What is free will to the catholic church?

In Catholic teaching, free will is the God-given ability for human beings to make choices that are not predetermined, allowing them to choose between good and evil. This capacity for moral decision-making is essential for genuine love and relationship with God, as it enables individuals to accept or reject divine grace. The Church emphasizes that while free will allows for personal responsibility, it is also subject to the influence of sin and requires God's grace for proper guidance. Ultimately, free will is seen as a gift that reflects God's love and respect for human dignity.