Download Chastity and the Church

Chastity and the Church
 Abstinence is defined as saying no to sexual activity. While the Church does teach
abstinence for unmarried people, it may be useful to consider the term chastity as an
alternative.
 Chastity is a virtue which enables us to live our sexuality in a healthy way in the state
of life we are now living.
 Chastity is a Power that allows us to control sexual situations rather than allowing those
situations to control us.
 Chastity Begins with understanding and acceptance of who we are.
 Chastity Challenges us to learn about and to enjoy who we are as a sexual person in
appropriate ways.
 When we say “no” to sexual intercourse outside marriage, we are saying “no” to sexual
intercourse that really isn’t an expression of committed love in the first place.
 Chastity is a positive choice, rather than avoidance.
 Chastity is asking God to help you make the right decisions when dealing with your
own sexuality as well as the sexuality of others.
A) In your own notes, list the possible consequences a young person should consider before
choosing to have sex. Discuss as a class your answers!
B) Why do you think young people may choose to have sex before marriage?
C) Why might others choose to wait until marriage?
D) How does media’s depict the purpose of sexual activity?
The Church’s teachings are very clear about artificial contraception and abortion. Sexual
intercourse is intended as a gift from God to be shared by a husband and wife for two
purposes:
a. To unite them and express their love for one another
b. To welcome children into their lives.
Chastity Is...
A special help from God
that enables me to:
recognize my sexuality as beautiful and good
respect my sexuality and my fertility
control my sexual powers
control my sexual thoughts and desires
live my gift of sexuality the way God intended
save the gift of myself for marriage
love and respect my spouse.
Chastity is...
a gift from God
for every person in every state of life
a powerful virtue
a foundation for real intimacy
purity of mind and body
protection of my dignity as a human person
freedom to love.
Chastity is...
sexual goodness
sexual self-control
never using another person
good for me
good for my soul
good for the people I love
pleasing to God.
Chastity is...
not always easy, but it is always possible with God's help.
Chastity is...
worth it because I'm worth it...
and so is my spouse.
Reading activity: “Early Sexual Activity: The Big Lie”, from Turning Points pg. 235
Reading activity:
“Early Sexual Activity: The Big Lie”,
from Turning Points pg. 235
List the misconceptions, inappropriate
messages, and “BIG LIES” that are being
taught about sexual activity to young people
via media and our current culture according to
this article.