Prologue

In the first volume of this work, there are found expounded in general the more universal principles of the whole of moral science, and also the doctrine concerning the theological virtues, which are concerned with the ultimate end itself, which in things to be done is the first principle.

In the second volume there was said in particular concerning the various means intrinsically necessary for the end from the very nature of the thing, to which the moral virtues dispose us; all of these are reduced to the four cardinal virtues.

But there are also other extrinsic means, prescribed for salvation from the positive will of God, namely the sacraments instituted by Christ the Lord; among which the Most Holy Eucharist excels, which at the same time is the continual sacrifice of the New Law. Wherefore in the present volume the whole moral doctrine concerning the sacraments comes to be handed down, both in general and in special, with all rules and precepts which pertain to them.

But it does not seem possible to understand those practical questions perfectly unless a right concept is present concerning the general nature of the sacraments and concerning the proper character of each one; and we hold it to be contrary to pedagogy to separate moral solutions from the speculative doctrine on which they rest. Therefore let it please us, after the manner of a foundation, to expound also the speculative questions concerning the sacraments, yet briefly and summarily, leaving longer demonstrations, deeper explanations, and more subtle investigations to dogmatic theologians.

Concerning the sacraments ecclesiastical legislation has decreed many things, whose canons and prescriptions certainly will have to be attended to, yet with a certain moderation: namely when, and insofar as, it will be necessary for a sufficient understanding or for a fuller knowledge of moral theology, such as can seem to be duly required in priests. We intend to remain spare from greater abundance, lest we wish to convert moral science into canonical discipline; for we judge that more perfect elucidations of texts, more intricate problems, more special ways in juridical process, and the synthetic aspect of the whole of law are to be reserved to jurists.

May God grant that, under the patronage of the Blessed Virgin, the work begun may be completed unto the more certain instruction of schools, the greater utility of the clergy, and the more perfect building up of the body of Christ.

I was writing on the feast of St. Albert the Great, Confessor and Doctor of the Church, November 15, 1932.

The Author.