Catholic Singles

This is in response to last week's Q & A (March 5)

Dear Fr. Jim,

Thank You for answering my question. You did give me some good insight, however, I have further concerns. I have read about NFP and understand why it is the accepted method of "family planning," however, what I am not clear on is when it can be used. I read that it may only be used for "grave financial or social reasons." I guess I just am not sure how grave a situation needs to be. Are you supposed to live your entirly life on the brink of poverty in order for it to ever be justified? If you are using NFP for financial reasons, and then take a vacation or something, is that then immoral because you could have been using that money towards raising another child? Also, what is an example of a socially grave reason to use it? Sorry for the intense questions but I think about these things, am I thinking too much?

It's not a bother at all! Appreciate your questions and happy to respond to a follow-up.

I have to tell you, I have never heard, read, nor would I ever tell someone that Natural Family Planning is only for "grave financial or social reasons." So, truth be told, I don't really know how to answer your follow up questions because I don't agree with the premise.

I checked out a book today just to double check myself that I had used in one of my theology classes in college,the book is entitled Catholic Sexual Ethics .  The author in that book states  The Church has taught that couples may morally regulate the size of their families by methods that do not involve contraceptive acts.   Which is the point about NFP, it's not considered a "contraceptive" because it doesn't involve changing any person's body chemistry (like the pill or sterlization surgery). 

Does that help? Like I said, I'm not sure where you're getting this idea that NFP can only be used in limited circumstances/situations.  In this multi-fast-paced media world, we have to be careful where we're getting our information.

Which leads me to something else - I guess this is a good time to point out that we need to be careful which sources we're getting our information from.  In terms of Catholic teaching, I would always be sure to read something that has in the front pages either a  Bishop listed as a NIHL OBSTAT or IMPRIMATUR.  Those are declarations that a book or pamphlet is considered to be free from doctrinal or moral error.  In addition, check to make sure it's been written after the Catechism of the Catholic Church was issued by Pope John Paul II.  That would help ensure that it is most current in keeping with Church teaching.

Hope that Helps!

Fr Jim