[Continuation of last week’s blog]
In addition to the two primary reasons, there are several contributing factors which have served to stimulate and intensify the contraceptive mentality.
First, the non-recognition of the presence of this incorrect attitude in the face of the overwhelming evidence of its existence is incorrectly viewed by Catholics. They see it as an indication of benign acceptance of artificial contraception by the Church at the grass roots level. This non-recognition leads to further problems.
By not responding to the issue, the Church at the grass roots level is allowing an incorrect theology to continue uncorrected. Thus, what was once historically practiced by a few has, over a period of a generation or so, spread and become so accepted that now the great majority believe they have the right to practice what they choose.
The contraceptive mentality has grown by a snow-balling effect. The longer we ignore its presence, the more entrenched it becomes. The more entrenched it becomes, the more cancerous is the effect on the other aspects of marital life.
What then, we may ask, would be the proper response to addressing and overcoming this contraceptive mentality? We feel that the most effective way would be for the grass roots level to convey the teachings of the Magisterium whenever, wherever, and however the issue presents itself. Anything less not only is incorrect, but a disservice to families, the Church, and all of society.
One juncture at which the Church’s teachings could be positively conveyed would be at our Pre-Cana Conference. The most natural time to help young couples would be as they prepare for marriage. It would be an excellent time to share the fullness of the Church’s teachings and to help them form a right conscience regarding family planning.
Another juncture would be in our schools. Do the present school textbooks which touch upon this subject offer the traditional teachings of the Magisterium and present them in a favorable light? Clearly, Catholics, especially the young ones, need to be re-educated on this important issue in accordance with the teaching and attitude of the Magisterium.
As members of the Natural Family Planning Association of Kentucky, we could go on forever about the multitude of benefits of natural methods of family planning and the wisdom of it. After five years of involvement in NFP, we can attest that the natural method has a far more positive effect on marriage than artificial means. Natural family planning has been proven effective and safe. Never before in the history of the Church has it had such a positive alternative to offer its people.
(By John and Cathy Bloodworth in consultation with Rev. Joseph F. Hayden of the Archdiocese of Louisville)
PS: An update: Is there something “artificial” about natural family planning? See John’s response to Cardinal Walter Kasper at Homiletic & Pastoral Review.