United States Catholic Catechism for Adults

Chapter 32. Eighth Commandment: Tell the Truth • 433

FROM THE CATECHISM

Franz Jagerstatter, an Austrian farmer, refused to accept the lies of the Nazis, and he was martyred for his commitment to Christ’s truth. During the French Revolution, a convent of Carmelite nuns chose to ignore laws that disbanded their monastery and continued to live together as a com munity. They courageously went to the guillotine rather than abandon the truth for which their vows stood. We can testify to the truths of our faith in our everyday living, espe cially when we come in contact with those who do not hold the fullness of faith taught by the Catholic Church. This is done by living out the responsibilities and implications of our faith, as well as by being pre pared to dialogue with others on issues of doctrine and morality where 1. What principle guides us in revealing the truth to another? The golden rule [“Do unto others as you would have them do unto you”] helps one discern, in concrete situations, whether or not it would be appropriate to reveal the truth to someone who asks for it. (CCC, no. 2510) 2. What is the responsibility of the media regarding truth? Society has a right to information based on truth, free dom, and justice. One should practice moderation and discipline in the use of the social communications media. (CCC, no. 2512) 3. How do art and beauty help us with truth? Arising from talent given by the Creator and from man’s own effort, art is a form of practical wisdom, uniting knowledge and skill, to give form to the truth of reality in a language accessible to sight or hearing. To the extent that it is inspired by truth and love of beings, art bears a certain likeness to God’s activity in what he has created. (CCC, no. 2501)