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Saint Bonaventure Church

Precepts of the Church


1. You shall attend Mass on Sundays and Holy Days of Obligation.

Sunday, the day of the Resurrection, should be treated differently from the other days of the week. We do that in making the day holy by attending Mass and refraining from doing unnecessary work. Holy Days of Obligation, when we celebrate special feasts of Jesus, the Blessed Mother, and the saints, should be marked in the same way.


2. You shall confess your sins at least once a year..

This obliges in particular those who are conscious of serious sin. Regular reception of the Sacrament of Penance and Reconciliation helps to prepare us not only to receive the Eucharist but also to continue the process of conversion begun in Baptism.


3. You shall receive the Sacrament of the Eucharish at least during the Easter season.

In the United States, this extends from the first Sunday of Lent to Trinity Sunday. Because the Holy Eucharist is both the source and summit of life for all in theChurch, the Church teaches that every member for his or her own good must receive Communion minimally at least once a year.


4. You shall observe the prescribed days of fasting and abstinence.

Fasting is refraining from food or drink to some degree. Abstinence is refraining from eating meat. The Church identifies specific days and times of fasting and abstinence to prepare the faithful for certain special feasts. Such actions of sacrifice can also help us to grow in self-discipline and in holiness.


5. You shall help to provide for the needs of the Church.

This means contributing to the support of the activities of the Church with time, talent, and financial resources, each according to their ability.