Theological Virtues Chapter 15 Lesson 4

Supernatural Virtues They are a gift from God We grow in them by exercising them They are also called the theological virtues (Theos means God in Greek) They direct us toward God

Faith The virtue by which we believe all that God has revealed to us through Christ and his Church Examples: 1.Belief in the Holy Trinity 2.Belief in the Incarnation 3.Belief in eternal life

Hope The virtue by which we trust in God’s promises of eternal salvation. Examples: 1.We hope to be with God forever in heaven 2.We can trust in his ways for us to grow in holiness

Charity The virtue by which we love God above all things, and our neighbor for love of God. This is the Great Commandment – Lk 10:25-28 We love God because he is all good and deserving of all of our love. Examples: 1.We love our neighbors 2.We love our enemies 3.We love ourselves We do this because God loves them and they are made in his image.

How can we strengthen our theological virtues? Prayer Acts of Faith, Hope, and Love Our actions Serving others in need Studying our religion

Summary 1.Faith: study our faith, pray the creed, etc. 2.Hope: live the moral life, receive the sacraments, pray, etc. 3.Charity: worship God, volunteer for a charity, etc.

Understanding the Virtues The distinction between natural and supernatural virtues is based on how they are acquired: Natural virtues are acquired by repeatedly doing good acts. Supernatural virtues are directly infused by God. The distinction between human and theological virtues in based on their end (purpose): Human virtues help us to lead a morally good life. The cardinal virtues are human virtues. Theological virtues help us to live in relationship to God. The cardinal virtues can be both natural and supernatural. They can be acquired by repeated act (natural), and they are infused by God at baptism (supernatural).

Review To know what a virtue is. To know the difference between natural and supernatural virtues. To define the cardinal virtues and give examples of each. To know the virtues that oppose the cardinal vices. To know the theological virtues.

Prayer Before a Crucifix Most high, glorious God, Enlighten the shadows of my heart And grant unto me A right faith, a certain hope, A perfect charity, sense and Understanding So that I may carry out Your true and holy will. - Saint Francis of Assisi