Most Reverend Jerome E. Listecki
Archbishop of Milwaukee
 

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

In many ways, we become our parents. Not that we physically become them, but rather that we begin to appreciate their insights, which in the past we might have dismissed as old-fashioned.

As I watch some of today’s television programs, game shows and even commercials, I am shocked at the use of sexual connotations that are treated as matter of fact. As I watch old game show productions, there always seemed to be a modicum of propriety. Even when there might have been an obvious reference to a sexual theme, the host kept it respectful. There was in the past an attempt at inuendo.

Today, I wonder how a parent would be able to watch a program with their children without them asking, “Dad, what did they mean by that?” or without embarrassment by the physical actions of an adult engaging in a sexually explicit activity.

I have had the privilege of witnessing a number of weddings. At times, the young married couple would stay in touch, and we would have dinner months after the wedding. In conversation about censorship and adult content, many would often side with a more open and tolerable stance; however, once their first-born child came into the world, I would watch them radically shift their position. They obviously were protecting their child from the intrusion of society into the innocent world of their newborn.

I do not believe that I am puritanical. I am not running around advocating for the covering of genitalia on classical statues. But I do believe that there is a public debasing of sexual activity that attacks the very dignity of all human beings. When sexual activity is presented with no sense of respect, it denies the Creator who shared this awesome power with humankind.

The Church, in her wisdom and understanding, warned about the separation of the relationship from procreation. This creates an irresponsibility which can lead to increased diseases, promiscuity, and abortions. I might also add that the separation of procreation from a sexual relationship can lead to thinking science can create human beings better in a Petri dish without the aspect of love making.

If it becomes a mere physical activity without an understanding of the Creator’s goal of a child, then we have traded our birthright for a “bowl of porridge” – we have traded our God-given power for a moment of pleasure or convenience.

I do not think that it is old-fashioned to respect relationships and understand that sexuality is a gift that is to be appreciated. Presenting sexuality as crass, insignificant or “dirty,” diminishes our personal dignity, as well as treats other human beings as objects.

Our Lord is a great advocate of love. Love for God, and from that the importance that we in turn LOVE ONE ANOTHER.

Note: This blog originally appeared as the Aug. 29, 2023, "Love One Another" email sent to Catholics throughout the Archdiocese of Milwaukee by Archbishop Jerome E. Listecki. If you are interested in signing up for these email messages, please click here.