YOUCAT*: Someone who practices fortitude perseveres in his commitment to the good, once he has recognized it, even if in the extreme case he must sacrifice even his own life for it. [1808, 1837]
Doing the right thing, especially in a culture that doesn’t always teach us to do the right things, can be scary. Often referred to as courage, fortitude helps us to have the strength to resist temptation, overcome obstacles and conquer fear.
Two Scripture passages that come to mind when I think of fortitude are Philippians 4:13, “I have the strength for everything through him who empowers me”; and Psalm 118:14, “The Lord is my strength and my song.”
*Youth Catechism of the Catholic Church
Lisa Gomes is the director of the Office of Youth and Young Adult Ministry