Our Catechism

For St. Alphonsus Liguori, growth in the spiritual life was a primary pastoral concern. Typical of his simple approach to prayer, he recommended the practice of a particular virtue each month, beginning with the three theological virtues. St. Alphonsus believed that personal reflection, prayer, and the daily living of the monthly virtue could be a powerful means of “putting on Christ.” The daily effort for personal transformation into Christ became the basis of his spirituality. An outline plan appeared in St. Alphonsus’ own private notebook.

Monthly Virtues and Patrons

Month
Virtue
Scriptural Citation


January
Faith
I am the Light of the World. – John 8:12


February
Hope
Because he has hoped in me, I will deliver and protect him, because he has known my name. – Psalm 91:14


March
Love of God
Love the Lord thy God with thy whole heart, soul and mind, and with thy whole strength. – Mark 12:30


April
Love of Neighbor
This is my commandment that you love one another as I have loved you. – John 15:12


May
Poverty
Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the Kingdom of God. – Matthew 5:3


June
Purity of Heart
Blessed are the clean of heart, for they shall see God. – Matthew 5:8


July
Obedience
You are my friends if you do the things that I command you. – John 15:14


August
Meekness and Humility of Heart
Learn of me because I am meek and humble of heart. – Matthew 11:29


September
Mortification
He that hates his life in this world keeps it to life eternal. – John 12:25


October
Recollection and Silence
Jesus, having dismissed the multitude, when up to a mountain alone to pray. – Matthew 14:23


November
Prayer
We ought always to pray and not to faint. – Luke 18:1


December
Self-Abnegation and Love of the Cross
If anyone will come after me, deny yourselves. Take up the cross, and follow me. – Matthew 16:24