Seventh Sunday after Pentecost

Baltimore track

Baltimore Catechism No. 3

Lesson 16 — On the Gifts and Fruits of the Holy Ghost

Q. 710.Where did Our Lord usually preach?

A.Our Lord usually preached wherever an opportunity of doing good by His Words presented itself. He preached at times in the synagogues or meeting-houses but more frequently in the open air--by the seashore or on the mountain, and often by the wayside.

Q. 711.What is the meaning and use of the Beatitudes in general?

A.(1) In general the Beatitudes embrace whatever pertains to the perfection of Christian life, and they invite us to the practice of the highest Christian virtues; (2) In different forms they all promise the same reward, namely, sanctifying grace in this life and eternal glory in the next; (3) They offer us encouragement and consolation for every trial and affliction.

Q. 712.What does the first Beatitude mean by the "poor in spirit"?

A.The first Beatitude means by the "poor in spirit" all persons, rich or poor, who would not offend God to possess or retain anything that this world can give; and who, when necessity or charity requires it, give willingly for the glory of God. It includes also those who humbly submit to their condition in life when it cannot be improved by lawful means.

Q. 713.Who are the mourners who deserve the consolation promised in the third Beatitude?

A.The mourners who deserve the consolation promised in the third Beatitude are they who, out of love for God, bewail their own sins and those of the world; and they who patiently endure all trials that come from God or for His sake.