Catechism It is an undeniable truth that the western world has, since the French revolution and, especially, during the last few decades, discarded many of the values imparted by the Christian faith throughout the centuries. Christ has indeed been practically excluded from almost all realms of human endeavour. What has been the ordinary Christian’s attitude when confronted by the dominant thought in our culture or, as the Italians say, il pensiero unico? Unfortunately, many Christians did not remain loyal to their faith and their words and actions have conformed to what the majority deem to be right even if it is not. This explains why in countries with an ancient Christian culture like Italy and Ireland referenda called by those who support abortion won the day. Catholics, thankfully, are in the unique position of having a series of official documents where the teachings of the Church are made clear. The catechism of the Catholic Church is the safest and surest reference on a wide range of issues for those having a theological background and those with none. Upon the publication of the catechism, St John Paul II, to whom believers will ever be grateful, had this to say: “It is...