What does it mean to be a “practicing Catholic”? This question is important, because a person must be a “practicing Catholic” in order to be a sponsor/godparent (for a Catholic who is married, they also have to be in a valid marriage in the eyes of the Church). The Precepts of the Catholic Church are a description of the absolute minimum actions required of Catholics regarding the Church. These precepts reminds us that Christian life requires a commitment to prayer and active participation in the liturgy and sacraments. To fall below this bare-minimum level means that practically speaking we cannot consider ourselves as being in full communion with the Catholic Church.
It is important to always remember that the Precepts of the Catholic Church are minimum levels. Out of love for Jesus and a desire to advance in the spiritual life, a person should want to “strive” to do far more than minimum established by the Precepts. So below are the Precepts, and how a person can be more of a “Striver.”
First Precept: “You shall attend Mass on Sunday and holy days of obligation and rest from servile labor.”
Striver: Attend Mass at least one more time a week.
Second Precept: “You shall confess your sins at least once a year.”
Striver: Go to confession at least once a month, and immediately after falling into mortal sin. Also, find a regular confessor so he can give you better guidance.
Third Precept: “You shall humbly receive your Creator in Holy Communion at least during the Easter season.”
Striver: Receive the Sacrament of the Eucharist at every Mass if you meet the guidelines for reception (are free from mortal sin, etc.).
Fourth Precept: “You shall observe the prescribed days of fasting and abstinence.”
Striver: Make a habit of practicing penitential and charitable acts beyond those required by the precepts of the Catholic Church. Try to abstain from meat on Fridays throughout the year, for example.
Fifth Precept: “You shall provide for the material needs of the Church.”
Striver: Contribute as much as possible to the material needs of the Church. Consider working toward biblical tithing: 10% of your gross income. Also volunteer your time to assist at Church events.
If we only give the minimum, we are like the servants that Jesus says, “When you have done all you have been commanded, say, ‘We are unprofitable servants; we have done what we were obliged to do.’” (Luke 17:10). Rather we should heed the advice of St. Paul, who said, “Strive eagerly for the greatest spiritual gifts” (1 Corinthians 12:31).