Virtues

Justice: Enables one to give to each, beginning with God, what is due him

The cardinal virtue of Justice perfects our relationships with our family, our country, and God. 

Justice is often represented by a scale because it helps us weigh what is right and fair and act accordingly. 

Christian justice sees with the eyes of the heart, animated and motivated by charity (by love of God and love of neighbor).  

Prudence: Enables one to reason and act rightly in any given situation; "right reason in action" 

The cardinal virtue of Prudence perfects the intellect - our natural ability to judge correctly. 

Prudence guides the other virtues by setting the standard and measure.  It applies moral principles to specific situations.  

Prudence is often represented by a scroll and torch: when illuminated by faith, prudence enabled us to judge situations in light of eternity.  We are able to see clearly to know the Truth and the best way to act. 

The three parts of a prudential act are: 

1. Good Counsel: Advice from trustworthy and reasonable persons 

2. Good Judgement: Considering and praying about how to act 

3. Command: Acting upon the counsel and judgment 

Temperance: Enables one to be moderate in the pleasure and use of created goods

The cardinal virtue of Temperance brings order to our life, particularly our emotions and desires. 

Temperance moderates the attractions of sense pleasure, providing balance in the use of the good things of this world.  It does not destroy emotions or desires; it moderates them according to right reason so that we are not bound by instincts or desires but free to pursue goodness.  

The Christian who practices Temperance is not attached to the things of this world, enabling him or her to be attached to the "one things necessary" (Luke 10:42): Jesus Christ.  

Temperance is often represented by an olive wreath: in ancient times, the olive wreath was the crown given to athletes and emperors.  Temperance is often the fruit of hard work and gives the prize of authentic self-mastery.  It crowns our descisions with a holy balance, joy, and inner peace. 

Fortitude: Enables one to endure difficulties and pain for the sake of what is good

The cardinal virtue of Fortitude perfects our emotions, particularly by freeing us from the grip of fear and anger. It makes us strong in the pursuit of goodness, helping us to resist temptations and overcome obstacles.  

When inspired by charity, it empowers us to hope in Christ's strength to make us confident and even joyful in the face of trials, persecution, and even death.  Christian martyrdom is a shining example of Fortitude.  

Fortitude is often represented by shield, for it is the virtue of strength.  It enables one to persevere in the pursuit of goodness, even to the point of sacrifice.  Christian Fortitude recognizes that God is our highest good and guards one's relationship with God, even if martyrdom should be the cost.