SEXUALITY AS AN INVITATION TO INTIMACY AND INTEGRATION
Keywords:
SEXUALITY, Celebration, Love, Life, Care, Intimacy, Oneness, Permanence, Wholeness, Integration, Sacrament, Sanctification, SalvationAbstract
The discussion on human sexuality has been decisive on and reflective of a particular civilization. Down through the centuries sexuality has been in the limelight of human debate. It has occupied the central stage of human behaviour and continues to dominate the scene. In the course of history, there were times when sexuality was hallowed with divinity and at other times it was stripped off even its human dignity. A healthy understanding of sexuality is crucial for the wellbeing of persons in a society. It is important to hold that sexuality is for human beings, and not human beings for sexuality. A balanced approach to sexuality, therefore, is essential for decent and dignified human life. Christianity understands human sexuality as an invitation to intimacy and integration, making the image of God visible, tangible, and credible.
References
Benedict XVI, Deus Caritas est, §3.
Paul VI, Humanae Vitae, §12.
Paul VI, Gaudium et Spes, §50.
John Paul II, Familiaris Consortio, §14.
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The Sacraments of the Syro-Malabar Church, Kakkanad: Syro-Malabar Bishop’s Synod, 2005, 148. Lumen Gentium, Chapter 5.
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The Sacraments of the Syro-Malabar Church, 146.
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Benedict XVI, Deus Caritas est, §11
