People have different personal beliefs about issues to do with sex and relationships and often the beliefs of society in general are different from the teachings of the Catholic Church. Indeed, even many Catholics hold beliefs and views on sex and relationships that are different from what the Church teaches.

In a society where single parents, illegitimate children, divorce, sex before marriage and cohabitation are accepted by many as a part of normal family life, and where contraception is seen as the answer to leading a promiscuous lifestyle, it can be difficult to say that these lifestyles are not moral. It is all the more difficult to argue that the teachings of the Church are against such lifestyles, especially if those responsible for educating our children are not in full agreement of such teachings themselves.

Much of the resource material published for use with children in schools on sex education is disheartening. Whilst many resources show the dangers of alcohol, drugs and smoking and actively seek to discourage indulgence by pointing out the harmful aspects, when it comes to sexual relationships these are often portrayed as perfectly normal and in many instances encourage children to experiment and take part in sexual activity so long as they seek contraceptive advice. Often these resources are sexually-explicit and in some cases could almost be classed as pornographic. The use of such resources can only encourage a preoccupation with sex and does not appear to encourage chastity nor seek to discourage sexual activity in children – despite it being against the law.

We need to show our children that the teachings of the Church are not about limiting our fun and happiness but about helping us find true happiness through love and responsibility. We have a responsibility to enlighten our children about Catholic teaching and values and also explain and promote such teachings in everything we do.

We are not talking about keeping our children ignorant. Far from it.

From the outset our aims must be to give pupils an understanding of Church teachings and why they exist. 

Our sex education lessons must contribute to the pupils’ development of self-image, respect and love of each other, all the time emphasisng that sexuality is a gift from God which recognises the beauty and dignity of the human person.

We also need to prepare pupils in the physical and emotional changes that puberty brings, encouraging them to think seriously about the sacredness of their body and why it is important to use the correct terminology when talking about sex, relationships and their bodies.

We must help pupils recognise that the proper place for sexual relationships is within a loving relationship of marriage appreciating the sacredness and importance of marriage and family life.

At all times the beauty of chastity and purity should be promoted and pupils must never be allowed to forget they are made in the image and likeness of God.