The Precepts of the Church

The "Bare Minimum" for Catholics

In her wisdom, the Church clearly defines what is necessary to be a Catholic in good standing. The precepts of the Church bring us freedom by showing us how to live, and giving us clear boundaries of when we're living apart from what brings us deepest happiness. Here they are:


  1. You shall attend Mass on Sundays and holy days of obligation.
  2. You shall confess your sins at least once a year.
  3. You shall humbly receive Holy Communion at least during the Easter season.
  4. You shall keep holy the holy days of obligation.
  5. You shall observe the prescribed days of fasting and abstinence.
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