a Sunday or a holyday of
obligation, unless we are excused for a serious reason. They also commit
a mortal sin who, having others under their charge, hinder them from
hearing Mass, without a sufficient reason.

391. Q. Why were holydays instituted by the Church?
A. Holydays were instituted by the Church to recall to our minds the
great mysteries of religion and the virtues and rewards of the saints.