The Convert's Catechism of Catholic Doctrine

On Grace

What can man do when left to his natural strength?: When left to his natural strength man can live only a natural, human life.
What does man need to live the life of a child of God?: To live the life of a child of God man needs the grace of God.
What is Grace?: Grace is a divine help given to man^ through the merits of Christy for his salvation.
What claim has man on God's help?: Man's only claim on God's help rests on the Goodness and Promises of God and the Merits of his Saviour.
How may man dispose himself for the grace of God?: Man disposes himself for the grace of God by observing the Law of God as far as he knows it, and by practicing charity towards his neighbor.
How is grace divided?: Grace is divided into Sanctifying and Actual Grace.
What is Sanctifying Grace?: Sanctifying Grace is that grace which makes man holy and pleasing in the sight of God. It is also called Habitual Grace, and the Grace of Justification.
How may man obtain Sanctifying Grace?: Man may obtain Sanctifying Grace

1) By receiving the Sacraments of Baptism and Penance;

2) By perfect sorrow for his sins and ardent desire to do whatever God has ordained for his salvation.
How does man lose Sanctifying Grace?: Man loses Sanctifying Grace by committing any mortal sin.
What is Actual Grace?: Actual Grace is a transient help of God, which enlightens the mind, and moves the will to perform virtuous actions.
Can man neglect the grace of God?: Man can, and unfortunately often does neglect the grace of God.
What is the Grace of Perseverance?: The Grace of Perseverance is a chain of Actual Graces which enables man to persevere in the friendship of God until death.
How can man obtain the grace of God?: Man can obtain the grace of God by Prayer, the devout reception of the Sacraments, and the pious use of the Sacramentals.