The Six Precepts of the Catholic Church

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

This precept requires the faithful to participate in the Eucharistic celebration, when the Christian community gathers together on the day commemorating the Resurrection of the Lord.
Catechism of the Catholic Church no. 2042.

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

This precept ensures preparation for the Eucharist by the reception of the Sacrament of Reconciliation, which continues Baptism's work of conversion and forgiveness.
Catechism of the Catholic Church no. 2042.

3. You shall humbly receive your Lord and Savior in Holy Communion at least during the Easter season.

This precept guarantees as a minimum the reception of the Lord's Body and Blood in connection with the Paschal feasts, the origin and center of the Christian liturgy.
Catechism of the Catholic Church no. 2042.

4. You shall keep holy the Holy Days of Obligation.

The precept requires the completion of the Sunday observance by participation in the principal liturgical feasts which honor the mysteries of the Lord, the Virgin Mary, and the saints. It requires, also, abstinence from those works and activities that impede the worship to be owed to God, the joy proper to the Lord's Day, the performance of works of mercy or the appropriate relaxation of mind and body. Family needs or importance social service can legitimate excuse from this obligation of rest, but the faithful should see to it that legitimate excuses to not lead to habits prejudicial to religion, family life, and health.
Catechism of the Catholic Church no. 2043.

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

This precept ensures the times of ascesis (times of discipline and piety) and penance that prepare us for the liturgical feasts; they help us acquire freedom of heart and mastery over our instincts.
Catechism of the Catholic Church no. 2043.

6. You shall provide for the material needs of the Church.

This precept requires the faithful to contribute to the Church according to their own abilities.
Catechism of the Catholic Church no. 2043.


Catechism of the Catholic Church nos. 2041-2041.