United States Catholic Catechism for Adults

444 • Part III. Christian Morality: The Faith Lived

(Rom 7:24, 25). The gifts of faith and grace enabled Paul to meet the demands of the Gospel of Jesus. They will do the same for us.

FOR DISCUSSION 1. What are modesty and purity of heart? What are ways you have found to help you acquire these virtues? Share stories of people you admire who witness to these values. 2. Why is it important to be as vigilant about our interior attitudes toward sexuality as we are about external acts? What are other examples you can cite about the link between inner attitudes and external behavior? 3. While it may seem daunting, what are strategies that could be adopt ed to turn back the cultural influences that undermine modesty and purity of heart? What will help you trust in the power of the Gospel of Jesus to bring this about? • “‘Everyone who looks at a woman lustfully has already committed adultery with her in his heart’ (Mt 5:28). The ninth commandment warns against lust or carnal concupiscence” (CCC, nos. 2528-2529). • “Modesty protects the mystery of persons and their love. It encour ages patience and moderation in loving relationships. . . . It inspires one’s choice of clothing. It keeps silence or reserve where there is evident risk of unhealthy curiosity. It is discreet” (CCC, no. 2522). • Concupiscence refers to our disordered desires and the inclination to sin that is a consequence of Original Sin. The term describes rebel lion of our passions and desires against the dictates of right reason. • “Purification of the heart demands prayer, the practice of chastity, purity of intention and of vision. Purity of heart requires the mod esty which is patience, decency, and discretion. Modesty protects the intimate center of the person” (CCC, nos. 2532-2533). DOCTRINAL STATEMENTS • You shall not covet your neighbor’s wife (Dt 5:21).