Christian Sexuality School of Theology Ministry Seattle University

Christian Sexuality School of Theology & Ministry Seattle University Fran Ferder & John Heagle

Human Sexuality Culture Church Interpersonal

The Revolution Is Over! l TIME 1984 – April 9,

What Is the Deeper Sexual Revolution? l In our cultures? l In our churches? l In our personal lives?

Sex In America l. A Definitive Survey l The Most Comprehensive, Revealing Report on Sexual Behavior Today l And its Surprising Implications

Popular Images of Sexuality = Sex Exploited by media as recreation/romance. Linked to violence.

Where are our Churches? l An Affirming, Rooted Tradition l Lingering Ambivalence & “Dualism”.

Hierarchy of Loving l Agape—generous, Other-centered, God-like. l Philia—mutual love Of friendship. l Eros—passionate love, sexual desire.

Fear of Eros The Core Crisis in Church and Culture

Toward an Integrating Vision Agape Philia Eros

Re-Claiming Our Roots l Returning to the Primal Vision of the Judeo-Christian Tradition. l Incarnational Spirituality.

Renewing and Expanding Our Vision of Sexuality l Reclaiming the goodness of Eros. l Renewing our commitment to Responsible Loving

What Is Human Sexuality? l Energy for Relationships

Sexuality: Communion. Making Energy l Desire for Connection. l Sacred Longing. l Passion for Life— Creativity. l “Cosmic Allurement”.

Human Sexuality “Affects all aspects of the human persons in the unity of body and soul. It especially concerns affectivity, the capacity to love and give life, and in a more general way the aptitude forming bonds of communion with others. ” l Catholic Catechism #2332