What is 'virtue', and why should we care about it as Catholics?
"A virtue is a habitual and firm disposition to do the good. It allows the person not only to perform good acts, but to give the best of himself." -Catechism #1803
Both Scripture and the best of philosophy tell us of 7 primary virtues. There are more than these, but these are the broadest way to summarize them all. Four are apparent from reason and are called the "Cardinal Virtues". These are:
- Prudence (or 'Wisdom')
- Justice
- Fortitude (or 'Courage')
- Temperance (or 'Moderation')
Scripture and the Tradition of the Church give us three more which are called the "Theological Virtues". These are:
- Faith
- Hope
- Love (or 'Charity')
Check out any of the links below for more information about the virtues, and how you can grow in them!
The Four Cardinal Virtues (Article)
The Four Cardinal Virtues (The Catechism)
