a) What is temperance?
Temperance is the virtue that disposes us to control our desires and to use rightly the things that please us, especially through our senses. This virtue is necessary in moderating the use of food and drink, play, other enjoyable things, and bodily pleasure.
Next to God’s infusion, the virtue of temperance can best be gained by being faithful in little things, by not giving in even to the small temptations we encounter everyday, such as gluttony, lust, excessive love for comfort, unnecessary expenses and others. By possessing this virtue, we gain self-control, mature and become more free.
b) Why should Altar Servers live the virtue of temperance?
Without temperance, the Altar Server will be under the control of things and pleasure, instead of him controlling them. This is seen easily if one gives in to vices, such as drinking, smoking or gambling. These bad habits will affect one’s studies, performance as an Altar Server, relationships in the family and with real friends, and so on.
Everything that God gives us is good, but if we do not use them according to his plan, then we abuse them and they cause us harm.