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TABLE OF CONTENTS

Page

The Magisterium

of the Church 1

Inversion of Values 6

Fads and Erroneous

Consciences 7

Charisms and

Underground Church 10

Ecumenism 13

Modern Catechetics

in the Schools 16

Regular Confession 19

Vocations to the

Religious Life 21

Devotions to Mary

and the Saints 23

Calling at the Rectory 26

Registration 27

Baptisms 28

How to Baptize in Emergency 30

Churching 32

Communion Calls 32

Sick Calls 33

Hospital Cases 33

Sudden Deaths 34

Furnishings of the Sick Room 36

Page

Eucharistic Fast 37

Days of Fast and Abstinence 38

Arranging Masses 39

Funerals and Christian Burial 40

The Parish Visitation

and Census 41

Marriage Preparations 42

Support of the Church 46

Catholic Education 50

Confraternity of

Christian Doctrine 52

Church Etiquette 52

The Catholic Home 54

A Code For Catholic

Television Viewers 57

General Helps and

Suggestions 60

Rules for Right Living 63

Religious Instruction by Mail 64

Forms of Address 65

Religious Orders of Men 66

Christian Names 67

The Profession of Faith 69

Handy

Reference.... Inside Back Cover

Nihil Obstat: James McGrath, J.C.D., Censor

Imprimatur: 0John Cardinal Krol, D.D., J.C.D.,

Archbishop of Philadelphia—August 1968

Revised 1968—Copyright 1955 Reverend John B. Fee

Over two million copies sold.

Published by JEFFERIES & MANZ INC., Philadelphia, Pa. 19125

All rights reserved—including the right to reproduce this book or
portions thereof in any form.



THE SIGN OF THE WORLD’S SALVATION

i





THE MAGISTERIUM OF THE CHURCH

AND PRESENT CONFUSION

These years following the Second Vatican Council

are marked by painful dissension and confusion in

the Church. But the Church is not alone in the diffi-

cult task of tooling-up, of adapting to the conditions

of this new age.

Ferment and turmoil are worldwide, reaching in-

to many fields. We are in a crisis of culture, and an
orderly transition, so much hoped for, is made

difficult by the passions of the day. Impatience,

disregard for legitimate authority, feverish activism

in support of “causes” both noble and absurd, con-

tempt for uniformity, propagation of bizarre philos-

ophies and theologies, individualistic postures con-

sidered proper to the times, have been traditional

in times of upheaval. These passions are widespread

today.

The most universal of institutions, embracing

people of every culture and state of life, the Church

is both insistent and consistent in its work of

updating.

“Christ summons the Church to continual ref-

ormation as she sojourns here on earth . The

Church is always in need of this , so far as she

is an institution of men here on earth. Thus if

,

in various times and circumstances
,
there have

been deficiencies in moral conduct or in Church

discipline
,
or even in the way that church

teaching has been formulated—to be carefully
distinguished from the deposit of faith itself

—
these can and should be set right at the oppor-

tune moment” (Decree on Ecumenism
,
Par. 6

)

1



Under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, Vatican

Council II offers blessed guidance not only to mem-

bers of the Catholic Church but to all mankind.

Unfortunately, too many do not want the guidance

of the Church. Many misrepresentations of the

teachings and recommendations of this Council

have diverted the efforts of sincere people and have

unsettled the confidence of many of the Faithful.

Among the more familiar factors contributing to

the disorder can be included:

1. Intemperate criticism of the “institutional

church” by persons who have defected from the

Church, or have changed from the religious to the

lay life, often for reasons other than doctrinal.

Their often widely-publicized criticisms of the

Church frequently reveal the failings of these indi-

viduals themselves, while the valid criticisms which

they make, so often in severe terms, have already

been stated by calm and more competent persons;

2. The disedifying conduct of a few profes-

sional theologians who give neither respect nor

obedience to the Sacred Magisterium of the Church

(Divine Teaching Authority)
;

3. Persons, both religious and lay, who are not

qualified by training, temperament, or experience

to engage in the technical, complex and highly

sensitive work into which they have injected them-

selves, and deal only in superficialities and plati-

tudes;

4. Several pictorial, news-weekly and other secu-

lar publications which regularly present sensational

and eccentric persons and attitudes as representative

of the post-Council Catholic;

2



5. Occasional radio and television programs, es-

pecially of the guest and interview variety which

obviously search out and assemble dissident, defiant

zealots with messianic complexes who seldom fail to

invite derision of the Church;

6. Several publications which solicit and depend

on Catholic subscribers, and are known as “Catho-

lic” periodicals have made a policy of publishing,

often with editorial support, irresponsible state-

ments, and distortions of doctrine and moral disci-

pline which are clearly incompatible with respon-

sible research, the defined doctrines of the Church

and the repeated clarifications and emphases of Our

Holy Father. They attempt to capture the patronage

of the young, to feature and abet disruptive activi-

ties, to cater incitingly to the avant-garde, to

establish or support what they regard as elite groups

as power-blocs in opposition to the “institutional

church.” Their efforts are matched by several pub-

lishing houses with offices in both U.S.A. and in

Europe which have fictionalized as authentic inter-

preters of divine truths, and have sponsored at con-

siderable promotional expense, authors whose writ-

ings defy the magisterium of the Church and seduce

readers, even while gaining for these authors exten-

sive lecture engagements as “experts” on Vatican

Council II.

Such irresponsibilities have caused harm without

measure to the work of legitimate and holy renewal

in the Church. Religious and laypeople alike have

too often given their ears to the fringe personalities

and groups and have excused, if they have not em-

braced, extremely perilous trends and activities as

being part of the updating of the Church. Such

imprudence can lead to contamination of the mind

3



and a sapping of supernatural faith. Our Lord spoke

for our times too when He warned against the false

prophets who might deceive even the elect.

It is not uncommon to read bewildering state-

ments attributed to some “theologian.” But a

student of theology is not a theologian
;

few

teachers of theology are theologians; simple mem-

bership in a theological society does not make

one a theologian. A true Catholic theologian is
an eminent specialist, a person of supernatural

faith, of prayer, of distinctive intellectual ability,

of mature scholarship, of sound and prudent judg-

ment, a person who carries out his tasks under

the guidance of the teaching authority which Christ

committed to his Church and to His Vicar on earth,

a person who does not depart from the teachings

of Vatican Council II or any previous Council. In-

deed, because of the many demands for qualities

of mind and heart a very limited number of persons

merit the title “theologian.” The same may be said

for true experts in Sacred Scripture and the Sacred

Liturgy. In their search for new insights, for deeper

and better expression and application of the eternal

truths of Christ, even eminent theologians must

never present their speculations and hypotheses as

certain truths, nor should they use them as trial

balloons outside professional circles. No individual

theologian, no group of theologians speaks for the

Catholic Church. Sometimes the legitimate theories

of competent and loyal theologians are reproduced

for the general public, often out of context, and

shorn of the safeguards of technical language. This

does scholars a grave injustice and confuses non-

professional readers, with possible dangers to their

faith.

4



The basic structure of the Church was determined

by Christ Himself, and must remain forever invio-

late. The formation of offices, the development of

procedures, systems and methods which were judged

effective in carrying out the complex work of the

Church can, of course, be revised as circumstances

require. This is being done now as in times past

administrative and other practices were established

for those days and circumstances.

Some people, however, interpreted “updating” as

a limitless freedom to overturn. They placed all

aspects of the Church under a cloud of doubt such

as her authority, doctrines, moral teachings, with

consequent growth of the cult of change.

A new vogue was bom. Under the pretext, or
illusion that they share the “open-mindedness of

Pope John XXIII” (as they call their dissent,

errors, and their dissemination) an obstreperous,

and often articulate minority has embraced and

promoted a counterfeit freedom, a reckless and

capricious disregard of orderly procedure, modera-

tion and prudence. The Faithful are sorely aware

of the promiscuous “liturgical” innovations, car-

ried on without approval and in violation of regu-

latory directives which extend also to experimental

liturgy.

In a carnival spirit, these impetuous people press

on, adopting their own vocabulary of banalities,

publicizing their far-out theologians and liturgists,

seemingly determined to disregard any and every

appeal for caution and compliance with salutary

principles. To invoke the name of Pope John as

justification for such license fails utterly to under-

stand Pope John’s clearly stated objectives for the

Council, namely to re-affirm the whole of Catholic

5



doctrine. (Cf. Opening address at Council.) Pope

John also told his Bishops at the Council:

66

In the daily exercise of Our pastoral office.

We sometimes have to listen, much to Our re-

gret, to voices of persons who though burning

with zeal are not endowed with much sense of

discretion or measure . The Church should

never depart from the sacred patrimony of

truth received from the Fathers . . . Our duty

is not only to guard this precious treasure, but

to dedicate ourselves with an earnest will and

without fear to the work which our era de-

mands of us
”

The words of St. Paul (II Timothy, 4) are

timely: “The time will come when men will not

listen to sound teaching, but with ears itching, will
t

pile up for themselves teachers who suit their pleas-

ure. They will turn away their hearing from the

truth to fables.”

INVERSION OF VALUES

The current fashion of thought among many in

the Church, and as a cloud over so much of the

western world, is secularist, concentrating on mate-

rial well-being and worldly concerns. Many Chris-

tians are far more preoccupied with human beings

than with God. The Church is being pressed from

within and without to give priority to work in the

temporal order. Christian charity originated with

the Church, and has been carried on by the Church

for all these centuries, and will continue in spite of

strained and, so often, depleted resources. To sub-

stitute service in the inner-city for the worship of

God, to abandon one’s religious duties for a “com-

mitment” to serve in the social order where life

6



is claimed to be made more “meaningful” is to in-

vert values, and dry-up the source from which true

charity and love of fellow-men springs.

“
Christ

,
to be sure, gave His Church no proper

mission in the political, economic or social

order . The purpose which He set before her is

a religious one . But out of this religious mission

itself come a function, a light and an energy

which can serve to structure and consolidate

the human community according to the divine

law . As a matter of fact, when circumstances

of time and place produce the need, she can

and indeed should initiate activities on behalf

of all men, especially those designed for the

needy, such as the works of mercy and similar

undertakings” (Pastoral Constitution on the

Church in the Modern World, Vat . II, par . 42.)

“To give primacy in religion to humanitarian

tendencies brings on the danger of transform-

ing theology into sociology, and of forgetting

the basic hierarchy of beings and values”

(Pope Paul VI - July 10, 1968)

The Church has, therefore, many commitments.

Her human resources must be used to meet the

requirements of an extensive and diversified mis-

sion
;
she cannot deploy in a manner harmful to her

primary commitments energies, whether personnel

or materiel, to some social causes, however com-

mendable.

,

FADS AND ERRONEOUS CONSCIENCES

It is very much the vogue in some circles to

criticize the Church in all departments, and to

reject, piece by piece anything which is judged to

be “traditional,” whether doctrinal or moral teach-

7



ing, as “irrelevant” and out of date, therefore, not

binding.

This attitude would have the teachings of Christ

changed to conform to the current mood and ways

of the world, and not have the world changed by

the teachings of Christ. Pressures have been at-

tempted by daring groups to compel the Holy

Father to formulate, legalize and promulgate opin-

ions which have been adopted and espoused by

Papal and “institutional church” antagonists, and

would make the Vicar of Christ a mere echo of the

most pernicious errors.

In the Dogmatic Constitution on the Church

(Chap. 3, Par. 25) the Second Vatican Council

stated that “religious submission of will and of

mind must be shown in a special way to the authen-

tic teaching of the Roman Pontiff, even when he is

not speaking ex-cathedra
;
that is, it must be shown

in such a way that his supreme magisterium is

acknowledged with reverence, the judgments made

by him are sincerely adhered to, according to his

manifest mind and will. His mind and will in the

matter may be known either from the character of

the documents, from his frequent repetition of the

same doctrine, or from his manner of speaking.”

A few liberal leaders of rebel causes who had
created the fiction that the birth control law was a

“doubtful” law, therefore not binding, contrary to

the Pope’s continued appeals for adherence to past

directives of the magisterium, continue to place

their private opinions above Our Holy Father’s

divinely sealed position of authority, by inviting

Catholics to disregard the Pope’s Encyclical of July

1968 on birth control. This rejection of the Ordi-

nary magisterium, the assertion that anything less

8



than a solemn, ex-cathedra pronouncement lacks

binding force, is both an usurpation of authority

and a denial of the Pope’s authentic mission to con-

firm his brethren in the Faith, and his power to

bind and loose the consciences of all members of

the Church, without exception.

St. Augustine (Contra Faustum) said: “You who

believe what you like in the Gospel, and do not

believe what you do not like, believe in yourselves

instead of in the Gospel.” And St. Leo the Great

said that many “become masters of error because

they refuse to make themselves into disciples of

truth.”

No Catholic, whether religious or lay, can make

his own set of beliefs or devise his own moral sys-

tem and still represent himself as a loyal son of

the Church. He may claim identity as a Catholic,

he may have sympathetic friends, but he has tar-

nished the honored name. He is not obeying the

Gospel, his is not the life of the Catholic faith.

The readiness of a considerable number of people

in the Church to embrace passing fads, flirt with

the heresies of modern civilization, and carry their

ideas of faith and morals to the brink, the outer

limits of Catholicism, or to undertake the alteration

of doctrine itself, is widely represented as “bring-

ing the Church to the people,” or again, as genuine

ecumenical work. This is defended as flowing from

conscience, therefore beyond reproof.

To invoke the principle that one’s conscience

must be followed does not diminish the rights of

legitimate authority, nor invalidate the immutability

of divine truths. Only a certain conscience is the

lawful guide of morality. In consequence of original

9



sin man’s inclination to evil affects the conscience

no less than other parts of man’s nature. Con-

science not only can be erroneous, it very often

is, and in matters of faith and morals the guidance

of the Church is necessary to correct an erroneous

conscience.

Catholics, because they are such, have already

exercised their conscience on the larger and more

fundamental question of whether to accept the

Church as having Divine authority to teach and

preserve the purity of doctrine. Once this is done,

acceptance of the Church binds conscience to fol-

low the authoritative guidance of the Church and

the Holy Father. Refusal to do so is refusal to

practice supernatural faith. To reject the authority

of the Church in specific matters concerning faith

and morals on the basis of one’s conscience is to

accord to that conscience a divine prerogative, that

protection from error which Christ gave only to

His Church and to His Vicar on earth.

CHARISMS AND UNDERGROUND CHURCH

Besides claiming justification for their aberra-

tions under the rights of conscience, dissidents also

want to march under the banner of charisms, pre-

suming the inspiration and strength of the Holy

Spirit, to be prophets in the sense that they voice

the holy aspirations of the people of God, and

enjoy a heavenly preferment in the work of renewal

in the Church. Charisms indeed have been given to

believers during the whole life of the Church, but

never to people to defy the authority of the Church,

mutilate doctrine, and undo, with the help of God

that which the wisdom of God has already estab-

lished. Such self-delusion is madness.

10



The deadly words “schism” and “heresy” come

to mind when rejection of the magisterium of the

Church is extended to the formation of pockets of

rebellion into the “underground church,” where the

chaos, resulting from rampant free-thinking com-

bines with an unauthorized liturgy. These groups

are composed of both religious and lay men and

women, many sincere, but injudicious. Others are

proud, rebellious, venturesome or immature.

Following Pope Paul’s pronouncement on birth

control, a number of newscasters and publications

stated almost gleefully that the Church is ready to

come apart at the seams, that “vast numbers” would

leave the Church. But this rush to toll the bells of

death recognizes only the human frailty, not the

supernatural faith of our people; the clamor of

discredited voices, not the Voice of God, spoken

through His Vicar.

The Church is saddened, and the whole world

is the poorer for these defections and escapades.

More and more the Faithful are asking how these

things could ever happen; whether the people who

have become the masters of confusion and discord

were ever truly sons and daughters of the Church;

whether they truly ever did have supernatural faith.

They are asking too whether error, with its thou-

sand faces is not also to be traced to professional

subversives who have found their way into im-

portant or strategic places, and have been active

not only in spreading confusion, but as well in the

formation of the nucleus of what is being called

an “independent church” within the Church.

That such grave errors can be made and have

been made by persons all through the history of

the Church when they reject the guidance of the

11



Church shows exactly why an infallible Church and

the guidance of the Vicar of Christ is necessary.

It is time to close ranks, to end the divisions, to

recover the virtue of humility as well as that of

constant supernatural faith; it is time to join, one

and all in the revitalization of our Church, bringing

every aspect of renewal which has been identified

for us by Vatican Council II and Our Holy Father

to realization, which will not be hindered by obsta-

cles of our own making; it is time to join with “all

who hold and teach the Catholic Faith that comes

to us from the Apostles,” and to give to Our Holy

Father, and through him to Christ, our love, loyalty

and obedience.

Recommended reading:

The Sixteen Documents of Vatican II (760 pages of texts and

commentaries). Price $1.25.

Published by: The Daughters of St. Paul, 50 St. Paul's Ave.,

Boston, Mass. 02130

Council Daybook—3 Vols. (a thousand large pages of texts, de-

bates, commentaries etc.) Price $5.00 each.

Published by: National Catholic Conference of Bishops, 1312

Massachusetts Ave., N.W., Washington, D. C. 20005.

L'Osservatore Romano—weekly English Edition (accurate news,
addresses, etc. from Vatican). Subscription $15.00 per year

Air Mail.

Address: L'Osservatore Romano, Via del Tritone 61, Rome,

Italy.

12



ECUMENISM

The restoration of unity among all Christians is

one of the goals set by the Second Vatican Council.

Since the Decree on Ecumenism was promulgated

on November 21, 1964, God has generously blessed

ecumenical efforts within the Church to bring to-

gether divided Christians who are dissatisfied by

their separation, and long for unity.

There has been a profound change in Catholic-

Protestant relationships; a blessed cordiality is in-

creasing with separated Eastern Churches, Angli-

cans and other bodies. Suspicions, antagonisms, and

hostilities, often rooted in past political or cultural

strife at least as much as in theological differences,

have greatly abated. Emphasis on what the various

Churches share in common, derived from their

Christian heritage, rather than on their differences

has been a gratifying beginning in what will be a

continuous effort towards Christian unity.

Aided by modern technology, outstanding schol-

ars of different denominations, experts in the fields

of Sacred Scripture, Theology and Liturgies have

been holding very productive high-level discussions

in many parts of the world. Research and dialogue

have already achieved ecumenical results which had

not been expected in our own lifetime.

Whatever is genuinely Christian has something

Catholic about it. All Christian truth is Catholic in

its origin and Catholic in its tendency.

66

Men who believe in Christ and have been

truly baptized are in communion with the

Catholic Church even though this communion

is imperfect
”

(Decree on Ecumenism, Par. 3.)

13



The Decree on Ecumenism now forms part of

the authentic teaching of the Church, crowning the

quiet, unspectacular, but significant preliminary

work carried on for thirty years prior to the

Council. The force of this document does not allow

for rej ection of ecumenism, as defined by the Coun-

cil. There is a new responsibility, therefore, on

every member of the Church.

Christians have a common responsibility before

God. Working against each other, keeping old

wounds open or inflicting new ones weakens Chris-

tianity and its message of God’s love, and the

application of the graces of the Redemption. The

total interests of Christianity, the work of salvation

demand habitual ecumenical efforts by all Chris-

tians.

Ecumenical programs undertaken “prudently and

patiently with the attentive guidance of their Bish-

ops” (Decree, Par. 4) will become a regular fea-

ture in the life of Catholics. Already there are Papal,

International, National, and Diocesan Commissions

for ecumenism, and, as time goes by, well-defined

programs will be established in all Parishes.

By living holier lives, by including the intention

of unity among Christians in their prayers, by prac-

ticing and promoting justice and charity towards

persons of different religious bodies, by respecting

the rights of others to their religious convictions,

and by participating in ecumenical programs de-

fined and approved by their Bishop, parishioners

can and should make their conscientious contribu-

tion to the cause of ecumenism, so close to the Heart

of Our Lord whose own wish continues to be that

all His followers be “one.”

14



There will be many and great difficulties along

this long road; there are serious differences. What

is known as FALSE IRENICISM is a pretense that

there are not profound difficulties, that differences

are superficial, or that if such difficulties show them-

selves they will disappear if ignored. Ecumenism

is not child’s play. Zealots who would ignore the

rules of the Decree on Ecumenism, or violate the

guidelines laid down for EVERYONE in the Dio-

cese by the Bishop, or devise an unauthorized

Service, or engage in dialogue on subjects clearly

beyond their competence, or twist Catholic doctrine

as an accommodation, or misrepresent the doctrinal

position of other Christian bodies, or try to bluff

through complex situations would do immense,

perhaps irreparable harm to the cause of ecumenism.

The Vatican Secretariat for Christian Unity also

recommends what is called Secular Ecumenism (as

distinguished from the above-described Spiritual

Ecumenism), namely, joint efforts with our fellow

Christians of other denominations in the vast do-

main of the temporal order such as relieving the

afflictions of our time both at home and elsewhere,

e.g., poverty, famine, ignorance, illiteracy, etc. Lay-

men, with their numerous skills and specialties are

particularly prepared to render effective service in

areas such as these; their work would truly be

putting the Gospel into practice. This secular ecu-

menism, however, is not to be distinct or separated

from spiritual ecumenism.

When the Priests of your Parish attempt to carry

out the Bishop’s directives give your best to the

great cause of ecumenism, a true apostolic work.

15



MODERN CATECHETICS IN THE SCHOOLS

In many Parishes “modern catechetics” has be-

come a subject of intense debate. There are both

strong supporters and ardent critics. Many parents

and others are disturbed by the exposure of chil-

dren in both elementary and in secondary schools

to what they regard as a vague form of “do-

goodism” which has substituted activity in the

secular order for spirituality and doctrine; of be-

havioral instruction without clearly defined religious

principles.

Teaching methods, as well as organization of

subject-matter, emphasis, motivation, and objectives

are not constants in education. The new math and

the many changes over the years in teaching the

social studies are examples of adjusting to new

demands. New methods are initially experimental.

If favorable results follow after reasonable time the

methods are retained. Later, other methods, more

suitable to the time and circumstances are adopted.

From the time of their birth pupils of today have

lived in a world of sights, sounds, noise, color, over-

exposure to television, almost incessant radio and,

in a very complex society. Experts who have studied

the needs and habits of pupils believe that the tra-

ditional methods of religious instruction are inade-

quate today. Even in the past, they claim, too much

of the information imparted by earlier methods was

left in the classroom, and that young minds had

great difficulty in making concrete application of

3ie doctrines and principles which they had been

taught, and so often committed to memory, only to

be locked away, largely isolated from their daily

lives.

16



Supporters of the new catechetical approach at

present are chiefly among teachers. They are

strongly convinced that these methods will help

children live a truly Christian life in their own

world of young interests, and develop the ability

to adapt to new situations as they grow in years and

experiences into adulthood and Christian maturity.

Towards this end the new catechetics uses dis-

plays, vivid colors, music, projects, billboard illus-

trations and other means to relate the children to

the world in which they live and to give spiritual

insights and values to everyday life.

While studying what is known as Salvation His-

tory (Doctrine, Sacred Scripture, Liturgy) pupils

sometimes bring home reports of statements which

many parents have found shocking. The new Cate-

chetical method which many competent educators

regard with great expectations is often severely

judged as a result of abundant evidence that some

teachers have not been properly trained in modern

catechetics. Failure or inability to distinguish re-

vealed truth and its meaning from the figurative

language often invites a change of view of ESSEN-

TIALS instead of NON-ESSENTIALS. Imprudent

ventures into unfamiliar areas, representing as final

and conclusive, matters which have not actually

progressed beyond the level of research, have had

repercussions. A flippant manner displayed in the
treatment of Sacred Scripture, suggesting disdain

or disbelief, can be absorbed by pupils. If these

pupils are under an instructor who delights in in-

discriminate shockers, as if they were exposes,

dealing in cleverisms with matters which true and

serious scholars regard with the utmost reverence,

it is understandable that parents will either with-

17



hold confidence from, or voice sharp criticism of

the new catechetics when it is the teacher who is at

fault. Most complaints have been of such indiscre-

tions on the high school level.

On the other hand teachers who are doing a truly

competent work in this still developing method de-

serve the confidence of parents.

Some critics observe that just as immoderate

liturgists have, unwittingly, perhaps, smothered and

demeaned private prayer and devotion by reason of

their overemphasis on communal or corporate wor-

ship, so modern catechetics can cause the individual

pupil to lose his identity in the society for which

he is being trained as a “Christian witness.” These

critics ask if the pupils are really able to identify

just what, in their training for the “Christian life,”

is specifically Catholic doctrine and morality;

whether what is a fuzzy “Christian” ethic is given

proper supernatural value or whether it is pro-

moted more as a mere pragmatic approach.

Modern catechetics deserves the patience and co-

operation of parents who have both the right and

the duty to secure sound religious education for

their children. But parents also have, at a time when

too many liberties are being taken with doctrine,

the right to be assured that their children are being

effectively trained for the kingdom of heaven as

well as for good citizenship, and dedication to

Christian service on earth.

Many schools have offered courses to acquaint

parents with the new methods, and several pub-

lishers of textbooks have prepared manuals for

home guidance.

18



REGULAR CONFESSION

The practice of regular confession has been re-

affirmed as most salutary by Vatican Council II.

The Faithful are still encouraged by the constant

teachings of the Church, by the writings and exam-

ples of the Saints, by experienced spiritual directors

and by the practice of devout and sincere people in

their own Parishes and families.

It is nothing new that the Faithful should be en-

couraged to try to avoid making any confession a

casual, or routine matter. The Divine Power and

Love is mightily present and active in every sincere

confession. This is worthy of devout attention.

Proposals have been made in some quarters to

make confession a “memorable encounter,” where

the confessor, seated in a consultation room, would

have a face-to-face dialogue with the client (peni-

tent) . Once or twice a year, it has been said, would

be adequate for confession which would no longer

be routine. Counselling and psychotherapy would

become features of this new treatment of penitents.

Such new ideas for the guidance of souls may be

developed very well, and may find a permanent

place in the life of the Church. But the custom of

regular confession, as we have known it, is still

recommended most heartily. Penitents should, of

course, distinguish between confessions of obliga-

tion (mortal sin, etc.) and confessions of devotion

when there are but venial sins or no sins.

19



Among the many reasons to encourage the prac-

tice of confession at least once a month are:

1

—

remission of sin

2

—

increase of sanctifying grace

3

—

remission of temporal punishment

4

—

check on growing tendencies

5

—

strengthen practice of asking God’s mercy

6

—

is an act of faith

7

—

offers opportunity for spiritual advice

8

—

correction of erroneous conscience

9

—

will encourage more frequent communion, perhaps

daily

10

—

helps Holy Souls to whom additional graces can be
applied

11

—

helps draw penitent away from occasions of sin

12

—

serves as preventive as well as corrective means

13

—

reduces danger of tepidity

14

—

emphasizes constant dependence on God

15

—

promotes piety, and mutual trust between spouses

16

—

offers good example to children

17

—

brings penitent into presence of Blessed Sacrament

18

—

provides for guidance in choice of vocation

Confessions are scheduled not only for Satur-

days, but for many other times, such as during

missions, retreats, and novenas, on the eves of

holy days and first Fridays, and, in many places,

in the mornings before Masses.

Children are expected to go to Confession at

the times appointed for them, and persons who can

conveniently confess during the customary after-

noon and evening hours should leave the morning

Confession periods, especially on Sundays, to those

who by reason of working hours, household duties,

partial infirmity, etc., cannot confess at other times,

or find serious difficulty in doing so.

20



The hard-of-hearing should avail themselves of

hearing-aids which are installed in many confes-

sionals. If these devices are not adequate, they may

request private confession.

Penitents in line or in pews should remain at

a discreet distance from the confessional, and spend

their time in prayer and reflection. The faithful

are encouraged to observe Confession schedules.

It is never necessary to go for a long period

without Confession. If the times scheduled, how-

ever frequent, do not provide an opportunity, a

request at the rectory will bring the priest to the

sacristy, church or rectory confessional.

FOLLOW THE PRACTICE OF
REGULAR CONFESSION;

RECEIVE HOLY COMMUNION FREQUENTLY

VOCATIONS TO THE RELIGIOUS LIFE

Young men and young ladies who are interested

in the religious life are encouraged to pursue their

inclinations, and, without delay, consult their spirit-

ual directors, confessors or vocation, directors.

Just as in other fields of activity where long

periods of training are required, delays in getting

started either create increasing difficulties or lead

to abandonment of the goal, so in the religious life

which requires periods from 3 - 12 years after ac-

ceptance of the candidate.

The increasing opportunities for young men and

young women to enter specialized fields, apart from

the traditional professional pursuits, while appeal-

ing, should not cause a lessening of the appreciation

21



that the most rewarding of endeavors is that which

is in God’s complete service.

The torch has to be handed on and on until the

end of time. Every generation, every Parish, every

family must recognize that Priests, Sisters and

Brothers must be found.

Parents should give prudent encouragement to

their children and add their prayers to those of their

children for their wise choice and perseverance.

Sometimes parents err by an attitude of silence,

which the young person might construe as disap-

proval, or ply their children with such an abundance

of ideas about college education and future job

opportunities as to smother the as yet unexpressed

hopes of the young person for the opportunity to

enter the religious life. Another common and often

fatal fault is that which recommends that the young

person should “see more of the world,” or “be sure

of what he/she is doing,” ignoring the fact that their

son or daughter has plenty of time in the course

of training to decide. It is also pretty well agreed

that young people see plenty of the world by the

time they finish high school. And in some cases it

is not solicitude for the correctness of a young

person’s choice of the religious life as a vocation,

but rather a confused idea about losing an oppor-

tunity to make good money, or catch a well-heeled

husband. There does not appear to be a correspond-

ing solicitude that 17 or 18 year olds “see more of

the world” etc. when they announce their intentions

to marry—often after a very brief courtship. Such
diversionary tactics are told again and again by

young people who believe that their parents de-

stroyed their opportunities for their religious life.

22



People who ask why there are not more Sisters in

our schools or more Priests in parishes might ask

another question. Have their families given anyone

in years past?

Pray that your parish will be blessed by a great

increase of religious vocations.

wm

Among the false rumors circulating these days is

that Vatican Council II set in motion a “play it

down” policy regarding devotion to Our Blessed

Mother, and further, that the sooner novenas, mis-

sions, Stations of the Cross and “popular devotions”

give way to the “new Liturgy” the sooner the

Church will reach a higher level of holiness.

One has only to read the eighth chapter of the

magnificent Dogmatic Constitution on the Church

to know that any thought whatever of diminishing

proper honor to Mary is absolutely alien to the

words and intent of this Council document.

Here and there some injudicious efforts have

been made to keep Mary far in the background in

order to “advance” ecumenism, a practice strongly

condemned as False Irenicism (see Decree on Ecu-

menism) . Others, failing to distinguish between

true devotion to Mary and long recognized exag-

gerations, sometimes, regrettably, running into

superstitions, would correct the latter by destroying

the former.

Love for the Mother of God, our spiritual Mother,

including efforts to imitate her virtues has been and

still is the teaching of the Church, and in our

23



troubled times there are many who might ask if

part of their want of faith, absence of fervor and

proud assertiveness in this and in other matters may

not themselves be traced to the fact that they never

really knew their Heavenly Mother, that they there-

fore suffer a serious spiritual deficiency.

Private prayer, visits to the Most Blessed Sacra-

ment, participation in approved forms of public

honor to Our Lady and to the Saints are in no way

incompatible with the liturgical renewal. The De-

crees of Vatican Council II do not contradict each

other.

“Popular devotions of the Christian people are

to be highly commended
,
provided they accord

with the laws and norms of the Church, above all

when they are ordered by the Apostolic See
”

(Constitution on the Sacred Liturgy Par. 13)

Parishioners are most heartily encouraged to be

constant in the practice of private prayer, take part

in devotions at the Parish Church, and give their

full co-operation and participation to updated

Liturgy, according to the directives and guidance

of their Bishops, and their Pastors as the riches of

the Liturgy are made better known.

24



PARTE

AIDS TO PARISH LIFE

25



CALLING AT THE RECTORY

Anyone who has a legitimate interest, request

or need which priests might assist, is welcome to

the offices of the rectory .

1. Parishioners should be mindful of obliga-

tions which require the presence of the priests

elsewhere, such as during Confession hours. The

priest will be summoned from the confessional for

a sick call, but not for matters which can wait.

2. Rectories sometimes publish or post sched-

ules designating hours when callers can be as-

sisted with the minimum of delay. Calls to the

rectory should be made before 9:00 P.M. unless

in urgent matters.

3. When Parishioners wish to see a particular

priest it is advisable to phone for an appoint-

ment. He may already be committed to a very

busy schedule of instructions, etc., duties in

church, in the parish hall, off the premises, or

he may have the evening off.

If one does not wish to see a particular priest,

but has a matter which may require considerable

time to treat, the priest who is on house duty will

appreciate a telephone call to allow him to sug-

gest a time when he will best be able to accom-

modate the caller.

Appointments are not necessary, but recom-

mended in these cases. The alternative may be a

long wait or disappointment.

All appointments should be honored punctually.

If cancellation is necessary the priest should be

advised so the time may be assigned to others.

26



4. Prior to registration of children in paro-

chial school, First Communion, and Confirma-

tion, there are many requests for Baptismal certifi-

cates. At such times rectories may announce spe-

cial hours when these certificates will be issued.

5. Attendants at the rectory will not inquire into

the purpose of a person’s call. There are, how-

ever, many matters in which they can be imme-

diately helpful, such as in stating the hours of

Masses, devotions and in answering similar non-

confidential inquiries.

6. The telephone is a modern convenience and

much time can be saved by its use. Except for

sick calls and other serious matters parishioners

should not ring the rectory at very late hours.

7. Callers to the rectory should not divulge or

discuss the business of other callers which they

witness or may overhear.

8. All callers to the rectory are encouraged to

make a visit to the Blessed Sacrament in the

church nearby.

REGISTRATION

The parish files should contain essential in-

formation relating to the spiritual condition of

every Catholic within the borders of the parish.

As soon as possible, after taking residence in

the parish, the head of the family should call at

the rectory to register, giving to the priest all

information which may bear upon the spiritual

standing of all members of the family, of chil-

dren as well as of adults. The names of aged

and infirm, unable to attend church regularly,

27



should be made known so they may be placed

on the Communion list. (See section on Com-
munion Calls

,
page 32.)

Persons or families leaving the parish should

report their transfer to the rectory and promptly

register in their new parish.

Residence within appointed boundaries may be

said, in general, to determine the parish to which

a family belongs. Particular laws governing parish

membership will be clarified at the rectory.

Attending Mass in another parish church does

not alter one’s membership. The faithful are

heartily encouraged to attend Sunday Mass and

Devotions in their parish church as far as pos-

sible. The efforts of the pastor and his assistants

will be much more effective when parishioners

do not roam from church to church.

Registration at the rectory is important for

many reasons: better care of souls, more effec-

tive administration, sick calls, matters pertaining

to Baptism, Marriage, education of children, etc.

Loyalty to and love of one’s own parish will

bring many rewards. Members of families are

urged to affiliate themselves with parish activities

and societies. By doing so they will keep in the

shadow of the Church, and, as is virtually always

the case, will be faithful Catholics.

Infants should be baptized without unnecessary

delay, as soon after birth as is convenient. When

28



their strength allows, infants who have been bap-

tized in emergency should be brought to the

church at regular Baptism time, when the full

ceremonies of solemn Baptism will be supplied.

It is of gravest importance that infants bap-

tized in danger of death were validly or properly

baptized. When there is any reasonable doubt,

or suspicion that the emergency Baptism was not

valid, the opinion and advice of the priest should

be asked. If private Baptism was administered in

a Catholic hospital a certificate of Baptism should

be brought to the church.

Sponsors: Sponsors must, without exception,

and indeed for the validity of their sponsorship,

be Catholics. They should be carefully selected

for their qualities and capabilities as persons who

will faithfully discharge the duties of godparents,

as defined by Church law. Careless or fallen*

away Catholics should not be selected, nor should,

ordinarily, persons in such state of health or

advanced age that they probably would not live

long enough to fulfill their duties as godparents,

should necessity for their assistance arise.

Sponsors must be at least fourteen years of age,

unless, for a just cause, the minister of Baptism

decides otherwise.

Sponsors might prepare themselves before the

Baptism by receiving the sacraments and by reflect-

ing on the graces of Baptism. They should also

know the prayers for the ceremony, such as the

Apostles’ Creed.

Information: Parents should provide in ad-

vance of the Baptism the exact information, the

names of the child, the parents, the sponsors (and

of proxies, if used)
,
the date and place of birth, etc.

29



Names: Names for children should be selected

in conformity with the noble traditions of the

Church, entrusting children to the care of heav-

enly patrons, whose virtues the little ones should

be trained to imitate. Stylish or aristocratic-

sounding names, or other non-Christian names of

persons currently popular should not be preferred

to those of the saints of immortal glory, even

when a Christian name which may never be used

is added. During the period of expectancy par-

ents might review the lists of Christian names on

Pages 67 and 68 prepared for this purpose.

Additional names may be obtained at pamphlet

racks, Catholic book stores, Catholic hospitals

and maternity centres, or from the parish priests.

Dress : Infants should be dressed in garments

which permit easy and sufficient loosening at the

neck to permit anointing of the breast, and be-

tween the shoulders.

Registration : All facts relating to the infant’s

Baptism might be recorded in the family Bible,

or placed with valuable papers. Children of

families which are large or frequently change

residences often encounter difficulty in later years

in determining the church of Baptism.

Celebrations: Christening parties should be

dignified, reflecting respect for the sacred

occasion.

HOW TO BAPTIZE IN EM

To baptize in case of necessity, pour ordinary

water in the form of a cross on the head of the

person to be baptized and say while pouring the

water, “I baptize you in the name of the Father

and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.”

30



NOTES

1. Adoptions, changes, or simplifications of

names should be recorded in the parish registers.

These changes are ordinarily made through due

legal process. Papers of certification should be

brought to the rectory.

2. Children should be trained from their ear-

liest years to observe the feast day of their

Patron Saint.

3. Parents will bring upon their children addi-

tional blessings by teaching the babies to speak

among their first words the names of Jesus, Mary

and Joseph.

4. Godparents should assemble in respectful

silence at their appointed place 10 to 15 minutes

before time scheduled for Baptism. During this

period information for parish records is reviewed.

5. The Baptism must take place in the parish

church of parents unless permission to bring the

child to another church is granted from the rectory.

6. Obstetricians and Gynecologists should be

selected not only for their professional skill, but

also for their respect for Catholic teaching on

medico-moral matters. If their counsels seem at

variance with the teachings of the Church the

advice of one’s Confessor should be asked.

7. Expectant Mothers are encouraged to cfom-

mend themselves to the care of Our Blessed

Mother and of St. Gerard Majella, named by the

Church as their Patron.

8. In some places Home Visitors for the

Christian Home and Family call periodically,

offering assistance, literature and encouragement

to help parents in the Christian formation of

their children.

31



CHURCHING

When mothers attend Mass for the first time

following the child’s birth they should be

“Churched” in a ceremony which takes place at

the altar rail. In this brief ceremony prayers are

offered for the mother who has come to give

thanks for the safe delivery of her child, and for

the child who has been committed to her care.

COMMUNION CALLS

SICK CALLS

HOSPITAL CASES

SUDDEN DEATHS

Communion Calls: Names of the aged and

infirm who are unable to attend church regularly

should be reported to the rectory to be placed

on the parish Communion list. These persons

are customarily visited once a month. The priest

should not be requested to call on first Fridays

(Sacred Heart days) or first Saturdays (Our

Lady of Fatima days) especially in larger

parishes where several hundred persons may be

on the Communion list.

If the condition of a person on the Communion

list has declined, this fact as well as the physi-

cian’s expressed opinions of the attendant dangers

should be called to the attention of the priest,

who will be prepared to anoint the person should

he judge this proper. Conditions such as vomit-

ing, confused state of mind, etc., should also be

made known.

32



Sick Calls : When a person falls ill and there

are signs of danger, the rectory should be notified

without delay, regardless ol the hour, day or

night. While awaiting the priest persons in at-

tendance should help the one who is ill to recite

a fervent act of contrition, to offer himself to

God, to make acts of resignation to God’s will,

and to pronounce the Holy Name of Jesus.

If the illness is not sudden, but described by

“the physician as capable of becoming serious,

this information should be transmitted to the

rectory in good time so the sick person may be

given complete spiritual attention.

Hospital Cases: Every Catholic should confess

and receive Holy Communion as well as the “anoint-

ing of the sick” before entering a hospital for

surgery. The advice of the parish priest should be

asked.

The spiritual welfare of a Catholic patient should

not be left casually to the responsibility of nurses

and others in a hospital. The patient and the

patient’s family bear the grave responsibility of

arranging (either directly with the chaplain, or)

with the Nurse or the Floor Supervisor to notify

the chaplain of the wishes of the patient, if his

spiritual needs have not been attended before enter-

ing the hospital or convalescent home, or if, dur-

ing confinement, the patient wishes later spiritual

assistance.

N.B. — Certain operations
,
although accepted

practice in sqjne circles, are forbidden by Catholic

interpretation of the Laws of God .

33



Patients
,
particularly women

,
should seek the

services of physicians , surgeons and psychiatrists

who will give assurance that nothing contrary to

Catholic morals will be undertaken in treatments.

The period of confinement in a hospital may

be used profitably for spiritual as well as physical

strengthening, after the manner of a retreat. The

patient should have by his side his Rosary, a

prayer book, and spiritual reading suitable for

the time. In Catholic hospitals patients may have

the opportunity to receive Holy Communion fre-

quently, and, if not confined to their quarters,

may visit the Blessed Sacrament, attend Mass and

Benediction in the chapel.

Acts of resignation to the will of God, and

identification of one's illness with the sufferings

of Our Lord and Our Lady will merit many

graces.

There should be no delay in summoning the

priest because the patient “may get upset.” Anoint-

ing never impairs the well-being of a person . Chi

infrequent occasions the patient may experience a

mild emotional filling-up which passes in a few

seconds.

Anointing is a comfort of God which must never

be prevented by a false sense of kindness in those

who would delay calling the priest, because as often

happens, the patient quite unexpectedly expires.

Sudden Deaths: The rectory should be notified

immediately in case of sudden, or discovered death.

34



There are two types of death:

1. Clinical, or apparent death; that is, when

the signs of life such as heartbeat and

breathing are absent.

2. Somatic, or complete death
;
that is, when

the soul leaves the body.

In cases of those stricken suddenly, heart at-

tack, stroke, electrocution, etc., somatic or real

death may not take place for hours after clinical

or apparent death has occurred.

The priest should therefore be notified, since

it may not be too late. A motionless person may
still have the faculty of arousing sorrow for sin

and sentiments of love if the Act of Contrition

and ejaculations are spoken into his ear by those

awaiting the priest.

NOTES

1. No cas is hopeless. The priest should al-

ways be summoned for those unfortunate Cath-

olics who may have fallen away from their

Faith. God may grant them final saving grace

for their conversion and salvation.

2. Do not delay notifying the priest of a person’s

illness until delirium or loss of speech has overtaken

the patient.

3. Elderly persons sometimes become confused

when the Sacred Host adheres to dentures. Unless

carefully watched, they may attempt to scrape

the Host loose from the plates with their fingers.

4. If a communicant should vomit before the

Sacred Host has been digested, whatever can be

recovered should be reverently reserved in a

clean cloth, then the priest should be notified.

35



5. After the priest has administered the Sacra-

ments the patieht should be assisted, if necessary,

in prayer and recollection. Conversation and

breakfast can be delayed for a short time.

6. The priest should be consulted, regarding

the laws of fast and abstinence as they apply to

the aged and infirm, if these laws are not clear.

FURNISHINGS OF THE SICK ROOM

1. Table, covered with clean white cloth.

2. Crucifix.

3. Holy water.

4. Two lighted blessed candles.

5. Glass of water and a spoon.

6. Clean napkin.

7. A small bell, if in the home, to summon the
family to the room after the patient’s Confession.

8. When anointing is to take place, add:

Small supply of cotton.

9. Dish with a spoonful of salt or small slice of

lemon and some bread crumbs.

A member of the family, preferably a man or
a boy, if present, should meet the priest at the

door with lighted candle and lead the way to and

from the sick person. All should kneel in rever-

ence to the Blessed Sacrament. If the patient’s

Confession is to be heard members of the house-

hold will withdraw, returning upon signal after

the Confession, to kneel while the other sacra-

ments are administered and the prayers for the

sick or dying are recited.

Pets should be removed to the basement or other-

wise prevented from interfering with the priest.

36



The radio or television set should be turned off;

cooking, breakfast and conversation interrupted out

of respect for the Blessed Sacrament.

'/>

7
X
\\

EUCHARISTIC

FAST

FAST AND

ABSTINENCE

The laws were relaxed:

1. To provide opportunities for the Faithful

in all walks of life to receive Holy Com-

munion much more frequently;

2. To encourage the Faithful to consider Holy

Communion as the daily food of their

supernatural life.

Very many of the Faithful can receive Holy Com-

munion daily
;
very few of the Faithful cannot

receive Holy Communion at least once a week.

Shift-workers, persons obliged to take medicine

at frequent intervals, all who attend late Masses,

are encouraged to receive Holy Communion

frequently.

A glass of water after Mass is recommended to
all who have received Holy Communion.

37



Eucharistic Fast: ONE HOUR fast from food

and liquids other than water. The “one hour” is

measured up to the time of Holy Communion, not

to the time when Mass begins.

The sick, even if not confined to bed, may take

medicine in either solid or liquid form at any time,

but must otherwise observe the Eucharistic fast.

DAYS OF FAST; ABSTINENCE

Days of Abstinence Only: Ash Wednesday

and all Fridays of Lent. All persons 14 years of

age and over are bound by this law of abstinence

. . . NO MEAT AT ALL on these days of Lent.

Days of Fast (limited amount of food) and

Abstinence (no meat at all) . This rule applies on

only two days of the year, Ash Wednesday and

Good Friday.

All persons between the ages of 21 and 59 are

obliged on these two days to:

1. take no meat, even once;

2. take but ONE full, MEATLESS meal;

3. limit the other two meadess meals, so that

combined they do not exceed the principal

meal;

4. take no solid food between meals.

Persons who choose to continue the practice of

abstinence on Fridays outside of Lent as penance

may interrupt or terminate this practice of self-denial

without anxiety of conscience. (Some dioceses rec-

ommend continued practice of Friday abstinence.)

All Catholics are encouraged to subsdtute some

form of mortification to take the place of the

former year-round Friday abstinence, and the

periodic days of fast.

38



ARRANGING MASSES

An “Announced Mass” is one which has been

arranged to be offered for a special intention at

a particular time, and is announced at Masses

on the preceding Sunday, and/or published in

the Parish Calendar.

These Masses are generally commemorations of

deceased persons: Month’s Mind, or Anniversary

Masses. Often, however, they are offered in

thanksgiving or in honor of Our Lady or a saint.

Mass Cards: These are secured at the rectory

to be presented as a mark of condolence to the

family of the deceased, usually at the wake or

resting, on the eve of the funeral Mass. The

cards provide space for the names of the de-

ceased, the person who arranges the offering of

the Mass, and the priest who accepts it.

The laws of the Liturgy permit a Requiem

Mass—black or purple vestments—only on certain
days. For this reason a Mass for a deceased person

is often celebrated in vestments of another color.

39



Purgatorial Societies: These are foundations

which provide perpetual spiritual benefits, and

participation in daily Masses, offered for the liv-

ing and the dead. Enrollment in these societies,

usually centered in seminaries and monasteries,

can be assisted by the priests of one’s parish.

Persons who desire Gregorian Masses, offered

on thirty consecutive days, may arrange these by

communicating with the local office of the Society

for the Propagation of the Faith, or with the Cath-

olic Near East Welfare Association, 330 Madison

Avenue, New York, N. Y. 10017.

FUNERALS AND CHRISTIAN BURIAL
; .

m&mm

Funeral Masses are of three kinds:

Solemn Requiem Mass

—

High Requiem Mass

—

Low Requiem Mass

—

Families without burial lots should request the

funeral director to secure information from the

Diocesan Cemetery Office, or from directors of

parish cemeteries. Lots for both members of a

mixed marriage are available.

Funeral directors of good reputation as con-

ductors of Catholic burials may be relied upon to

help the family in matters pertaining to Christian

Burial—Permission, Requiem Mass, Wake, etc.
40



The annual visitation of the Parish is primarily

a spiritual census. The visitation of every family

in the parish provides priests and parishioners

an opportunity to meet, and to discuss matters

pertaining to the spiritual welfare of all members

of the family.

Many parishes publish or announce schedules

indicating the day and the approximate time the

priest may be expected. In large parishes the

visit of the priest on this occasion is necessarily

brief. He can, nevertheless, secure all informa-

tion for an accurate census, and for the annual

parish report which the pastor must submit to

the Ordinary (Archbishop or Bishop).

Matters which require special attention are

taken up in the days shortly after the priest

has called.

A cherished tradition of the parish visitation
is the presence of ajl members of the family when

the priest calls, as an indication not only of

family solidarity, but also of their readiness to

co-operate in the program of the parish, designed

to build up spiritual stability in family life.

At visitation time the priest will bless the house,

the occupants, and religious articles. He will also

take the names of any aged or infirm members

of the family to be placed on the Communion

list, and give the pledge to those who wish to

overcome intemperance.

41



Unpleasant facts concerning the spiritual condi-

tion of any member of the family should never be

withheld or misrepresented, lest the eternal salva-

tion of a wayward soul be further endangered.

Children should be dismissed frcm discussions

which might scandalize them.

Courtship : Courtship, as marriage itself, should

be entered according to the laws of God and the

Church. An acquaintance which might become seri-

ous should be made known promptly to one’s con-

fessor or spiritual director. Romantic friendship

with a person who is in any way doubtfully free to

marry according to the laws of the Catholic Church

should never be commenced until that person’s free

state is completely certain .

Lay persons should never attempt to reach their

own conclusions in marriage cases which are

filled with the technicalities of Canon Law. The

question should always be presented to a priest

in one’s own parish. He will initiate such inquiry

and investigation as the case may require, and

communicate, if necessary, with the Diocesan

Tribunal, staffed by priests who are experts in

Canon Law.

I

MARRIAGE PREPARATIONS

42



Engagement : Couples might mark their engage-

ment by having the ring(s) blessed, by receiving

Holy Communion together, and by consecrating

themselves to the Holy Family. The parties are

further encouraged to make a private or public

novena, attending Mass and receiving Holy Com-

munion daily, if possible, during the novena, that

their union will enjoy God’s constant graces. They

should read suitable Catholic literature, books,

pamphlets, etc., which treat the sacramental and

spiritual, as well as the physical and domestic aspects

of marriage.

All engaged couples, including the non-Cath-

olic parties, should attend Pre-Marital Instruc-

tions. In many places Family Life Bureau and

Pre-Cana Lectures, given by priests and physi-

cians, are regularly announced, and very well

attended.

Marriage Arrangements: Reservation of the

hour for the Nuptial Mass should be made well

in advance of the marriage. Appointment should

be made with the priest four to six weeks in

advance to permit publication of the banns, the

pre-nuptial investigations, instructions, transfer

of documents between dioceses, etc.

Persons who must secure certificates or other

documents from foreign countries should make

adequate allowance for the mails, etc. The priest

will indicate, at the first meeting, the documents

which will be required.

Wedding Ceremony: Wedding attire, particu-

larly of women, must conform to the standards of

Christian modesty, and gowns should be selected

with this in mind.

43



Musical selections, singers, etc., must be ar-

ranged in conformity with the decrees of the

Commission on Church Music, and parish regu-

lations.

Where it is customary to provide flowers for

the altars, the time and place for delivery should

be ascertained, and the florist correctly advised.

Many churches request that rice and confetti

not be thrown on the premises. Friends should

be informed of the regulation.

If permitted, the photographer should be

directed to pursue his tasks without irreverence,

and advised of any specific regulations the pastor

has made. If not a Catholic, he might be pro-

vided with a Catholic guide who will help him

to avoid improprieties.

Before deciding how’ many members they will

have in their wedding party couples should in-

spect the sanctuary of the church and its propor-

tions, and ask the opinion of the priest wrho will

offer helpful suggestions, and note customs. Large

groups often present difficulties.

Formal attire is not necessary for a Nuptial

Mass.

All Catholic members of the wedding party and

guests are encouraged to receive Holy Communion

at the Nuptial Mass.

Brides should be punctual in arriving at church.

Guests and Celebration: Guests at a church

wedding should avoid loud talking in church,

44



smoking in the vestibule, and taking snapshots

at improper times. When another wedding is to

follow immediately guests should vacate the

space which the next party will require.

Couples are encouraged not to incur wedding

expenses beyond their means.

They are reminded of the singular propriety

of sending invitations which bear liturgical sym-

bols of Christian marriage, and words which em-

phasize the sacramental nature of the ceremony.

If postponement or cancellation of a wedding

is necessary, prompt notice should be given the

rectory, releasing the time for the use of others.

45



^rrrT^ SUPPORT OF THE CHURCH

There is, and has been a financial crisis in the

Church in our Country. The reason? Contrary to

widespread belief, Catholics are far down the list

of contributors in the annual reports which show

the per capita donations of the members of many,

but not all, denominations.

No Parish can conduct its proper apostolic mis-

sion on the offerings of the people when these are

low, even by the standards of fifty7 years ago.

Since the Great Depression, forty years ago,

Parish Priests have struggled to find supplementary

sums, so inadequate have been, generally speaking,

the contributions made on Sundays and Holydays.

Aided by small groups of devoted Parishioners these

Parish Priests have turned to raffles, bazaars, bingo

and the like. While many Parish efforts have a

social value, they have absorbed an excessive amount

of time and energy which both the Priests and their

helping Parishioners could direct to better purposes.

One outspoken member of the anti-“institutional

church,” and the “underground church” movement

has been actively promoting the idea that ever)
7

46



Church and Parochial school in the land should be

shut down, the children sent to public schools, and

Mass offered only in the homes of people. This is

an extreme reaction to the Church’s identification

with raffles etc., an irresponsible solution to the

problem created and prolonged by those who do not

properly support the Church.

As laymen become increasingly active in Parish

Councils, School Councils and in other advisory

bodies, they are more and more amazed to see just

how their Parishes have had to live from week to

week, remain mired in debt for years, compelled

to delay for very long periods important, if not

urgent repairs and improvements to the Parish

buildings. They are learning, in a way as never be-

fore, just how many hidden expenses there are in

the management of a Parish, and how superficial

is the understanding of most people of the very

large sums that any Parish requires. These Laymen

are likewise dismayed that so many Parishioners

contribute either nothing at all or scandalously

little to their Parish Church. As business men they

often show considerable indignation that over the

years the Parish Priests have been forced into an

unending series of fund-raising activities to make

up for the failure of Parishioners, many of whom

are quite demanding, to make equitable and regular

contributions to their Church.

Who are exempt from contributing to the sup-

port of the Church? Only the destitute. Our Lord

commended the widow for contributing her mite.

Among the weaknesses in our financial support

system might be listed:

1. widespread failure of individuals to recognize

their moral obligation, founded in both Divine and

47



Ecclesiastical law to support the Church, an obliga-

tion of justice, not simply of charity.

2. the “head of the family” fallacy whereby one

person contributes his own ordinary sum while

several other wage-earners in his family make no

contribution.

3. the presumption by so many women, espe-

cially wage-earners, some enjoying handsome sala-

ries, that they are exempt.

4. misconception of “free-will” offering; the

individual is NOT free to ignore the Precept of the
Church; the freedom refers to his right to decide

in conscience what, according to his means and

circumstances, constitutes an honorable offering;

not WHETHER but HOW MUCH.
5. the single young men and women who are

consistently in default of their obligation and leave

the burden to their elders and to the married people.

6. the college students who consider making even

a modest offering out of their income or allowance

a matter which must await their graduation.

7. a weakness of supernatural faith which allows

the thought that sums given to the Church, to

works of God, are in some form of relinquishment

or forfeiture, and that Divine Providence cannot be

trusted to reward the giver in a manner which

Infinite Wisdom deems best.

8. the absence of the proper sense of steward-

ship, for every responsible adult must use the mate-

rial goods of this world in a manner consistent with

God’s goodness and glory.

9. the abuse of honor, and freedom which too

many seize to make deceitful and extravagant income

tax declarations of sums supposedly given to the

Church.

48



10. the presumption by parents whose children

do not attend Parochial schools that they are not

obliged to support their Church, including the pro-

gram of Catholic education, when all Parishioners

help support the public schools which their children

attend.

11. the absence of Diocesan guidelines which

might spell out both the moral obligations of the

Faithful and present-day standards of contributing

to the Church.

12. the failure of so very many who enjoy excel-

lent wages to contribute regularly and according

to their means.

Parishioners are encouraged to use their Sunday

envelopes. If contributions are published a person

who wishes neither publication or another form of

acknowledgment should note this fact on his enve-

lope, but continue the use of the envelope.

Even when necessity or particular convenience

leads one to attend Mass in another Church, sup-

port of the Parish Church should not be neglected.

Parish Priests cannot substantiate the claims of

persons who call for verification of contributions,

often requested by the Internal Revenue Service, if

envelopes are not used.

Finally, there are Diocesan and Papal appeals of

the greatest merit, such as, Propagation of the

Faith, The Colored and Indian Missions, Peter’s

Pence for the needs of Our Holy Father who must

support the immense work of administering the

Church; appeals for hospitals, orphanages and other

works of charity.

Help your Parish meet its financial needs; bring

God’s reward upon yourself. (See inside back cover

on Tithing.)

49



In the document entitled “Declaration on Chris-

tian Education” Vatican Council II states (Par. 8)

“The Council also reminds Catholic parents of

the duty of entrusting their children to Catholic

Schools wherever and whenever it is possible

and of supporting these schools to the best of

their ability and of co-operating with them for

the education of their children”

Education must be for BOTH the spiritual and
the material, for the eternal and the temporal needs

of students. The formation of the Christian mind,

the development of virtue, the practices of personal

piety, the sense of uninterrupted commitment to

and love of God must be the first goals of education

for Catholic students on all levels. At the same time

a sound education in secular matters is necessary.

Today the costs of education everywhere have

increased enormously. Among some Catholics the

financial pressures on their schools have led to criti-

cism when support is what is most needed. It must

be borne in mind that the public schools are not

permitted to provide for the religious and moral

50



training of the pupils. This obligation must be

borne most conscientiously by parents who must

provide both at home, and in co-operation with the

Parish program for students in public schools, all

the religious education possible.

Regrettably most of these pupils in public ele-

mentary and high school do not attend instructions

as they might. In many, indeed, too many cases,

the pupil reaches the time of graduation from high

school with at best the most elementary knowledge

of the Faith, and his religious practices are very

irregular.

Catholic parents are urged to co-operate with

their Lay Parish School Councils which act in an

advisory capacity, and to give their constant sup-

port to such worthy organizations as CITIZENS

FOR EDUCATIONAL FREEDOM (C.E.F.).
This is a non-profit, non-denominational, non-

political association which works for the rights of

children who attend non-public schools.

Part of the C.E.F. program is the reminder that

public schools are optional, that there is not in this

country an “official” system of schools, and that

such matters as busing, textbooks, subsidization of

non-religious instruction, etc. should be given to

children who attend non-public schools and public

schools without distinction IN THE SCHOOL
CHOSEN BY THEIR PARENTS. (Citizens for
Educational Freedom, 844 Washington Building,

15 St. and New York Ave., N.W., Washington,

D. C. 20005)

.

51



Every Parish should have some identification

with its Diocesan program or agencies such as

the C.E.F. if the financial pressures on our schools

are to be lifted, and our children given their rights.

CONFRATERNITY
OF CHRISTIAN

DOCTRINE

The Confraternity offers opportunities for chil-

dren in public grade and high schools to receive

at least a measure of education in the truths of

their faith. Parents and guardians should see

that children receive regular instruction. While

not to be compared to the systematic training in

the faith which Catholic schools offer, the Con-

fraternity can provide pupils who attend classes

faithfully with a basic knowledge of the faith.

The Confraternity also sponsors study clubs and

lectures, as well as information classes, which adults

will find most helpful.

Parishioners can be of great assistance to the

parish director of the Confraternity, in the broad

program of spreading Catholic truth.

CHURCH ETIQUETTE

Punctuality should be practiced.

The sign of the Cross should be made by touch-

ing holy water to the person.

52



Persons should be seated and not stand in

rear of Church unless necessary.

Genuflection should be made by touching the

RIGHT knee to the floor; when the Blessed

Sacrament is exposed the reverence is made on

BOTH knees.

Parishioners should attend Mass, under ordi-

nary circumstances, in their Sunday best.

Pincurls, T shirts, dungarees, slacks, and shorts

are not fitting for the House of God.

Women should always have their heads covered

in Church.

Dresses should always be modest.

All should stand when the Celebrant enters the

Sanctuary. At end of Mass or Devotions all

should remain standing until the Priest has left

the Sanctuary.

Chewing gum during Mass and Devotions,

leaving for a smoke during the Sermon, are

impolite.

Attention should be paid to announcements.

Reverence for the Blessed Sacrament should be

shown by providing ready space for those return-

ing from Communion. They should not have to

climb across several persons in the pew.

All who are physically able should maintain

an erect posture in standing or kneeling.

If eyesight permits, the Missal should be used.

Prayers and hymns should be in a clear, dis-

tinct voice.

53



Matters of ventilation should be referred to

ushers, rather than decided by individuals.

Pocket tissues should not be discarded in the

pews or on the floor.

Posters, appeals, notices, etc., should not be

placed on Church bulletin boards without the

approval of the Pastor.

Cordiality among parishioners going to and

from Church promotes friendship and strong

Parish spirit.

THE CATHOLIC HOME

RELIGIOUS FURNISHINGS AND DEVOTIONAL LIFE

A Catholic Home is one in which Christ is the

Center of its life. Good Catholic homes should

be conspicuous for cleanliness and order, and

various furnishings will help achieve spiritual

stability, such as

—

1. Religious symbols: Crucifixes, pictures,

statuary, etc., in the finest traditions of sacred

art are readily available. Representations of Our

Lord, Our Lady and the saints are never out of

place anywhere in the Catholic home; they will

not “clash” with the most sophisticated decor.

The Sacred Heart promised to bless every home

in which a picture of His Sacred Heart is exposed

and honored.

2. Fonts with holy water.

3. A Catholic calendar with feasts and fasts.

54



4. A bookshelf or library of Catholic refer-
ence books and other publications.

5. The diocesan newspaper and other Catholic

periodicals.

6. A family shrine or altar. Many erect
shrines in their gardens.

7. Sick call needs.

The Devotional Life of the Catholic home

is intensified by:

1. Frequent Mass and Holy Communion, dur-

ing the week as well as on Sundays.

2. First Friday and first Saturday devotions.

3. The Family Rosary.

4. Attention to Catholic radio, TV programs.

5. Attendance at parish devotions, such as

the Holy Hour, Miraculous Medal, Fatima, and

similar Marian devotions, Stations of the Cross,

Missions, Novenas, etc.

6. Consecration of the family to the Sacred

Heart of Jesus and the Immaculate Heart of

Mary.

7. Masses for deceased members of the family.

8. Spiritual and corporal works of mercy.

9. Recitation of the Angelus, 6:00 A.M., 12:00

noon and 6:00 P.M.

10. Grace at meals, adding the Hail, Holy

Queen, in honor of Our Lady.

55



11. Adding “God bless you” to every good-by

and good-night, at least to members of the family

and close friends.

12. Attendance at Mass on all birthdays, anni-

versaries and feast days of patron saints.

13. Annual renewal of marriage vows.

14. Communion on the anniversary of First

Communion.

The Catholic home additionally strives to pro-

vide an atmosphere conducive to study for those

who are receiving their education, and applies the

principles of the National Catholic Office for Motion

Pictures to all forms of entertainment, including

television and radio, and the principles of the Orga-

nization for Decent Literature to all forms, whether

pictorial or literary. Lists classifying movies and

magazines are posted on Church bulletin boards.

The charity of the Catholic home prompts

assistance to the needy.

A mite box or self-denial coin folder for the use
of all members to aid Our Holy Father’s Missions.

When ready, this should be given to parish director

of the Society for the Propagation of the Faith,

who will transfer the sum to the diocesan office of

the Society.

Clean and usable clothing, no longer in 9tyle

or necessary, can aid the desperately needy. Ship-

ments may be made all through the year to the

Diocesan Committee for Foreign Relief, or pre-

pared for the annual National Catholic Thanks-

giving Day Clothing Campaign, conducted in

parishes throughout the nation.

56



Usable furniture may be assigned to the St.

Vincent de Paul Society and other welfare agencies

throughout the diocese.

Many national traditions of sanctified origin,

such as those observed at Christmas, Epiphany

and Easter often help preserve and strengthen the

faith of the Catholic Family.

A CODE FOR CATHOLIC TELEVISION VIEWERS

"It is a most pressing need that the conscience

of Catholics, with regard to television should

be formed by the sound principles of the

Christian Religion ” Pope Pius XII

On September 8, 1957 Pope Pius XII issued
the now celebrated Encyclical Letter MIRAN-
DA PRORSUS in which he offered the wisest
counsel concerning the uses of Television.

On February 1 4, 1958 Pope Pius XII pro-
claimed St. Clare of Assisi Heavenly Patroness

of Television.

This great Saint lay gravely ill on Christ-

mas Eve, 1252. Unable to attend Mass she

was granted by God the miraculous vision of
Mass together with the sound of prayers and

music in the Basilica of St. Francis some dis-

tance away. For this and other reasons Our

Holy Father, granted the often repeated

request made over a period of years by the

Faithful, especially by those within the Tele-

vision industry, and placed this great medium
under the Patronage of St. Clare.

Catholics, In the Use of the Television, Should . .

.

1. Make thoughtful selection, and profitable

use of programs, avoiding those which, whole or

in part, might be harmful to Catholic faith or

morals, and not accept programs merely on the

basis of popularity polls and ratings.

57



2. Consult the National Catholic Office for Mo-

tion Pictures classification of movies shown on tele-

vision. as well as reviews and appraisals of other

programs which are published in Catholic news-

papers and periodicals.

3. L se television w ith due moderation so that

viewing practices will not lead to hasty meals;

neglect of duty, family conversation, good read-

ing; or discourtesy to guests who may wish
neither to view’ nor to listen.

4. Avoid that late-hour viewing which might

lead to damage to health, neglect of night-

prayers, or to morning lateness or unprepared-

ness for Church, work or school.

5. Control viewing practices so that they will

not interfere with attendance at devotions in the

Parish church or writh regular Confession.

6. Observe moderation in taking or serving

intoxicants during viewing, and be mindful of

the laws of the Church regarding fast and

abstinence.

7. View regularly and attentively Catholic

programs which are offered to lead men to per-

fection of soul, and for the promotion of God’s

glory; furthermore, to encourage others, includ-

ing non-Catholics, to do likewise.

8. Write, sign and send your owm courteous

and informative letters of disapproval to both

Sponsor and Channel Director when offensive

topics, costumes, dances, dialogue, or humor are

presented, and send letters of appreciation when

a program of unusual excellence, by Catholic

standards, is presented.

58



9. Supervise the viewing practices of the

young, and offer correction to statements, etc.,

when the honor of God and the Church, and the

proper moral and mental formation of the chil-

dren require such correction.

10. See that television (whether with picture

or sound only) does not cause children to neglect

their religious duties, studies, fresh air, sunshine,

exercise, rest, or wholesome companionship and,

finally, that children do not impose their choice

of programs against the wishes of their elders.

St. Clare
,
Pray for us

UNDA—Association Catholique Internationale pour la
Radiodiffusion et la Television requested permission to repro-

duce this code which it recommended to all in a French trans-

lation appearing in its Quarterly Bulletin, April 1959.

On May 24, 1959 L’Osservatore Romano, the Vatican News-
paper commented extensively on the code and offered an Italian
translation from the French for its readers throughout the world.

(Distinctive pictures of St. Clare as Patroness of Television

with text of this Code are available from the Printer of this

Handbook.)

59



GENERAL HELPS AND SUGGESTIONS
I

Many dioceses have shrines and places of

Catholic historical interest which merit attention.

Chain letters to promote some unauthorized

devotion should be destroyed. The front pages

of all leaflets, pamphlets and books represented as

Catholic publications should be examined to see

if ecclesiastical approval has been given.

Catholic magazines, pamphlets placed in doc-

tors’ offices, beauty parlors, train stations, find

interested readers. These publications are wel-

comed by hospital auxiliaries, prison chaplains,

armed service chaplains for distribution.

Catholic men and women can be of effective

assistance by offering a few hours of their time

to the CYO work, Legion of Mary and to the
auxiliaries of Catholic settlement houses, hos-

pitals, orphanages, homes for the aged, blind,

crippled and handicapped.

Catholic Charities Programs can often be as-

sisted by offering foster homes for homeless chil-

dren and aged persons. Local Catholic Charities

offices will furnish information on rates, etc.

The period for the performance of Easter Duty

is from the 1st Sunday of Lent to Trinity Sunday.

There is no obligation to retain and pay for

unsolicited religious articles sent by unlisted

agents and mail-order houses.

60



Agents for Catholic magazines, etc., must ob-

tain clearance from the diocesan authorities and

the pastor. Evidence of spurious representatives

should be promptly reported to the Rectory.

Automobile operators are encouraged to attach

a medal of Our Lady or St. Christopher. Before

or during a journey, many Catholics recite the

Rosary together.

Churches have lost and found chests. Articles

unclaimed after a reasonable time are transferred

to Missions and other needy places.

Men should always uncover their heads when

passing a Catholic church; women should bow

their heads in reverence.

The Faithful are encouraged to offer Priests,

Brothers and Sisters a courteous greeting as they

pass by. This is a mark of good manners, a public

act of faith, and such a gesture is a help to these

Religious who do not wish to omit a greeting to

one of their Parishioners whom they may not

recognize.

Motorists might adopt the motto of “Sancti-

fied Travel.” They will find visits to Catholic

shrines in this country as well as in Canada and

Mexico most rewarding.

Summer playhouses often present shows which

have been condemned as indecent. Vacationists

are urged to shun these as well as improper night-

club entertainment.

Parents who send their children to Summer

Camps will find Catholic Camps listed in maga-

zines and the diocesan newspaper. The children’s

61



religious duties, attendance at movies, etc., will

be properly safeguarded.

Every Catholic should bear identification as a

Catholic, requesting in case of accident or illness

that a Priest be immediately summoned.

Every Catholic is encouraged to wear a Mirac-

ulous Medal or a Scapular or Scapular Medal,

duly blessed, to honor Our Blessed Mother, and

to gain the promised graces.

Every adult Catholic is urged to make an

annual Mission and/or Retreat.

The diocesan newspaper provides not only

Catholic news and information but as well lists

of clubs, guilds, lectures, adult study centres, etc.,

which will offer pleasant and constructive oppor-

tunities for leisure time and forming friends.

Every Catholic who makes a will should favor

one or more of the numerous Catholic institu-

tions, some of which desperately need assistance.

The legal title of the institution should be care-

fully recorded. Lawyers retained for diocesan

matters will offer counsel if requested. A “Cath-
olic will” makes Our Lord an heir.

Shopkeepers engaged in the sale of greeting

cards are encouraged to feature religious greet-

ing cards for Christmas, Easter, etc.

Mass schedules of churches vary. They should

be checked in advance when out of town, espe-

cially during vacation time.

62



RULES FOR RIGHT LIYIHG

1. Daily prayers; grace at meals, a “minute” of

meditation.

2. Daily examination of conscience; considera-

tion of chief weaknesses.

3. Daily or frequent Rosary.

4. Confession at least once a month (see page

19). In urgency an act of perfect contrition with

promise of prompt confession.

5. Mass on Sundays and holydays of obligation

;

use missal, join with congregation in prayers and

hymns.

6. Frequent Communion; daily, if possible.

7. Daily dedication to Our Blessed Mother.

8. Avoid sin and occasions.

9. Love and trust the Church and Our Holy

Father.

10. Help spread the kingdom of God by good

example, prayer and kindly counsel.

Special Admonitions

To Parents: Encourage religion, religious voca-

tions, love and peace in the home. Instruct, cor-

rect and watch over your children. Above all,

give good example.

To Children

:

Love your parents. Respect their

wishes. Never do anything to cause them sorrow.

To Young Men and Women: Read decent litera-

ture. Shun immoral show9, dances and movies.

Keep courtship clean.

To Employers: Pay a living wage to all. Pro-

vide healthy and decent working conditions.

To Employees: Give honest work for honest

pay

63



«

RELIGIOUS INSTRUCTION BY MAIL

Excellent Correspondence Courses are avail-

able to both Catholics and non-Catholics. For

various reasons many persons are. at a given time,

unable to receive personal instructions. Much

apostolic work can be done by calling their at-

tention to these courses which are offered either

without charge, or for a nominal charge for

postage. A postcard will bring information from

any of the following:

Bellarmine Correspondence Course, West Baden Jesuit College, West

Baden, Indiana.

Bellarmine Society Correspondence Course, St. Charles Seminary,

Phila. 31, Pa.

Catholic Information Society, 214 West 31 St., New York 1, N. Y.

Catholic Information Society, 5628 Chester Ave., Phila. 43, Pa.

Home Study Course, Immaculate Conception Seminary, Ramsey, N. J.

Home Study Service, St. John's Seminary, Little Rock, Ark.

Kenrick Correspondence Course, Kenrick Seminary, St. Louis, Mo.

Knights of Columbus Religious Information Bureau, 3473 South

Grand Blvd., St. Louis, Mo. 63118.

Paulist Fathers' Correspondence Course, 401 Michigan Ave., N.E.,

Washington, D. C.

Paulist Fathers' Correspondence Course, 21 East Van Buren St.,

Chicago, III.

Paulist Fathers' Correspondence Course, 5 Park St., Boston, Mass.

Paulist Fathers' Correspondence Course, 2411 E. Tamarack Ave.,

Portland, Oregon.

Woodstock Home Study Course, Woodstock Jesuit College, Wood-

stock, Md.

(A



FORMS OF ADDRESS

For Cardinals: His Eminence Cardinal

e.g., His Eminence John Cardinal Fisher

For Archbishops, Bishops: His Excellency
,
The

Most Reverend e.g., His Excellency
,
The

Most Reverend John N . Neumann

For Monsignors: The Right Reverend
,
or The

Very Reverend

For Priests: The Reverend

For Brothers: Brother

For Superiors: The Reverend Mother

For Nuns: Sister

Salutations :

Your Eminence.

Your Excellency.

Right Reverend and dear Monsignor, or Dear

Right Reverend Monsignor, or Dear Mon-

signor.

Reverend and dear Father, or Dear Father.

Dear Reverend Mother, Dear Mother.

Dear Brother, Dear Sister.

Conclusions:

Asking Your Eminence’s (Your Excellency’s)

blessing, I am, yours respectfully, or, Your

obedient Son, Daughter, or With filial love,

or, with deep respect.

For others: Respectfully yours, Sincerely yours.

65



RELIGIOUS ORDERS OF MEN

The Secular or Diocesan Priests are those who

conduct Parishes, institutions, schools, and activi-

ties of the Diocese. Religious Orders of Priests

are usually represented in every Diocese. These

Priests conduct schools, colleges, and sometimes

Parishes. A few of the many religious orders:

Augustinians: (O.S.A., Order of St. Augustine)

Benedictines: (O.S.B., Order of St. Benedict)

Carmelites: (O.Carm.)

Divine Word: (S.V.D., Society of the Divine Word)

Dominicans: (O.P., Order
#
of Preachers)

Franciscans: (O.F.M., O.F.M.Cap., O.F.M.Conv., T.O.R. are designations

of the several branches)

Holy Cross Fathers: (C.S.C., Congregation of the Holy Cross)

Holy Ghost Fathers: (C.S.Sp., Congregation of the Holy Spirit)

Jesuits: (S.J., Society of Jesus)

Josephites: (S.S.J., Society of St. Joseph)

Marists: (S.M., Society of Mary)

Missionary Servants of the Most Holy Trinity (S.T.)

Norbertines: (O.Praem., Order of Praemonstratensians)

Oblates of St. Francis de Sales (O.S.F.S.)

Oblates of Mary Immaculate: (O.M.I.)

Passionists: (C.P., Congregation of the Passion)

Paulists: (C.S.P., Congregation of St. Paul)

Precious Blood Fathers: (C.PP.S.)

Redemptorists: (C.SS.R., Congregation of The Most Holy Redeemer)

Salesians: (S.D.B., Salesians of Don Bosco)

Salvatorians: (S.D.S., Society of The Divine Saviour)

Servites: (O.S.M., Order of the Servants of Mary)

Trinitarians: (O.SS.T., Order of the Most Holy Trinity)

Viatorians: (C.S.V., Clerics of St. Viator)

Vincentians: (C.M., Congregation of the Mission, after St. Vincent

de Paul)

66



300 CHRISTIAN NAMES FAVORED IN U.S.A.
I

FOR BAPTISM AND CONFIRMATION
1

BOYS

Adolph Casimir Gabriel Laurence Ralph

Adrian Cecil Geoffrey Leo Raphael

Alan Carl George Leonard Raymond

Albert Charles Gerald Leopold Reginald

Alexander Christopher Gerard Louis Regis

Alexis Clair Gilbert Loyola Richard

Alfred Clement Giles Lucian Robert

Aloysius Colman Godfrey Ludwig Roderick

Alphonsus Colum Gonzaga Luke Roger

Ambrose Conrad Gregory Malachy Ronald

Anatole Cornelius Harold Malcolm Rudolph

Andrew Cuthbert Herman Mark Salvator

Angelo Cyril Henry Martin Samuel

Anselm Daniel Hilary Matthew Sebastian

Anthony David Hubert Matthias Simon

Arnold Dennis Hugh Maurice Stanislaus

Arthur Dion Humphrey Michael Stanley

Augustine Dominic Hyacinth Myles Stephen

Barry Donald Ignatius Moran Sylvester

Bartholomew Dunston James More Terence

Bartley Edmund Jerome Nathaniel Timothy

Basil Edward John Nicholas Thomas

Beltram Edwin Joseph Noel Theodore

Benedict Emil Jude Oliver Urban

Bernard Emmanuel Julian Owen Valentine

Bertran(d) Eugene Justin Paschal Victor

Bonaventure Felix Kenneth Patrick Vincent

Brendan Ferdinand Kevin Paul Wilfred

Brian Finbar Kieran Peter Walter

Bruce Francis Lambert Philip William

Campion Frederick Lancelot

67

Pius Zachary



GIRLS

Adelaide Caroline Fernanda Judith Miriam*

Agatha Carol Florence Julia Monica

Agnes Catherine Frances Kathleen Natalie

Alberta Cecilia Francine Laura Nora

Alexandra Celine Frederica Lenora Nuntiata*

Alfonsa Celeste Gabriella Letitia* Patricia

Alice Celestine Genevieve Lillian* Paula

Alma* Charlotte Georgine Lois Pauline

Aloysia Christine Geraldine Lorraine Philippine

Amelia Claire Germaine Loretta* Priscilla

Andrea Concetta* Gertrude Lourdes* Rachel

Angela Consolata* Gloria* Louise Regina*

Angelina Constance Grace* Lucy Rita

Anne Consuela* Gregoria Lydia Roberta

Anita Denise Hannah Madeleine Rose

Annabelle Diane Helen Magdalene Rosalie

Anastasia Dolores* Hilda Madonna* Rosaria*

Antoinette Dominica Honora* Marcella Sarah

Antonia Dorothy Hyacinthe Marcia Sharon*

Barbara Doris Imogene* Margaret Sophie

Beatrice Eileen Immaculata* Marguerite Stella*

Benedetta Eleanor Inez Martha Stephanie

Bernice Elizabeth Irene Martina Susan

Bernadette Ellen Isabel Mary* Teresa

Bernardine Emily Jane Marie* Theresa

Blanche Estelle* Janet May* Ursula

Bridget Esther Janice Marian* Vera

Camilla Eugenia Jean Matilda Veronica

Carmel* Evelyn Joan(ne) Mercedes* Virginia*

Carmelita* Felicia* Josephine Mildred Winifred

* Names based on titles of Our Lady.

68



THE PROFESSION OF FAITH

(For use of Converts to the Church)

I (name), touching with my hand God’s holy Gospels,

enlightened by divine grace, profess the faith, which the

Catholic, Apostolic, Roman Church teaches. I believe

that Church to be the one true Church, which Jesus

Christ founded on earth: to which I submit with all my

heart.

I believe in God, the Father Almighty, Creator of

heaven and earth; and in Jesus Christ, His only Son, Our

Lord; Who was conceived by the Holy Spirit, born of the
Virgin Mary, suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified,

died, and was buried. He descended into hell; the third

day He arose again from the dead; He ascended into

Heaven, sits at the right hand of God, the Father Al-

mighty; from there He shall come to judge the living

and the dead. I believe in the Holy Spirit, the Holy

Catholic Church, the communion of saints, the forgive-

ness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and life ever-

lasting. Amen.

I believe that seven sacraments were instituted by Jesus

Christ for the salvation of mankind; namely, Baptism,

Confirmation, Holy Eucharist, Penance, Anointing of

the Sick, Holy Orders and Matrimony.

I believe that the Pope, the Bishcrp of Rome, is the

Vicar of Jesus Christ on earth, that he is the supreme vis-

ible head of the whole Church, and that he teaches infal-

libly what we must believe and do to be saved.

I also believe everything which the Holy, Catholic,

Apostolic and Roman Church defines and declares we

must believe. I adhere to her with all my heart, and I

reject every error and schism which she condemns.

So help me God with these holy Gospels which I

touch with my hand.

Signed:

Signed in my presence this day of

19

PAKISH SEAL Priest Witness

69



*

'

- IB

70



A HANDY TWO-YEAR RECORD

of Your Parish Contributions

THROUGH USE OF COLLECTION ENVELOPES

Collection 196.. 197.. Collection 196.. 197..

January Block

February
Bishops'

Relief Fund
March

Catholic

CharitiesApril

Propagation

of FaithMay

Peter’s

Pence
June

July
Holy Places

Catholic

UniversityAugust

September Christmas

October Easter

November
Others:

December

GRAND TOTAL

T I T H I N G

Tithing is the ancient practice ot contributing one-tenth of

one's wages, profits or benefits to Religion and Charity.

Five percent to the Parish Church for its own needs and Diocesan

requirements, five percent for Charity has been recommended.

Thus: Take Home Pay To Parish Church

5% of $ 40.00 $2.00

$ 50.00 $2.50

$ 60.00 $3.00

$ 80.00 $4.00

$100.00 $5.00



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