IN BRIEF:
2160 "O Lord, our Lord, how majestic is your name in all the earth" (Ps 8:1)!
2161 The second commandment enjoins respect for the Lord's name. The name of the Lord is holy.
2162 The second commandment forbids every improper use of God's name. Blasphemy is the use of the name of God, of Jesus Christ, of the Virgin Mary, and of the saints in an offensive way.
2163 False oaths call on God to be witness to a lie. Perjury is a grave offence against the Lord who is always faithful to his promises.
2164 "Do not swear whether by the Creator, or any creature, except truthfully, of necessity, and with reverence" (St. Ignatius of Loyola, Spiritual Exercises, 38).
2165 In Baptism, the Christian receives his name in the Church. Parents, godparents, and the pastor are to see that he be given a Christian name. The patron saint provides a model of charity and the assurance of his prayer.
2166 The Christian begins his prayers and activities with the Sign of the Cross: "in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen."
2167 God calls each one by name (cf. Isa 43:1).
"O Lord, our Lord, how majestic is your name in all the earth!" It is holy, and we ought to respect it by not using your name improperly. We are not allowed to blasphemously speak of your name, or take false oaths, or commit perjury. In short, we ought to be truthful, and only use your name when it is necessary, and with due reverence.
God calls each one by name.
When we example all of this as a Catholic man, it not only benefits us spiritually, but passes on to our spouse and children (if married), as we have an impact on the next generation. Furthermore, when we show serious respect for God's name (like don't engage in lockerroom talk) you will be surprised how many others will do the same, or ask why - your teaching moment.
