Bishop Thomas John Paprocki | Diocese of Springfield

A perspective on the use of condoms in society highlights concerns about the implications for love and marital relations. The argument that children should always be provided with condoms to protect against unwanted pregnancies and sexually transmitted diseases due to the inevitability of premarital sex is widely accepted. However, some argue that this perspective misunderstands love, advocating instead for abstinence.

The belief, according to experts, is akin to providing children playing a dangerous game with helmets instead of teaching avoidance of risky behaviors entirely. This wisdom, though prevalent, might not align with the more profound demands of love, which often require a committed path.

Furthermore, the use of condoms, even within marriage, is debated for potentially compromising true love's essence. "I love you, except for your fertility and fruitfulness," is the message perceived when a couple resorts to contraceptives. It is argued that marital sexual intercourse should mean a total surrender of oneself, a notion contradicted by contraceptive use.

In the specific case of married couples where one partner has AIDS, the dilemma intensifies. Providing condoms to prevent infection seems prudent, but the argument stresses that true spousal love would prioritize abstaining to prevent harm, even advocating for lifelong abstinence as a form of love. The failure rate of condoms adds to the argument against their use in such circumstances.

Although the idea of perpetual abstinence is challenging, it resembles the sacrifices made by spouses during events like long-term military deployments. Until conditions like AIDS are eradicated, abstinence is seen as a valid choice to protect a partner's health and embody true love.

The ongoing struggle for sexual self-mastery is viewed as a vital challenge, with the widespread availability of condoms representing a societal concession to libertine pressures. Advocates believe embracing sexuality's divine intentions requires courage and dedication to loving authentically.