My dear parishioners,
Peace! Under headings of Judgment, Formation, Choice in Accord, Erroneous Judgment and In Brief, the Catechism of the Catholic Church addresses “conscience” in twenty-nine passages. Here we consider CCC, 1788.
There are at least five components which together impact our choice(s) in accord with conscience which we should consider.
First we should consider the interpretation of the data of experience as relates with our choice(s) in accord with conscience. Qualitative interpretations differ. Someone addicted to drugs, for example, will interpret the “high” as a good thing, while someone who is sober will recognize multiple dangers (death, sickness, harm to others…) which result from getting “high.”
Second, we should consider the interpretation of the signs of the times as relates with our choice(s) in accord with conscience. While Saints Augustine (+430) and Thomas Aquinas, OP (+1274) both knew about sins against chastity they did not know about the internet which gives access to lustful materials on cell phones and computers with web access. This is one example of a “sign of the time” which calls for our attention. There are others…
Third, we should consider the Virtue of prudence in our choice(s) in accord with conscience. The virtue of prudence seeks to do the right thing, at the right time, in the right way, for the right reason(s). Prudence has us avoid touching hot stoves and looking around before crossing the street. Prudence chooses the safest course, avoiding unnecessary risks, allowing us to keenly foresee the future consequences of our present actions (cf. Summa Theologiae II-II Q. 47, A. 1).
Fourth, we should consider the advice of competent people in our choice(s) in accord with conscience. Who would qualify as a “competent person” who can aid us in choosing well, according to conscience? Do we allow the Saints to advise us and guide our conscience? Do we allow the inspired authors of Sacred Scripture to advise us and guide our conscience? Do we allow the clergy to advise us and guide our choice(s) in accord with conscience? Some people, sadly, never seek input as to what might be a good course of action. We have great resources at our disposal and should serve each other and our neighbors in a similar way.
Finally, we should consider the help and gifts of the Holy Spirit as they play a part in our choices in accord with conscience. The Holy Spirit has been poured out upon us in Holy Baptism and Confirmation. The seven-fold gifts of the Holy Spirit can help us to choose well in accord with conscience: wisdom, understanding, counsel, strength, knowledge, piety, fear of the Lord (cf. Isaiah 11:1-3). When faced with difficult decisions we should call upon the Holy Spirit to give us insight to recognize the good we should do and the power to act accordingly. To reflect on what is good and doing good is proper to our human nature.
God bless you!
Father John Arthur Orr