Contraception and Catholicism
Overview
Dr. Angela Franks presents readers with a comprehensive look at the Catholic Church’s view on contraception, the meaning and purpose of sex as love and life, and unity and procreation. After she herself questioned the Church’s teaching on contraception—teaching many people see as outdated and misogynistic—Franks came to understand the Church’s position as simply aligned with the reality of our biology.
In Contraception and Catholicism, Franks clears up common confusions and objections by addressing both what people think the Church says and what the Church actually teaches. She explores practical questions and offers relatable analogies in accessible language. Her volume enables the lay person to understand Catholic doctrine on the subject, and even to explain it to others.
With Logos Bible Software, this valuable volume is enhanced by cutting-edge research tools. Scripture citations appear on mouseover in your preferred English translation. Important terms link to dictionaries, encyclopedias, and a wealth of other resources in your digital library. Powerful topical searches help you find exactly what you’re looking for. Tablet and mobile apps let you take the discussion with you. With Logos Bible Software, the most efficient and comprehensive research tools are in one place, so you get the most out of your study.
- Presents sociological data on fertility and contraception
- Relates anecdotes from real-life couples
- Provides practical suggestions of how to live chastely
- Catholic Teaching on Contraception: A Hard Pill to Swallow?
- What People Think the Church Says
- What the Church Actually Says
- Bobbi and Mike’s Story
- God Wants You to Be Happy
- Susan and Ed’s Story
- NFP: Not Your Grandmother’s Rhythm Method
- NFP: Why Living in Reality Makes Us Happier
- Popes as Prophets
- If Birth Control Is the Solution, What’s the Problem?
- Life in Contraception Land
- Responding to Objections to Church Teaching
- What Should I Do Next?
- Secondary Fruitfulness for the Newly Convinced
- From Fear to Trust
Top Highlights
“Here are encapsulated many of the ideologies of our time: a morality dictated by feeling; the assumed inevitability of extramarital sexual activity as necessary for human fulfillment; and the unconsidered idea that contraception is a magic cure for unwanted pregnancy and disease.” (Page 11)
“If contraception is necessary to bring about female liberation, then what degrades women is … female fertility. Women are oppressed by their own bodies.” (Pages 63–64)
“But if we understand that we are rational animals, we will see that true human flourishing must engage those higher faculties of knowing and loving, or else it is not the maximal experience that humans are capable of having. Remember, unlike Fido, we are capable not only of pleasure and pain, but also of joy and despair. A person should aim at joy and not stop short at mere pleasure.” (Page 32)
“When sex’s connection to the future and to something beyond me is willfully severed, sex tends to become more selfish.” (Page 78)
“certainly does nothing to prevent it and in fact encourages the unhealthy attitudes that make divorce more likely.” (Page 79)
Contraception and Catholicism: What the Church Teaches and Why is a much-needed resource that offers clarity and understanding for one of the Church’s most misunderstood teachings. In this volume, Dr. Angela Franks gives us an intelligent, calm, and thoughtful response to the toughest questions concerning the Church’s teachings on birth control. . . Contraception and Catholicism will be a rich resource for men and women of all ages who seek an ever-deeper appreciation for the gift of human sexuality and for the treasure of the Church’s teaching on sexual ethics.
—Cardinal Seán O’Malley, archbishop of Boston
If you ever have thought that the Church’s attitude toward birth control methods was dumb, dated, or not dealing with reality, I dare you to read this book! It is brain food for a renewed sex life. In Contraception and Catholicism: What the Church Teaches and Why, Angela Franks, PhD offers reasoned explanations for why the Church is not a killjoy when it comes to sexual love. Plus, this book offers compelling evidence for why contraception is rooted in fear, which slowly destroys loving relationships between men and women by demonizing human fertility and the female body in particular. Highly recommended.
—Pat Gohn, author, Blessed, Beautiful, and Bodacious: Celebrating the Gift of Catholic Womanhood
Dr. Franks’ explanation of the Church’s teaching on contraception is revolutionary. She appeals to nature, reality, and common sense—all of which make her argument incredibly persuasive and fun to read. This book is a must read for all young men and women who truly desire to know the meaning and purpose of sex.
—Katie Elrod, contributor to Women, Sex, and the Church: A Case for Catholic Teaching
In 1968, Pope Paul VI was a prophet among us. He tried to prevent heartache and social breakdown. We didn't listen. Angela Franks helps us pick up the pieces, to begin again, where we are. Contraception and Catholicism: What the Church Teaches and Why is an essential primer in our ongoing, much needed, post-sexual revolution renewal.
—Kathryn Jean Lopez, director, Catholic Voices USA
- Title: Contraception and Catholicism
- Author: Angela Franks
- Publisher: Pauline Books & Media
- Publication Date: 2013
- Pages: 122