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SIX LAWS OF THE CHURCH


Members of Roman Catholic Church
Image of Members of Roman Catholic Church 


By Edward Matulanya

Learn about the six precepts of the Roman Catholic Church essential laws guiding Catholics in faith, worship, and moral living according to Church teachings.

Introduction

The six key laws (also called precepts or commandments of the Church) that Roman Catholics are generally obliged to observe. The Six Precepts (laws) of the Catholic Church are rooted in Sacred Scripture even though they are expressed in the Code of Canon Law (the official legal code of the Catholic Church).

Below are the six laws that the Roman Catholic Church traditionally cites as the foundation. 

1. Attend Mass on Sundays and Holy Days of Obligation

Catholics must participate in the Eucharist on Sundays and on other holy days established by the Church (Code of Canon Law, canons 1246–1247). According to the Holy Bible “Remember the sabbath day, and keep it holy” (Exodus 20:8–11). Also the Holy Bible emphasis “Do not neglect to meet together, as is the habit of some…” (Hebrews 10:25 ).

2. Confess Serious (Mortal) Sins at Least Once a Year

The faithful are required to receive the sacrament of reconciliation at least annually (Code of Canon Law, canon 989). According to the Holy Bible, Jesus gives the apostles power to forgive sins (John 20:22–23).James emphasis on confessing sins “Confess your sins to one another…” (James 5:16). It is important for Catholics to confess their mortal sins frequently to restore their good relation with their God.

3. Receive Holy Communion at Least During the Easter Season

Catholics must receive the Eucharist at least once a year, during the Easter period if possible (Code of Canon Law, canon 920). According to Holy Bible, “Unless you eat the flesh of the Son of Man and drink his blood, you have no life in you” (John 6:53–56). Jesus emphasised believers to receive the Eucharist in rememberance of him, And he took bread, and gave thanks, and brake it, and gave unto them, saying, This is my body which is given for you: this do in remembrance of me (Luke 22:19). Paul recounts Jesus’ command to “do this in remembrance of me ” (1 Corinthians 11:23–26).

4. Observe Days of Fasting and Abstinence Established by the Church

The Church prescribes certain days of fasting e.g., Ash Wednesday, Good Friday and abstinence e.g., all Fridays of Lent (Code of Canon Law, canons 1249–1251). According to Holy Bible, Jesus speaks of proper fasting (Matthew 6:16–18). Fasting is also emphasised by Joel “Blow the trumpet in Zion; sanctify a fast…”(Joel 2:15).

5. Provide for the Needs of the Church

According to Code of Canon Law, (canon 222 §1) The faithful have a duty to assist with the material needs of the Church according to their ability (often understood as tithing or other support). Those who proclaim the gospel should get their living from the gospel (1 Corinthians 9:13–14). According to Holy Bible, (Galatians 6:6) “One who is taught the word must share all good things with the one who teaches.”

6. Observe the Church’s Marriage Laws

Catholics are bound to follow canonical form for marriage and avoid unions contrary to Church law. (Code of Canon Law, canons 1055–1165; especially 1108–1123). According to Holy Bible, (Matthew 19:6) “What God has joined together, let no one separate.” Also, (Hebrews 13:4) “Let marriage be held in honor by all…”. It is important for Catholics to observe marriage as the sacrament of Matrimony.

Reference:

The Holy Bible, New Revised Standard Version Catholic Edition. (1989). Exodus 20:8–11; Hebrews 10:25.

The Holy Bible, New Revised Standard Version Catholic Edition. (1989). John 20:22–23; James 5:16.

Catholic Church. (1983). Code of canon law (Latin–English ed., Vatican translation). Washington, DC: Canon Law Society of America.

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