Make a Digital Fast for Souls

For our online course, the engaged couple actively participates in six sessions where they are closely mentored. Along with being invited into the spiritual teachings of the Church with the guidance of their instructor couple, they also have deep heart-to-heart conversations that prepare them for the session: “Forgiveness and Your Body is a Temple”. By the time they reach this session, the mentoring married couple and the engaged couple has journeyed together for approximately two months. It's not until they reach this level of vulnerability that the topic of pornography is approached. 
 

I am a Catholic woman on the continual road to recovery from pornography addiction. I do not pretend to have all the answers to healing; in fact, I still struggle with relapses back into addiction even after periods of one or two years of being clean. I am simply honored to share things I find helpful in my own journey and in journeying with others who share the same burden. My hope is that you experience consolation in the knowledge that you are not alone in your struggle. And, I want to offer you encouragement through the following tools that have aided my journey. 

The internet is amazing at connecting individuals. In fact, I would argue that there has never been a better time to be single! In a matter of seconds, anyone can create an online dating profile on any number of dating websites. Online dating makes it easier than ever before to connect with other singles who share your values and interests! But, unfortunately, these days, men and women often turn to the temptation of pornography online instead of, or along with, searching for their future spouse.

We all have our holiday traditions. Whether it’s decorating the tree, making cookies, setting up our crèche scene, hosting festive gatherings. Our celebrating is a welcome time! But, the gift buying, family gatherings, and extra cooking all comes with its extra stress. This stress can cause unhealthy coping habits that include pornography consumption. Even though these holidays can be tough, you can avoid getting trapped yourself and at the same time encourage your parishioners to avoid unhealthy behaviors.