What every Catholic should know.

The precepts are set in the context of the moral life, which is connected to and nourished by the word and sacraments.

1. Sunday Obligation

 “Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy.” 
Ex. 20: 8

 “You shall attend Mass on Sundays and on holy days of obligation and rest from servile labor.”  We are obliged to sanctify the day commemorating the Resurrection of the Lord and other feasts honoring the mysteries of the Lord, the Blessed Virgin Mary, and the saints. 

2. Confession

 You shall confess your sins at least once a year.

 “If we have no sin we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us.”    
1 John 1: 8

The sacrament of reconciliation, which continues Baptism’s work of conversion and forgiveness, ensures that we are spiritually prepared to receive the Eucharist.  Regular confession (once a month or more) is highly recommended for a truly fruitful spiritual life.

 3. Communion

“You shall receive the sacrament of the Holy Eucharist at least during the Easter season.”

Unless you eat the flesh of the Son of Man, and drink his blood, you have no life in you.” 
John 6: 53

The Eucharist is the source and summit of the Christian life.   The reception of the Lord’s Body & Blood in connection with the Paschal mystery of his death and resurrection is the origin and center of all Christian worship.  Therefore, it is vital to receive the Eucharist at least during Easter.