Lies Revealed
Once the teens heard these truths, it
was easy to catalog the multiple lies that undermine their
earthly and eternal lives. Impure music. Indecent dress.
Unchaste thoughts. Pornography. Masturbation. Fornication.
Contraception. Adultery. Homosexuality. Although nearly every
one of these sins was hotly challenged, and I mean hotly challenged,
no one could reasonably argue that they were in holy or a way to image
God. Every argument ended as a lame excuse.
After we went over the physical and spiritual
dangers associated with these seductive lies, we repeatedly counseled
them to take advantage of the Sacrament of Reconciliation. We stressed
that we do not live for ourselves, but for other people as well. Therefore,
it is important to think, dress, and act in a way that enables ourselves and
others to avoid sin.
Who Wants an ATM Card?
After satisfying question after question
and challenge after challenge, we felt that we had made our
points in a clear and compelling way. At that moment, I held
up a plastic card and asked, "Who wants an ATM Card?" Nearly
everyone raised their hands. Some raised both hands. I was
quick to oblige their request.
However, these ATM Cards were actually
Abstinence 'til Marriage Cards. They looked like ATM cards,
but on the back, there was a pledge to abstain from sex until
marriage. Every card had a space for the "cardholder's signature"
and an expiration date listed "Wedding Day." Some boys groaned
saying that they would rather have the money, but Gloria told
them that they would receive something infinitely more valuable
than money. Additionally, we passed out pencils and bookmarks
imprinted with clever and catchy abstinence messages.
Lessons Learned
Most of the teens made favorable comments
about the workshop. Many of them told us that they would
reevaluate their behavior and, in some cases, even their friends
in light of what they learned that afternoon. They said it would
be difficult at times, but that they could do it with some support.
Gloria and I were also reminded of some
important lessons as well. The teenagers frequently complained
that many adults say one thing and then do another in matters
pertaining to love and sex. They said that they first felt confused.
Then they felt betrayed. Next they felt angry. Finally, they felt
disillusioned. After a while, the teens would simply shrug away
this hypocrisy.
Of course, their frequent refrain underscores
a powerful point. If we truly want to help our children live healthy
and happy lives here and in the hereafter, then we must start by
setting the example both in word and deed. We must live chastely as
celibate singles or as faithful spouses. We cannot expect much of
anything from our children if we do not demand it of ourselves.
Lastly, we were overjoyed to see so many young
people going to confession afterwards. Believe it or not, the
confession line actually wrapped around the inside of the church!
This incredible sight proved once again that in spite of everything
said to the contrary, our young people very much want to live their
faith and lead holy lives. Perhaps the toughest question still remains,
"Will we help them?"
By Michael Scott
For more information about the Josephite Pro-Life,
Pro-Marriage, and Pro-Family Committee or its "Building A Culture of Life
Conferences," please contact Father John Raphael, S.S.J.
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