May 8, 2013 – Catechism 2346 - 2359

The paragraphs talk about chastity.  I thought it was interesting that friendship is talked about in this group and topic.  If you know anything about NFP, then you may not be surprised that they are discussed in the same breathe.  It is one of the strongest arguments for NFP.  The program allows for and encourages the friendship of a husband and wife to grow during times of abstinence.  It allows them to show love in other ways other than physical.  This allows them to build a stronger relationship outside the physical desires they may have.  Obviously this growth does not occur in the relationship built around physical desire.  The relationship cannot grow beyond this during the pre-married state either if a couple is engaging in sexual activity.  It is never allowed to have the chance to see what the relationship can be without physical pleasure. 

I also wondered about whether artificial contraception turns the act of sex into an act of masturbation.  I have heard that description, especially in the instance in which a condom is used.  I also wonder the same about homosexual acts and how they are viewed.