It is not allowed to pray to the crucifix or images and relics of the
saints, for they have no life, nor power to help us, nor sense to hear
us.
344. Q. Why do we pray before the crucifix and the images and relics of
the saints?
A. We pray before the crucifix and images and relics of the saints
because they enliven our devotion by exciting pious affections and
desires, and by reminding us of Christ and of the saints, that we may
imitate their virtues.
LESSON THIRTY-SECOND
FROM THE SECOND TO THE FOURTH COMMANDMENT
345. Q. What is the second Commandment?
A. The second Commandment is: Thou shalt not take the name of the Lord
thy God in vain.
346. Q. What are we commanded by the second Commandment?
A. We are commanded by the second Commandment to speak with reverence of
God and of the saints, and of all holy things, and to keep our lawful
oaths and vows.
347. Q. What is an oath?
A. An oath is the calling upon God to witness the truth of what we say.
348. Q. When may we take an oath?
A. We may take an oath when it is ordered by lawful authority or
required for God's honor or for our own or our neighbor's good.
349.
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