Morality Unit 3 Study Guide

A comprehensive set of flashcards covering key vocabulary terms and concepts from the morality unit.

Great Commandments

Love God above all things and love your neighbor as yourself; these summarize all moral law.

Sermon on the Mount

Jesus’ teaching (Matthew 5–7) where He explains the Beatitudes and deeper meaning of God’s law.

Contrition

Sincere sorrow for sin with the intention to not sin again.

Absolution

Forgiveness of sins given by a priest in Confession.

Peace

True inner harmony that comes from being in right relationship with God.

Peacemakers

People who actively bring reconciliation and unity.

Fraternal Correction

Correcting someone’s wrongdoing out of love to help them grow.

Magisterium

The teaching authority of the Church (Pope + bishops).

Sacred Scripture

The Bible; God’s written Word.

Sacred Tradition

Teachings passed down from the apostles not written in Scripture.

Infallibility

Protection from error when the Church officially teaches on faith and morals.

Ex Cathedra

When the Pope formally teaches with full authority (‘from the chair’ of Peter).

Ecumenical Council

Meeting of bishops worldwide to define doctrine (e.g., Vatican II).

Extraordinary Universal Magisterium

Rare, formal teachings (like councils or ex cathedra).

Ordinary Magisterium

Regular teaching of the Pope and bishops in everyday guidance.

Canon Law

Official laws of the Church that guide its structure and members.

Precepts of the Church

Basic requirements (like attending Mass, going to Confession, etc.).

Beatitudes

The eight blessings taught by Jesus in the Sermon on the Mount.

Meekness

Strength under control and humility, not weakness.

Mercy

Feeling compassion and taking action to help or forgive.

Fraternal Correction vs Judging

Correction is helping someone grow out of love, while judging is condemning.