Justice
To commemorate the feast of Saint Martin de Porres, the patron saint of interracial justice for saving countless slaves from death by his merciful works and loving charity, we bring you a few capsules on Justice and the right to life in both the new Catechism of the Catholic Church and the old Baltimore Catechism.
No. 1807, page 444 of the Catechism of the Catholic Church, Libreria Editrice Vaticana: Urbi
Et Orbi Communications:
[1807]
Justice is the moral virtue that consists in the constant and firm will to give their due to God and neighbor. Justice toward God is called
the "virtue of religion." Justice toward men disposes one to respect the
rights of each and to establish in human relationships the hrmony that
promotes equity with regard to persons and to the common good. The just
man, often mentioned in the Sacred Scriptures, is distinguished by habitual
right thinking and the uprightness of his conduct toward his neighbor.
"You shall not be partial to the poor or defer to the great, but in
righteousness shall you judge your neighbor." (68) "Masters, treat your
slaves justly and fairly, knowing that you also have a Master in heaven."
(69).
From the Baltimore Catechism No. 3; Benziger Brothers, Inc and Tan Books
and Publishers, Inc. Nos. 1273, 1277, and 1280 Pages 286-288
[1273]
Q: What are we commanded by the Fifth Commandment?
A: We are commanded by the fifth Commandment to live in peace and union
with our neighbor, to respect his rights, to seek his spiritual and bodily welfare, and to take proper care of our own life and health.
[1277]
Q: What is forbidden by the Fifth Commandment?
A: The Fifth Commandment forbids all wilful murder, fighting, anger,
hatred, revenge,
and bad example.
[1280]
Q: Why are fighting, anger, hatred and revenge forbidden by the Fifth Commandment?
A: Fighting, anger, hatred and revenge are forbidden by the fifth
commandment
because they are sinful in themselves and may lead to murder. The
commandments forbid not only whatever violates them, but also whatever
may lead to their violation.
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