Sex
-
Abortion, the Brazilian Supreme Court and the National Conference of Brazils Bishops
In these times of troubled seas, there is no respite, no possibility of hiding from conflicts, of not falling into the abyss of accusations and divisions, especially when confronted with certain problems that life insists on presenting to us. Dialogue, mutual understanding, real solidarity and love for our neighbour are at risk of becoming empty words, especially in the mouths of those who consider themselves to be their representatives. Forgive me, readers, for insisting on the same theme I addressed weeks ago.[1] New chapters of this old story have taken place, new divisions have arisen even within the CNBB (National Conference of Brazil’s Bishops). Disagreements and different opinions have manifested…
-
Faith, Pain, and Healing
A Journey with Stage Four Endometriosis through the Lens of Practical Theology Introduction My spirituality and religious beliefs played a major role in my coping with endometriosis and helped me navigate this complex health condition. My journey with endometriosis using Osmer’s four core tasks of practical theology reflects on the role of spirituality, faith communities and healthcare professionals in Nigeria, the limitations of the healthcare system and the benefit of increased awareness and advocacy for endometriosis. Endometriosis happens when endometrial tissue is present outside the uterus, resulting in symptoms (Usmani, 2022) of pain chronic pain such as dysmenorrhea or painful menstruation, dyspareunia or pain during sexual intercourse, chronic pelvic pain…
-
Reflections on Theology, Victim Blaming, Misogyny and the Church of England
Four decades and still no progress or change – so what is next? When it comes to sexual violence, particularly against women, victim blaming occurs when blame is shifted from the perpetrator to the victim. This happens across society and culture, media, religion, justice, and public health. Victim blaming often focuses on the woman’s behaviour, character, or situation, which minimises the offender’s responsibility. Recent media reported examples include the Rochdale grooming gangs where the Deputy Mayor said that “victim blaming led to failings” and that “an attitude of victim blaming’ meant authorities failed to protect young girls from sexual abuse”.[1] In addition, in 2022 the BBC highlighted that the Past…
-
Lollipops and Paper Hearts: The Trauma of Embodying False Truths
Picture this: it’s Friday evening. The church hall is full of excitable teenagers – gossiping, sulking, judging. Staccato bursts of high-pitched laughter punctuate the rumble of conversation. Eventually, they settle down. Today, their youth leader tells them from the front, they will be continuing their series looking at identity, specifically, today they will be looking at…pause for dramatic effect (or maybe to steel the nerves)…sex and sexuality. Giggles, embarrassed snorts, guffaws. “Alright! Settle down!” Following a short sermon-style talk that details “God’s plan for sex: marriage,” the children are separated. The boys follow the male youth leader into a side room. The pastor’s wife, who is a special guest this…
