Catechesis: Monastic Vows

This also is false: monastic observances are works of the counsels of the Gospel. The Gospel does not advise about distinguishing clothing and meats and the giving up of property. These are human traditions, about which it is has been said, “Food will not commend us to God.” (1 Cor. 8:8). Therefore, they are neither justifying services nor perfection. Indeed, when they are presented covered with these titles, they are mere “teachings of demons.”—Ap XXVII:26