7/29/2019 Year of Faith Companion 13-03-03

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Year Faith2012-2013

of

What are Virtues?

ou have probably heard the word virtue before; such as, Patience is a virtue orrtues and Vices. But, can you explain what it means? Do you know what a virtue is?

r, why patience is a virtue? Dont worry, many people cant. We know virtuous ismething that we should be, but cant explain what it is or how to get there. Well, to-y is the day we straighten some of this virtue stuff out! Lets start with what a virtue

a habitual and firm disposition to do the good (CCC 1803). Now, what does it

ean? A habitual and firm disposition means that we have a habitof doing something,at we do it easily, and every time. We have lots of habits, such as chewing with ourouths closed (hopefully), waving hello when we see someone we know, and sayingod Bless You when someone sneezes. These, and many others, are things that we donsistently. They are our habits. A virtue is when the habit is a good thing, like tellinge truth (honesty) or standing up for others (fortitude).

he Virtue of Patience

o, virtue is a good habit. We may want to say we are allt, and living a virtuous life. However, if we are honestth ourselves, it is probably more true to say that wee trying to do good, but dont have a habit of it yet.

e want to be patient, but can snap at people; we wantbe honest, but will tell little white lies; we want tove self-control, but sometimes eat a little more than we should. The first step inowing in virtue is self-knowledgeChristian, know thyself. Know what yourrengths are, but also what your weaknesses are so that you can begin or continue toow in those areas. The second step is prayer! Dont try and do it on your own or youll fail! Guaranteed! Ask for help from the people around you, and especially the Fa-er, who will send the Holy Spirit to guide you. Finally, step three, be patient! Buildingbits and growing in virtue is not a quick process. You must be patient with yourselfd with those around you. As you grow in the virtue of patience, you will also grow in

e other virtues as well.

3 March 2013

Living a Virtuous LifeThe Importance of Patien

A virtue is an habitual

firm disposition to dogood. It allows the pe

not only to perform g

acts, but to give the b

of himself. The virtuoperson tends towards

good with all his sensand spiritual powers;pursues the good an

chooses it in concrete

tions. The goal of a vious life is to become

God. CCC 1803

inally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is

honorable, whatever is just, whatever is

pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is gra-

cious, if there is any excellence and if there

is anything worthy of praise, think about

these things. Keep on doing what you have

earned and received and heard and seen

in me. Then the God of peace will be with

you.

Philippians 4:8-9

This week, make a list of your strengths and your we

nesses. The list should be balanced with 5 of eachmore strengths or you may be prideful and not more w

nesses or you may be too hard on yourself. You DO hstrengths, and you DO have weaknesses. What are th

Simply choose one.

Dont take on too much and try and change everythinonce. Remember, be patient! Be reasonable!

In order to accomplish this challenge you will need h

So, remember to ask God for help in prayer, and talk

someone close to you who you can confide in.

C

H

A

L

L

E

N

G

E

Human virtues acquire

education, by deliber

acts and by a persever

ever-renewed in repe

efforts are purified and

vated by divine grace.

Gods help, they forge

acter and give facility i

practice of the good.

virtuous man is happ

practice them.

CCC 1810

Created by Chris Carmody: jesusinsalem@yahoo.com and Stephanie Rangel: beverlyyouthministry@gmail.com