Morality

Apostasy

The total abandonment of the Christian faith by a baptized person.

Grave Sin

A serious sin that involves rejecting core beliefs of the Christian faith.

Beatific Vision

The ultimate, direct self-communication of God to the individual soul in heaven.

Perfect Happiness

Achieved through the Beatific Vision by seeing God face-to-face.

Beatitudes

Teachings of Jesus in the Sermon on the Mount describing attitudes and actions blessed by God.

Matthew 5:3–12

The biblical reference where the Beatitudes can be found.

Key Attitudes of the Beatitudes

Humility, mercy, and justice.

Corporal Works of Mercy

Actions including feeding the hungry, giving drink to the thirsty, and clothing the naked.

Discipleship

The process of following Jesus and learning from his teachings.

Faith

Belief and trust in God, essential for salvation.

Fruits of the Holy Spirit

Characteristics and behaviors evident in a person living in accord with the Holy Spirit.

Examples of the Fruits of the Holy Spirit

Love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control.

First Beatitude

Promises that those who mourn shall be comforted.

Gifts of the Holy Spirit

Special abilities such as wisdom, understanding, counsel, and fortitude given by the Holy Spirit.

Mourning in the First Beatitude

A reflection of compassion and repentance.

Kingdom of God

The reign of God over all creation, realized in the life and teachings of Jesus Christ.

Third Beatitude

States that the meek shall inherit the earth.

Meekness in the Second Beatitude

Refers to humility and gentleness.

Fourth Beatitude

Promises that those who hunger and thirst for righteousness shall be satisfied.

Hunger and Thirst for Righteousness

A deep desire for justice, goodness, and holiness.

fifth Beatitude

States that the merciful shall obtain mercy.

Virtue of Mercy

Involves compassion and forgiveness.

Fifth Beatitude

Promises that the pure in heart shall see God.

Pure Heart

Free from selfish intentions and desires.

Sixth Beatitude

States that peacemakers shall be called children of God.

Peacemakers

Those who promote harmony and reconciliation.

Seventh Beatitude

States that those persecuted for righteousness' sake have the kingdom of heaven.

Suffering for Faith

Signifies citizenship in the Kingdom of Heaven.

Spiritual Values in the Beatitudes

Emphasize spiritual values over material wealth and societal status.

Comfort and Hope of the Beatitudes

Provided to those who are suffering or marginalized.

Embodying the Beatitudes

Integrating the virtues outlined in the Beatitudes into daily life.