Theology of the Body

1. Theology of the Body • Encyclical = Official teaching letter from the Pope to the Church. • Deus Caritas Est = “God is Love” is Pope Benedict XVI’s first encyclical to the church. • He says the meaning of love has been diluted. • True love requires sacrifice and unconditional giving to the beloved.

2. Scripture refers to three Greek words for love: • Agape – Unconditional concern for the well-being of another • Philia– love of friends. • Eros – passionate love (romantic love) • Storge – affectionate love of family

3. “Sex in itself is good when used according to God’s designs” • God intended sexuality to unite two become as one so to create and care for the life of another. (Genesis 2:4) • “Intercourse is God’s way of letting two people become one – physically, emotionally, and spiritually.

4. This union involves a total self gift between two married spouses. • Sexual intercourse says, “I give my whole self to you,” and we cannot say that if we haven’t given our whole selves in marriage.”

5. Think of three books, movies or television shows that provide positive examples of respecting and honoring the body.

6. Think of 3 examples that are negative examples of not respecting and honoring the body.

7. What qualities would you want in a husband or wife?

8. Sexual intimacy should take place in a committed marriage between a husband and wife.

9. Real, true, mature love respects and honors the body!