Religion Exam Review

Flashcards for review based on lecture notes.

Divine Mercy

God's loving forgiveness and compassion offered to all people, especially sinners. It emphasizes trust in God, repentance, and showing mercy to others.

What We Receive at Baptism and Confirmation

At Baptism: We receive sanctifying grace, forgiveness of original sin, and become members of the Church. At Confirmation: We receive the fullness of the Holy Spirit, strengthening our faith and commitment to live as witnesses of Christ.

Norms

Rules or standards guiding human behavior based on values.

Law

A system of rules established by authority to maintain order and promote the common good.

Eternal Law

God's divine plan for creation.

Natural Law

Moral principles known through reason and nature.

Divine Law

Revealed law found in Scripture (e.g., Ten Commandments, Jesus’ teachings).

Civil Law

Laws made by governments to ensure social order and justice.

Sin

A deliberate act against God’s law and love.

Restorative Justice

A system of justice focusing on healing and reconciliation rather than punishment, emphasizing forgiveness, accountability, and repairing harm.

Healthy Christian Family

Reflects love, respect, forgiveness, prayer, and mutual support, serving as the “domestic Church.”

Most Important Commandment According to Jesus

"Love the Lord your God with all your heart… and love your neighbour as yourself" (Matthew 22:37–39).

Agape

Unconditional, self-sacrificial love, modeled by Christ.

Four Tasks of the Family (Familiaris Consortio)

1. Forming a community of persons 2. Serving life (openness to children) 3. Participating in society 4. Sharing in the mission of the Church

Role of Parents in Education

The first and primary educators, especially in faith and moral formation.

Pope Benedict on the Domestic Church

The family is the "domestic church," where children first experience faith, prayer, and Christian love.

Biggest Challenges to the Christian Family

Cultural influences that oppose Christian values, such as materialism, individualism, and distorted views of sexuality.

Why Marriage Still Matters

Reflects God’s covenant love and provides stability, commitment, and a nurturing environment for children and society.

Cohabitation

Living together before marriage. The Church teaches it undermines the commitment of marriage and can weaken the relationship’s foundation.

Purpose of Sexual Intimacy in Marriage

To express love, unity, and openness to life. It reflects the total self-giving between spouses.

Importance of Fidelity in Marriage

Faithfulness builds trust, mirrors God's love, and protects the sacramental bond.

Chastity

The virtue that integrates sexuality within the person according to God’s plan, respecting one's dignity and the dignity of others.

When Sexuality Can Be Distorted

When used selfishly, outside of marriage, or without love and responsibility—such as in pornography or promiscuity.

Why Prayer is Important

Deepens our relationship with God, guides our actions, and strengthens our faith.

Radical Disciple

A follower of Christ who lives the Gospel fully and courageously, even when it challenges culture or comfort.

Purpose of Sacraments

visible signs of God’s grace that strengthen our faith and bring us into deeper communion with Christ.

Role of Consent in Marriage

Free and informed consent is essential. Without it, a marriage is invalid.

When is Marriage a Sacramental Covenant?

When two baptized Christians freely exchange vows intending permanence, fidelity, and openness to life.

What is an Annulment?

A declaration that a valid sacramental marriage never took place due to missing essential elements.

What is Vocation?

A calling from God to love and serve. Vocation of humanity: To know, love, and serve God and others.

What is the Magisterium?

The teaching authority of the Church, exercised by the Pope and bishops in union with him.

Role of Lay Person in the Church

To witness to Christ in daily life, serve others, and contribute to the mission of the Church.

Who Marries a Couple in the Church?

The couple themselves, with the priest or deacon as a witness.

Definition of Church

community of all baptized believers united in Christ, under the leadership of the Pope and bishops.

Mission of the Mystical Body of Christ

To continue Christ’s mission on Earth: evangelizing, serving, and uniting all people in love.

What is the Magisterium?

The teaching authority of the Church, exercised by the Pope and bishops in union with him.

Common Good

The total of social conditions that allow people to reach their fulfillment more fully and easily.

Star of the New Evangelization

Guide for sharing the Gospel.