371. Are the passions morally good or bad? (part 2 continuation)

371. Are the passions morally good or bad? (part 2 continuation) 

(Comp 371) The passions insofar as they are movements of the sensible appetite are neither good nor bad in themselves. They are good when they contribute to a good action and they are evil in the opposite case. They can be taken up into the virtues or perverted by the vices.

“In brief”

(CCC 1774) Emotions and feelings can be taken up in the virtues or perverted by the vices. (CCC 1775) The perfection of the moral good consists in man's being moved to the good not only by his will but also by his "heart." 

To deepen and explain

(CCC 1769) In the Christian life, the Holy Spirit himself accomplishes his work by mobilizing the whole being, with all its sorrows, fears and sadness, as is visible in the Lord's agony and passion. In Christ human feelings are able to reach their consummation in charity and divine beatitude. 

Reflection

(CCC 1770) Moral perfection consists in man's being moved to the good not by his will alone, but also by his sensitive appetite, as in the words of the psalm: "My heart and flesh sing for joy to the living God" (Ps 84:2). [END]

  (Next question: What is the moral conscience?)