This document discusses the Catholic Church's response to HIV/AIDS and the politicization of condoms. It summarizes the Church's teachings on sexuality and argues fact-based evidence shows abstinence-based approaches in countries like the Philippines and Uganda have been more effective at reducing HIV transmission than condom promotion. The document also criticizes media attacks on the late Pope John Paul II's stance and defends the Church's focus on caring for AIDS patients through outreach like that of Blessed Theresa of Calcutta.
This document contains lessons on topics related to the Church, including evangelization, social justice, challenges of unbelief, and atheism. It discusses how the Church aims to shape society according to Christian morality through evangelization and addressing social injustices like oppressing the poor. It also examines different types of unbelief and atheism, and ways the Church responds, such as through catechesis and leading people to conversion. Major social encyclicals addressing issues like labor conditions and private property are also summarized.
This thesis examines the Christian ministry HOLD the children, which helps poor children in Haiti. Chapter 1 introduces the structure and content of the thesis. Chapter 2 will provide a biblical foundation by exploring what the Bible says about poverty and the poor, including how Jesus and early Christians addressed poverty. Chapter 3 will review literature on defining poverty and evaluating compassionate aid agencies. Chapter 4 will discuss the context of poverty in Haiti. Chapter 5 will evaluate the HOLD the children ministry model and its outcomes in helping Haitian children. The goal is to develop a theological and practical model for addressing poverty based on the work of HOLD the children.
This document analyzes the religious identities of European Jews who converted to Christianity during the Holocaust. It examines their motives for converting and how conversion shaped their identities over time. The document discusses several case studies, including Arlette De Long and Denise Epstein who were born in France. Arlette's family pretended to be Christian to protect themselves, and she was baptized Catholic but still felt connected to Judaism as an adult. The document aims to understand conversion sincerity during this traumatic time period and how it affected religious convictions both before and after the Holocaust.
Understanding Animism and Evangelising AnimistsPeter Hammond
The document discusses animism, which is the religion of spirit worship practiced by over 100 million tribal people. It involves worshipping departed ancestors, spirits, nature, and using witchdoctors to placate spirits. The document uses examples of the Mayan civilization and tribes in Papua New Guinea to show how some praise pagan cultures despite practices like human sacrifice and lack of progress. It argues animism is a "progress-resistant force" that keeps people in fear and superstition. Haiti is discussed as an example of a nation dedicated to spirits/voodoo that remains extremely poor and unstable despite foreign aid. The document aims to provide understanding of animism in order to evangelize its followers.
This document provides an overview of patterns of conversion in Melanesia, with examples. It discusses 3 main patterns: Protestant conversion focused on education and individual faith decisions; Roman Catholic conversion aimed to convert communities through baptism and ritual; and conversion through indigenous religious movements addressing specific problems. Examples from Irian Jaya describe rapid Dani conversion sparked by burning fetishes, and a dream experience that catalyzed conversion on Roon island, blending Christian and traditional religious symbols. Conversion involves both continuity of symbols and discontinuity in accepting new beliefs.
The document discusses evangelizing animist tribes. It notes that some anthropologists praise aspects of animist cultures like the Mayans that engaged in human sacrifice and slavery. However, Christian missionaries have helped tribal people by ending practices like warfare, cannibalism, and polygamy, and providing literacy, medicine, and the gospel. Animism involves spirit worship and is the primary religion of over 100 million tribal people. It is characterized by fear, lack of love/hope, no moral absolutes, and fatalism. The Bible condemns practices of animism like divination. Christian missionaries aim to bring tribal people the freedom and hope found in Christ.
Top 10 kp is pour maximiser ses ventes en lignePrestaShop
Taux de conversion, panier moyen, paniers abandonnés, trafic, prévisions … Autant d’indicateurs de performances à suivre de très près pour développer vos ventes. Réunissez toutes les conditions pour faire de votre site e-commerce un générateur de business en ligne.
This document contains lessons on topics related to the Church, including evangelization, social justice, challenges of unbelief, and atheism. It discusses how the Church aims to shape society according to Christian morality through evangelization and addressing social injustices like oppressing the poor. It also examines different types of unbelief and atheism, and ways the Church responds, such as through catechesis and leading people to conversion. Major social encyclicals addressing issues like labor conditions and private property are also summarized.
This thesis examines the Christian ministry HOLD the children, which helps poor children in Haiti. Chapter 1 introduces the structure and content of the thesis. Chapter 2 will provide a biblical foundation by exploring what the Bible says about poverty and the poor, including how Jesus and early Christians addressed poverty. Chapter 3 will review literature on defining poverty and evaluating compassionate aid agencies. Chapter 4 will discuss the context of poverty in Haiti. Chapter 5 will evaluate the HOLD the children ministry model and its outcomes in helping Haitian children. The goal is to develop a theological and practical model for addressing poverty based on the work of HOLD the children.
This document analyzes the religious identities of European Jews who converted to Christianity during the Holocaust. It examines their motives for converting and how conversion shaped their identities over time. The document discusses several case studies, including Arlette De Long and Denise Epstein who were born in France. Arlette's family pretended to be Christian to protect themselves, and she was baptized Catholic but still felt connected to Judaism as an adult. The document aims to understand conversion sincerity during this traumatic time period and how it affected religious convictions both before and after the Holocaust.
Understanding Animism and Evangelising AnimistsPeter Hammond
The document discusses animism, which is the religion of spirit worship practiced by over 100 million tribal people. It involves worshipping departed ancestors, spirits, nature, and using witchdoctors to placate spirits. The document uses examples of the Mayan civilization and tribes in Papua New Guinea to show how some praise pagan cultures despite practices like human sacrifice and lack of progress. It argues animism is a "progress-resistant force" that keeps people in fear and superstition. Haiti is discussed as an example of a nation dedicated to spirits/voodoo that remains extremely poor and unstable despite foreign aid. The document aims to provide understanding of animism in order to evangelize its followers.
This document provides an overview of patterns of conversion in Melanesia, with examples. It discusses 3 main patterns: Protestant conversion focused on education and individual faith decisions; Roman Catholic conversion aimed to convert communities through baptism and ritual; and conversion through indigenous religious movements addressing specific problems. Examples from Irian Jaya describe rapid Dani conversion sparked by burning fetishes, and a dream experience that catalyzed conversion on Roon island, blending Christian and traditional religious symbols. Conversion involves both continuity of symbols and discontinuity in accepting new beliefs.
The document discusses evangelizing animist tribes. It notes that some anthropologists praise aspects of animist cultures like the Mayans that engaged in human sacrifice and slavery. However, Christian missionaries have helped tribal people by ending practices like warfare, cannibalism, and polygamy, and providing literacy, medicine, and the gospel. Animism involves spirit worship and is the primary religion of over 100 million tribal people. It is characterized by fear, lack of love/hope, no moral absolutes, and fatalism. The Bible condemns practices of animism like divination. Christian missionaries aim to bring tribal people the freedom and hope found in Christ.
Top 10 kp is pour maximiser ses ventes en lignePrestaShop
Taux de conversion, panier moyen, paniers abandonnés, trafic, prévisions … Autant d’indicateurs de performances à suivre de très près pour développer vos ventes. Réunissez toutes les conditions pour faire de votre site e-commerce un générateur de business en ligne.
The document discusses issues around media representation of religion in New Zealand. It notes that both the media landscape and religious demography are diverse. Minority religious groups often feel dissatisfied with stereotypical or sensationalized portrayals. The author argues that journalists need better training and expertise around religions to competently cover religious topics and dimensions of news stories. Establishing a working group to develop guidelines around responsible and accurate religious coverage could help address these issues.
Youth are you preparing for divorce by colin standish Antonio Bernard
This document is an introduction chapter from a book written by two 72-year-old authors addressing youth on preparing for marriage and avoiding divorce. It discusses how moral values have changed drastically from when the authors were young, with the rejection of biblical principles leading to a rise in divorce, premarital sex, and other issues. The authors draw on their experience having lived through both eras to provide perspective and warn youth of the consequences of abandoning biblical morality.
The document discusses the relationship between faith and reason, and argues that Christianity has historically been compatible with science and reason. It addresses several common myths, including that Christianity suppressed scientific advancement during the Middle Ages. While some Christian individuals and groups have held anti-intellectual views, the Church itself has generally supported scientific inquiry. The document also examines factors that prevented the development of modern science in other cultures like China and Islam, and argues Christianity provided a foundation for its growth in the West.
Responding to Revolution with Resistance and ReformationPeter Hammond
The document discusses responding to various modern revolutions with Christian resistance and reformation. It recommends disconnecting from media indoctrination and defilement, supporting alternative Christian media and education, and rebuilding all areas of life based on biblical principles. Central to resistance is prayer, studying Scripture together, and traditional families raising children in the faith to counter the anti-Christian agenda and leave a godly legacy for future generations.
Role of religious communication during pandemic covid-19anshula garg
Religion and culture are essential elements of humanity, and it is through communication, that these elements of humanity are mediated.
Whether exploring these terms in health, interpersonal, intercultural, intergroup, mass, or other communication contexts, it is evident that understanding the intersection(s) among religion, culture, and communication offers vast opportunities for researchers and practitioners.
The document discusses 10 "truths" about population control, contraception, and the Catholic Church's teachings. It argues that overpopulation is a myth and population growth boosts economies. It asserts that contraception violates natural law and is immoral, as it can cause abortions by preventing implantation. The document also claims that the Reproductive Health Bill in the Philippines violates the constitution by not protecting the unborn. It concludes by saying the Church's teachings are based on eternal truths that liberate.
1) The article criticizes those who are trying to scapegoat gay priests for the Catholic Church's sexual abuse scandal, noting that studies have shown most pedophiles are heterosexual men and the abuse has also affected young girls.
2) It argues the real issue is a "deeply-rooted problem within the 'secret society' of the Catholic priesthood" stemming from a "repressive system which uses fear and control."
3) The author calls on the Church to acknowledge the systemic issues, take abuse allegations seriously, increase transparency, and stop targeting innocent groups as the culprits in order to deflect from its own failures of responsibility.
Hiv/Aids Research Paper
Reflection Paper On HIV
HIV/AIDS Research Paper
Essay On AIDS
HIV and AIDS: The Epidemic Essay example
How Did Aids Affect People?
Essay on Understanding HIV/AIDS
Hiv Aids Conclusions
Essay on The Spreading of HIV/AIDS
Aids : Hiv / Aids Essay
AIDS and HIV Essay
- The mother of Victor Hugo Saldaño, an Argentinian man on death row in Texas, met with Pope Francis to again ask him to intervene in her son's case.
- Saldaño was convicted of murdering a man in 1995 but his defenders argue he should not be on death row due to his declining mental health and flaws in the prosecution.
- Pope Francis has called for the abolition of the death penalty and the mother hopes he will somehow intervene to help her son.
The coronavirus pandemic has forced churches to rethink long-held theological views and practices of administration. Churches have shifted to online worship services, creating opportunities to experiment with new forms. The focus has moved from institutionalism to being God's transforming presence in the world. Properly administered, the church can emerge from this crisis with a strengthened missional perspective and calling to reflect God's reign through justice, peace, and love.
Jo s exposing christianity volume 2 - christianity & it's crimes against hu...Dajana Fitos
The document provides details about the horrific torture methods used during the Inquisition against those accused of heresy by the Catholic Church. It describes devices like the Judas Cradle, brodequin boots, and the rack that were used to crush bones and tear flesh. Children as young as 2 years old were among the thousands of victims burned alive or tortured. The Inquisition led to the murder and destruction of millions of lives as the Church sought to eliminate any opposition to its power and doctrines through ruthless torture and executions that continued for hundreds of years.
The trinity review, a the trinity manifestPaulo Arieu
The document discusses the rise of irrationalism in the 20th century and the response of The Trinity Foundation. It makes the following key points:
1. Secular philosophers and theologians have largely abandoned the idea that true knowledge is possible for humans, leading to a culture of radical skepticism.
2. If true knowledge is not possible, then Christianity's core claims of divine revelation cannot be substantiated and the faith becomes nonsensical.
3. The Trinity Foundation was created to teach Christianity as a rational, intellectually defensible system by presenting the clear doctrines of Scripture and opposing irrationalism in theology.
4. The Foundation believes the contemporary church has failed in its duty to teach correct doctrine
Moreover, Christianity is the main religion that trains its adherents to adore each other. This affection isn't only an outer showcase of BIOL 1001 Week 1 Discussion: The Scientific Approach legalism however infiltrates the heart and creates genuine modesty and administration.
This document is an issue of the LSF Magazine that focuses on the microbiome. It includes several articles that discuss the history and current state of microbiome research, such as Ian's gut experiment, the American Gut Project, environmental metagenomics, and probiotic philosophy. It also profiles prominent microbiome researchers like Ananda Chakrabarty. Additionally, it provides updates on Life Sciences Foundation events and partnerships related to documenting the history of biotechnology and genomics.
A verse by verse commentary on Acts chapter 6 dealing with the choosing of the seven deacons, and the seizing of Stephen who became the first Christian martyr.
1. The document discusses the positive and negative effects of religion on society through examining Catholicism, Islam, and other faiths.
2. It provides examples of how the development of universities by Catholics positively impacted society, while the Crusades had negative effects through violence and conflict.
3. Islam is described as promoting social cohesion through culture and the mosque, but Islamic fundamentalism has hindered development.
The document discusses the ongoing sexual abuse scandals within the Catholic Church around the world, focusing on Ireland and Australia. It summarizes that the scandals have rocked the Church and quotes victims and church officials. The scandals have deeply damaged trust in the Church's leadership and its ability to reform itself and prevent future abuse.
Paganism and Witchcraft revered nature but were not organized religions. Wicca involved divination and discovering knowledge through supernatural means in a non-hierarchical society. Christianity grew and deemed Witchcraft as evil Satan worship, influencing societies to persecute Witches, especially women. The Malleus Maleficarum manual described interrogating and torturing accused Witches using tests and instruments to obtain confessions during the peak persecution periods between 1550-1650 before views gradually changed.
AIDSTAR-One Faith-Based Organizations and HIV Prevention with MARPs in MexicoAIDSTAROne
La Iglesia de la Reconciliación, VIHas de Vida, and El Mesón de la Misericordia are three faith-based organizations in Mexico that implement innovative HIV prevention activities with most-at-risk populations, including men who have sex with men and sex workers. They integrate messages on HIV prevention within a holistic approach that addresses spirituality, sexuality, and health. Through diverse activities like educational talks and workshops, as well as referrals to testing and care, these organizations help fill gaps and reduce stigma for at-risk groups.
The document contains the Collect and Post-Communion Prayer for Easter Sunday from the Roman Missal 2010 translation. The Collect prays that those who celebrate the solemnity of the Resurrection may rise up in the light of life through the renewal of the Holy Spirit. The Post-Communion Prayer asks God to look upon the Church with unfailing love and favor so that renewed by the paschal mysteries, she may come to the glory of the resurrection.
The document discusses the history and spiritual foundations of the Servite Order from its origins in the 13th century to modern times. It covers periods of foundation and expansion, stability, decline, and renewal. Though the Order faced many challenges over the centuries from external political forces and internal divisions, it was able to survive and revive itself by returning to its roots of poverty, prayer, penance and service inspired by the Blessed Virgin Mary.
2. seminar on the holy sacrament (special)Leonard Guiang
This document outlines a seminar on the sacrament of matrimony. It discusses key concepts like the biblical foundations of marriage, what constitutes a valid marriage, grounds for marriage nullity, and the rite of the sacrament. It also covers topics like natural family planning methods, the meaning of marital intercourse, and the four aspects of responsible parenthood according to church teaching. The seminar aims to explain church doctrine around marriage and family planning.
The document discusses issues around media representation of religion in New Zealand. It notes that both the media landscape and religious demography are diverse. Minority religious groups often feel dissatisfied with stereotypical or sensationalized portrayals. The author argues that journalists need better training and expertise around religions to competently cover religious topics and dimensions of news stories. Establishing a working group to develop guidelines around responsible and accurate religious coverage could help address these issues.
Youth are you preparing for divorce by colin standish Antonio Bernard
This document is an introduction chapter from a book written by two 72-year-old authors addressing youth on preparing for marriage and avoiding divorce. It discusses how moral values have changed drastically from when the authors were young, with the rejection of biblical principles leading to a rise in divorce, premarital sex, and other issues. The authors draw on their experience having lived through both eras to provide perspective and warn youth of the consequences of abandoning biblical morality.
The document discusses the relationship between faith and reason, and argues that Christianity has historically been compatible with science and reason. It addresses several common myths, including that Christianity suppressed scientific advancement during the Middle Ages. While some Christian individuals and groups have held anti-intellectual views, the Church itself has generally supported scientific inquiry. The document also examines factors that prevented the development of modern science in other cultures like China and Islam, and argues Christianity provided a foundation for its growth in the West.
Responding to Revolution with Resistance and ReformationPeter Hammond
The document discusses responding to various modern revolutions with Christian resistance and reformation. It recommends disconnecting from media indoctrination and defilement, supporting alternative Christian media and education, and rebuilding all areas of life based on biblical principles. Central to resistance is prayer, studying Scripture together, and traditional families raising children in the faith to counter the anti-Christian agenda and leave a godly legacy for future generations.
Role of religious communication during pandemic covid-19anshula garg
Religion and culture are essential elements of humanity, and it is through communication, that these elements of humanity are mediated.
Whether exploring these terms in health, interpersonal, intercultural, intergroup, mass, or other communication contexts, it is evident that understanding the intersection(s) among religion, culture, and communication offers vast opportunities for researchers and practitioners.
The document discusses 10 "truths" about population control, contraception, and the Catholic Church's teachings. It argues that overpopulation is a myth and population growth boosts economies. It asserts that contraception violates natural law and is immoral, as it can cause abortions by preventing implantation. The document also claims that the Reproductive Health Bill in the Philippines violates the constitution by not protecting the unborn. It concludes by saying the Church's teachings are based on eternal truths that liberate.
1) The article criticizes those who are trying to scapegoat gay priests for the Catholic Church's sexual abuse scandal, noting that studies have shown most pedophiles are heterosexual men and the abuse has also affected young girls.
2) It argues the real issue is a "deeply-rooted problem within the 'secret society' of the Catholic priesthood" stemming from a "repressive system which uses fear and control."
3) The author calls on the Church to acknowledge the systemic issues, take abuse allegations seriously, increase transparency, and stop targeting innocent groups as the culprits in order to deflect from its own failures of responsibility.
Hiv/Aids Research Paper
Reflection Paper On HIV
HIV/AIDS Research Paper
Essay On AIDS
HIV and AIDS: The Epidemic Essay example
How Did Aids Affect People?
Essay on Understanding HIV/AIDS
Hiv Aids Conclusions
Essay on The Spreading of HIV/AIDS
Aids : Hiv / Aids Essay
AIDS and HIV Essay
- The mother of Victor Hugo Saldaño, an Argentinian man on death row in Texas, met with Pope Francis to again ask him to intervene in her son's case.
- Saldaño was convicted of murdering a man in 1995 but his defenders argue he should not be on death row due to his declining mental health and flaws in the prosecution.
- Pope Francis has called for the abolition of the death penalty and the mother hopes he will somehow intervene to help her son.
The coronavirus pandemic has forced churches to rethink long-held theological views and practices of administration. Churches have shifted to online worship services, creating opportunities to experiment with new forms. The focus has moved from institutionalism to being God's transforming presence in the world. Properly administered, the church can emerge from this crisis with a strengthened missional perspective and calling to reflect God's reign through justice, peace, and love.
Jo s exposing christianity volume 2 - christianity & it's crimes against hu...Dajana Fitos
The document provides details about the horrific torture methods used during the Inquisition against those accused of heresy by the Catholic Church. It describes devices like the Judas Cradle, brodequin boots, and the rack that were used to crush bones and tear flesh. Children as young as 2 years old were among the thousands of victims burned alive or tortured. The Inquisition led to the murder and destruction of millions of lives as the Church sought to eliminate any opposition to its power and doctrines through ruthless torture and executions that continued for hundreds of years.
The trinity review, a the trinity manifestPaulo Arieu
The document discusses the rise of irrationalism in the 20th century and the response of The Trinity Foundation. It makes the following key points:
1. Secular philosophers and theologians have largely abandoned the idea that true knowledge is possible for humans, leading to a culture of radical skepticism.
2. If true knowledge is not possible, then Christianity's core claims of divine revelation cannot be substantiated and the faith becomes nonsensical.
3. The Trinity Foundation was created to teach Christianity as a rational, intellectually defensible system by presenting the clear doctrines of Scripture and opposing irrationalism in theology.
4. The Foundation believes the contemporary church has failed in its duty to teach correct doctrine
Moreover, Christianity is the main religion that trains its adherents to adore each other. This affection isn't only an outer showcase of BIOL 1001 Week 1 Discussion: The Scientific Approach legalism however infiltrates the heart and creates genuine modesty and administration.
This document is an issue of the LSF Magazine that focuses on the microbiome. It includes several articles that discuss the history and current state of microbiome research, such as Ian's gut experiment, the American Gut Project, environmental metagenomics, and probiotic philosophy. It also profiles prominent microbiome researchers like Ananda Chakrabarty. Additionally, it provides updates on Life Sciences Foundation events and partnerships related to documenting the history of biotechnology and genomics.
A verse by verse commentary on Acts chapter 6 dealing with the choosing of the seven deacons, and the seizing of Stephen who became the first Christian martyr.
1. The document discusses the positive and negative effects of religion on society through examining Catholicism, Islam, and other faiths.
2. It provides examples of how the development of universities by Catholics positively impacted society, while the Crusades had negative effects through violence and conflict.
3. Islam is described as promoting social cohesion through culture and the mosque, but Islamic fundamentalism has hindered development.
The document discusses the ongoing sexual abuse scandals within the Catholic Church around the world, focusing on Ireland and Australia. It summarizes that the scandals have rocked the Church and quotes victims and church officials. The scandals have deeply damaged trust in the Church's leadership and its ability to reform itself and prevent future abuse.
Paganism and Witchcraft revered nature but were not organized religions. Wicca involved divination and discovering knowledge through supernatural means in a non-hierarchical society. Christianity grew and deemed Witchcraft as evil Satan worship, influencing societies to persecute Witches, especially women. The Malleus Maleficarum manual described interrogating and torturing accused Witches using tests and instruments to obtain confessions during the peak persecution periods between 1550-1650 before views gradually changed.
AIDSTAR-One Faith-Based Organizations and HIV Prevention with MARPs in MexicoAIDSTAROne
La Iglesia de la Reconciliación, VIHas de Vida, and El Mesón de la Misericordia are three faith-based organizations in Mexico that implement innovative HIV prevention activities with most-at-risk populations, including men who have sex with men and sex workers. They integrate messages on HIV prevention within a holistic approach that addresses spirituality, sexuality, and health. Through diverse activities like educational talks and workshops, as well as referrals to testing and care, these organizations help fill gaps and reduce stigma for at-risk groups.
The document contains the Collect and Post-Communion Prayer for Easter Sunday from the Roman Missal 2010 translation. The Collect prays that those who celebrate the solemnity of the Resurrection may rise up in the light of life through the renewal of the Holy Spirit. The Post-Communion Prayer asks God to look upon the Church with unfailing love and favor so that renewed by the paschal mysteries, she may come to the glory of the resurrection.
The document discusses the history and spiritual foundations of the Servite Order from its origins in the 13th century to modern times. It covers periods of foundation and expansion, stability, decline, and renewal. Though the Order faced many challenges over the centuries from external political forces and internal divisions, it was able to survive and revive itself by returning to its roots of poverty, prayer, penance and service inspired by the Blessed Virgin Mary.
2. seminar on the holy sacrament (special)Leonard Guiang
This document outlines a seminar on the sacrament of matrimony. It discusses key concepts like the biblical foundations of marriage, what constitutes a valid marriage, grounds for marriage nullity, and the rite of the sacrament. It also covers topics like natural family planning methods, the meaning of marital intercourse, and the four aspects of responsible parenthood according to church teaching. The seminar aims to explain church doctrine around marriage and family planning.
The document summarizes rules for living in community based on the rule of St. Augustine. It emphasizes obeying God and loving one's neighbor. Members of the community should live harmoniously with one heart and soul, sharing all things in common. They should avoid quarrels and resolve conflicts quickly by forgiving one another. Superiors should be obeyed with respect, and all should follow the rules to maintain order and discipline within the community.
From the sermons of saint augustine, bishopLeonard Guiang
1) Saint Augustine emphasizes that leaders must serve those under their authority, as Christ served his followers. He cites biblical passages where Christ teaches humility and service.
2) Saint Augustine states that as bishops and leaders, they are servants of the people. While they preside, their role is to serve others just as Christ sacrificed himself to serve humanity.
3) Saint Augustine calls on bishops and leaders to follow Christ's example of humility and service and to see themselves as servants of God and the people rather than as those who demand service.
1) The Blessed Virgin Mary is a refuge for all sinners and just people, obtaining mercy and grace from her Son. She is also the sovereign Lady of all religious orders.
2) However, Mary is an especially singular refuge, mother, and sovereign of the members of the Servite Order, as they are uniquely dedicated to and named after her.
3) Unlike other religious orders that have saint founders to intercede for them, the Servite Order recognizes only Mary as their founder and special refuge, mother, and sovereign to whom they can turn for their needs and those of the Order.
The document narrates the history of the origins of the Order of the Servants of Mary from 1233 to 1267. It describes the spiritual journey of the original group of seven Servites and the early developments of their order. The only surviving manuscript was likely written in 1375 based on an original document from 1317. It is divided into three parts covering the early Servites, the role of St. Philip Benizi, and the developments of the order up to 1267 under recognized communities. The text seeks to harmonize the original Marian character of the order with the fundamental primitive elements through the mentions of the Virgin Mary and St. Philip Benizi as a model.
Leonard Guiang OSM, "This is what i am giving for those who wanted to enter marriage and family life according to the christian teachings." send suggestions or comments to: serviammaria@yahoo.com
Politics and Catholic social teaching, apayaoLeonard Guiang
This presentation in which i delivered at Santa Marcela, Apayao to the Local Government staffs and workers headed by Hon. Mayor Rolly U. Guiang (my relative) for good governance for the welfare of the people in reflection to their vision-mission.
The document provides an exegesis of Jude 1:1 from the Letter of Jude. It examines the two titles Jude uses to identify himself - "slave of Jesus Christ" and "brother of James." It explores the meanings of these terms and how they establish Jude's authority. The analysis concludes that Jude's titles reflect his devotion to serving Jesus and his connection to the prominent leader James, affirming his place in the early Christian community.
Pope Pius XII gave numerous radio messages and interventions between 1939-1954 concerning social issues and establishing a just international order. He emphasized the importance of morality and law, justice, peace, and the common good. While not publishing any social encyclicals, he showed concern for the international order shaken by World War 2. He is seen as a precursor to Vatican II and later papal social teachings.
Pope Pius XII was pope from 1939 to 1958. Some key facts about his papacy include:
- He was born in 1876 in Rome, Italy as Eugenio Maria Giuseppe Giovanni Pacelli.
- He became pope on March 2, 1939, taking the name Pius XII.
- As pope, he appealed for peace during World War II and spoke out against Nazism, totalitarianism, fascism, socialism, and communism through broadcasts on Vatican Radio.
- Pius XII died on October 9, 1958 at the age of 82 after leading the church for 19 years.
Faith is knowing Jesus Christ as our Lord through God's revelation, and responding with commitment, obedience, and trusting love from the heart. Faith is both a deeply personal relationship with God and something lived out in community with the Church. It involves both believing truths about God and living according to God's teachings through acts of justice, love, and care for creation. Faith helps us grow into mature people and find deep joy in relationship with the Lord.
This document discusses the nature of faith from a Catholic perspective. It defines two aspects of faith: fides quae, which is the body of truths believed, such as the creed; and fides qua, the act of believing. It addresses degrees of faith in God, the Gospel, and the Church. Faith involves both intellect and will. While feelings can influence faith, it comes from within through grace and free will. The document provides ways to lose faith through ignorance or doubt, and ways to strengthen it through community, prayer, and study.
The document discusses the key differences between the Old Covenant and the New Covenant established by Jesus Christ. The Old Covenant was written on stone tablets and its laws brought death, but the New Covenant, proclaimed by Jesus at the Last Supper, is written on the hearts of men by the blood of Christ. While the Old Covenant came to an end, the New Covenant is everlasting. It reconciles humanity with God and forgives sins through the sacrifice and resurrection of Jesus.
This document provides an overview of the four canonical gospels of the New Testament - Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. It discusses the intended audiences and key themes of each gospel. The main points are:
- The gospels are based on the words and deeds of Jesus as witnessed by his early followers and are meant to convey what the early Christian community believed about Jesus.
- Matthew, Mark, and Luke are known as the synoptic gospels because they share similar narratives of Jesus' life and ministry. John's gospel has a more theological focus.
- Each gospel was written for a different intended audience - Matthew for Jewish Christians, Mark for persecuted Christians, Luke for Gent
The document discusses the origins and development of the Bible. It explains that the Bible was not written all at once, but was orally passed down through generations before being written and compiled. Over time, certain writings were collected, edited, and recognized as sacred scripture based on apostolic origin and consistency with church teachings. The canon of scripture was formed through a process of discernment, and includes 73 books for Catholics and 66 books for Protestants. The document outlines the key concepts of inspiration, inerrancy, and canonicity in determining the authoritative books of the Bible.
The Dominicans are an order of Catholic priests and brothers founded by St. Dominic de Guzman in 1216 in response to the need for effective preaching against the heretical teachings of the Albigensians. St. Dominic established a new form of religious life where friars would live communally and balance prayer, study, and preaching. The Dominicans make study of theology a priority and see preaching as being rooted in deep knowledge and love of the Gospel. Their lives revolve around prayer, community, intellectual pursuit, and active ministry.
2. promoting this Catholic teaching is increasingly instructive in this debate. What follows is an edited
likely to be subjected to abuse. version of the article, which includes the statistics but
omits some of the comments on them.
Slander of Pope John Paul II The first AIDS cases were diagnosed in both
Examples from the newspapers Thailand and the Philippines in 1984. By 1987, there
In the week of Pope John Paul’s funeral, the New were 112 cases of HIV/AIDS infection in Thailand
Statesman led with its cover story “Blood of and 135 cases in the Philippines.
innocents on his hands: Pope John Paul II helped In 1991 the World Health Organization (WHO)
keep the continent of Africa disease-ridden….” AIDS Program forecasted that by 1999 Thailand
The Guardian was the broadsheet which most would have 60,000 to 80,000 cases, and that the
virulently attacked the Pope upon his death. Terry Philippines would experience between 80,000 and
Eagleton wrote: 90,000 cases of HIV/AIDS.
The greatest crime of his papacy, however, was neither In Thailand, the Minister of Health launched the
his part in this cover up nor his neanderthal attitude to “100% Condom Use Program.” All brothels were
women. It was the grotesque irony by which the required to stock a large supply of condoms, and
Vatican condemned - as a “culture of death” - condom vending machines appeared in supermarkets,
condoms, which might have saved countless Catholics bars and other public places.
in the developing world from an agonising Aids death.
The Pope goes to his eternal reward with those deaths In 1992, the Philippines’ Secretary of Health (now a
on his hands. He was one of the greatest disasters for senator), Mr. Juan Flavier, tried to implement the
the Christian church since Charles Darwin.2 program in the Philippines. However the programme
Polly Toynbee wrote an article in the Guardian with was not adopted because of popular opposition. In
the subheading “How dare Tony Blair genuflect on 1999 the UNAIDS reported 755,000 total confirmed
our behalf before the corpse of a man whose edicts cases of HIV infection in Thailand - 65,000 had died
killed millions?”3 She said: of the disease. That same year, in the Philippines, the
total number of HIV cases was only 1,005. The
Today’s saccharine sanctimony will try to whiten the disease had killed only 225 people.
sepulchre of yet another Pope whose obscurantist faith
has caused pointless suffering; it is no defence that he As of August 2003 there were 899,000 HIV/AIDS
was only obeying higher orders. cases documented in Thailand and approximately
She is clear about what concerns her most: 125,000 deaths attributed to the disease. These
numbers are many times those projected by the WHO
With its ban on condoms the church has caused the (60,000-80,000 cases) in 1991.
death of millions of Catholics and others in areas
dominated by Catholic missionaries, in Africa and right These numbers contrast sharply with those of the
across the world. In countries where 50% are infected, Philippines where, as of September 30, 2003, there
millions of very young Aids orphans are today’s were 1,946 AIDS cases resulting in 260 deaths. This
immediate victims of the curia. is only a mere fraction of the number of cases
This rabid and provocative comment about the late (80,000-90,000) that the WHO projected would be
Holy Father which appeared also in similar form in reached by 2000.
the tabloid newspapers gives me sufficient reason for Incidentally, Thailand has a smaller population (66
wanting to answer the issues that are raised. In million) than the Philippines (82 million).
relation to this issue, perhaps more than any other in
England today, we need to give an answer to those The UNIADS Epidemic Update 2004 recognises that
who ask us to account for the hope that is in us. Thailand is among those countries that has an
“extremely low” level of HIV prevalence.5 It does
not give any credit for the public policy in the
What actually works? Philippines promoting abstinence, monogamy and
I will begin by looking at the facts related to the faithfulness but continues to say that such countries
worldwide epidemic of HIV/AIDS. have a golden opportunity to pre-empt a serious
Philippines and Thailand outbreak.
HLI published an interesting article comparing the
Philippines and Thailand. 4 I believe that it is
2
Terry Eagleton “The Pope has blood on his hands” Guardian 4
April 2005
3
Polly Toynbee “Not in my name” Guardian 8 April 2005 The material in the next few paragraphs is an edited version of
4
Rene Josef Bullecer Telling the Truth: AIDS Rates for Thailand this article.
5
and the Philippines Executive Director, HLI Visayas Mindanao. UNAIDS & WHO AIDS Epidemic Update 2004 page 40
page 2
3. Uganda Muslims are opposed to the use of condoms for this
In an article written for the University of Natal’s will boost promiscuity. We cannot bend God’s laws to
AIDS research centre, 6 Liebowitz shows that in make them conform to the passions of man.9
Uganda, there was an overall decline in average As the Daily Nation remarked, there was no framing
infection rates across the country from 14% to 8.3% of this response in the usual terms of a church-state
between 1993 and 1999.7 The reduction in HIV standoff that characterises coverage of similar
prevalence was also recognised by the UNAIDS comments by Christian leaders.
Epidemic update in 2002.8
Publicly, the issue of promoting condoms has been so
Liebowitz showed that the principal cause of this controversial in Kenya that there was even an
reduction is changes in sexual behaviour, influenced outbreak among young people of “condom burning”
greatly by “faith-based organisations” who have because they saw the promotion of condoms as
encouraged, fidelity, abstinence and remaining with clearly harmful to society.
one partner.
Senegal is another case in point.10 It has successfully
A Harvard study found that when the abstinence maintained an HIV prevalence rate of below 2%. The
promotion programme in Uganda began, in the late local religious leaders (“marabouts”) have effectively
1980s, the number of pregnant women infected with encouraged their followers to behave in a morally
HIV was 21.2 percent. By 2001, the number was 6.2 good way in the use of sex. Liebowitz acknowledges:
percent. The study also found that women 15 and
encouragement of abstinence by a marabout may prove
older who had many sexual partners dropped from
a more effective deterrent than commands to use
18.4 percent in 1989 to 2.5 percent in 2000. (The condoms from a district health official.11
abstinence programme was given the name “True
Love Waits.”) England and sex-education
We can see a strong parallel between the promotion
Among secular researchers, it is recognised that faith- of condoms as a preventative measure against HIV
based strategies are more successful in Uganda infection and the promotion of contraception in
because they promote more culturally appropriate England as a means of reducing teenage pregnancy.
solutions. Interestingly, it is also noted that the
stigmatization of people with HIV/AIDS has lowered The English sex-education policy has been a
at the same time. Liebowitz also notes that the disastrous failure with England now having the
Catholic Church in particular, has been successful in highest teenage pregnancy rate in Europe. Yet the
reaching out to those suffering with HIV/AIDS Teenage Pregnancy Unit on the home page of its
because of its teaching on Christian charity and website directs young people to the Brook, Sexwise,
acceptance of and care for AIDS sufferers. He also Marie Stopes, the British Pregnancy Advisory
found that that the Catholic Church is better Service and the Family Planning Association, all of
mobilised to help because of its network of health- which promote contraception as a major strategy in
care facilities. dealing with the problem of teenage pregnancy and
all of which support abortion as an option
Other African countries
In Botswana, by contrast, where condom use is England statistics on STIs
promoted heavily, 38% of pregnant women were The Health Protection Agency statistics12 make
HIV positive in 2001 compared with 6.2% in depressing reading. The percentage change from
Uganda. 1995-2004 shows large increases in syphillis
(1449%), gonorrhea (111%), chlamydia (223%),
In Kenya, there has been a fierce debate over the herpes (15%) and genital warts (32%). The 2003
promotion of condoms. One voice in this debate was report to the select committee on Health13
Skeikh Khalif, secretary general of the Supreme summarised it well by saying that "the last decade
Council of Kenyan Muslims, who said: has witnessed a dramatic rise in diagnoses of all
major [sexually transmitted] diseases." In 2000, the
9
Quoted in “Condoms and Constitutions: Religions News in
Kenya” in Religion in the News, Trinity College, Hartford. Sprin
2003 Vol 3, No 1.
10
Liebowitz p37ff
6 11
Jeremy Liebowitz The Impact of Faith-Based Organisations on Liebowitz page 38
12
HIV/AIDS prevention and mitigation in Africa prepared in Online at
October 2002 for the Health Economics and HIV/AIDS Research http://www.hpa.org.uk/infections/topics_az/hiv_and_sti/epidemio
Division (HEARD), University of Natal. logy/sti_data_1995-2004_Final.pdf (Accessed 21 May 2006)
7 13
Uganda AIDS Commission, Overview of Uganda’s Response, Online at
p. 5-6. Quoted in http://www.publications.parliament.uk/pa/cm200203/cmselect/c
8
UNAIDS & WHO AIDS Epidemic Update 2002 mhealth/69/6906.htm (Accessed 21 May 2006)
page 3
4. Office of National Statistics did a report showing Church both in its official documents and in the work
data on the use of condoms in the previous four of charismatic individuals, has been in the forefront
weeks.14 It found that 46% of males and 37% of of looking after those who are suffering from AIDS.
females with one or more new partners used condoms
Blessed Theresa of Calcutta
on every occasion that they had sex.
Mother Theresa’s mission in life was to care for the
If you have been given the impression that if you poorest of the poor. She sought out those who were
wear a condom, you are safe from STIs, you need to the most poor and outcast in any society. Hence, she
consider those figures. particularly looked after those in India who were
“untouchable.” Sometimes, these people had such a
By the way, you also need to know that on its sexual
low self-esteem that they spat at the sisters in
health myths and facts page, BUPA lists as "Myth 3"
contempt because they did not think it was
the statement "Condoms protect against all STIs".15 I
appropriate for anyone to care for them.
quote:
[...] according to the Family Planning Association,
In Western countries, where AIDS was stigmatised in
there is little evidence to suggest that condoms protect the late 1980s and early 1990s, the Missionaries of
against the transmission of genital warts. It is also Charity particularly sought out those who were
uncertain whether or not condoms can protect against suffering from AIDS. The “Gift of Love” was opened
genital herpes. in New York in 1985; the first house of the
congregation specifically devoted to those suffering
This is not some Catholic thing, it is publically
from AIDS.
available information. But when were you ever told?
Furthermore, it is recognised that genital herpes, for Camillan Fathers in Thailand
example, is not curable. If you have it, you have it for The Camillan Fathers, founded by St Camillus de
life. So will your sexual partner(s). Lellis in the 16th century, have also traditionally
cared for the poor and the outcast. In the past, they
Let us consider again those figures from the Health
particularly focussed their work upon those with
Protection Agency. Which of the diseases were
leprosy. As this disease is now curable and is no
condoms supposed to protect against? These
longer an emergency (although, to our shame, there
infections and others not listed put you at risk,
are still many cases), they focussed on those with
variously, of infertility, pelvic inflammatory disease,
HIV/AIDS who are also often stigmatised.
cervical cancer - oh, and of course, premature death.
Marie Stopes has a sex-ed website for children called We discussed the comparison between the
"likeitis" which calls these infections "Love Bugs". Philippines and Thailand. Thailand with its epidemic
rate of HIV infection has recently turned attention to
In England this dramatic rise in STIs, (also in teenage
caring for those who have HIV/AIDS. Naturally, the
pregnancies and abortions) has taken place against
Camillan Fathers are pioneering this work.
the backdrop of the "more and better sex education"
mantra. The message seems to be "it has dismally Contribution of the Catholic Church
failed so far so let's keep on trying the same thing". As Cardinal Hummes pointed out in 2003
If we were to learn from Uganda and the Philippines, My delegation is pleased to note that 12% of care
we would promote chastity education and the ideal of providers for HIV/AIDS patients are agencies of the
one partner for life as an achievable and fulfilling Catholic Church and 13% of the global relief for those
goal. Quite clearly, the promotion of contraception affected by the epidemic comes from Catholic non-
governmental organizations. The Holy See, thanks to
encourages an increase in sexual activity, whether
its institutions worldwide, provides 25% of the total
among the young, whether in England or in Africa. care given to HIV/AIDS victims, placing itself among
The promotion of chastity, one partner for life, the leading advocates in the field, in particular among
fidelity and responsibility are exactly what the the most ubiquitous and best providers of care for the
Catholic Church teaches. It is not Pope John Paul victims.16
who is responsible for millions of deaths in Africa.
He also underlined the commitment of the Catholic
Church to removing the stigma attached to
Catholic work for AIDS sufferers HIV/AIDS.
On the question of the Catholic Church and
HIV/AIDS, we should emphasise that the Catholic
14
Online at
http://www.statistics.gov.uk/STATBASE/ssdataset.asp?vlnk=747
0 (Accessed 21 May 2006)
15 16
The original BUPA file was not accessible. There is a copy at HE Claudio Hummes Intervention by the Holy See at the
http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/medicalnews.php?newsid=91 Plenary Session of the UN on “Implementation of the declaration
73 (Accessed 21 May 2006) of commitment on HIV/AIDS” 22 September 2003.
page 4
5. CAFOD Policy Pope John Paul in Veritatis Splendor. In terms of this
approach,
In 2004, a paper was published by CAFOD17 and is,
at the time of writing, available for download from […] concrete behaviour would be right or wrong
the CAFOD internet site. The principal thrust of this according as whether or not it is capable of producing a
better state of affairs for all concerned.20
paper is to insist that the effective prevention of HIV
is complex and that “reductionist” strategies reduced In rejecting this teleological understanding of
to “one liner” solutions are not effective. morality, Pope John Paul carefully analysed the
Underlying factors proper place of intention and circumstances but
There is much that is commendable as one would referred to the decisive place of the object of the
expect from a faith-based organisation. Using the moral act itself. Referring specifically to
contraception, he drew from the teaching of Pope
model of a “Problem Tree”, the paper draws attention
to the underlying factors which are associated with a Paul VI in Humanae Vitae that one may never intend
higher incidence of HIV infection. Thus, for something which is directly contrary to the moral
example, political and social migration, poverty, and order
ignorance contribute to risky behaviour that is even though the intention is to protect or promote the
immediately responsible for infection. Further welfare of an individual, of a family or of society in
underlying these second level factors are such things general.21
as international trade and finance, global inequality Pope John Paul’s criticism of what he refers to as
(North/South divide), war and gender inequality. teleological theories applies directly to CAFOD’s
We could agree that addressing these underlying risk reduction strategy by which the decrease of
factors is an important part of our overall approach – vulnerability is seen as a better state of affairs
not only to AIDS prevention but also to Christian generally – and therefore a reasonable justification
development work. for the approval of personal risk reduction strategies
that may include the use of condoms in sexual
A gradualist approach activity in order to promote the welfare of an
Following on from this “holistic” approach, the individual and of society in general.
CAFOD paper addresses risk reduction strategies and
it is here that we would take serious issue with the Risk reduction and ABC
paper. The CAFOD paper promotes a “nuanced”
understanding of the ABC approach to risk reduction.
The paper references Kevin Kelly and Enda So, “Abstinence” can be used to mean, for example,
McDonagh as supporting a “gradual approach”: delaying the age of first sexual encounter, or not
Even traditional theological tools within Roman having sex until a person is in a more stable
Catholicism […] allow for a gradual approach within relationship. “Be faithful” can refer to a long term
which individuals aspire to clearly identified ideals but committed relationship, serial monogamy, a strategy
sometimes have to make choices that fall short of of reducing the number of partners or even “a
these.18 strategy of reducing the instances of casual sex.”22 It
Unfortunately, the paper ignores the teaching of Pope could be argued that the somewhat improbable
John Paul II on gradualism in moral theology. Using extension of the notion of faithfulness to reducing the
the example of married couples, he said: instances of casual sex is more seriously damaging
than the widely criticised support for condom use as
They cannot however look on the law as merely an
part of a strategy of risk reduction.
ideal to be achieved in the future: they must consider it
as a command of Christ the Lord to overcome On the “Condom use” component of the ABC
difficulties with constancy. And so what is known as approach, CAFOD rightly points out the destructive
“the law of gradualness” or step-by-step advance effect of the exclusive promotion of condom use.
cannot be identified with “gradualness of the law”, as if However, the paper clearly supports the promotion of
there were different degrees or forms of precept in
condoms as “particularly effective” for high risk
God’s law for different individuals and situations.19
groups (e.g. sex workers.)23
CAFOD’s gradualist approach corresponds to the
“teleological” understanding of morality outlined by
17
Smith, Ann; Maher, Jo and Dolan, Monica An understanding
20
of HIV prevention from the perspective of a faith-based Pope John Paul II Veritatis Splendor n.74
21
development agency. Available on the internet at Veritatis Splendor n.80, quoting Pope Paul VI Humanae Vitae
www.cafod.org.uk (Accessed 15 January 2006) n.14
18 22
Smith et al page 4 Smith et al page 9
19 23
Pope John Paul II Familiaris Consortio n.34 Smith et al page 10
page 5
6. The brief position paper of CAFOD on condoms and Underlying Catholic Principles27
HIV prevention24 refers to CAFOD’s support for on-
going theological reflection in ‘This Time of AIDS.’ Prophetic nature of Humanae Vitae
A paper by Enda McDonagh entitled “Theology in a It is opportune to recall the words of Pope Paul VI in
Time of AIDS” was published by CAFOD on its Humanae Vitae:
website.25 McDonagh refers to a Catholic tradition of Upright men can even better convince themselves of
casuistry which he uses to justify the principle of a the solid grounds on which the teaching of the Church
lesser evil with the goal of “an eventual in this field is based, if they care to reflect upon the
transformation of person, culture and community.” consequences of methods of artificial birth control. Let
McDonagh’s paper exemplifies many of the specific them consider, first of all, how wide and easy a road
would thus be opened up towards conjugal infidelity
positions rejected by Veritatis Splendor. In relation to
and the general lowering of morality.
casuistry itself, the encyclical says,
Not much experience is needed in order to know
Although the latter [Catholic moral tradition] did human weakness, and to understand that men —
witness the development of a casuistry which tried to especially the young, who are so vulnerable on this
assess the best ways to achieve the good in certain point — have need of encouragement to be faithful to
concrete situations, it is nonetheless true that this the moral law, so that they must not be offered some
casuistry concerned only cases in which the law was easy means of eluding its observance.28
uncertain, and thus the absolute validity of negative
moral precepts, which oblige without exception, was At the time, Humanae Vitae was widely vilified. The
not called into question.26 retiring editor of the Tablet, in a speech given to the
CAFOD approach not acceptable National Conference of Priests in 2004, said that it
The CAFOD paper is sadly based on a particular marked the beginning of the change at that paper so
approach to moral theology that has been explicitly that it became what he referred to as a “loyal
rejected in the teaching of Pope John Paul II. That opposition” within the Church.
teaching itself is not simply the personal reflection of The heart principle
a Pope but elucidates Catholic moral teaching for the The mistake in first principles in our society, which
present time. Essentially the CAFOD approach uses has led to such a moral breakdown is the assumption
unsound moral theology in such a way that it fatally that sex is “a way of loving”. The correct first
undermines the unity of Catholic witness in the principle is that sex is for children – within a
approach to the prevention of HIV infection. The fact particular state of loving which is marriage. This
remains that the most effective reduction of the risk might seem rather daunting at first sight. If the basic
of HIV infection is brought about by fidelity to one and fundamental purpose of sex is for having
partner and abstinence outside such a monogamous children within the state of loving which is marriage,
relationship. The acceptance of condom use then any use of sex at all outside of marriage will be
presumes the inability to achieve such behaviour wrong. And even within marriage, any use of sex
change and is essentially the same defeatist approach which deliberately excludes children will also be
to sexual behaviour which has failed so obviously in wrong. In fact this is precisely what the Church
relation to teenage sexual activity in Britain. teaches and has taught without any change since the
The question is not whether all people will change time of Christ.
their behaviour but whether the acceptance of We could state as a fundamental principle: sex is for
condom use as a part of the strategy of AIDS having children within a state of love which is
prevention will in fact encourage precisely the kinds marriage.
of risky behaviour which increase the incidence of
HIV infection. A much deeper vision of marriage
Such a way of life has a profound effect on marriage
and preparation for marriage. Marriage will not be a
celebration some years after a “sexual relationship”
has already begun. Marriage will be a choice made
with eyes wide open, the determination to love
whatever the cost, and the joy of choosing together to
begin a family if that is God’s will.
24
www.cafod.org.uk/var/storage/
original/application/phpIE2XiU.pdf
(Accessed 23 January 2006)
25 27
www.cafod.org.uk/var/storage/ Much of this section is taken from another lecture which I gave
original/application/phpb27ZGZ.pdf at the 2004 Faith Summer Session: Contraception, Abortion and
(Accessed 23 January 2006) IVF: the destruction of life and love.
26 28
Veritatis Splendor n.76 Pope Paul VI encyclical Humanae Vitae (1968) 17
page 6
7. The true context of the “marriage act”
In such a context, “sex” will become something
much more reverent – the “marriage act”. It will be
entered into as a part of a relationship chosen
carefully by the couple, witnessed by their family and
friends and consecrated before God. Because the love
is already there and firmly chosen as an act of the
will, almost certainly subjected to self-control and
self-denial, it will not depend on how much ecstasy
can be produced by the sexual act itself. Within
marriage, sex will take its proper place not as an “act
of love” in itself but as something carried out within
an already loving and selfless relationship that has
been solemnly established. Its primary purpose will
be the creation of children in co-operation with God
for this world and for eternity. It will be no surprise
that in fact, the breakdown of such marriages is quite
rare.
Natural Family Planning
St Paul did allow marriage as a remedy for
disordered desire. The use of natural family planning
is a modern implementation of this. It cannot be
regarded as “catholic contraception” because it only
finds its proper place in a marriage ordered to the
bearing and spiritual care of children. In practice, a
couple using NFP continually exercise care and love
for each other rather than the greedy indulgence of
“my needs”. Again it is no surprise that the divorce
rate among couple who use NFP is minuscule.
It is also true that NFP is itself ennobling. A couple
that cease using contraception and use NFP instead
will find the quality of their relationship deepened
and their family blessed. In many cases, couples in
fact decide to have more children.
The Gospel of Life
Fr Linus Clovis has shown how the Papal
condemnations of slavery were consistent from 1492,
the beginning of colonial expansion and the rise of
modern slavery. The message of the popes was not
preached at local level and this contributed to the
acceptance of slavery.
He drew a parallel with Humanae Vitae and the
Gospel of Life. The message has come loud and clear
from the Popes. However, it has not been preached
locally. The disastrous results of ignoring the
Church’s teaching are seen especially in the moral
decline of England. The examples of Uganda and the
Philippines also show that the Gospel of Life can
save lives in practice.
It is not a popular message or an easy one to get
across to people. However, it is the truth. As
Catholics, we must stop being embarrassed about this
great richness in our faith and begin to preach it
before we have to make another historic apology for
our failure to do so.
page 7