A COMPLETE CATECHISM
OF
THE CATHOLIC RELIGION.
INTRODUCTION.
On the End of Man.
1. For what end are we in this world?
We are in this world that we may know God, love Him, and serve Him, and thereby attain Heaven.
2. What is Heaven?
Heaven is a place of eternal and perfect happiness.
3. Are not the things of this world intended to make us happy?
No; the things of this world cannot possibly make us happy.
4. Why cannot the things of this world make us happy?
1. Because all earthly things are vain and perishable: and 2. Because man is made for God and for everlasting happiness in Heaven.
1. 'I heaped together for myself silver and gold, and the wealth of kings and provinces. And whatsoever my eyes desired, I refused them not, and I withheld not my heart from enjoying every pleasure. But I saw in all things vanity and vexation of mind, and that nothing was lasting under the sun.' Thus spoke Solomon, the happiest of kings (Eccles. ii. 8-11). 'What is your life? It is a vapor which appeareth for a little while, and afterwards shall vanish away' (James iv. 15). 2. 'For Thyself, O God, Thou hast made us; therefore our heart will be restless until it rests in Thee' (St. Augustine).
