Basic Requirements for Catholics

"As to decrees on doctrines of faith they are invariable; what is once true is so unto eternity..." 

St Francis de Sales

 Basic Beliefs of Catholicism

Book Catholicism for Dummies

As a Catholic, basically we’re required to live a Christian life, pray daily, participate in the sacraments, obey the moral law, and accept the teachings of Christ and his Church. Following are the minimum requirements for Catholics:

• Attend Mass every Sunday and holy day of obligation.

• Go to confession annually if not more often or when needed.

• Receive Holy Communion during Easter. Receiving weekly or daily is encouraged, though.

• Observe laws on fasting and abstinence: one full meal on Ash Wednesday and Good Friday; not eating meat on Fridays during Lent.

• Obey the marriage laws of the Church.

• Support the Church financially and otherwise.
• To participate in the Church's mission of Evangelization of Souls. 

Knowing the faith is the first step to being Catholic, accepting the faith is the second step, and practicing the faith is the third — and most difficult — step. Obeying the rules involves appreciating the wisdom and value of the various rules and laws. And, you’re asked to put that belief into action, to practice what you believe.