Human sexuality is a fundamental aspect of every individual, encompassing not just biological functions, but the entirety of the person—body, mind, and spirit. Human sexuality is integral to human dignity, it is a gift that reflects God’s love and fruitfulness, as each person is created in the image and likeness of God.

Human Sexuality in Marriage & Family Life

The Church affirms the equal dignity of man and woman, while recognizing their physical, moral, and spiritual differences and complementarity. This complementarity is oriented towards the good of marriage and the flourishing of family life. The harmony of couples and society relies on how well the complementarity, needs, and mutual support between the sexes are lived out. (CCC 2333-2335)

Therefore, through this doctrine on life and on the family, which defends the dignity and the mission of married love, we are not merely seeking to encourage individuals to cultivate all human values, but we are convinced that this doctrine is entirely in harmony with human nature and that it can bring true happiness to all men.”

(Humanae Vitae, 18)

Church Documents & Teachings

• Humanae Vitae (1968) – Pope Paul VI
  Focuses on the regulation of birth, the sanctity of marriage, and the rejection of artificial contraception.
• Familiaris Consortio (1981) – Pope John Paul II
  Addresses the role of the Christian family in the modern world, emphasizing the importance of marital love and the family as the domestic church.
• Theology of the Body (1979-1984) – Pope John Paul II
  A series of lectures discussing the human body, sexuality, and the sacramentality of marriage, exploring the deep spiritual and theological dimensions of human sexuality.
• Evangelium Vitae (1995) – Pope John Paul II
  Encyclical on the value and inviolability of human life, including discussions on issues related to sexuality, procreation, and the dignity of human life.
• Donum Vitae (1987) – Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith
  Instruction on respect for human life in its origin and the dignity of procreation, addressing reproductive technologies and the moral implications of biotechnology.
• Amoris Laetitia (2016) – Pope Francis
  Apostolic exhortation on love in the family, discussing contemporary challenges to family life, marital love, and sexuality within the context of mercy and pastoral care.
• Veritatis Splendor (1993) – Pope John Paul II
  Encyclical on the foundations of moral theology, addressing moral principles that underlie teachings on human sexuality and ethical behavior.
• Persona Humana (1975) – Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith
  Declaration on certain questions concerning sexual ethics, addressing issues such as homosexuality, premarital sex, and masturbation.
• Casti Connubii (1930) – Pope Pius XI
  Encyclical on Christian marriage, reiterating the Church’s teachings on the sanctity of marriage, the purposes of marital union, and the rejection of contraception.
• The Truth and Meaning of Human Sexuality (1995) – The Pontifical Council for the Family
  Guidance for parents and educators on teaching children and adolescents about human sexuality, emphasizing chastity and the sanctity of marriage.
• Dialogue on the Question of Gender Theory in Education (2019) – Congregation for Catholic Education
  Addresses gender theory in education, reaffirming the Church’s teaching on the complementarity of the sexes and advocating for compassionate and balanced dialogue.
• Between Man and Woman: Questions and Answers About Marriage and Same-Sex Unions (2003) – USCCB
  Provides clarity on the Church’s position on marriage and same-sex unions, offering a resource for Catholics and others seeking to understand the theological and moral reasoning behind these teachings.
• Ministry to Persons with a Homosexual Inclination: Guidelines for Pastoral Care (2006) – USCCB
  Guidelines for pastoral care to individuals with homosexual inclinations, emphasizing dignity, compassion, and the call to chastity.
• Doctrinal Note on the Moral Limits to Technological Manipulation of the Human Body (2023) – USCCB
  Addresses the ethical implications of biotechnological advancements, stressing respect for human dignity and cautioning against practices that undermine bodily integrity.
• Catechism of the Catholic Church (see sections 355-421, 1601-1666, 2331-2400, and 2514-2533)
  Catholic teachings on human sexuality, marriage, chastity, and related moral principles.
  

Additional Resources

• Love and Responsibility – by Pope John Paul II
  Explores the nature of love, emphasizing its self-giving and sacrificial aspects within the context of human relationships, particularly marriage and sexuality. This book advocates for chastity, mutual respect, and ethical responsibility as foundational principles for fostering authentic and fulfilling relationships.
• Man and Woman He Created Them: A Theology of the Body– Pope John Paul II
  Explores the theological significance of human sexuality and the body’s role in expressing divine love within marriage.
• Love Means More
  Formerly Marriage: Unique for a Reason, Love Means More is an initiative of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB. This website is an online campaign that is organized to promote what Christ has revealed about marriage, family life, and human sexuality.
• USCCB Theology of the Body
  Brief overview and explanation of Theology of the Body
• Theology of the Body Institute
  This institute is dedicated to promoting the teachings of St. John Paul II’s Theology of the Body. They offer courses, resources, and workshops.
• Courage
  A Roman Catholic apostolate for men and women who experience same-sex attractions and those who love them.
• EnCourage
  A ministry within Courage dedicated to the spiritual needs of parents, siblings, children, and other relatives and friends of persons who have same-sex attractions.
• Truth and Love
  A Catholic resource for anyone seeking the tools to accompany our brothers and sisters who experience same-sex attraction.