The Church gives us a positive way to set ourselves apart as Catholic Christians. These are called the precepts of the Church. These are the minimum things that we do to call ourselves “Catholic Christians”. These six precepts are not difficult. You shall 1.) attend Mass on Sundays and on holy days of obligation and rest from strenuous labor. 2.) confess your sins at least once a year. 3.) receive the sacrament of the Eucharist at least once each year. 4.) observe the days of fasting and abstinence established by the Church. 5.) help to provide for the financial needs of the Church. 6.) observe the marriage laws of the Church. In these hot, slow days of summer, let us examine a few of these more closely. By going to Mass each week throughout the year we are celebrating the rhythm of the church year – the teachings and actions of Jesus, the important events in the lives of Jesus, Mary and the early disciples. In the process, we grow in our knowledge of the faith, in our knowledge about God and his Son Jesus. When we confess our sins once or twice each year, we make a good examination of conscience, and we become aware of the patterns that might be pushing us away from God. By having your marriage blessed in the Church you begin living in a state of grace which flows ever more deeply into your home life – with your children and with your spouse. And you will be able, most importantly, to receive Christ in the Eucharist. Let’s begin again with the intention of following these six precepts, that we may be good Catholic Christians. They are not difficult. But they will make a big difference in your walk with Christ. – – – Fr. Jim