54: Common Works
Chapter 54 defines "common works" as a third category of activities for Sunday observance, distinct from liberal or servile works. These include daily necessities like cooking and household care, which are always permissible due to their universal and constant need, and activities engaging mind and body equally (e.g., walking, games, hunting for recreation), which are encouraged for physical and mental well-being. However, these common works become illicit if they lead to omission of divine service, become excessive or focused on gain, or create scandal by disturbing others or promoting sinful behavior. Outside these detrimental contingencies, common works are compatible with the reverence due on the Lord's Day.
For the full audiobook can be obtained here. The contents of this volume appeared originally in The Catholic Transcript, of Hartford, Connecticut, in weekly installments, from February, 1901, to February, 1903.
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