NFP is nonreligious and nonsectarian. However, my first NFP classes will be at our local parish and through our
local dioceses. This is the first post in a mini-series about what
the Catholic Church teaches about NFP.
As way of introduction to NFP, here's
what the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) shares
about NFP. They highlight many frequently asked questions including:
the scientific facts and heavily researched signs of fertility, the
common methods, the effectiveness of NFP, how to find a teacher, and why this is important in the eyes of the church.
In
this section, the USCCB discusses NFP as a tool for "husband
and wife [to learn] to understand and live God's design for
married love". Our "reproductive health" is underscored as important for us too, so that women and men can
avoid the dangerous and sometimes deadly side effects of chemical
methods. NFP can also be an important diagnostic tool for medical challenges as
well as a natural aid for many struggling with infertility.
Overall, NFP encourages spouses to give of themselves more fully. Sometimes the best
ways to love each other are not with physical intimacy, but rather with
self-sacrifice. In my own life, I've come to understand that Jesus on the cross exemplifies self-sacrifice for us in the most dramatic and physical way possible. His death is the definition of total self-gift, an example which we should seek to follow in our marriages, families, and communities. NFP is one way to work toward this goal.
No one will (or should!) tell you
that marriage is easy. Likewise, no one should say that NFP is easy.
Yet, the benefits may surprise you. As the USCCB says, "NFP has the
potential to make good marriages great!"
Questions and Comments? Please leave a post.
No comments:
Post a Comment