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“As pastors of the Catholic Church, we offer this statement to give a word of hope and healing to those who have been harmed by pornography and to raise awareness of its pervasiveness and harms. In the confessional and in our daily ministry and work with families, we have seen the corrosive damage caused by pornography- children whose innocence is stolen; men and women who feel great guilt and shame for viewing pornography occasionally or habitually; spouses who feel betrayed and traumatized; and men, women and children exploited by the pornography industry…Everyone, in some way is affected by increased pornography use in society. We all suffer negative consequences from its distorted view of the human person and sexuality.” (pg 1 , Create In Me a Clean Heart: A Pastoral Response to Pornography)
Sexuality is a beautiful gift given to us through a sacred covenantal relationship. When we engage sexuality through various means, outside of this sacred covenantal relationship, it strips one’s own dignity and their respect for others and prevents them from giving and receiving true intimacy. Pornography binds one to a seemingly autonomous and secret world that is quickly and discreetly available at any time. It makes many people suffer feelings of shame, guilt, hopelessness, depression and anxiety. Fear strikes users and further paralyzes them because they think if someone finds out, they would not be loved, accepted, or wanted. They may even fear the loss of their job, families, and/or spouses. They may try to stop viewing pornography but discover they are unable to break the cycle of addiction and feel exhausted by “living two lives”, just to fall again and again and again. Please remember that the Church exists to help us, not shame or condemn us (Jn 3:17). There is much hope for those who struggle with sex addictions including pornography. You may think you are alone however, this affects a significant number of children, women and men in various stages of life. Let’s look at some surprising statistics….
Church Teaching on Pornography
Church Teaching on Pornography
The Catechism of the Catholic Church teaches, “Pornography consists in removing real or simulated sexual acts from the intimacy of the partners, in order to display them deliberately to third parties. If offends against chastity because it perverts the conjugal act, the intimate giving of spouses to each other. It does grave injury to the dignity of its participants (actors, vendors, the public), since each one becomes an object of base pleasure and illicit profit for others. It immerses all who are involved in the illusion of a fantasy world. It is a grave offense. Civil authorities should prevent the production and distribution of pornographic materials.” (CCC 2354, pg. 565)
With this definition in mind, pornography is a thief that takes away one’s ability to have an authentically intimate relationship with another person. It serves to take away one’s dignity and respect for one self as well as others. It is an illusion that destroys enduring happiness. Pornography use can start as early as childhood and affect our thoughts and expressions of what love and sexuality really are. One may even think, if I get married, this will solve it all but it doesn’t. Do not despair, there is hope! Here is a couple’s journey from pornography addiction to hope and healing.
The good news is there is hope and healing and the Church is here to assist you, your spouse, your children, your family, your marriage or your vocation in keeping safe from pornography’s harms. If you or someone you know is struggling with pornography use, we have many resources. Through Christ’s love and grace, let today be the day you make a decision for a new beginning!
Resources for Those Impacted by Pornography
Resources for Those Impacted by Pornography
Books
“Ready to Heal: Women Facing Love, Sex, and Relationship Addiction” by Kelly McDaniel
When relationships become a "drug," love hurts. Perhaps you, like many others, are experiencing the pain of an addictive relationship-the kind of relationship that's painful to be in, yet impossible to leave. It may be your first such relationship, or you may have found yourself in a pattern that you just can't seem to break. Author Kelly McDaniel walks the reader through an honest and impactful assessment of how women get into these relationships to begin with, and a walk through the road to recovery.
“Stop Sex Addiction: Real Hope, True Freedom for Sex Addicts and Partners” by Milton S. Magness, D. Min.
Compulsive sexual behavior is often difficult to face. Sex addiction results in countless negative consequences and hurts many people. Relationships, marriages, families, and careers are destroyed. Anyone afflicted with sex addiction, as well as the people who love them, can find help within this book.
“Delivered: True Stories of Men and Women Who Turned From Porn to Purity” by Matt Fradd
Deliverance from pornography is possible and these true stories prove it. The pious man whose fairytale marriage was almost destroyed by his fierce addiction... The young woman who escaped a broken and abusive childhood only to become ensnared in porn s seamy underworld... The couple who tried everything to beat the pain and shame of porn in their home... The female musician who thought porn was a guy thing until she got hooked herself... ...and five other inspiring tales of liberation from the ravages of pornography. Delivered is proof that no one is beyond the reach of God s healing grace.
“The Betrayal Bond: Breaking Free of Exploitive Relationship” by Patrick J. Carnes, Ph.D.
Divorce, incest, child abuse, domestic violence, kidnapping . . . are situations of incredible intensity where there is an exploitation of trust or power. Dr. Patrick Carnes presents an in-depth study of such relationships, how to recognize when traumatic bonding has occurred, and the steps to take to extricate oneself or a loved one from the relationship.
“Spouses of Sex Addicts: Hope for the Journey” by Richard Blankenship (with Melissa Haas, Joyce Tomblin, Debbie Whitcomb, Heath Wise)
Trauma and Healing Spouses of Sex Addicts are Trauma Survivors Facing the devastation of a partner's sexual addiction begins with feelings of grief, pain, and trauma. Amazingly it is a journey that can lead to hope and healing. The trauma is massive, and the journey is difficult. This book has been written using the stories of many spouses who have navigated their way through the darkness of the night and into the light of hope and healing. Spouses of Sex Addicts is a continuation of S.A.R.A.H. (Spouses of Addicts Rebuilding and Healing.) It includes updated stories, more emphasis on healing from trauma, and information on working with children who have been exposed to sexual addiction. "This book will be an encouragement and source of valuable information for spouses who are reeling from the reality of sexual addiction in their partners. I'm grateful that this book is there to provide healthy, appropriate information mixed with real life stories that impart wisdom and hope; not hope in what the addict chooses to do or not do, but hope in the ability of the spouse to recover and grow in spite of the devastation of sexual addiction." Dr. Barbara Steffens Steffens Counseling Services Co-author of Your Sexually Addicted Spouse
“Your sexually Addicted Spouse: How Partners Can Cope And Heal” by Barbara Steffens, Ph.D., and Marsha Means, MA
Sexual addictions and compulsive sexual behavior are growing societal problems, with as many as three to six percent of the world population affected. Your Sexually Addicted Partner shatters the stigma and shame that millions of men and women carry when their partners are sexually addicted. They receive little empathy for their pain, which means they suffer alone, often shocked and isolated by the trauma. Barbara Steffens' groundbreaking new research shows that partners are not codependents but post-traumatic stress victims, while Marsha Means' personal experience provides insights, strategies, and critical steps to recognize, deal with, and heal partners of sexually addicted relationships. Firsthand accounts and stories reveal the impact of this addiction on survivors' lives. Chapters end with “On a Personal Note” questions and propose new paths that lead from trauma to empowerment, health, and hope. Useful appendices list health and mental health care providers and clergy.
“Healing Wounds of Sexual Addiction” by Dr. Mark R. Laaser
“Mark has eloquently unraveled the mystery behind addictive behavior: when our relationships are not alive and growing, the temptation for various kinds of addictions is unleashed..”—Dr. Gary Smalley With today’s rampant availability of Internet pornography, sexual addiction has become a national epidemic that affects up to 10 percent of Christians. As devastating as any drug habit, it brings heartbreak and despair to those it entangles. But there is help for men and women caught in sexual addiction’s downward spiral. This book offers a path that leads beyond compulsive thoughts and behaviors to healing and transformation. Sensitive to the shame of sexual addiction without minimizing its sinfulness, Dr. Mark Laaser traces the roots of the problem, discusses its patterns and impact, and maps out a biblical approach to self-control and sexual integrity. Previously titled Faithful and True, this revision includes an all-new section that deals with sexual addiction in the church. Other important changes reflect cultural trends, incorporate current research, and place a greater emphasis on spiritual growth. This book also addresses the unique needs and issues of female sex addicts. Whether you know someone with a sexual addiction or struggle yourself, Healing the Wounds of Sexual Addiction points the way to understanding, wholeness, and holiness.
“Breaking Free: Understanding Sexual Addiction & the Healing Power of Jesus” by Russell Willingham
Our world is awash in sex. We are bombarded with it everywhere we turn--TV, newspapers and magazines, music, movies and the Internet. When this ever-present temptation mixes with human weaknesses and unmet needs, many get pulled into addiction to sexually sinful behavior. They may detest their own habits, but they can't seem to break free. Is there any hope? Russell Willingham speaks from his own experience and that of the many he has counseled. His answer? "Yes! There is hope. Jesus offers forgiveness and healing." True stories show how the principles in this book can be put into action. The essentials are spelled out in practical steps that can help people begin to break free. Willingham deals with such issues as
- what all addicts have in common
- the hunt of the malnourished heart
- where to find the courage to face the dark side
- wrestling with shame and grace
- the healing effect of radical honesty
This realistic yet hopeful book offers a new way to see the world for every person who wants to understand and break free from sexual addiction.
“Pure Desire: How One Man’s Triumph Can Help Others Break Free From Sexual Temptation” by Ted Roberts
There is a battle going on with millions of victims trapped in the struggle and no apparent way out. Church leaders and pastors are often called in to help, but these leaders don’t exactly know what to do. Pure Desire is the answer to this desperate cry for help from men and women who have tried to build sexual holiness in their lives and failed…and failed…and failed. This book is also for the shattered souls of mates who are puzzled, shamed and wounded by their husband’s or wife’s sexual bondage and secret life. And, this book is for the Church to come alongside those who have come to them for help. Here is hope for establishing healthy personal boundaries. It will give the soul in Christ an anchor amid rough waters and a new appreciation for Christ’s healing power and presence. The time is now to begin walking in victory and helping others to do the same.
“Don’t Call it Love: Recovery From Sexual Addiction” by Patrick Carnes
Every day they face the possibility of destruction, risking their families, fiances, jobs, dignity, and health. They come from all walks of life: ministers, physicians, therapists, politicians, executives, blue-collar workers. Most were abused as children--sexually, physically or emotionally--and saw addictive behavior in their early lives. Most grapple with other addictions as well, but their fiercest battle is with the most astounding prevalent "secret" disorder in America: sexual addiction. Here is a ground-breaking work by the nation's leading professional expert on sexual addiction, based on the candid testimony of more than one thousand recovering sexual addicts in the first major scientific study of the disorder. This essential volume includes not only the revealing findings of Dr. Carne's research with recovering addicts but also advice from the addicts and co-addicts themselves as they work to overcome their compulsive behavior. Positive, hopeful, and practical, Don't Call It Love is a landmark book that helps us better understand all addictions, their causes, and the difficult path to recovery.
“Breaking Free: 12 Steps to Sexual Purity for Men” by Stephen Wood
This booklet is designed to educate Christians regarding this crisis that is facing men in the Church today. Not only does it help one overcome an addiction to pornography, but it also helps prevent an addiction.
“Clean of Heart: Overcoming Habitual Sins Against Purity” by Rosemarie Scott
Clean of Heart is written for practicing Catholics who accept all the teachings of the Church, yet are still ensnared by pornography and self-abuse. There is hope! Through the Sacraments, God provides all the grace one needs to become pure. No matter how long one has indulged in pornography or how deep one has sunk into the mire of vice, Our Lord can still break the addiction! What makes Clean of Heart different? First, it is written from a Catholic point-of-view. While Evangelical Christians have many books and programs for pornography addicts, there are few titles on the market for Catholics. Clean of Heart consists of forty-three daily meditations which draw from the power of the Sacraments and the wisdom of the Saints (elements lacking in many Evangelical books). Second, Clean of Heart is a surprisingly chaste book. It contains no obscenities or explicit testimonies" which may be an occasion of sin for some. The focus is on attaining a clean heart rather than recalling past sins.
“Every man’s battle with Workbook: Winning the War on Sexual Temptation One Victory at a Time”
By Stephen Arterburn & Fred Stoeker with Mike Yorkey
Today's media bombards men with sexual images and temptation, so it's no wonder that "sexual addiction" is on the rise---even within the church. In this compassionate brother-to-brother guide, Arterburn and Stoeker tackle this serious problem head-on, offering a practical battle plan for men---married or single---who desire to live by God's standard. Includes workbook. 368 pages, softcover from Waterbrook Press.
“Theology of the Body for Beginners: A Basic Introduction to Pope John Paul II's Sexual Revolution, Revised Edition” by Christopher West
Based on the words of Scripture, Pope John Paul II’s famous reflection on the body and sex take us to the root of the modern crisis and chart a path to an authentic sexual liberation. This book takes the rich (and dense) teachings of the late Holy Father and makes then accessible to the average person. The first edition of “Theology of the Body” for Beginners(2004) quickly became an international best seller. This freshly revised and expanded edition is based on Dr. Michael Waldstein’s much improved translation of John Paul II’s catechesis.
“Love and Resposibility” by Karol Wojtyla (St. Pope John Paul II)
Drawing from his own pastoral experience as a priest and bishop before he became Pope John Paul II, Karol Wojtyla has produced a remarkably eloquent and resourceful defense of Catholic tradition in the sphere of family life and sexual morality. He writes in the conviction that science--biology, psychology, sociology--can provide valuable information on particular aspects of relations between the sexes, but that a full understanding can be obtained only by study of the human person as a whole.
“Men and Women Are From Eden: A Study Guide for John Paul II’s Theology of the Body” by Mary Healy
This guide is designed to help you appropriate the Pope's astonishing message: true, lasting love that which humanity enjoyed in the beginning, before the Fall is possible here and now. In nine straightforward lessons, Men and Women Are from Eden introduces the reader to the Pope's warm, deeply biblical understanding of God's original plan for men and women, a plan that brings with it healing of mind in regard to sexuality and the body.
“Pornography’s Effects on Marriage and the Hope of Recovery and Healing” by Sam Meier, MA, LPC, and Beth Meier, MA
"Restored: True Stories of Love and Trust After Porn" by Matt & Cameron Fradd
Pornography is a cancer of the spirit that not only darkens the minds and souls of those who use it—it corrodes their relationships. It destroys trust, deadens intimacy, and erects barriers of shame, anger, and betrayal between husbands and wives, between parents and children. But this cancer can be cured. Love and trust can be built again. In Restored you’ll read ten honest, hard-hitting accounts of real women and couples whose lives were shattered by porn’s destructive effects. But because God’s grace is stronger, they were able to find healing and hope, trust renewed, and intimacy Restored.
Cybersex Unplugged: Finding Sexual Health in an Electronic World by Weston M. Edwards PhD, David Delmonico PhD, Elizabeth Griffin MA
How do you know if you have a cybersex problem? What do you do about it if you do? Maybe someone you care about is struggling with cybersex. This workbook builds on our experience in sexual compulsivity to focus on the nuances of Internet sexual compulsivity. We break down the complex elements of treating cybersex problems into the basic elements for the individual to address. We also highlight issues unique to cybersex including topics such as: psychology of the Internet, cybersex user categories, and understanding, assessing, and managing your Internet use. One way to help determine if a behavior is problematic is to take a self-administered screening test. The Internet Sex Screening Test (included in the workbook) has been taken by thousands of individuals and can be used to help gauge how problematic your online sexual behavior may be. Through this book, you will have opportunities to examine your online sexual behaviors and assess the level of compulsiveness, address related treatment issues to your cybersex behaviors, and develop plans to find sexual health in an electronic world. We hope you find this workbook useful as you strive to find sexual health in an electronic world. One of the major goals of this workbook is to assist you in clarifying healthy sexual behavior, both offline and online. We believe that in order to be healthy online, sexually or otherwise, you must develop healthy sexuality offline as well.
The Porn Trap: The Essential Guide to Overcoming Problems Caused by Pornography by Wendy Maltz, Larry Maltz
Breaking the silence, removing the shame
In this highly acclaimed recovery guide, renowned sex and relationship therapists Wendy and Larry Maltz shed new light on the compelling nature and destructive power of today’s instantly available pornography. Weaving together poignant real-life stories with innovative exercises, checklists, and expert advice, this groundbreaking resource provides a comprehensive program for understanding and healing porn addiction and other serious consequences of porn use.
The Porn Trap will help you to:
- Learn how to stop using porn and deal with cravings
- Improve self-esteem and personal integrity
- Heal an intimate relationship harmed by porn use
- Develop a healthy sex life
Videos/DVDs
Purity in an Impure Age by Christopher West
Pope John Paul II even describes the body as a “theology”. Why? Because the body and sexuality are meant to proclaim God’s eternal plan of love to the world/ True Christian purity is the ability to see this! This DVD talks about what Christian purity is and is not. Christian purity often is thought of as prudish and old fashioned. It is not. Instead it is the ability to see the mystery of God revealed through the body and sexuality. In a series of talks, Christopher West explains John Paul II's "theology of the body" and how you can understand what it means to be "pure of heart."
Out of the Darkness – Anteroom pictures 2011
The incredible true story of Shelley Lubben and her journey from a life in the pornography industry to a life in Christ. With important commentary from world-renowned experts, Dr. Judith Reisman and Dr. Richard Fitzgibbons, this new style of documentary charts the liberating power of love in the life of one extraordinary woman.
Hope Undimmed: Is Porn Naked and Unashamed
Pornography. Like it or loathe it, you simply cannot ignore it. It is consumed on college campuses more frequently than beer and brings in more money than professional baseball and football combined. Many consider it harmless entertainment. Others aren’t so sure. Hope Undimmed brings together an incredible panel to answer the question, “Is Pornography Naked and Unshamed?”
• A former producer credited with taking over 2 million photographs and shooting thousands of hours of video.
• A former star boasting 30 videos, numerous photographs and her own website.
• A recovering consumer and his wife, who discuss their journey.
• A medical professional who has testified before the United States Congress on five separate occasions.
From porn stars to popular heroes and from leading world authorities to religious monks in sandals, Hope Undimmed provides surprising answers to the most difficult questions.
Filmed live at the University of St. Thomas in Houston, TX
Websites
Bought with a Price - Diocese of Arlington (VA) Bought with a Price: Pornography and the Attack on the Living Temple of God, a Pastoral Letter by Bishop Paul S. Loverde.
http://www.usccb.org/issues-and-action/human-life-and-dignity/pornography/upload/Create-in-Me-a-Clean-Heart-Statement-on-Pornography.pdf
http://www.usccb.org/news/2015/15-159.cfm
Covenant Eyes is a company offering internet accountability software for computers, phones and more in addition to offering support to those with internet addictions including articles on internet and pornography addiction, resources for parents , spouses, ministry and more.
National Fellowship of Catholic Men - A Network of Catholic Men Fellowships United in Impacting the World for Christ & His Church
RECLAiM Sexual Health offers a science-based, Catholic Online Recovery Program and other resources for those who desire to reclaim God's plan for their lives and the lives of loved ones impacted by pornography or other unhealthy sexual behaviors. The RECLAiM Sexual Health Online Recovery Program provides a unique integration of Theology of the Body, The Brain Science of Change, proven cognitive tools, accountability, group support, faith practices and prayer all in one, online community. Working at your own pace in an anonymous and safe environment, you can begin to change your unhealthy sexual behaviors and reclaim God's original plan for your life and your sexuality. -
Retrovaille A program to Help Couples Heal and Renew their Marriages.
S-Anon is a program of recovery for those who have been affected by someone else's sexual behavior. S-Anon is based on the Twelve Steps and the Twelve Traditions of Alcoholics Anonymous. The primary purpose of S-Anon is to recover from the effects upon us of another person’s sexaholism, and to help families and friends of sexaholics.
Chastity Project is a ministry of Jason and Crystalina Evert that promotes the virtue of chastity through seminars, resources, clubs, and social media.
Fathers for Good, an initiative for men by the Knights of Columbus. Whether you are a seasoned dad, a new dad, a dad to be, or a single guy wanting to know more about fatherhood, this Web site is for you. There is a role only a father can fill and gifts only a father can give. In a culture that often does not favor fatherhood or masculine virtue, we wish to highlight the unique contributions of men, husbands and fathers. The world would be lacking without them. We also welcome wives who want to support their husbands in becoming the best fathers they can be.
Fortify was created to help individuals gain the education, tools, and resources necessary to eventually reach long-lasting freedom from their addiction to or habitual use of pornography.
Into the Breach is a program that, along with reading and studying the document, engaging personally and as groups of men in the spiritual battle and struggle for virtue and excellence, and developing the interior life of prayer needed to live fully as a Christian man, Bishop Olmsted is urging a MOVEMENT in Christian engagement on several fronts—dealing with cultural breaches that are in great need of courageous engagement.
Integrity Restored was designed to help men, their wives, and their families break free from the bonds of porn. Their mission at Integrity Restored is to help restore the integrity of individuals, spouses, and families that have been affected by pornography and pornography addiction. Integrity Restored provides education, encouragement, and resources to break free from pornography, heal relationships, and to assist parents in preventing and responding to pornography exposure which is so devastating in the lives of our children. We also hope to be a resource that assists clergy in assisting families at the parish level, so that the domestic church truly becomes what it is, the human space in which we encounter Christ.
The Angelic Warfare Confraternity is a supernatural fellowship of men and women bound to one another in love and dedicated to pursuing and promoting chastity together under the powerful patronage of St. Thomas Aquinas and the Blessed Virgin Mary. The Confraternity is an official apostolate of the Dominican Order.
Conquering Pornography An initiative for men by the Knights of Columbus. Learn how to beat the porn plague and protect your wife and children.
Catholic Family Life Center International. Help for those struggling with pornography and resources for men desiring to maintain their purity. Marriage resources too. GO to www.dads.org
Catholic Answers chastity speaker discusses pornography addiction and how to overcome it.
Chastity—In San Francisco? Psychological healing in the Roman Catholic mystical tradition.
Institute for Marital Healing: strengthening marriages and families. Internet pornography and other addictions.
The Religious Alliance Against Pornography's primary purpose remains the education of our own constituents. Our goal is to produce through education changed beliefs about pornography and its broad negative impact; changed behavior eliminating the use of pornography within the faith community; and movement toward lives of sexual purity as understood and defined by each of our members.
TheologyoftheBody.net is dedicated to the promotion of Blessed John Paul II's revolution and life-transforming message of hope that counteracts societal trends which urge us to view the body as an object of pleasure or a machine for manipulation.
The Porn Effectspeaks to men and women about the beauty of sex, the problem of porn, and the healing which is possible.
Saint Luke Institute is an internationally recognized leader in bringing the healing ministry of Christ to Catholic men and women in ministry through psychological, spiritual and physical care as well as education.
Article on “Pornography’s Effects on Marriage and the Hope of Recovery and Healing”
Founded in 1962, National Center on Sexual Exploitation is the leading national organization opposing pornography by highlighting the links to sex trafficking, violence against women, child abuse, addiction and more. The organization changed its name from Morality In Media to the National Center on Sexual Exploitation early in 2015 to better describe the organization’s scope and mission, which is to expose the seamless connection between all forms of sexual exploitation.
Rhyll Recovery website is a website by Rhyll Anne Croshaw and is dedicated to shed some light on the path of recovery and healing for other women who have experienced betrayal and trauma in their lives. She offers talks, resources, and more.
CDs
“Detox” by Jason Evert : Within every heart is a battlefield between love and lust. In this presentation, Jason Evert discusses the strategies necessary to win the war and uproot the vice of pornography once and for all. Jason is an internationally known Catholic author and speaker. He has spoken to more than one million people around the world and is the author of more than a dozen books, including "Pure Manhood" and "Theology of His Body". This talk is proudly presented by Lighthouse Catholic Youth.
“The Hidden Battle” by Matt Fradd : Matt Fradd is a highly sought-after Catholic speaker and apologist. In this inspiring talk, Matt explains that there is nothing shameful in seeking to live a porn free life. Listen as Matt lays out a seven-step battle plan on how to uproot the vice of pornography in your life once and for all. He is also the founder of ThePornEffect.com, a site offering help to people recover from pornography.
“Breaking Free”- by Steve Wood
Breaking Free 12 Steps to Sexual Purity for Men (Kindle ebook), Apple/Android
The best-selling resource for Catholic men on how to quit watching porn is now available as an ebook. Over 150,000 print copies of Breaking Free: 12 Steps to Sexual Purity for Men have helped Catholic men worldwide. This booklet provides help for Catholic men who are seeking get help with pornography. The 12 steps outlined in Breaking Free will not only help you quit porn, but also prove to be useful in preventing an addiction to pornography. Breaking Free will teach you how to give up porn, find accountability, look for accountability software, protect yourself against sexual addictions and sins, and how to prevent future problems that could destroy your marriage and family life. Porn help is available for Catholic men with the Breaking Free eBook! Learn how to get rid of porn today. Catholic men constantly face the challenge of sexual purity with the temptation from Internet pornography only a mouse-click away. Getting rid of a porn addiction and quitting porn for good is no easy task, but Breaking Free will assist men who want to get on the road to recovery and restoration. Breaking Free is a must read for all men who desire sexual purity.
“The Healing Power of Confession: How the Rosary and Confession Help Men Overcome Dominating Sin” by Scott Hahn & Steve Wood
This riveting message is a wake-up call to all who are struggling with life-dominating sins that there is divine power available to heal and to lead to freedom. The Rosary and Confession are a one-two punch that can defeat sins that seem unconquerable. Scott Hahn shares how confession has the power to rid one of all stain of sin, and gives one the grace to overcome any addiction to sin. This inspiring message should be heard by every man desiring forgiveness and healing from sin.
“God, Sex and the Meaning of Life” by Christopher West, Ascension Press
Drawing on Pope John Paul II’s “Theology of the Body, “ West shares God’s original plan for marriage and sexuality and how an understanding of this plan gives profound meaning to all our lives-married, single, and consecrated celibates.
“The Pornography Plague “ by Jeff Cavins
In this powerful presentation, Catholic theologian and media host Jeff Cavins notes that many men struggle with pornography. Given our fallen human nature and the profound effects of permissive society, it is not surprising that even christian men fall prey to its snares. With great insight and charity, Cavins shows how we can fight pornography's devastating influence and helps us chart a course to true Christian purity.
Seminars/Webinars
Pastoral Skills: Addressing Pornography Use
Exposure to pornography is becoming inevitable in our culture, posing a unique challenge for ministry leaders. The U.S. bishops discussed this important issue at their 2015 Fall General Assembly. We have a variety of resources for tackling this difficult issue in a pastoral setting.
Overview
In this free archived webinar, Rev. Msgr. Stephen J. Rossetti, D.Min., Ph.D., president of Saint Luke Institute, combines clinical insights and pastoral experience in the confessional to help confessors provide healing and assistance to those seeking freedom from Internet pornography use. This presentation will assist confessors in discerning whether a penitent may have a clinical disorder in their Internet use and offer recommendations based upon the severity of their problem. It will also offer practical suggestions that confessors may give to penitents.
Introduction to Child Sex Trafficking Awareness and Response (ICSTAR)
This course focuses on the unique dynamics involved in working with a minor victim of sex trafficking including risk factors making individuals vulnerable to sex trafficking, the recruitment and seasoning process, various rules and beliefs of the sex trafficking culture, adolescent development, victim differences, trauma bonding, dissociative disorders and the role and purpose of a multi-disciplinary team.
Audience
This course is designed for child serving professionals, including forensic interview specialists, law enforcement officers, victim advocates, prosecutors, health care providers, child protective service workers, child protection attorneys and juvenile justice personnel.
Time requirement: This course will take approximately one hour and thirty minutes to complete.
Resources for Parents to Protect Their Children and Adolescents
Books
“Protecting Your Child in an X-Rated World: What you need to know to make a difference.” By Frank York & Jan LaRue
Protecting Your Child in an X-Rated World is an informative guide for adults concerned about children and pornography. Well researched by pornography awareness experts, this book gives facts to inform and action steps to keep kids safe. Describing the special vulnerability of children to the pervasive nature of pornography, the book tells how to "porn-proof" the home and oppose pornography in the community and schools, and gives hope for children already exposed to pornography. Appendixes are included for legal reference, Internet filtering devices, and other resources to protect children.
“Theology of His Body/Theology of Her Body” by Jason Evert
In this book which utilizes a dynamic, flip book design to be two books in one well-known chastity speaker and author Jason Evert unpacks the mystery of what is means to be male and female in light of the Theology of the Body in a language teenagers understand. Teens will learn about the profound realities to which their bodies point and how to live chastely and lovingly towards those of the opposite sex. (Note: this is a unique flip book where you have TOB for His Body on the cover, then you flip it over and it is TOB for Her Body, so 2 in 1.)
Real Love” by Mary Beth Bonacci
In this newly updated and expanded edition of Real Love, Mary Beth shares those questions-and her answers-in an even more comprehensive guide which addresses the details of the very real struggle we all face in trying to live real love in a world gone mad. Through these questions and her answers, Mary Beth offers a comprehensive catechesis of the Church's teaching in the areas of marriage and human sexuality. She tackles the toughest issues-premarital sex, contraception, divorce, homosexuality, internet pornography and others. She gives practical advice on living the Church's teachings. And throughout it all, she demonstrates that living respect for God's gift of sexuality is the way-the only way-to find real, honest love.
“If You Really Loved Me” by Jason Evert
Teens will find this book a useful guide to starting a relationship, deciding one's vocation, one day finding a potential spouse, and maintaining purity - without forsaking love. This book will give parents and educators new insights to help teens know the difference between love and lust. They may even look at their own lives differently, because as Evert explains, chastity is not only for singles; married couples must practice this virtue as well. "If You Really Loved Me" gives readers straight answers to tough questions. Addressing the relationship issues that today's young people face, Evert explains the often-misconstrued virtue of chastity - not as a rejection of human sexuality, but as an affirmation of authentic love.
“A Case for Chastity” by Heather Gallagher, Peter Vlahutin
In twenty-six short topical chapters, teens and young adults share their questions and real-life experiences about sexual relationships. Their questions range from "How far is too far?" to "What's wrong with cohabitation?" Two questions posed by many people of all ages both within and outside the Church are also treated: "Chastity sounds nice, but is it practical?" and "What do the Bible and celibate men know about sex anyway?" Teens will find A Case for Chastity a readable and informative book, and their parents and teachers, particularly catechists and DREs, will find it an invaluable resource.
“Pure Love” by Jason Evert
In an easy to read question and answer format, Pure Love is a great introduction to the topic of chastity. It is the ideal complement to classes on human sexuality. Rich with scriptural reference, this booklet is in complete compliance with the teachings of the Catholic Church.
What's the Big Deal About Pornography? By Dr. Jill C. Manning
Dr. Manning speaks directly to the young people she calls the “internet generation.” She discusses such topics as:
- What is pornography?
- How does pornography affect people?
- Can pornography teach me things about sexuality that I need to know in the future?
- What do I do if I can't stop looking at pornography?
- What do I do if someone I know can't stop looking at pornography?
- 11 suggestions teens should talk to their parents about.
General Resources
Faith and Safety: A resource guide brought to you by a collaboration between The United States Conference of Catholic Bishops and The Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America that assists parents in understanding current technology and how to protect our children on the internet and tips and resources form internet safety.
National Center for Missing and Exploited Children : A resource for internet safety and programs for teachers and parents in educating children on internet dangers and protecting children from those dangers.
SafeTeens.com & SafeKids.com Both sites offer resources for parents on online safety, bullying, security tips, warnings, social media, Etc.
Covenant Eyes is a company offering internet accountability software for computers, phones and more in addition to offering support to those with internet addictions including articles on internet and pornography addiction, resources for parents , spouses, ministry and more.
Chastity Project is a ministry of Jason and Crystalina Evert that promotes the virtue of chastity through seminars, resources, clubs, and social media. This includes resources for parents and their teens/young adults on dating, chastity, vocations and more.
Morality In Media directs the War on Illegal Pornography coalition, an effort with Congress to pressure the U.S. Department of Justice to enforce existing federal obscenity laws. MIM also maintains a research website about the harms of pornography and regularly directs national awareness campaigns to help the public understand the consequences of pornography and find resources to aid in their struggles.
Net Nanny® is parental controls software that protects your family from pornography, online predators, cyberbullying, and much more, keeping your family safe online.
Parenting the Internet Generation is an ebook that will show parents how to have honest conversations about self-image, sexuality, sin and shame, provide proven methods for training children how to be media literate and much more!
TeenSafe – App that helps parents track their children’s online activities, has a GPS component that allows you to track where your child is, see deleted texts/IM’s, see Instagram posts, and other monitoring functions, gives updates on all new technology apps as well.
Theology of the Body for Teens is a dynamic faith formation program for teens and pre-teens in Catholic schools, parish youth ministries, Religious Education, Confirmation, and homeschool settings. Using a great mix of stories, real-life examples, activities, prayers, and relevant references to the culture, it goes beyond traditional chastity programs by connecting the two hottest topics on the planet--God and sex. With Blessed Pope John Paul II's compelling vision for love and life, and a language they understand, Theology of the Body for Teens answers the questions teens and pre-teens have about their own bodies, issues on sexual morality, and how they are uniquely created for greatness.
The Family Life Center is dedicated to defending the faith, family life, and fatherhood throughout the world. Founded by Steve Wood in 1990 in response to Pope John Paul II’s exhortation that the future of the world and the Church passes through the family, the Family Life Center seeks to renew society by renewing strong, moral families. We believe that in this high-tech world, there is a place for moral media. The Family Life Center provides resources geared toward deepening a family’s love and knowledge of their faith. The Family Life Center places a special focus on fatherhood and providing resources which aid fathers in fulfilling their vocation.
The purpose of our Parenting ministry is to equip parents in our sexualized, digital age. We believe parents are the primary influencers of their children’s hearts. Thus, our goal is to provide parents the tools and information they need to guide their children in pursuing and navigating the challenges they face on a daily basis.
Familiy Honor provides and promotes a family-centered Catholic approach to chastity education.
Chastity Project is a ministry of Jason and Crystalina Evert that promotes the virtue of chastity through seminars, resources, clubs, and social media. This includes resources for parents and their teens/young adults on dating, chastity, vocations and more.
Chastity.com - Catholic Answers Chastity Outreach and includes many Catholic resources and answers to topics such as pornography, what is chastity, homosexuality, how parents should respond to their child “coming out”, dating and relationships, contraception/NFP, reproductive technologies.
Leah Darrow - Reclaiming truth, beauty and love
“Pornicious: The Impact of Pornography on Children and Families”. The premise of this paper is “that pornography is a threat infinitely greater to our children, marriages, and families than even smoking is; and that they simply cannot wait five decades to reverse course.”
Matt Fradd is a Catholic apologist and speaker. His web site discusses many topics on defending the faith and its truths including exposing the truth of the damage that pornography does to a person, their family, and the vocations that they are called to.
Courage is an international apostolate of the Catholic Church, which ministers to persons with same-sex attractions. They offer support , resources, resources for clergy that minister to those with same sex-attraction, and a support group called EnCourage that offers guidance in understanding and supporting their loved ones who experienced same-sex attractions.
Desert Stream/Living Waters Ministries provides help for Christians struggling with sexual and relational problems. Our help is based on the biblical foundation of compassion, integrity, and dependence on God.
That Man is You! is an interactive, multimedia men’s program focused upon the development of authentic male leadership. Over the course of three years, That Man is You! successively considers men in their relationship to God, to their spouse and to their children. Programs are offered throughout the Diocese of Springfield, Il .
World Wide Marriage Encounter: “At a Worldwide Marriage Encounter, the original and continually updated marriage enrichment program, you get away from the distractions of everyday life and focus on each other. Instead of simply listening to lectures about how to improve your marriage, you will actually be improving your marriage.”
Real Love - With an engaging, lively style filled with a spirit of hope and truth, Mary Beth Bonacci has captured hearts and minds across the United States and internationally since 1986. She delivers her message on love, relationships, and chastity with a candor and a sincerity that addresses the hopes and dreams at the center of our longing for fulfillment and love. Through her extensive travels, she has spoken to groups, small and large, including 75,000 young people at World Youth Day in Denver.
Pure Hope - They equip individuals, families, and churches to pursue sexual purity and oppose sexual exploitation. Resources in parenting, justice, and recovery
Illinois Attorney General Website - In today’s world, many people choose to communicate via the Internet and cell phones. Youth especially have embraced new technologies such as text messaging, social networking sites, and digital cameras to share information and connect with friends. However, without proper guidance, these types of communication technologies can be dangerous to a child’s physical and psychological well-being.
To help inform parents and educators about our children’s online activities and to assist in their efforts to educate our youth regarding responsible and safe online behavior, the Attorney General’s Office provides the following resources:
Stay Connected, Stay Informed Website - The Attorney General created the Stay Connected, Stay Informed website to provide parents, teachers, and students with the latest news and information about digital safety. It also features the E-Info Hotline, which is a phone- and Web-based resource staffed by the Attorney General’s Internet safety specialists.
BeSure Consulting and Teen Drug Testing - Detective Richard Wistocki has been in law enforcement for 27 years with the last 21 years dedicated to internet crimes. He has resources and webinars for parents and children to protect themselves and learn more about Cyber Bullying, Social Networking, Video Websites, Instant Messaging, Sexing, sextortion, file sharing, gaming platforms, sexual predators, and financial predators. He also has recommendations for computer and phone monitoring and programs and has codes for free trials when you sign up through his website.
WebWatcher - WebWatcher, the #1 rated Parental & Employee Monitoring Software, offers a full family of monitoring software compatible with PC, Mac, iPhone, Android & BlackBerry. All WebWatcher products install easily in 5 minutes or less, are undetectable (and thus tamper proof) and all recorded data is sent to a secure web-based account which allows you to monitor kids and employees at your convenience from any computer. WebWatcher allows you to monitor multiple devices (such as a PC and an iPhone) from the same user interface so you get one unified view. Go through BeSure Consulting and Teen Drug Testing for special discounts/offers/codes.
MyMobile Watchdog – Many advantages form reports, locations, deleted texts/pics, app control, time blocking, contacts, calls, and monitoring of childrens phones. If you go through BeSure Consulting and Teen Drug Testing you will get a promo code for 6 months free and a negotiated rate of 4.95 a month. (Promotion code 6 mo freeTDS4kids)
FoneHome – track and recover lost or stolen device
This page also offer additional handouts and information for parents regarding technology.
RECLAiM Sexual Health
In order to begin awareness and educate families about the threats of pornography in their own lives and give them a starting place to reaffirm their commitment to a Christ-centered home, the diocese is providing the following bulletin announcements broadcasting the RECLAIM program. The RECLAIM program offers a powerful online resource designed to help struggling individuals integrate faith and recovery, as well as offering support and a comprehensive, anonymous recovery program to help those struggling with unwanted sexual behaviors-like porn addiction.
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