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Chapter 32. Eighth Commandment: Tell the Truth • 433

Franz Jagerstatter, an Austrian farmer, refused to accept the lies of the

Nazis, and he was martyred for his commitment to Christ’s truth. During

the French Revolution, a convent of Carmelite nuns chose to ignore laws

that disbanded their monastery and continued to live together as a com-

munity. They courageously went to the guillotine rather than abandon

the truth for which their vows stood.

We can testify to the truths of our faith in our everyday living, espe-

cially when we come in contact with those who do not hold the fullness

of faith taught by the Catholic Church. This is done by living out the

responsibilities and implications of our faith, as well as by being pre-

pared to dialogue with others on issues of doctrine and morality where

1. What principle guides us in revealing the truth to another?

The golden rule [“Do unto others as you would have them

do unto you”] helps one discern, in concrete situations,

whether or not it would be appropriate to reveal the truth

to someone who asks for it. (CCC, no. 2510)

2. What is the responsibility of the media regarding truth?

Society has a right to information based on truth, free-

dom, and justice. One should practice moderation and

discipline in the use of the social communications media.

(CCC, no. 2512)

3. How do art and beauty help us with truth?

Arising from talent given by the Creator and from man’s

own effort, art is a form of practical wisdom, uniting

knowledge and skill, to give form to the truth of reality in

a language accessible to sight or hearing. To the extent

that it is inspired by truth and love of beings, art bears a

certain likeness to God’s activity in what he has created.

(CCC, no. 2501)

FROM THE CATECHISM