1. Chapter Six Morality: Virtues
Virtue: Strength

2. Character: attributes & features that make up our individuality
Family background
Influence of friends
Religious upbringing
Habitual Patterns of behavior:

3. Character Refers to the kind of person who acts in a certain way
We do not see character directly; we see it in its fruits
The action we perform will in turn form us
Jesus
The quintessential example of good moral character

4. Virtues/Vices
Virtues enable us to reach the intended purpose of our lives
Virtues involve
We must practice virtuous
Lived vs. Stated Value

5. Character Cycle Habits you form (virtues and vices) What you do
(acts)
Who you are
(character)

6. Authentic Freedom (p. 103) License:
From Chapter One: Morality is lessened if our free will is threatened or reduced through no fault of our own
Ignorance: lack of knowledge, education, etc
Family didn’t teach you stealing was wrong;
Fear/Duress: threats, unlawful or forcible restraints
Lie to protect self; prisoners of war; soccer team
Psychological or Social Factors
Mental capacity or Maturity
Violation of economic, political & other conditions needed to exercise freedom

7. Criteria for a Value Must be chosen from alternatives
Must be chosen after considering the consequences
Must be performed
Becomes a pattern of life
Is cherished
Is publicly affirmed
Enhances the person’ total Growth

8. Theological Virtues: Theos= God
Faith
Hope (vs. wishing p. 106) –
"Hope" is the thing with feathers – That perches in the soul – And sings the tune without the words –And never stops at all. - Emily Dickinson
Love/Charity (1 Cor 13) (Fromm’s Characteristics of love, p. 108)

9. Prayer & Virtues “Prayer is a mysterious encounter with God” (#2591)
Faith is prayerful longing to encounter God
7 Gifts of the Holy Spirit: wisdom, understanding, counsel right judgment, fortitude, knowledge, wonder & awe, piety

10. Cardinal Virtues: cardo = hinge practical, common sense virtues
Prudence:
Justice:
Fortitude:
Temperance:

11. Integrity Honesty, genuineness & consistency in behavior Poem, p. 113
Watch your thoughts; they become your words
Watch your words; they become actions
Watch you actions; they become habits
Watch your habits; they become character
Watch your character; it becomes your destiny

12. Communities of Character
Promotes the common good & provides the conditions such as peace & respect that allow its people to grow & develop
Catholic morality does not simply ask, What should I do to be good? It also asks, What should I do to help others be good as well?
The dignity of the human person requires pursuit of the common good. Everyone should be concerned to crate & support institutions that improve the condition of human life. Catechism, #1926