Which four virtues are the Cardinal Virtues?

• A. Evangelization
• B. Faith, Hope, Charity
• C. Theological Virtues
• D. Prudence, Justice, Fortitude, Temperance

Answer: (D)

The Cardinal Virtues are the four fundamental moral virtues that guide everyday actions. They are prudence, justice, fortitude, and temperance. Prudence means practical wisdom—knowing the right thing to do in a given situation. Justice is about giving God and neighbor their due, acting fairly and rightly toward others. Fortitude gives us courage to face difficulties and stay committed to what is good. Temperance is self-control over our desires, helping us pursue what is good in balance. These virtues are called cardinal because they’re the hinge on which other virtues turn, shaping how we apply moral principles in real life. They contrast with the Theological Virtues—faith, hope, and charity—which are gifts oriented toward God and infused into the soul. This set of four matches the Cardinal Virtues exactly.