Questions answered this episode:  * I recently became a mother but now I feel like I lost a sense of my personhood. How can I embrace my life as a mother while still honoring my person? My wife went through medical procedures that made it impossible for her to have intercourse. What are our options for sexual intimacy as a couple?  I’ve been married for 3 years but haven’t been able to conceive and I feel betrayed by my body. Do you have any advice?  Ask Christopher West is a weekly podcast in which Theology of the Body Institute President Christopher West and his beloved wife Wendy share their humor and wisdom, answering questions about marriage, relationships, life, and the Catholic faith, all in light of John Paul II’s beautiful teachings on the Theology of the Body.  Get 3 FREE sessions of our flagship course on Theology of the Body! Get a copy of God Is Beauty, A Retreat on the Gospel and Art by Karol Wojtyla/John Paul II. Available now for the first time in English. Want to support the Theology of the Body Institute and have a better chance of us answering your question? Join our Patron Community! Submit your question at AskChristopherWest.com.  Resources mentioned this week:  Paul VI Institute NaPro Technology View our COURSE SCHEDULE to register for a course, ONLINE or IN-PERSON! GOOD NEWS ABOUT SEX &amp; MARRIAGE by Christopher West Join Christopher and Wendy on the TOB Institute’s “St. Therese &amp; the Little Way” Seine River Cruise in France from Oct. 26-Nov. 2, 2023 (optional pre-cruise extension trip to Lourdes Oct. 22-26). Get complete details and place your deposit here. Cruise Promo If you are in financial need and honestly cannot afford a book or resource recommended on this podcast, contact: michele@tobinstitute.org Find Christopher West on Facebook and Instagram. Discover the Theology of the Body Institute. If you enjoy the podcast, help us out by writing a review. Thanks for listening! Christopher and Wendy hope their advice is helpful to you, but they are not licensed counseling professionals. If you are dealing with serious issues, please consult our list of trusted professionals. Featuring music by Mike Mangione. 

Questions answered this episode: <ul> <li>* I recently became a mother but now I feel like I lost a sense of my personhood. How can I embrace my life as a mother while still honoring my person?</li> <li>My wife went through medical procedures that made it impossible for her to have intercourse. What are our options for sexual intimacy as a couple? </li> <li>I’ve been married for 3 years but haven’t been able to conceive and I feel betrayed by my body. Do you have any advice?</li> </ul> Ask Christopher West is a weekly podcast in which Theology of the Body Institute President Christopher West and his beloved wife Wendy share their humor and wisdom, answering questions about marriage, relationships, life, and the Catholic faith, all in light of John Paul II’s beautiful teachings on the Theology of the Body. Get <a href="https://www.tobforfree.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">3 FREE sessions</a> of our flagship course on Theology of the Body! Get a copy of <a href="https://www.godisbeautybook.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">God Is Beauty, A Retreat on the Gospel and Art</a> by Karol Wojtyla/John Paul II. Available now for the first time in English. Want to support the Theology of the Body Institute and have a better chance of us answering your question? Join our <a href="https://tobpatron.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Patron Community</a>! Submit your question at <a href="http://www.askchristopherwest.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">AskChristopherWest.com</a>. Resources mentioned this week: <a href="https://popepaulvi.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Paul VI Institute</a> <a href="https://naprotechnology.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">NaPro Technology</a> View our <a href="https://tobinstitute.org/programs/tobi-schedule/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">COURSE SCHEDULE</a> to register for a course, ONLINE or IN-PERSON! <a href="https://shop.corproject.com/collections/best-sellers/products/good-news-about-sex-and-marriage" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">GOOD NEWS ABOUT SEX &amp; MARRIAGE</a> by Christopher West Join Christopher and Wendy on the TOB Institute’s “St. Therese &amp; the Little Way” Seine River Cruise in France from Oct. 26-Nov. 2, 2023 (optional pre-cruise extension trip to Lourdes Oct. 22-26). <a href="https://selectinternationaltours.com/product/st-therese-and-the-little-way-seine-river-cruise-october-26-november-2-2023-23ja10frtob/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Get complete details and place your deposit here</a>. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UNqUMYvUiVU" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Cruise Promo</a> If you are in financial need and honestly cannot afford a book or resource recommended on this podcast, contact: <a href="mailto:michele@tobinstitute.org" rel="nofollow">michele@tobinstitute.org</a> Find Christopher West on <a href="http://www.facebook.com/cwestofficial" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Facebook</a> and <a href="http://www.instagram.com/cwestofficial" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Instagram</a>. Discover the <a href="http://www.tobinstitute.org" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Theology of the Body Institute</a>. If you enjoy the podcast, help us out by writing a <a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ask-christopher-west/id1448699486" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">review</a>. Thanks for listening! Christopher and Wendy hope their advice is helpful to you, but they are not licensed counseling professionals. If you are dealing with serious issues, please consult our <a href="https://tobinstitute.org/wp-content/uploads/TOBI-Recommended-Psychologists-Updated-6-8-20.pdf" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">list of trusted professionals</a>. Featuring music by <a href="https://www.mikemangione.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Mike Mangione</a>.

Betrayed By My Body | ACW241

 I've been overwhelmed by the call to leadership as a husband, father, and professional. Do you have any advice? I'm going through a rough patch in my relationship with my boyfriend. I feel disappointed and anxious about the thought of losing this relationship. Could you offer some wisdom? I struggle with lust. I want to be honest with my wife, and whenever I bring these things up, she shuts down. Can you help me?  Ask Christopher West is a weekly podcast in which Theology of the Body Institute President Christopher West and his beloved wife Wendy share their humor and wisdom, answering questions about marriage, relationships, life, and the Catholic faith, all in light of John Paul II’s beautiful teachings on the Theology of the Body.  Get 3 FREE sessions of our flagship course on Theology of the Body! Get a copy of God Is Beauty, A Retreat on the Gospel and Art by Karol Wojtyla/John Paul II. Available now for the first time in English. Want to support the Theology of the Body Institute and have a better chance of us answering your question? Join our Patron Community! Submit your question at AskChristopherWest.com.  Resources mentioned this week:  Conversation with Jay Wonacott Made for More Event Contact: events@tobinstitute.org View our COURSE SCHEDULE to register for a course, ONLINE or IN-PERSON! GOOD NEWS ABOUT SEX &amp; MARRIAGE by Christopher West Join Christopher and Wendy on the TOB Institute’s “St. Therese &amp; the Little Way” Seine River Cruise in France from Oct. 26-Nov. 2, 2023 (optional pre-cruise extension trip to Lourdes Oct. 22-26). Get complete details and place your deposit here. Cruise Promo If you are in financial need and honestly cannot afford a book or resource recommended on this podcast, contact: michele@tobinstitute.org Find Christopher West on Facebook and Instagram. Discover the Theology of the Body Institute. If you enjoy the podcast, help us out by writing a review. Thanks for listening! Christopher and Wendy hope their advice is helpful to you, but they are not licensed counseling professionals. If you are dealing with serious issues, please consult our list of trusted professionals. Featuring music by Mike Mangione. 

<ul> <li>I've been overwhelmed by the call to leadership as a husband, father, and professional. Do you have any advice?</li> <li>I'm going through a rough patch in my relationship with my boyfriend. I feel disappointed and anxious about the thought of losing this relationship. Could you offer some wisdom?</li> <li>I struggle with lust. I want to be honest with my wife, and whenever I bring these things up, she shuts down. Can you help me?</li> </ul> Ask Christopher West is a weekly podcast in which Theology of the Body Institute President Christopher West and his beloved wife Wendy share their humor and wisdom, answering questions about marriage, relationships, life, and the Catholic faith, all in light of John Paul II’s beautiful teachings on the Theology of the Body. Get <a href="https://www.tobforfree.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">3 FREE sessions</a> of our flagship course on Theology of the Body! Get a copy of <a href="https://www.godisbeautybook.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">God Is Beauty, A Retreat on the Gospel and Art</a> by Karol Wojtyla/John Paul II. Available now for the first time in English. Want to support the Theology of the Body Institute and have a better chance of us answering your question? Join our <a href="https://tobpatron.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Patron Community</a>! Submit your question at <a href="http://www.askchristopherwest.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">AskChristopherWest.com</a>. Resources mentioned this week: <a href="https://studio.youtube.com/video/54LrQxln3AE/edit" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Conversation with Jay Wonacott</a> Made for More Event Contact: <a href="mailto:events@tobinstitute.org" rel="nofollow">events@tobinstitute.org</a> View our <a href="https://tobinstitute.org/programs/tobi-schedule/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">COURSE SCHEDULE</a> to register for a course, ONLINE or IN-PERSON! <a href="https://shop.corproject.com/collections/best-sellers/products/good-news-about-sex-and-marriage" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">GOOD NEWS ABOUT SEX &amp; MARRIAGE</a> by Christopher West Join Christopher and Wendy on the TOB Institute’s “St. Therese &amp; the Little Way” Seine River Cruise in France from Oct. 26-Nov. 2, 2023 (optional pre-cruise extension trip to Lourdes Oct. 22-26). <a href="https://selectinternationaltours.com/product/st-therese-and-the-little-way-seine-river-cruise-october-26-november-2-2023-23ja10frtob/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Get complete details and place your deposit here</a>. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UNqUMYvUiVU" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Cruise Promo</a> If you are in financial need and honestly cannot afford a book or resource recommended on this podcast, contact: <a href="mailto:michele@tobinstitute.org" rel="nofollow">michele@tobinstitute.org</a> Find Christopher West on <a href="http://www.facebook.com/cwestofficial" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Facebook</a> and <a href="http://www.instagram.com/cwestofficial" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Instagram</a>. Discover the <a href="http://www.tobinstitute.org" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Theology of the Body Institute</a>. If you enjoy the podcast, help us out by writing a <a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ask-christopher-west/id1448699486" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">review</a>. Thanks for listening! Christopher and Wendy hope their advice is helpful to you, but they are not licensed counseling professionals. If you are dealing with serious issues, please consult our <a href="https://tobinstitute.org/wp-content/uploads/TOBI-Recommended-Psychologists-Updated-6-8-20.pdf" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">list of trusted professionals</a>. Featuring music by <a href="https://www.mikemangione.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Mike Mangione</a>.

You Cannot Give What You Don't Have | ACW240

-Question 1: I'm a bodybuilder, and I see both the good and the bad in this pursuit. Is there a way to integrate my life of faith with my passion for bodybuilding? -Question 2: I went through a life-threatening condition during childbirth that is making my husband and me reconsider how we approach sexual intimacy. Do you have any advice? -Question 3: I recently started an intentional relationship, and I know that at some point we'll need to have more intimate conversations. Do you have any advice on how to talk about sex without it being an occasion for sin? Ask Christopher West is a weekly podcast in which Theology of the Body Institute President Christopher West and his beloved wife Wendy share their humor and wisdom, answering questions about marriage, relationships, life, and the Catholic faith, all in light of John Paul II’s beautiful teachings on the Theology of the Body.  Get 3 FREE sessions of our flagship course on Theology of the Body! Get a copy of God Is Beauty, A Retreat on the Gospel and Art by Karol Wojtyla/John Paul II. Available now for the first time in English. Want to support the Theology of the Body Institute and have a better chance of us answering your question? Join our Patron Community! Submit your question at AskChristopherWest.com.  Resources mentioned this week:   Get a copy of God Is Beauty, A Retreat on the Gospel and Art by Karol Wojtyla/John Paul II. Available now for the first time in English. Pope Paul VI Institute: FertilityCare and NaProTechnology Good News About Sex &amp; Marriage YouTube Playlist GOOD NEWS ABOUT SEX &amp; MARRIAGE by Christopher West  View our COURSE SCHEDULE to register for a course, ONLINE or IN-PERSON! GOOD NEWS ABOUT SEX &amp; MARRIAGE by Christopher West Join Christopher and Wendy on the TOB Institute’s “St. Therese &amp; the Little Way” Seine River Cruise in France from Oct. 26-Nov. 2, 2023 (optional pre-cruise extension trip to Lourdes Oct. 22-26). Get complete details and place your deposit here. Cruise Promo If you are in financial need and honestly cannot afford a book or resource recommended on this podcast, contact: michele@tobinstitute.org Find Christopher West on Facebook and Instagram. Discover the Theology of the Body Institute. If you enjoy the podcast, help us out by writing a review. Thanks for listening! Christopher and Wendy hope their advice is helpful to you, but they are not licensed counseling professionals. If you are dealing with serious issues, please consult our list of trusted professionals. Featuring music by Mike Mangione. 

-Question 1: I'm a bodybuilder, and I see both the good and the bad in this pursuit. Is there a way to integrate my life of faith with my passion for bodybuilding? -Question 2: I went through a life-threatening condition during childbirth that is making my husband and me reconsider how we approach sexual intimacy. Do you have any advice? -Question 3: I recently started an intentional relationship, and I know that at some point we'll need to have more intimate conversations. Do you have any advice on how to talk about sex without it being an occasion for sin? Ask Christopher West is a weekly podcast in which Theology of the Body Institute President Christopher West and his beloved wife Wendy share their humor and wisdom, answering questions about marriage, relationships, life, and the Catholic faith, all in light of John Paul II’s beautiful teachings on the Theology of the Body. Get <a href="https://www.tobforfree.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">3 FREE sessions</a> of our flagship course on Theology of the Body! Get a copy of <a href="https://www.godisbeautybook.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">God Is Beauty, A Retreat on the Gospel and Art</a> by Karol Wojtyla/John Paul II. Available now for the first time in English. Want to support the Theology of the Body Institute and have a better chance of us answering your question? Join our <a href="https://tobpatron.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Patron Community</a>! Submit your question at <a href="http://www.askchristopherwest.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">AskChristopherWest.com</a>. Resources mentioned this week: <ul> <li>Get a copy of <a href="https://www.godisbeautybook.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">God Is Beauty, A Retreat on the Gospel and Art</a> by Karol Wojtyla/John Paul II. Available now for the first time in English.</li> <li><a href="https://popepaulvi.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Pope Paul VI Institute: FertilityCare and NaProTechnology</a></li> <li><a href="https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLAbqXQaOvkM4Q01szl54g7Sj9mJ8bfKf0" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Good News About Sex &amp; Marriage YouTube Playlist</a></li> <li><a href="https://shop.corproject.com/collections/best-sellers/products/good-news-about-sex-and-marriage" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">GOOD NEWS ABOUT SEX &amp; MARRIAGE</a> by Christopher West</li> </ul> View our <a href="https://tobinstitute.org/programs/tobi-schedule/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">COURSE SCHEDULE</a> to register for a course, ONLINE or IN-PERSON! <a href="https://shop.corproject.com/collections/best-sellers/products/good-news-about-sex-and-marriage" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">GOOD NEWS ABOUT SEX &amp; MARRIAGE</a> by Christopher West Join Christopher and Wendy on the TOB Institute’s “St. Therese &amp; the Little Way” Seine River Cruise in France from Oct. 26-Nov. 2, 2023 (optional pre-cruise extension trip to Lourdes Oct. 22-26). <a href="https://selectinternationaltours.com/product/st-therese-and-the-little-way-seine-river-cruise-october-26-november-2-2023-23ja10frtob/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Get complete details and place your deposit here</a>. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UNqUMYvUiVU" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Cruise Promo</a> If you are in financial need and honestly cannot afford a book or resource recommended on this podcast, contact: <a href="mailto:michele@tobinstitute.org" rel="nofollow">michele@tobinstitute.org</a> Find Christopher West on <a href="http://www.facebook.com/cwestofficial" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Facebook</a> and <a href="http://www.instagram.com/cwestofficial" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Instagram</a>. Discover the <a href="http://www.tobinstitute.org" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Theology of the Body Institute</a>. If you enjoy the podcast, help us out by writing a <a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ask-christopher-west/id1448699486" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">review</a>. Thanks for listening! Christopher and Wendy hope their advice is helpful to you, but they are not licensed counseling professionals. If you are dealing with serious issues, please consult our <a href="https://tobinstitute.org/wp-content/uploads/TOBI-Recommended-Psychologists-Updated-6-8-20.pdf" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">list of trusted professionals</a>. Featuring music by <a href="https://www.mikemangione.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Mike Mangione</a>.

Theology of the BodyBuilder | ACW239

 Sexual abuse is a punishment almost worse than death. How can TOB explain that Jesus truly understands the deep pain endured by people who have suffered sexual abuse? I'm a young adult man drawn to a friend. I am not as physically attracted to her. Is physical attraction less important than other aspects? Was woman punished more severly than man after the fall?  Ask Christopher West is a weekly podcast in which Theology of the Body Institute President Christopher West and his beloved wife Wendy share their humor and wisdom, answering questions about marriage, relationships, life, and the Catholic faith, all in light of John Paul II’s beautiful teachings on the Theology of the Body.  Get 3 FREE sessions of our flagship course on Theology of the Body! Get a copy of God Is Beauty, A Retreat on the Gospel and Art by Karol Wojtyla/John Paul II. Available now for the first time in English. Want to support the Theology of the Body Institute and have a better chance of us answering your question? Join our Patron Community! Submit your question at AskChristopherWest.com.  Resources mentioned this week:  “When the hour had come for him to fulfill the Father’s plan of love, Jesus allows a glimpse of the boundless depth of his filial prayer.” We see this depth “in his last words from the Cross, where prayer and the gift of self are but one … until the ‘loud cry’ as he expires, giving up his spirit. All the troubles, for all time, of humanity enslaved by sin and death, all the petitions and intercessions of salvation history are summed up in this cry of the incarnate Word. Here the Father accepts them and, beyond all hope, answers them by raising his Son. Thus is fulfilled and brought to completion the drama of prayer in the economy of creation and salvation” (CCC 2605-2606). View our COURSE SCHEDULE to register for a course, ONLINE or IN-PERSON! GOOD NEWS ABOUT SEX &amp; MARRIAGE by Christopher West Join Christopher and Wendy on the TOB Institute’s “St. Therese &amp; the Little Way” Seine River Cruise in France from Oct. 26-Nov. 2, 2023 (optional pre-cruise extension trip to Lourdes Oct. 22-26). Get complete details and place your deposit here. Cruise Promo If you are in financial need and honestly cannot afford a book or resource recommended on this podcast, contact: michele@tobinstitute.org Find Christopher West on Facebook and Instagram. Discover the Theology of the Body Institute. If you enjoy the podcast, help us out by writing a review. Thanks for listening! Christopher and Wendy hope their advice is helpful to you, but they are not licensed counseling professionals. If you are dealing with serious issues, please consult our list of trusted professionals. Featuring music by Mike Mangione. 

<ul> <li>Sexual abuse is a punishment almost worse than death. How can TOB explain that Jesus truly understands the deep pain endured by people who have suffered sexual abuse?</li> <li>I'm a young adult man drawn to a friend. I am not as physically attracted to her. Is physical attraction less important than other aspects?</li> <li>Was woman punished more severly than man after the fall?</li> </ul> Ask Christopher West is a weekly podcast in which Theology of the Body Institute President Christopher West and his beloved wife Wendy share their humor and wisdom, answering questions about marriage, relationships, life, and the Catholic faith, all in light of John Paul II’s beautiful teachings on the Theology of the Body. Get <a href="https://www.tobforfree.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">3 FREE sessions</a> of our flagship course on Theology of the Body! Get a copy of <a href="https://www.godisbeautybook.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">God Is Beauty, A Retreat on the Gospel and Art</a> by Karol Wojtyla/John Paul II. Available now for the first time in English. Want to support the Theology of the Body Institute and have a better chance of us answering your question? Join our <a href="https://tobpatron.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Patron Community</a>! Submit your question at <a href="http://www.askchristopherwest.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">AskChristopherWest.com</a>. Resources mentioned this week: “When the hour had come for him to fulfill the Father’s plan of love, Jesus allows a glimpse of the boundless depth of his filial prayer.” We see this depth “in his last words from the Cross, where prayer and the gift of self are but one … until the ‘loud cry’ as he expires, giving up his spirit. All the troubles, for all time, of humanity enslaved by sin and death, all the petitions and intercessions of salvation history are summed up in this cry of the incarnate Word. Here the Father accepts them and, beyond all hope, answers them by raising his Son. Thus is fulfilled and brought to completion the drama of prayer in the economy of creation and salvation” (CCC 2605-2606). View our <a href="https://tobinstitute.org/programs/tobi-schedule/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">COURSE SCHEDULE</a> to register for a course, ONLINE or IN-PERSON! <a href="https://shop.corproject.com/collections/best-sellers/products/good-news-about-sex-and-marriage" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">GOOD NEWS ABOUT SEX &amp; MARRIAGE</a> by Christopher West Join Christopher and Wendy on the TOB Institute’s “St. Therese &amp; the Little Way” Seine River Cruise in France from Oct. 26-Nov. 2, 2023 (optional pre-cruise extension trip to Lourdes Oct. 22-26). <a href="https://selectinternationaltours.com/product/st-therese-and-the-little-way-seine-river-cruise-october-26-november-2-2023-23ja10frtob/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Get complete details and place your deposit here</a>. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UNqUMYvUiVU" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Cruise Promo</a> If you are in financial need and honestly cannot afford a book or resource recommended on this podcast, contact: <a href="mailto:michele@tobinstitute.org" rel="nofollow">michele@tobinstitute.org</a> Find Christopher West on <a href="http://www.facebook.com/cwestofficial" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Facebook</a> and <a href="http://www.instagram.com/cwestofficial" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Instagram</a>. Discover the <a href="http://www.tobinstitute.org" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Theology of the Body Institute</a>. If you enjoy the podcast, help us out by writing a <a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ask-christopher-west/id1448699486" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">review</a>. Thanks for listening! Christopher and Wendy hope their advice is helpful to you, but they are not licensed counseling professionals. If you are dealing with serious issues, please consult our <a href="https://tobinstitute.org/wp-content/uploads/TOBI-Recommended-Psychologists-Updated-6-8-20.pdf" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">list of trusted professionals</a>. Featuring music by <a href="https://www.mikemangione.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Mike Mangione</a>.

Did Jesus Suffer As Much As SA Victims? | ACW238

 I want to honor my children’s gender while not imposing gender stereotypes on them. Are there any activities, clothes or toys that should be kept exclusively to a specific gender? I had sex with the woman I intend to marry. We’ve both repented and gone to confession. Is there still hope that our relationship will lead to a holy marriage? I’ve struggled with porn and lust since I was a teenager. I’m approaching 40 now and I’m a husband and father. How do I get to the point where attractiveness becomes an occasion of grace instead of an occasion of sin?  Ask Christopher West is a weekly podcast in which Theology of the Body Institute President Christopher West and his beloved wife Wendy share their humor and wisdom, answering questions about marriage, relationships, life, and the Catholic faith, all in light of John Paul II’s beautiful teachings on the Theology of the Body.  Get 3 FREE sessions of our flagship course on Theology of the Body! Get a copy of God Is Beauty, A Retreat on the Gospel and Art by Karol Wojtyla/John Paul II. Available now for the first time in English. Want to support the Theology of the Body Institute and have a better chance of us answering your question? Join our Patron Community! Submit your question at AskChristopherWest.com.  Resources mentioned this week:  Flannery O'Connor Conversation View our COURSE SCHEDULE to register for a course, ONLINE or IN-PERSON! GOOD NEWS ABOUT SEX &amp; MARRIAGE by Christopher West Join Christopher and Wendy on the TOB Institute’s “St. Therese &amp; the Little Way” Seine River Cruise in France from Oct. 26-Nov. 2, 2023 (optional pre-cruise extension trip to Lourdes Oct. 22-26). Get complete details and place your deposit here. Cruise Promo If you are in financial need and honestly cannot afford a book or resource recommended on this podcast, contact: michele@tobinstitute.org Find Christopher West on Facebook and Instagram. Discover the Theology of the Body Institute. If you enjoy the podcast, help us out by writing a review. Thanks for listening! Christopher and Wendy hope their advice is helpful to you, but they are not licensed counseling professionals. If you are dealing with serious issues, please consult our list of trusted professionals. Featuring music by Mike Mangione. 

<ul> <li>I want to honor my children’s gender while not imposing gender stereotypes on them. Are there any activities, clothes or toys that should be kept exclusively to a specific gender?</li> <li>I had sex with the woman I intend to marry. We’ve both repented and gone to confession. Is there still hope that our relationship will lead to a holy marriage?</li> <li>I’ve struggled with porn and lust since I was a teenager. I’m approaching 40 now and I’m a husband and father. How do I get to the point where attractiveness becomes an occasion of grace instead of an occasion of sin?</li> </ul> Ask Christopher West is a weekly podcast in which Theology of the Body Institute President Christopher West and his beloved wife Wendy share their humor and wisdom, answering questions about marriage, relationships, life, and the Catholic faith, all in light of John Paul II’s beautiful teachings on the Theology of the Body. Get <a href="https://www.tobforfree.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">3 FREE sessions</a> of our flagship course on Theology of the Body! Get a copy of <a href="https://www.godisbeautybook.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">God Is Beauty, A Retreat on the Gospel and Art</a> by Karol Wojtyla/John Paul II. Available now for the first time in English. Want to support the Theology of the Body Institute and have a better chance of us answering your question? Join our <a href="https://tobpatron.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Patron Community</a>! Submit your question at <a href="http://www.askchristopherwest.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">AskChristopherWest.com</a>. Resources mentioned this week: <a href="https://youtube.com/live/5Z4_Trt2dTU" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Flannery O'Connor Conversation</a> View our <a href="https://tobinstitute.org/programs/tobi-schedule/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">COURSE SCHEDULE</a> to register for a course, ONLINE or IN-PERSON! <a href="https://shop.corproject.com/collections/best-sellers/products/good-news-about-sex-and-marriage" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">GOOD NEWS ABOUT SEX &amp; MARRIAGE</a> by Christopher West Join Christopher and Wendy on the TOB Institute’s “St. Therese &amp; the Little Way” Seine River Cruise in France from Oct. 26-Nov. 2, 2023 (optional pre-cruise extension trip to Lourdes Oct. 22-26). <a href="https://selectinternationaltours.com/product/st-therese-and-the-little-way-seine-river-cruise-october-26-november-2-2023-23ja10frtob/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Get complete details and place your deposit here</a>. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UNqUMYvUiVU" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Cruise Promo</a> If you are in financial need and honestly cannot afford a book or resource recommended on this podcast, contact: <a href="mailto:michele@tobinstitute.org" rel="nofollow">michele@tobinstitute.org</a> Find Christopher West on <a href="http://www.facebook.com/cwestofficial" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Facebook</a> and <a href="http://www.instagram.com/cwestofficial" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Instagram</a>. Discover the <a href="http://www.tobinstitute.org" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Theology of the Body Institute</a>. If you enjoy the podcast, help us out by writing a <a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ask-christopher-west/id1448699486" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">review</a>. Thanks for listening! Christopher and Wendy hope their advice is helpful to you, but they are not licensed counseling professionals. If you are dealing with serious issues, please consult our <a href="https://tobinstitute.org/wp-content/uploads/TOBI-Recommended-Psychologists-Updated-6-8-20.pdf" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">list of trusted professionals</a>. Featuring music by <a href="https://www.mikemangione.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Mike Mangione</a>.

Gender Stereotypes | ACW237

 Is there a bad type of eros or is this only a form of porneia? I had a vasectomy because my wife had a heart condition that would put her life at risk if she happened to get pregnant. I went to a priest and he left me feeling hopeless. Was the way he reacted consistent with gravity of the mistake we made as a couple?  Sometimes painful memories from past relationships come to mind and I feel like I’m betraying God. Is this normal?  Ask Christopher West is a weekly podcast in which Theology of the Body Institute President Christopher West and his beloved wife Wendy share their humor and wisdom, answering questions about marriage, relationships, life, and the Catholic faith, all in light of John Paul II’s beautiful teachings on the Theology of the Body.  Get 3 FREE sessions of our flagship course on Theology of the Body! Get a copy of God Is Beauty, A Retreat on the Gospel and Art by Karol Wojtyla/John Paul II. Available now for the first time in English. Want to support the Theology of the Body Institute and have a better chance of us answering your question? Join our Patron Community! Submit your question at AskChristopherWest.com.  Resources mentioned this week:  Saint Paul VI Institute The Dark Night: Psychological Experience and Spiritual Reality by Marc Foley View our COURSE SCHEDULE to register for a course, ONLINE or IN-PERSON! GOOD NEWS ABOUT SEX &amp; MARRIAGE by Christopher West Join Christopher and Wendy on the TOB Institute’s “St. Therese &amp; the Little Way” Seine River Cruise in France from Oct. 26-Nov. 2, 2023 (optional pre-cruise extension trip to Lourdes Oct. 22-26). Get complete details and place your deposit here. Cruise Promo If you are in financial need and honestly cannot afford a book or resource recommended on this podcast, contact: michele@tobinstitute.org Find Christopher West on Facebook and Instagram. Discover the Theology of the Body Institute. If you enjoy the podcast, help us out by writing a review. Thanks for listening! Christopher and Wendy hope their advice is helpful to you, but they are not licensed counseling professionals. If you are dealing with serious issues, please consult our list of trusted professionals. Featuring music by Mike Mangione. 

<ul> <li>Is there a bad type of eros or is this only a form of porneia?</li> <li>I had a vasectomy because my wife had a heart condition that would put her life at risk if she happened to get pregnant. I went to a priest and he left me feeling hopeless. Was the way he reacted consistent with gravity of the mistake we made as a couple? </li> <li>Sometimes painful memories from past relationships come to mind and I feel like I’m betraying God. Is this normal?</li> </ul> Ask Christopher West is a weekly podcast in which Theology of the Body Institute President Christopher West and his beloved wife Wendy share their humor and wisdom, answering questions about marriage, relationships, life, and the Catholic faith, all in light of John Paul II’s beautiful teachings on the Theology of the Body. Get <a href="https://www.tobforfree.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">3 FREE sessions</a> of our flagship course on Theology of the Body! Get a copy of <a href="https://www.godisbeautybook.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">God Is Beauty, A Retreat on the Gospel and Art</a> by Karol Wojtyla/John Paul II. Available now for the first time in English. Want to support the Theology of the Body Institute and have a better chance of us answering your question? Join our <a href="https://tobpatron.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Patron Community</a>! Submit your question at <a href="http://www.askchristopherwest.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">AskChristopherWest.com</a>. Resources mentioned this week: <a href="https://popepaulvi.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Saint Paul VI Institute</a> <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Dark-Night-Psychological-Experience-Spiritual/dp/1939272793" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">The Dark Night: Psychological Experience and Spiritual Reality by Marc Foley</a> View our <a href="https://tobinstitute.org/programs/tobi-schedule/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">COURSE SCHEDULE</a> to register for a course, ONLINE or IN-PERSON! <a href="https://shop.corproject.com/collections/best-sellers/products/good-news-about-sex-and-marriage" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">GOOD NEWS ABOUT SEX &amp; MARRIAGE</a> by Christopher West Join Christopher and Wendy on the TOB Institute’s “St. Therese &amp; the Little Way” Seine River Cruise in France from Oct. 26-Nov. 2, 2023 (optional pre-cruise extension trip to Lourdes Oct. 22-26). <a href="https://selectinternationaltours.com/product/st-therese-and-the-little-way-seine-river-cruise-october-26-november-2-2023-23ja10frtob/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Get complete details and place your deposit here</a>. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UNqUMYvUiVU" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Cruise Promo</a> If you are in financial need and honestly cannot afford a book or resource recommended on this podcast, contact: <a href="mailto:michele@tobinstitute.org" rel="nofollow">michele@tobinstitute.org</a> Find Christopher West on <a href="http://www.facebook.com/cwestofficial" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Facebook</a> and <a href="http://www.instagram.com/cwestofficial" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Instagram</a>. Discover the <a href="http://www.tobinstitute.org" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Theology of the Body Institute</a>. If you enjoy the podcast, help us out by writing a <a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ask-christopher-west/id1448699486" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">review</a>. Thanks for listening! Christopher and Wendy hope their advice is helpful to you, but they are not licensed counseling professionals. If you are dealing with serious issues, please consult our <a href="https://tobinstitute.org/wp-content/uploads/TOBI-Recommended-Psychologists-Updated-6-8-20.pdf" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">list of trusted professionals</a>. Featuring music by <a href="https://www.mikemangione.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Mike Mangione</a>.

A Heart That Gives Itself To Those In Misery | ACW236

 My wife and I practice Natural Family Planning. She thinks it’s unfair that the only time she has any interest in sex is during times of fertility. She also thinks that the Church’s stance is anti-woman. How can I respond to her? I’ve struggled with loving my body and feeling feminine. Do you have any insights? I’m a husband discerning diaconate. What does the TOB has to say about marriage and holy orders as a deacon.  Ask Christopher West is a weekly podcast in which Theology of the Body Institute President Christopher West and his beloved wife Wendy share their humor and wisdom, answering questions about marriage, relationships, life, and the Catholic faith, all in light of John Paul II’s beautiful teachings on the Theology of the Body.  Get 3 FREE sessions of our flagship course on Theology of the Body! Get a copy of God Is Beauty, A Retreat on the Gospel and Art by Karol Wojtyla/John Paul II. Available now for the first time in English. Want to support the Theology of the Body Institute and have a better chance of us answering your question? Join our Patron Community! Submit your question at AskChristopherWest.com.  Resources mentioned this week:  Sweden Video  View our COURSE SCHEDULE to register for a course, ONLINE or IN-PERSON! GOOD NEWS ABOUT SEX &amp; MARRIAGE by Christopher West Join Christopher and Wendy on the TOB Institute’s “St. Therese &amp; the Little Way” Seine River Cruise in France from Oct. 26-Nov. 2, 2023 (optional pre-cruise extension trip to Lourdes Oct. 22-26). Get complete details and place your deposit here. Cruise Promo If you are in financial need and honestly cannot afford a book or resource recommended on this podcast, contact: michele@tobinstitute.org Find Christopher West on Facebook and Instagram. Discover the Theology of the Body Institute. If you enjoy the podcast, help us out by writing a review. Thanks for listening! Christopher and Wendy hope their advice is helpful to you, but they are not licensed counseling professionals. If you are dealing with serious issues, please consult our list of trusted professionals. Featuring music by Mike Mangione. 

<ul> <li>My wife and I practice Natural Family Planning. She thinks it’s unfair that the only time she has any interest in sex is during times of fertility. She also thinks that the Church’s stance is anti-woman. How can I respond to her?</li> <li>I’ve struggled with loving my body and feeling feminine. Do you have any insights?</li> <li>I’m a husband discerning diaconate. What does the TOB has to say about marriage and holy orders as a deacon.</li> </ul> Ask Christopher West is a weekly podcast in which Theology of the Body Institute President Christopher West and his beloved wife Wendy share their humor and wisdom, answering questions about marriage, relationships, life, and the Catholic faith, all in light of John Paul II’s beautiful teachings on the Theology of the Body. Get <a href="https://www.tobforfree.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">3 FREE sessions</a> of our flagship course on Theology of the Body! Get a copy of <a href="https://www.godisbeautybook.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">God Is Beauty, A Retreat on the Gospel and Art</a> by Karol Wojtyla/John Paul II. Available now for the first time in English. Want to support the Theology of the Body Institute and have a better chance of us answering your question? Join our <a href="https://tobpatron.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Patron Community</a>! Submit your question at <a href="http://www.askchristopherwest.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">AskChristopherWest.com</a>. Resources mentioned this week: <a href="https://youtube.com/shorts/4LFY-E7rhd0?feature=share" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Sweden Video</a> View our <a href="https://tobinstitute.org/programs/tobi-schedule/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">COURSE SCHEDULE</a> to register for a course, ONLINE or IN-PERSON! <a href="https://shop.corproject.com/collections/best-sellers/products/good-news-about-sex-and-marriage" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">GOOD NEWS ABOUT SEX &amp; MARRIAGE</a> by Christopher West Join Christopher and Wendy on the TOB Institute’s “St. Therese &amp; the Little Way” Seine River Cruise in France from Oct. 26-Nov. 2, 2023 (optional pre-cruise extension trip to Lourdes Oct. 22-26). <a href="https://selectinternationaltours.com/product/st-therese-and-the-little-way-seine-river-cruise-october-26-november-2-2023-23ja10frtob/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Get complete details and place your deposit here</a>. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UNqUMYvUiVU" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Cruise Promo</a> If you are in financial need and honestly cannot afford a book or resource recommended on this podcast, contact: <a href="mailto:michele@tobinstitute.org" rel="nofollow">michele@tobinstitute.org</a> Find Christopher West on <a href="http://www.facebook.com/cwestofficial" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Facebook</a> and <a href="http://www.instagram.com/cwestofficial" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Instagram</a>. Discover the <a href="http://www.tobinstitute.org" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Theology of the Body Institute</a>. If you enjoy the podcast, help us out by writing a <a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ask-christopher-west/id1448699486" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">review</a>. Thanks for listening! Christopher and Wendy hope their advice is helpful to you, but they are not licensed counseling professionals. If you are dealing with serious issues, please consult our <a href="https://tobinstitute.org/wp-content/uploads/TOBI-Recommended-Psychologists-Updated-6-8-20.pdf" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">list of trusted professionals</a>. Featuring music by <a href="https://www.mikemangione.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Mike Mangione</a>.

Is the Church Anti-Woman? | ACW235

 I’ve heard that couples should have a short engagement so as to not fall into sexual sin. What are your thoughts? Would artificial conception be permissible in the case of  illness? Both vocations to marriage and celibacy are a call to sacrifice. How can I discern properly if I have a profound desire to give my life completely to God?  Ask Christopher West is a weekly podcast in which Theology of the Body Institute President Christopher West and his beloved wife Wendy share their humor and wisdom, answering questions about marriage, relationships, life, and the Catholic faith, all in light of John Paul II’s beautiful teachings on the Theology of the Body.  Get 3 FREE sessions of our flagship course on Theology of the Body! Get a copy of God Is Beauty, A Retreat on the Gospel and Art by Karol Wojtyla/John Paul II. Available now for the first time in English. Want to support the Theology of the Body Institute and have a better chance of us answering your question? Join our Patron Community! Submit your question at AskChristopherWest.com.  Resources mentioned this week:  View our COURSE SCHEDULE to register for a course, ONLINE or IN-PERSON! GOOD NEWS ABOUT SEX &amp; MARRIAGE by Christopher West Join Christopher and Wendy on the TOB Institute’s “St. Therese &amp; the Little Way” Seine River Cruise in France from Oct. 26-Nov. 2, 2023 (optional pre-cruise extension trip to Lourdes Oct. 22-26). Get complete details and place your deposit here. Cruise Promo If you are in financial need and honestly cannot afford a book or resource recomended on this podcast, contact: michele@tobinstitute.org Find Christopher West on Facebook and Instagram. Discover the Theology of the Body Institute. If you enjoy the podcast, help us out by writing a review. Thanks for listening! Christopher and Wendy hope their advice is helpful to you, but they are not licensed counseling professionals. If you are dealing with serious issues, please consult our list of trusted professionals. Featuring music by Mike Mangione. 

<ul> <li>I’ve heard that couples should have a short engagement so as to not fall into sexual sin. What are your thoughts?</li> <li>Would artificial conception be permissible in the case of illness?</li> <li>Both vocations to marriage and celibacy are a call to sacrifice. How can I discern properly if I have a profound desire to give my life completely to God?</li> </ul> Ask Christopher West is a weekly podcast in which Theology of the Body Institute President Christopher West and his beloved wife Wendy share their humor and wisdom, answering questions about marriage, relationships, life, and the Catholic faith, all in light of John Paul II’s beautiful teachings on the Theology of the Body. Get <a href="https://www.tobforfree.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">3 FREE sessions</a> of our flagship course on Theology of the Body! Get a copy of <a href="https://www.godisbeautybook.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">God Is Beauty, A Retreat on the Gospel and Art</a> by Karol Wojtyla/John Paul II. Available now for the first time in English. Want to support the Theology of the Body Institute and have a better chance of us answering your question? Join our <a href="https://tobpatron.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Patron Community</a>! Submit your question at <a href="http://www.askchristopherwest.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">AskChristopherWest.com</a>. Resources mentioned this week: View our <a href="https://tobinstitute.org/programs/tobi-schedule/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">COURSE SCHEDULE</a> to register for a course, ONLINE or IN-PERSON! <a href="https://shop.corproject.com/collections/best-sellers/products/good-news-about-sex-and-marriage" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">GOOD NEWS ABOUT SEX &amp; MARRIAGE</a> by Christopher West Join Christopher and Wendy on the TOB Institute’s “St. Therese &amp; the Little Way” Seine River Cruise in France from Oct. 26-Nov. 2, 2023 (optional pre-cruise extension trip to Lourdes Oct. 22-26). <a href="https://selectinternationaltours.com/product/st-therese-and-the-little-way-seine-river-cruise-october-26-november-2-2023-23ja10frtob/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Get complete details and place your deposit here</a>. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UNqUMYvUiVU" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Cruise Promo</a> If you are in financial need and honestly cannot afford a book or resource recomended on this podcast, contact: <a href="mailto:michele@tobinstitute.org" rel="nofollow">michele@tobinstitute.org</a> Find Christopher West on <a href="http://www.facebook.com/cwestofficial" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Facebook</a> and <a href="http://www.instagram.com/cwestofficial" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Instagram</a>. Discover the <a href="http://www.tobinstitute.org" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Theology of the Body Institute</a>. If you enjoy the podcast, help us out by writing a <a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ask-christopher-west/id1448699486" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">review</a>. Thanks for listening! Christopher and Wendy hope their advice is helpful to you, but they are not licensed counseling professionals. If you are dealing with serious issues, please consult our <a href="https://tobinstitute.org/wp-content/uploads/TOBI-Recommended-Psychologists-Updated-6-8-20.pdf" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">list of trusted professionals</a>. Featuring music by <a href="https://www.mikemangione.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Mike Mangione</a>.

Chastity is for EVERY BODY | ACW234

 Is finding out the sex of your child in the womb wrong? I belong to a protestant group ministry and several of our members have been hurt by one of the ministry leaders who constantly objectifies men and women. Do you have any advice? I’m a young adult that studied business and worked in a top tier firm. The demands of the work made it very hard to take care of my personal life so I decided to leave after knowing it was the right thing to do. I’m currently facing criticism from those close to me. How can I look at this with TOB eyes?  Ask Christopher West is a weekly podcast in which Theology of the Body Institute President Christopher West and his beloved wife Wendy share their humor and wisdom, answering questions about marriage, relationships, life, and the Catholic faith, all in light of John Paul II’s beautiful teachings on the Theology of the Body.  Get 3 FREE sessions of our flagship course on Theology of the Body! Get a copy of God Is Beauty, A Retreat on the Gospel and Art by Karol Wojtyla/John Paul II. Available now for the first time in English. Want to support the Theology of the Body Institute and have a better chance of us answering your question? Join our Patron Community! Submit your question at AskChristopherWest.com.  Resources mentioned this week:  Our Bodies Tell God's Story: Discovering the Divine Plan for Love, Sex and Gender OUR BODIES PROCLAIM THE GOSPEL STUDY GUIDE View our COURSE SCHEDULE to register for a course, ONLINE or IN-PERSON! GOOD NEWS ABOUT SEX &amp; MARRIAGE by Christopher West Join Christopher and Wendy on the TOB Institute’s “St. Therese &amp; the Little Way” Seine River Cruise in France from Oct. 26-Nov. 2, 2023 (optional pre-cruise extension trip to Lourdes Oct. 22-26). Get complete details and place your deposit here. If you are in financial need and honestly cannot afford a book or resource recomended on this podcast, contact: michele@tobinstitute.org Find Christopher West on Facebook and Instagram. Discover the Theology of the Body Institute. If you enjoy the podcast, help us out by writing a review. Thanks for listening! Christopher and Wendy hope their advice is helpful to you, but they are not licensed counseling professionals. If you are dealing with serious issues, please consult our list of trusted professionals. Featuring music by Mike Mangione. 

<ul> <li>Is finding out the sex of your child in the womb wrong?</li> <li>I belong to a protestant group ministry and several of our members have been hurt by one of the ministry leaders who constantly objectifies men and women. Do you have any advice?</li> <li>I’m a young adult that studied business and worked in a top tier firm. The demands of the work made it very hard to take care of my personal life so I decided to leave after knowing it was the right thing to do. I’m currently facing criticism from those close to me. How can I look at this with TOB eyes?</li> </ul> Ask Christopher West is a weekly podcast in which Theology of the Body Institute President Christopher West and his beloved wife Wendy share their humor and wisdom, answering questions about marriage, relationships, life, and the Catholic faith, all in light of John Paul II’s beautiful teachings on the Theology of the Body. Get <a href="https://www.tobforfree.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">3 FREE sessions</a> of our flagship course on Theology of the Body! Get a copy of <a href="https://www.godisbeautybook.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">God Is Beauty, A Retreat on the Gospel and Art</a> by Karol Wojtyla/John Paul II. Available now for the first time in English. Want to support the Theology of the Body Institute and have a better chance of us answering your question? Join our <a href="https://tobpatron.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Patron Community</a>! Submit your question at <a href="http://www.askchristopherwest.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">AskChristopherWest.com</a>. Resources mentioned this week: <a href="https://shop.corproject.com/products/our-bodies-tell-gods-story-discovering-the-divine-plan-for-love-sex-and-gender-paperback" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Our Bodies Tell God's Story: Discovering the Divine Plan for Love, Sex and Gender</a> <a href="https://shop.corproject.com/products/our-bodies-proclaim-the-gospel-study-guide" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">OUR BODIES PROCLAIM THE GOSPEL STUDY GUIDE</a> View our <a href="https://tobinstitute.org/programs/tobi-schedule/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">COURSE SCHEDULE</a> to register for a course, ONLINE or IN-PERSON! <a href="https://shop.corproject.com/collections/best-sellers/products/good-news-about-sex-and-marriage" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">GOOD NEWS ABOUT SEX &amp; MARRIAGE</a> by Christopher West Join Christopher and Wendy on the TOB Institute’s “St. Therese &amp; the Little Way” Seine River Cruise in France from Oct. 26-Nov. 2, 2023 (optional pre-cruise extension trip to Lourdes Oct. 22-26). <a href="https://selectinternationaltours.com/product/st-therese-and-the-little-way-seine-river-cruise-october-26-november-2-2023-23ja10frtob/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Get complete details and place your deposit here</a>. If you are in financial need and honestly cannot afford a book or resource recomended on this podcast, contact: <a href="mailto:michele@tobinstitute.org" rel="nofollow">michele@tobinstitute.org</a> Find Christopher West on <a href="http://www.facebook.com/cwestofficial" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Facebook</a> and <a href="http://www.instagram.com/cwestofficial" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Instagram</a>. Discover the <a href="http://www.tobinstitute.org" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Theology of the Body Institute</a>. If you enjoy the podcast, help us out by writing a <a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ask-christopher-west/id1448699486" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">review</a>. Thanks for listening! Christopher and Wendy hope their advice is helpful to you, but they are not licensed counseling professionals. If you are dealing with serious issues, please consult our <a href="https://tobinstitute.org/wp-content/uploads/TOBI-Recommended-Psychologists-Updated-6-8-20.pdf" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">list of trusted professionals</a>. Featuring music by <a href="https://www.mikemangione.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Mike Mangione</a>.

Feminine Beauty Is a Grace | ACW233

 I feel profoundly lonely and I’m desperate. How can I address this longing without turning it into an idol? I’m trying to teach my daughter to be prudent regarding poop jokes. Do you have any advice? My husband and I are trying to integrate NFP in our family life. Is it okay to use ovulation predictor kits?  Ask Christopher West is a weekly podcast in which Theology of the Body Institute President Christopher West and his beloved wife Wendy share their humor and wisdom, answering questions about marriage, relationships, life, and the Catholic faith, all in light of John Paul II’s beautiful teachings on the Theology of the Body.  Get 3 FREE sessions of our flagship course on Theology of the Body! Get a copy of God Is Beauty, A Retreat on the Gospel and Art by Karol Wojtyla/John Paul II. Available now for the first time in English. Want to support the Theology of the Body Institute and have a better chance of us answering your question? Join our Patron Community! Submit your question at AskChristopherWest.com.  Resources mentioned this week:  View our COURSE SCHEDULE to register for a course, ONLINE or IN-PERSON! GOOD NEWS ABOUT SEX &amp; MARRIAGE by Christopher West Join Christopher and Wendy on the TOB Institute’s “St. Therese &amp; the Little Way” Seine River Cruise in France from Oct. 26-Nov. 2, 2023 (optional pre-cruise extension trip to Lourdes Oct. 22-26). Get complete details and place your deposit here. If you are in financial need and honestly cannot afford a book or resource recomended on this podcast, contact: michele@tobinstitute.org Find Christopher West on Facebook and Instagram. Discover the Theology of the Body Institute. If you enjoy the podcast, help us out by writing a review. Thanks for listening! Christopher and Wendy hope their advice is helpful to you, but they are not licensed counseling professionals. If you are dealing with serious issues, please consult our list of trusted professionals. Featuring music by Mike Mangione. 

<ul> <li>I feel profoundly lonely and I’m desperate. How can I address this longing without turning it into an idol?</li> <li>I’m trying to teach my daughter to be prudent regarding poop jokes. Do you have any advice?</li> <li>My husband and I are trying to integrate NFP in our family life. Is it okay to use ovulation predictor kits?</li> </ul> Ask Christopher West is a weekly podcast in which Theology of the Body Institute President Christopher West and his beloved wife Wendy share their humor and wisdom, answering questions about marriage, relationships, life, and the Catholic faith, all in light of John Paul II’s beautiful teachings on the Theology of the Body. Get <a href="https://www.tobforfree.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">3 FREE sessions</a> of our flagship course on Theology of the Body! Get a copy of <a href="https://www.godisbeautybook.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">God Is Beauty, A Retreat on the Gospel and Art</a> by Karol Wojtyla/John Paul II. Available now for the first time in English. Want to support the Theology of the Body Institute and have a better chance of us answering your question? Join our <a href="https://tobpatron.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Patron Community</a>! Submit your question at <a href="http://www.askchristopherwest.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">AskChristopherWest.com</a>. Resources mentioned this week: View our <a href="https://tobinstitute.org/programs/tobi-schedule/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">COURSE SCHEDULE</a> to register for a course, ONLINE or IN-PERSON! <a href="https://shop.corproject.com/collections/best-sellers/products/good-news-about-sex-and-marriage" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">GOOD NEWS ABOUT SEX &amp; MARRIAGE</a> by Christopher West Join Christopher and Wendy on the TOB Institute’s “St. Therese &amp; the Little Way” Seine River Cruise in France from Oct. 26-Nov. 2, 2023 (optional pre-cruise extension trip to Lourdes Oct. 22-26). <a href="https://selectinternationaltours.com/product/st-therese-and-the-little-way-seine-river-cruise-october-26-november-2-2023-23ja10frtob/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Get complete details and place your deposit here</a>. If you are in financial need and honestly cannot afford a book or resource recomended on this podcast, contact: <a href="mailto:michele@tobinstitute.org" rel="nofollow">michele@tobinstitute.org</a> Find Christopher West on <a href="http://www.facebook.com/cwestofficial" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Facebook</a> and <a href="http://www.instagram.com/cwestofficial" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Instagram</a>. Discover the <a href="http://www.tobinstitute.org" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Theology of the Body Institute</a>. If you enjoy the podcast, help us out by writing a <a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ask-christopher-west/id1448699486" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">review</a>. Thanks for listening! Christopher and Wendy hope their advice is helpful to you, but they are not licensed counseling professionals. If you are dealing with serious issues, please consult our <a href="https://tobinstitute.org/wp-content/uploads/TOBI-Recommended-Psychologists-Updated-6-8-20.pdf" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">list of trusted professionals</a>. Featuring music by <a href="https://www.mikemangione.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Mike Mangione</a>.

Poop Jokes | ACW 232

Since the early 90's, author and speaker Christopher West has devoted his life to spreading John Paul II's revolutionary teaching on human life, love, and sexuality: The Theology of the Body. His beloved wife Wendy, mother of their five children, has served as his confidante, friend, and support through these long years of ministry. In this podcast, Christopher and Wendy combine their wisdom to tackle the toughest questions dealing with vocation, sexuality, marriage, and the Catholic faith. Support the mission of Christopher and Theology of the Body Institute by becoming a Patron! Join our Patron Community at TOBPatron.com (http://tobpatron.com/).

March 16 podcast was such a blessing!!
Thanks so much!!
Andrea

March 16 podcast- so wonderful!! Thanks!!

The episode this week Sept. 23 was amazing! Thank you!
God bless you both on your ministry.

Thank you

Since the early 90's, author and speaker Christopher West has devoted his life to spreading John Paul II's revolutionary teaching on human life, love, and sexuality: The Theology of the Body. His beloved wife Wendy, mother of their five children, has served as his confidante, friend, and support through these long years of ministry. In this podcast, Christopher and Wendy combine their wisdom to tackle the toughest questions dealing with vocation, sexuality, marriage, and the Catholic faith. Support the mission of Christopher and Theology of the Body Institute by becoming a Patron! Join our Patron Community at <a href="http://TOBPatron.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">TOBPatron.com</a> (<a href="http://tobpatron.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">http://tobpatron.com/</a>).

Ask Christopher West

Does my own broken sexual past mean I can't talk to my kids about virtue? How do I talk and pray with my teen daughter who identifies as a lesbian? How do we overcome poor father figures in our lives? Christopher and Wendy lend their wisdom to these questions regarding teenagers and adolescence. Ask Christopher West is a weekly podcast in which Theology of the Body Institute Director Christopher West and his beloved wife Wendy share their humor and wisdom, answering questions about marriage, relationships, life, and the Cathlic faith all in light of John Paul II’s beautiful teachings on the Theology of the Body.  This week’s questions: Q1: I want to share the truth about sexuality with my children, but I have not had a virtuous sexual past. Does this make me a hypocrite? Q2: How can a mother talk and pray with her 15 year old daughter who identifies as a lesbian? Q3: How can girls with bad father figures know what healthy desire is, when all they have is bad examples? Submit your question at AskChristopherWest.com.  Register for Christopher's free mini-course: What Do You Want?  Resources mentioned this week:  On Golden Pond Find Christopher West on Facebook and Instagram. Discover the Theology of the Body Institute. If you enjoy the podcast, help us out by writing a review. Thanks for listening! Produced by Sounder and Key

Does my own broken sexual past mean I can't talk to my kids about virtue? How do I talk and pray with my teen daughter who identifies as a lesbian? How do we overcome poor father figures in our lives? Christopher and Wendy lend their wisdom to these questions regarding teenagers and adolescence. Ask Christopher West is a weekly podcast in which Theology of the Body Institute Director Christopher West and his beloved wife Wendy share their humor and wisdom, answering questions about marriage, relationships, life, and the Cathlic faith all in light of John Paul II’s beautiful teachings on the Theology of the Body. This week’s questions: Q1: I want to share the truth about sexuality with my children, but I have not had a virtuous sexual past. Does this make me a hypocrite? Q2: How can a mother talk and pray with her 15 year old daughter who identifies as a lesbian? Q3: How can girls with bad father figures know what healthy desire is, when all they have is bad examples? Submit your question at <a href="http://www.askchristopherwest.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">AskChristopherWest.com</a>. Register for Christopher's free mini-course: <a href="https://community.theologyofthebody.com/freecourse" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">What Do You Want?</a> Resources mentioned this week: <a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0082846/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">On Golden Pond</a> Find Christopher West on <a href="http://www.facebook.com/cwestofficial" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Facebook</a> and <a href="http://www.instagram.com/cwestofficial" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Instagram</a>. Discover the <a href="http://www.tobinstitute.org" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Theology of the Body Institute</a>. If you enjoy the podcast, help us out by writing a <a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ask-christopher-west/id1448699486" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">review</a>. Thanks for listening! Produced by <a href="http://www.sounderandkey.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Sounder and Key</a>

Wendy's in the House | ACW2

As a teenager, how can I share my love for TOB with my peers and friends? How can a wife continue to love a husband who seems increasingly distant? What acts outside of intercourse are appropriate in marriage? This episode contains content that may be inappropriate for young listeners. Ask Christopher West is a weekly podcast in which Theology of the Body Institute Director Christopher West and his beloved wife Wendy share their humor and wisdom, answering questions about marriage, relationships, life, and the Catholic faith, all in light of John Paul II’s beautiful teachings on the Theology of the Body.  This week’s questions: Q1: I’m a teen who is excited about the Theology of the Body. How do I share this with people around me, even if they might be resistant to it? Q2: What about a couple that gets married and are very much in love, but then the husband’s love seems to wane. The wife suffers because she doesn’t feel loved by the husband. How can TOB help this couple? Q3: So if we are trying to abstain, but I still want to enjoy my spouse, why are other sexual acts not approved by the Church? Submit your question at AskChristopherWest.com.  Register for Christopher's free mini-course: What Do You Want?  Resources mentioned this week:  The Good News About Sex and Marriage Find Christopher West on Facebook and Instagram. Discover the Theology of the Body Institute. If you enjoy the podcast, help us out by writing a review. Thanks for listening! Produced by Sounder and Key.

As a teenager, how can I share my love for TOB with my peers and friends? How can a wife continue to love a husband who seems increasingly distant? What acts outside of intercourse are appropriate in marriage? This episode contains content that may be inappropriate for young listeners. Ask Christopher West is a weekly podcast in which Theology of the Body Institute Director Christopher West and his beloved wife Wendy share their humor and wisdom, answering questions about marriage, relationships, life, and the Catholic faith, all in light of John Paul II’s beautiful teachings on the Theology of the Body. This week’s questions: Q1: I’m a teen who is excited about the Theology of the Body. How do I share this with people around me, even if they might be resistant to it? Q2: What about a couple that gets married and are very much in love, but then the husband’s love seems to wane. The wife suffers because she doesn’t feel loved by the husband. How can TOB help this couple? Q3: So if we are trying to abstain, but I still want to enjoy my spouse, why are other sexual acts not approved by the Church? Submit your question at <a href="http://www.askchristopherwest.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">AskChristopherWest.com</a>. Register for Christopher's free mini-course: <a href="https://community.theologyofthebody.com/freecourse" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">What Do You Want?</a> Resources mentioned this week: <a href="https://shop.corproject.com/products/good-news-about-sex-and-marriage" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">The Good News About Sex and Marriage</a> Find Christopher West on <a href="http://www.facebook.com/cwestofficial" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Facebook</a> and <a href="http://www.instagram.com/cwestofficial" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Instagram</a>. Discover the <a href="http://www.tobinstitute.org" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Theology of the Body Institute</a>. If you enjoy the podcast, help us out by writing a <a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ask-christopher-west/id1448699486" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">review</a>. Thanks for listening! Produced by <a href="http://www.sounderandkey.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Sounder and Key</a>.

The Man Can Whistle | ACW3

My wife and I spent many years living in a state of serious sexual sin. How do we deal with this now that we have decided to change our lives? As a young woman experiencing same-sex attraction, how am I meant to experience intimacy in life? What should I do when my boyfriend is not ready for marriage, but I very much am? Ask Christopher West is a weekly podcast in which Theology of the Body Institute Director Christopher West and his beloved wife Wendy share their humor and wisdom, answering questions about marriage, relationships, life, and the Catholic faith, all in light of John Paul II’s beautiful teachings on the Theology of the Body.  Love the podcast? Become a patron of the TOB Institute and help make it happen!  This week’s questions: Q1: Dear Christopher, my brother in Christ Jesus, Praise the Lord! I am a Catholic from Hyderabad, India. We received very liberal teachings (in fact, doctrinally wrong teachings) on birth control, family planning, our sexual lives by our Church here and we've made such horrible mistakes in the bargain, because we got it all wrong. it is our fault. Both me and my beloved wife are ashamed of ourselves. I feel as if I can beg for mercy from the lord, all my life, but I will always carry this burden of guilt and sin. Shat I need to do to tame my body and keep it purified as the temple of the Holy Spirit? Q2: I am a same-sex attracted woman in my twenties. What level of intimacy can even exist for such a one as I? And what is the gift I can give to the one I’m drawn to unite with? In other words, what kind of intimate relationship is possible for same-sex attracted people? Q3: I’m struggling very much with being able tcome to terms with my boyfriend not being ready fir engagement and marriage quite yet. I feel. Like I’ve been ready to enter into this vocation, and he and I both want to be together, but for him, just not yet. How do I come to terms with this? Is it a sign that God doesn’t want us to be together because we’re not ready at the same time? Submit your question at AskChristopherWest.com.  Resources mentioned this week:  Eden Invitation Find Christopher West on Facebook and Instagram. Discover the Theology of the Body Institute. If you enjoy the podcast, help us out by writing a review. Thanks for listening! Christopher and Wendy hope their advice is helpful to you, but they are not licensed counseling professionals. If you are dealing with serious issues, please consult our list of trusted professionals. Featuring music by Mike Mangione.  Produced by Sounder and Key. 

My wife and I spent many years living in a state of serious sexual sin. How do we deal with this now that we have decided to change our lives? As a young woman experiencing same-sex attraction, how am I meant to experience intimacy in life? What should I do when my boyfriend is not ready for marriage, but I very much am? Ask Christopher West is a weekly podcast in which Theology of the Body Institute Director Christopher West and his beloved wife Wendy share their humor and wisdom, answering questions about marriage, relationships, life, and the Catholic faith, all in light of John Paul II’s beautiful teachings on the Theology of the Body. Love the podcast? Become a <a href="https://community.theologyofthebody.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">patron</a> of the TOB Institute and help make it happen! This week’s questions: Q1: Dear Christopher, my brother in Christ Jesus, Praise the Lord! I am a Catholic from Hyderabad, India. We received very liberal teachings (in fact, doctrinally wrong teachings) on birth control, family planning, our sexual lives by our Church here and we've made such horrible mistakes in the bargain, because we got it all wrong. it is our fault. Both me and my beloved wife are ashamed of ourselves. I feel as if I can beg for mercy from the lord, all my life, but I will always carry this burden of guilt and sin. Shat I need to do to tame my body and keep it purified as the temple of the Holy Spirit? Q2: I am a same-sex attracted woman in my twenties. What level of intimacy can even exist for such a one as I? And what is the gift I can give to the one I’m drawn to unite with? In other words, what kind of intimate relationship is possible for same-sex attracted people? Q3: I’m struggling very much with being able tcome to terms with my boyfriend not being ready fir engagement and marriage quite yet. I feel. Like I’ve been ready to enter into this vocation, and he and I both want to be together, but for him, just not yet. How do I come to terms with this? Is it a sign that God doesn’t want us to be together because we’re not ready at the same time? Submit your question at <a href="http://www.askchristopherwest.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">AskChristopherWest.com</a>. Resources mentioned this week: <a href="https://www.edeninvitation.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Eden Invitation</a> Find Christopher West on <a href="http://www.facebook.com/cwestofficial" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Facebook</a> and <a href="http://www.instagram.com/cwestofficial" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Instagram</a>. Discover the <a href="http://www.tobinstitute.org" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Theology of the Body Institute</a>. If you enjoy the podcast, help us out by writing a <a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ask-christopher-west/id1448699486" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">review</a>. Thanks for listening! Christopher and Wendy hope their advice is helpful to you, but they are not licensed counseling professionals. If you are dealing with serious issues, please consult our <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1hIV5v0vJVxMFuaKyAtDreWwv_5218Rqw/view?usp=sharing" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">list of trusted professionals</a>. Featuring music by <a href="https://www.mikemangione.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Mike Mangione</a>. Produced by <a href="http://www.sounderandkey.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Sounder and Key</a>.

The Gift of Self | ACW44

How often should married couples have intercourse? How do I relate to my relative who is undergoing a sex reassignment surgery? Is it normal to experience resistance when trying to teach Theology of the Body at my parish? Ask Christopher West is a weekly podcast in which Theology of the Body Institute Director Christopher West and his beloved wife Wendy share their humor and wisdom, answering questions about marriage, relationships, life, and the Catholic faith, all in light of John Paul II’s beautiful teachings on the Theology of the Body.  Want to support the Theology of the Body Institute? Become a Patron!  Is there an ideal number of times a couple should be having intercourse in marriage? Yesterday I was informed by my son and daughter-in-law, that my daughter-in-law’s father has begun the process to change his sex. He’s on hormone therapy and in the near future will have sex reassignment surgery to “become a woman”.  My daughter-in-law is not thrilled with this but has expressed that she just wants her father to be happy. He has struggled with depression his whole life. My heart is heavy for all involved. How should I react when I see my daughter-in-law’s father changed in this way for the first time? We’ve been running into resistance when trying to teach and promote TOB at our parish. Is this normal?   Submit your question at AskChristopherWest.com.  Resources mentioned this week:  Theology of the Body for Beginners Find Christopher West on Facebook and Instagram. Discover the Theology of the Body Institute. If you enjoy the podcast, help us out by writing a review. Thanks for listening! Christopher and Wendy hope their advice is helpful to you, but they are not licensed counseling professionals. If you are dealing with serious issues, please consult our list of trusted professionals. Featuring music by Mike Mangione.  Produced by Sounder and Key. 

How often should married couples have intercourse? How do I relate to my relative who is undergoing a sex reassignment surgery? Is it normal to experience resistance when trying to teach Theology of the Body at my parish? Ask Christopher West is a weekly podcast in which Theology of the Body Institute Director Christopher West and his beloved wife Wendy share their humor and wisdom, answering questions about marriage, relationships, life, and the Catholic faith, all in light of John Paul II’s beautiful teachings on the Theology of the Body. Want to support the Theology of the Body Institute? Become a <a href="https://community.theologyofthebody.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Patron</a>! <ol> <li>Is there an ideal number of times a couple should be having intercourse in marriage?</li> <li>Yesterday I was informed by my son and daughter-in-law, that my daughter-in-law’s father has begun the process to change his sex. He’s on hormone therapy and in the near future will have sex reassignment surgery to “become a woman”. My daughter-in-law is not thrilled with this but has expressed that she just wants her father to be happy. He has struggled with depression his whole life. My heart is heavy for all involved. How should I react when I see my daughter-in-law’s father changed in this way for the first time?</li> <li>We’ve been running into resistance when trying to teach and promote TOB at our parish. Is this normal? </li> </ol> Submit your question at <a href="http://www.askchristopherwest.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">AskChristopherWest.com</a>. Resources mentioned this week: <a href="http://corproject.com/tobb/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Theology of the Body for Beginners</a> Find Christopher West on <a href="http://www.facebook.com/cwestofficial" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Facebook</a> and <a href="http://www.instagram.com/cwestofficial" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Instagram</a>. Discover the <a href="http://www.tobinstitute.org" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Theology of the Body Institute</a>. If you enjoy the podcast, help us out by writing a <a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ask-christopher-west/id1448699486" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">review</a>. Thanks for listening! Christopher and Wendy hope their advice is helpful to you, but they are not licensed counseling professionals. If you are dealing with serious issues, please consult our <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1hIV5v0vJVxMFuaKyAtDreWwv_5218Rqw/view?usp=sharing" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">list of trusted professionals</a>. Featuring music by <a href="https://www.mikemangione.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Mike Mangione</a>. Produced by <a href="http://www.sounderandkey.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Sounder and Key</a>.

Be the Love of Christ | ACW52

What does St. Paul mean when he talks about "marital debt" in First Corinthians? I've had a hysterectomy; is this an impediment to marriage? How do I respond to people who believe that large families are harmful to the environment? Ask Christopher West is a weekly podcast in which Theology of the Body Institute Director Christopher West and his beloved wife Wendy share their humor and wisdom, answering questions about marriage, relationships, life, and the Catholic faith, all in light of John Paul II’s beautiful teachings on the Theology of the Body.  Want to support the Theology of the Body Institute? Become a Patron! Submit your question at AskChristopherWest.com.  Q1: In recent weeks, I’ve heard discussions from other podcasts about the “marital debt” which is taken from Paul’s letter in First Corinthians 7. Could you explain from the perspective of TOB what St. Paul is saying (or not saying) about sex being a “debt” the spouses owe to one another in marriage? Q2: I’ve had a hysterectomy. It does not seem correct to say that if I cannot conceive, I cannot get married in the church. You’ve said a sterile man cannot get married in the church. Does this apply to me as well? Q3: How do I respond to people who think that choosing or being open to having a large family is irresponsible due to the environmental impact that humans have, and that this choice is potentially jeopardizing the future sustainability of our planet? Resources mentioned this week:  The Good News about Sex and Marriage Laudato Si: Encyclical by Pope Francis TOB Pilgrimage to the Holy Land Find Christopher West on Facebook and Instagram. Discover the Theology of the Body Institute. If you enjoy the podcast, help us out by writing a review. Thanks for listening! Christopher and Wendy hope their advice is helpful to you, but they are not licensed counseling professionals. If you are dealing with serious issues, please consult our list of trusted professionals. Featuring music by Mike Mangione.  Produced by Sounder and Key. 

What does St. Paul mean when he talks about "marital debt" in First Corinthians? I've had a hysterectomy; is this an impediment to marriage? How do I respond to people who believe that large families are harmful to the environment? Ask Christopher West is a weekly podcast in which Theology of the Body Institute Director Christopher West and his beloved wife Wendy share their humor and wisdom, answering questions about marriage, relationships, life, and the Catholic faith, all in light of John Paul II’s beautiful teachings on the Theology of the Body. Want to support the Theology of the Body Institute? Become a <a href="https://community.theologyofthebody.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Patron</a>! Submit your question at <a href="http://www.askchristopherwest.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">AskChristopherWest.com</a>. Q1: In recent weeks, I’ve heard discussions from other podcasts about the “marital debt” which is taken from Paul’s letter in First Corinthians 7. Could you explain from the perspective of TOB what St. Paul is saying (or not saying) about sex being a “debt” the spouses owe to one another in marriage? Q2: I’ve had a hysterectomy. It does not seem correct to say that if I cannot conceive, I cannot get married in the church. You’ve said a sterile man cannot get married in the church. Does this apply to me as well? Q3: How do I respond to people who think that choosing or being open to having a large family is irresponsible due to the environmental impact that humans have, and that this choice is potentially jeopardizing the future sustainability of our planet? Resources mentioned this week: <a href="https://shop.corproject.com/products/good-news-about-sex-and-marriage" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">The Good News about Sex and Marriage</a> <a href="http://www.vatican.va/content/francesco/en/encyclicals/documents/papa-francesco_20150524_enciclica-laudato-si.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Laudato Si: Encyclical by Pope Francis</a> <a href="http://corproject.pages.ontraport.net/tobpilgrimages" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">TOB Pilgrimage to the Holy Land</a> Find Christopher West on <a href="http://www.facebook.com/cwestofficial" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Facebook</a> and <a href="http://www.instagram.com/cwestofficial" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Instagram</a>. Discover the <a href="http://www.tobinstitute.org" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Theology of the Body Institute</a>. If you enjoy the podcast, help us out by writing a <a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ask-christopher-west/id1448699486" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">review</a>. Thanks for listening! Christopher and Wendy hope their advice is helpful to you, but they are not licensed counseling professionals. If you are dealing with serious issues, please consult our <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1hIV5v0vJVxMFuaKyAtDreWwv_5218Rqw/view?usp=sharing" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">list of trusted professionals</a>. Featuring music by <a href="https://www.mikemangione.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Mike Mangione</a>. Produced by <a href="http://www.sounderandkey.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Sounder and Key</a>.

Love is Only Ever Just Becoming | ACW50

I had a tubal ligation, have repented, and have been absolved, but I still feel guilt. Can you give me any guidance? Was the Crucifixion God the Father taking out his wrath on God the Son? What advice can you give to someone who is struggling with pornography and masturbation? What about someone in a relationship with such a person? Ask Christopher West is a weekly podcast in which Theology of the Body Institute Director Christopher West and his beloved wife Wendy share their humor and wisdom, answering questions about marriage, relationships, life, and the Catholic faith, all in light of John Paul II’s beautiful teachings on the Theology of the Body.  Want to support the Theology of the Body Institute? Become a Patron! Q1: My husband and I have 5 children. After 4 C-Sections and tremendous pressure from medics, I agreed to tubal ligation. I prayed about it all through my last pregnancy and decided to have the procedure. I have been left with very debilitating conditions following my c sections and another pregnancy and section would have been extremely risky. I have felt shame and guilt. I've spoken to several priests and I've asked and received forgiveness in the sacrament of reconciliation. Now I'm at a loss. Priests assure me that I'm not committing sin when my husband and I embrace but now having read your book "TOB  for Beginners", I'm once again heartbroken. My husband does not believe in the teachings on contraception  but he was loving and supportive when we used NFP. I'm 45. I adore my husband and now Im scared that we are committing terrible sin. I'm also a Eucharistic minister and lector and I just don't know where to go from here. Q2: Just wondered if I could get the book reference that Christopher made in the Atomic Pumpkin episode from Pope Benedict, regarding not getting off track about the crucifixion on "paying the price"? I was just talking to a friend about the difference between Eastern and Western soteriology (Christus Victor vs. penal substitionary atonement models) and personally think the best approach is our Catholic "both/and". I'd LOVE to read more about what Pope Benedict had to say on this matter! Thanks-- I'm a 38, current theology student at Franciscan University, recent convert to Catholicism (three years), HUGE ToB fangirl, and lifelong lover of Jesus! Love you guys, so thankful for you--I pray for your ministry and family regularly! Q3: What advice would you give to someone who is struggling with pornography and masturbation, but wouldn't consider himself addicted? And, what advice would you give to someone on the other end of that relationship? Where is the line between being compassionate/understanding and knowing when it's time to walk away? Submit your question at AskChristopherWest.com.  Resources mentioned this week:  Introduction to Christianity by Joseph Ratzinger Christopher references the 1990 edition, pages 172, 214, 222 Fill These Hearts by Christopher West TOB Pilgrimage to the Holy Land - February 15-25, 2020 Find Christopher West on Facebook and Instagram. Discover the Theology of the Body Institute. If you enjoy the podcast, help us out by writing a review. Thanks for listening! Christopher and Wendy hope their advice is helpful to you, but they are not licensed counseling professionals. If you are dealing with serious issues, please consult our list of trusted professionals. Featuring music by Mike Mangione.  Produced by Sounder and Key. 

I had a tubal ligation, have repented, and have been absolved, but I still feel guilt. Can you give me any guidance? Was the Crucifixion God the Father taking out his wrath on God the Son? What advice can you give to someone who is struggling with pornography and masturbation? What about someone in a relationship with such a person? Ask Christopher West is a weekly podcast in which Theology of the Body Institute Director Christopher West and his beloved wife Wendy share their humor and wisdom, answering questions about marriage, relationships, life, and the Catholic faith, all in light of John Paul II’s beautiful teachings on the Theology of the Body. Want to support the Theology of the Body Institute? Become a <a href="https://community.theologyofthebody.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Patron</a>! Q1: My husband and I have 5 children. After 4 C-Sections and tremendous pressure from medics, I agreed to tubal ligation. I prayed about it all through my last pregnancy and decided to have the procedure. I have been left with very debilitating conditions following my c sections and another pregnancy and section would have been extremely risky. I have felt shame and guilt. I've spoken to several priests and I've asked and received forgiveness in the sacrament of reconciliation. Now I'm at a loss. Priests assure me that I'm not committing sin when my husband and I embrace but now having read your book "TOB for Beginners", I'm once again heartbroken. My husband does not believe in the teachings on contraception but he was loving and supportive when we used NFP. I'm 45. I adore my husband and now Im scared that we are committing terrible sin. I'm also a Eucharistic minister and lector and I just don't know where to go from here. Q2: Just wondered if I could get the book reference that Christopher made in the Atomic Pumpkin episode from Pope Benedict, regarding not getting off track about the crucifixion on "paying the price"? I was just talking to a friend about the difference between Eastern and Western soteriology (Christus Victor vs. penal substitionary atonement models) and personally think the best approach is our Catholic "both/and". I'd LOVE to read more about what Pope Benedict had to say on this matter! Thanks-- I'm a 38, current theology student at Franciscan University, recent convert to Catholicism (three years), HUGE ToB fangirl, and lifelong lover of Jesus! Love you guys, so thankful for you--I pray for your ministry and family regularly! Q3: What advice would you give to someone who is struggling with pornography and masturbation, but wouldn't consider himself addicted? And, what advice would you give to someone on the other end of that relationship? Where is the line between being compassionate/understanding and knowing when it's time to walk away? Submit your question at <a href="http://www.askchristopherwest.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">AskChristopherWest.com</a>. Resources mentioned this week: <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Introduction-Christianity-2nd-Communio-Books/dp/1586170295" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Introduction to Christianity</a> by Joseph Ratzinger Christopher references the 1990 edition, pages 172, 214, 222 <a href="https://shop.corproject.com/products/fill-these-hearts" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Fill These Hearts</a> by Christopher West <h2><a href="http://corproject.pages.ontraport.net/tobpilgrimages" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">TOB Pilgrimage to the Holy Land - February 15-25, 2020</a></h2> Find Christopher West on <a href="http://www.facebook.com/cwestofficial" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Facebook</a> and <a href="http://www.instagram.com/cwestofficial" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Instagram</a>. Discover the <a href="http://www.tobinstitute.org" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Theology of the Body Institute</a>. If you enjoy the podcast, help us out by writing a <a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ask-christopher-west/id1448699486" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">review</a>. Thanks for listening! Christopher and Wendy hope their advice is helpful to you, but they are not licensed counseling professionals. If you are dealing with serious issues, please consult our <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1hIV5v0vJVxMFuaKyAtDreWwv_5218Rqw/view?usp=sharing" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">list of trusted professionals</a>. Featuring music by <a href="https://www.mikemangione.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Mike Mangione</a>. Produced by <a href="http://www.sounderandkey.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Sounder and Key</a>.

The Scandal of the "Hic" | ACW53

My husband and I are unable to have physical relations at the moment. How do we maintain our intimacy? Why did we inherit the Original Sin of Adam and Eve if we did not personally commit it? Why did the salvific act of Jesus bring salvation to all of us? Ask Christopher West is a weekly podcast in which Theology of the Body Institute Director Christopher West and his beloved wife Wendy share their humor and wisdom, answering questions about marriage, relationships, life, and the Catholic faith, all in light of John Paul II’s beautiful teachings on the Theology of the Body.  If you love the work of the TOB Institute, become a patron! This week’s questions: Q1:  (Continued from last week's episode) My husband and I have been happily married for 30 years. Living our Catholicism as married persons is very important to us. Our history of marital relations has been complicated because of some sexual abuse, body image issues and depression for me and brief period of pornography plus difficulty with emotional intimacy for my husband. We have worked hard to keep working at our relationship. Our marital relations have rarely been easy but we keep trying because we love each other and want to honor our spousal relationship. Most recently I have had some medical issues and surgery which has made having intercourse temporarily  not possible. It has been over 6 months since we tried. We have gradually grown less affectionate because I don’t want to unfairly arouse my husband. Sometimes I am relieved but feel guilty about it, to have the medical excuse because the difficulties trying to be intimate are so emotionally painful. We are both so vulnerable and I am concerned our affection and sexual intimacy will never improve. Discouraged. Please advise. Many thanks. Q2: Hello Wendy and Christopher, thank you so much for this podcast! I absolutely love it! I would like to ask a question very close to my heart. It has haunted me for a strange reason since I was young. ... My question is about the original sin and I guess about the whole meaning of salvation.  Would you explain to me why the responsibility of Adam and Eve's sin is also mine: why did all humanity fall from grace because of the sin of the original couple? And in that same train of thought: I also don't quite get how Jesus brought salvation and forgiveness for all of us.  Submit your question at AskChristopherWest.com.  Resources mentioned this week:  The Good News about Sex and Marriage Find Christopher West on Facebook and Instagram. Discover the Theology of the Body Institute. If you enjoy the podcast, help us out by writing a review. Thanks for listening! Christopher and Wendy hope their advice is helpful to you, but they are not licensed counseling professionals. If you are dealing with serious issues, please consult our list of trusted professionals. Featuring music by Mike Mangione.  Produced by Sounder and Key. 

My husband and I are unable to have physical relations at the moment. How do we maintain our intimacy? Why did we inherit the Original Sin of Adam and Eve if we did not personally commit it? Why did the salvific act of Jesus bring salvation to all of us? Ask Christopher West is a weekly podcast in which Theology of the Body Institute Director Christopher West and his beloved wife Wendy share their humor and wisdom, answering questions about marriage, relationships, life, and the Catholic faith, all in light of John Paul II’s beautiful teachings on the Theology of the Body. If you love the work of the TOB Institute, become a <a href="https://community.theologyofthebody.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">patron</a>! This week’s questions: Q1: (Continued from last week's episode) My husband and I have been happily married for 30 years. Living our Catholicism as married persons is very important to us. Our history of marital relations has been complicated because of some sexual abuse, body image issues and depression for me and brief period of pornography plus difficulty with emotional intimacy for my husband. We have worked hard to keep working at our relationship. Our marital relations have rarely been easy but we keep trying because we love each other and want to honor our spousal relationship. Most recently I have had some medical issues and surgery which has made having intercourse temporarily not possible. It has been over 6 months since we tried. We have gradually grown less affectionate because I don’t want to unfairly arouse my husband. Sometimes I am relieved but feel guilty about it, to have the medical excuse because the difficulties trying to be intimate are so emotionally painful. We are both so vulnerable and I am concerned our affection and sexual intimacy will never improve. Discouraged. Please advise. Many thanks. Q2: Hello Wendy and Christopher, thank you so much for this podcast! I absolutely love it! I would like to ask a question very close to my heart. It has haunted me for a strange reason since I was young. ... My question is about the original sin and I guess about the whole meaning of salvation. Would you explain to me why the responsibility of Adam and Eve's sin is also mine: why did all humanity fall from grace because of the sin of the original couple? And in that same train of thought: I also don't quite get how Jesus brought salvation and forgiveness for all of us. Submit your question at <a href="http://www.askchristopherwest.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">AskChristopherWest.com</a>. Resources mentioned this week: <a href="https://shop.corproject.com/products/good-news-about-sex-and-marriage" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">The Good News about Sex and Marriage</a> Find Christopher West on <a href="http://www.facebook.com/cwestofficial" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Facebook</a> and <a href="http://www.instagram.com/cwestofficial" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Instagram</a>. Discover the <a href="http://www.tobinstitute.org" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Theology of the Body Institute</a>. If you enjoy the podcast, help us out by writing a <a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ask-christopher-west/id1448699486" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">review</a>. Thanks for listening! Christopher and Wendy hope their advice is helpful to you, but they are not licensed counseling professionals. If you are dealing with serious issues, please consult our <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1hIV5v0vJVxMFuaKyAtDreWwv_5218Rqw/view?usp=sharing" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">list of trusted professionals</a>. Featuring music by <a href="https://www.mikemangione.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Mike Mangione</a>. Produced by <a href="http://www.sounderandkey.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Sounder and Key</a>.

Atomic Pumpkin Glory | ACW43

Why all the emphasis on dressing modestly? Why are we focusing on that and not on seeing others as people, not objects? As a youth minister, how do I help my teens see the beauty of Theology of the Body? Why does the Church seem to be overly concerned with virgins and virginity? Christopher and Wendy dive into these questions, as well as Christopher's hair regimen, in this episode.  Ask Christopher West is a weekly podcast in which Theology of the Body Institute Director Christopher West and his beloved wife Wendy share their humor and wisdom, answering questions about marriage, relationships, life, and the Catholic faith, all in light of John Paul II’s beautiful teachings on the Theology of the Body.  This week’s questions: Q1: If our ultimate goal is to be able to look at one another without any sense of sin or lust, why is there such an emphasis on dressing modestly? Shouldn't we be focused on developing the ability to see one another as people rather than objects? - Anonymous Q2: I'm a youth minister. How do i convince youth that are mentally stuck in the sin of impurity to understand and live out the church's teaching on sexuality? And by stuck I mean totally unmoved after three weeks of talks/discussions with a respected and effective clergy member.  - Ryan Q3: When we talk about Catholic saints, it’s common to hear them described as virgins. But, I’ve noticed that we only ever describe Female saints as virgins! To a modern woman like myself, frankly, that comes off as creepy and sexist. If we value virginity, why do we only brag on female virgins and not male ones?  - Veronica Submit your question at AskChristopherWest.com.  Resources mentioned this week:  Ephesians Chapters 5 and 6 Find Christopher West on Facebook and Instagram. Discover the Theology of the Body Institute. If you enjoy the podcast, help us out by writing a review. Thanks for listening! Production by Sounder and Key. 

Why all the emphasis on dressing modestly? Why are we focusing on that and not on seeing others as people, not objects? As a youth minister, how do I help my teens see the beauty of Theology of the Body? Why does the Church seem to be overly concerned with virgins and virginity? Christopher and Wendy dive into these questions, as well as Christopher's hair regimen, in this episode. Ask Christopher West is a weekly podcast in which Theology of the Body Institute Director Christopher West and his beloved wife Wendy share their humor and wisdom, answering questions about marriage, relationships, life, and the Catholic faith, all in light of John Paul II’s beautiful teachings on the Theology of the Body. This week’s questions: Q1: If our ultimate goal is to be able to look at one another without any sense of sin or lust, why is there such an emphasis on dressing modestly? Shouldn't we be focused on developing the ability to see one another as people rather than objects? - Anonymous Q2: I'm a youth minister. How do i convince youth that are mentally stuck in the sin of impurity to understand and live out the church's teaching on sexuality? And by stuck I mean totally unmoved after three weeks of talks/discussions with a respected and effective clergy member. - Ryan Q3: When we talk about Catholic saints, it’s common to hear them described as virgins. But, I’ve noticed that we only ever describe Female saints as virgins! To a modern woman like myself, frankly, that comes off as creepy and sexist. If we value virginity, why do we only brag on female virgins and not male ones? - Veronica Submit your question at <a href="http://www.askchristopherwest.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">AskChristopherWest.com</a>. Resources mentioned this week: <a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Ephesians+5&amp;version=NIV" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Ephesians Chapters 5 and 6</a> Find Christopher West on <a href="http://www.facebook.com/cwestofficial" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Facebook</a> and <a href="http://www.instagram.com/cwestofficial" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Instagram</a>. Discover the <a href="http://www.tobinstitute.org" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Theology of the Body Institute</a>. If you enjoy the podcast, help us out by writing a <a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ask-christopher-west/id1448699486" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">review</a>. Thanks for listening! Production by <a href="http://www.sounderandkey.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Sounder and Key</a>.

Getting Un-Stuck | ACW7

Why is the Church referred to as a "She?" What's going on with the JPII Institute in Rome? My health makes it difficult for my husband and I to have marital relations, and I'm concerned. What should I do? Ask Christopher West is a weekly podcast in which Theology of the Body Institute Director Christopher West and his beloved wife Wendy share their humor and wisdom, answering questions about marriage, relationships, life, and the Catholic faith, all in light of John Paul II’s beautiful teachings on the Theology of the Body.  Love the podcast? Become a patron of the TOB Institute! This week’s questions: Q1: Why is the church always referred to as a “She”? Obviously, we learned this from Jesus who will Himself marry His bride: the Church. But there must be reasoning beyond this. For instance, a ship is always referred to as a female. Does referring to the church as a "she" somehow refer to a woman’s womb? Like a ship, the womb is a safe dwelling place. Or am I making this all up? Q2: I've been hearing a lot about trouble with the JPII Institute in Rome? What's going on there? Q3: My husband and I have been happily married for 30 years. Living our Catholicism as married persons is very important to us. Our history of marital relations has been complicated because of some sexual abuse, body image issues, and depression for me and a brief period of pornography plus difficulty with emotional intimacy for my husband. We have worked hard to keep working at our relationship. Our marital relations have rarely been easy but we keep trying because we love each other and want to honor our spousal relationship. Most recently I have had some medical issues and surgery which has made having intercourse temporarily  not possible. It has been over 6 months since we tried. We have gradually grown less affectionate because I don’t want to unfairly arouse my husband. Sometimes I am relieved but feel guilty about it, to have the medical excuse because the difficulties trying to be intimate are so emotionally painful. We are both so vulnerable and I am concerned our affection and sexual intimacy will never improve. Discouraged. Please advise. Many thanks. Submit your question at AskChristopherWest.com.  Resources mentioned this week:  [Prof. Stanislaw Grygiel's Interview on the JPII Institute](eng.pch24.pl/the-twilight-of-the-john-paul-ii-institute--an-interview-with-prof--stanislaw-grygiel,70372,i.html) The Humanum Series : See Episode 3 for Peter Kreeft on Man and Woman I Am Legend Movie Eclipse of the Body by Christopher West Find Christopher West on Facebook and Instagram. Discover the Theology of the Body Institute. If you enjoy the podcast, help us out by writing a review. Thanks for listening! Christopher and Wendy hope their advice is helpful to you, but they are not licensed counseling professionals. If you are dealing with serious issues, please consult our list of trusted professionals. Featuring music by Mike Mangione.  Produced by Sounder and Key. 

Why is the Church referred to as a "She?" What's going on with the JPII Institute in Rome? My health makes it difficult for my husband and I to have marital relations, and I'm concerned. What should I do? Ask Christopher West is a weekly podcast in which Theology of the Body Institute Director Christopher West and his beloved wife Wendy share their humor and wisdom, answering questions about marriage, relationships, life, and the Catholic faith, all in light of John Paul II’s beautiful teachings on the Theology of the Body. <h2>Love the podcast? Become a <a href="https://community.theologyofthebody.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">patron</a> of the TOB Institute!</h2> This week’s questions: Q1: Why is the church always referred to as a “She”? Obviously, we learned this from Jesus who will Himself marry His bride: the Church. But there must be reasoning beyond this. For instance, a ship is always referred to as a female. Does referring to the church as a "she" somehow refer to a woman’s womb? Like a ship, the womb is a safe dwelling place. Or am I making this all up? Q2: I've been hearing a lot about trouble with the JPII Institute in Rome? What's going on there? Q3: My husband and I have been happily married for 30 years. Living our Catholicism as married persons is very important to us. Our history of marital relations has been complicated because of some sexual abuse, body image issues, and depression for me and a brief period of pornography plus difficulty with emotional intimacy for my husband. We have worked hard to keep working at our relationship. Our marital relations have rarely been easy but we keep trying because we love each other and want to honor our spousal relationship. Most recently I have had some medical issues and surgery which has made having intercourse temporarily not possible. It has been over 6 months since we tried. We have gradually grown less affectionate because I don’t want to unfairly arouse my husband. Sometimes I am relieved but feel guilty about it, to have the medical excuse because the difficulties trying to be intimate are so emotionally painful. We are both so vulnerable and I am concerned our affection and sexual intimacy will never improve. Discouraged. Please advise. Many thanks. Submit your question at <a href="http://www.askchristopherwest.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">AskChristopherWest.com</a>. Resources mentioned this week: [Prof. Stanislaw Grygiel's Interview on the JPII Institute](<a href="http://eng.pch24.pl/the-twilight-of-the-john-paul-ii-institute--an-interview-with-prof--stanislaw-grygiel,70372,i.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">eng.pch24.pl/the-twilight-of-the-john-paul-ii-institute--an-interview-with-prof--stanislaw-grygiel,70372,i.html</a>) <a href="http://www.eccefilms.com/humanum" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">The Humanum Series</a> : See Episode 3 for Peter Kreeft on Man and Woman <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/I_Am_Legend_(film)" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">I Am Legend Movie</a> <a href="https://shop.corproject.com/collections/other-featured-products/products/eclipse-of-the-body-how-we-lost-the-meaning-of-sex-gender-marriage-family-and-how-to-reclaim-it" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Eclipse of the Body</a> by Christopher West Find Christopher West on <a href="http://www.facebook.com/cwestofficial" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Facebook</a> and <a href="http://www.instagram.com/cwestofficial" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Instagram</a>. Discover the <a href="http://www.tobinstitute.org" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Theology of the Body Institute</a>. If you enjoy the podcast, help us out by writing a <a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ask-christopher-west/id1448699486" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">review</a>. Thanks for listening! Christopher and Wendy hope their advice is helpful to you, but they are not licensed counseling professionals. If you are dealing with serious issues, please consult our <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1hIV5v0vJVxMFuaKyAtDreWwv_5218Rqw/view?usp=sharing" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">list of trusted professionals</a>. Featuring music by <a href="https://www.mikemangione.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Mike Mangione</a>. Produced by <a href="http://www.sounderandkey.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Sounder and Key</a>.

The Church is a She | ACW42

Is it a sin to read steamy romance novels? How is it possible for me as a husband to be totally "disinterested" in my gift of self? Shouldn't I be "interested"? How can I integrate Theology of the Body into my priesthood? Ask Christopher West is a weekly podcast in which Theology of the Body Institute Director Christopher West and his beloved wife Wendy share their humor and wisdom, answering questions about marriage, relationships, life, and the Catholic faith, all in light of John Paul II’s beautiful teachings on the Theology of the Body.  Want to support the Theology of the Body Institute? Become a Patron! Q1: Is it a sin to read romance novels if they facilitate my sexual relationship with my husband? Q2: Hi Wendy and Christopher, thank you very much for your inspiring and faithful testimony to the love of God to us human beings and the assignment He has bestowed upon us that we may learn to love as He loves us! As a Protestant Christian, unfortunately, I was beyond 30 when I discovered JPII's TOB but it has been so inspiring and enriching to my life that I have read all the 129/133 Catechesis.  Anyway, what I wanted to ask or rather ask for your thoughts on is the notion "Gift of Self". I think that you have qualified this gift of self as "disinterested". To be honest I don't like this qualification! I think what it is supposed to mean is that I should not give a gift of self out of selfish motive? But I think that is something else than "disinterested". Christ's gift of self was certainly not in any way disinterested; moreover, He hoped and prayed that we as humans would respond to his gift of self through offering ourselves to him. I think this qualification is important because otherwise you - or at least I - feel that I have to reach towards something utterly unattainable when I want to give a gift of self to somebody else, and especially my wife. In this situation, I'm not disinterested, but highly interested in receiving her gift of self in return. In fact, that is often what I long for more than anything else. Now, of course, a gift of self should be given freely, totally, faithfully and fruitfully, without demanding or expecting a return-gift-of-self, but I most surely does hope and wish for reciprocity in our mutual giving of self. Being totally disinterested seems to negate the relationship between us. Thanks for commenting on this! Q3: I finally caught up on all 46 episodes of your podcast, TOB has been a blessing to me since high school in my own journey of healing. After reading many TOB texts my question is this: how can I as a newly ordained priest formally and informally preach/teach the TOB, especially for youth and young adults? Are there any homily aids by chance?(Christopher, I hear you about garlic/pores and to read your book Good News! :)  Submit your question at AskChristopherWest.com.  Resources mentioned this week:  Word Made Flesh Book Series TOB Institute Courses Find Christopher West on Facebook and Instagram. Discover the Theology of the Body Institute. If you enjoy the podcast, help us out by writing a review. Thanks for listening! Christopher and Wendy hope their advice is helpful to you, but they are not licensed counseling professionals. If you are dealing with serious issues, please consult our list of trusted professionals. Featuring music by Mike Mangione.  Produced by Sounder and Key. 

Is it a sin to read steamy romance novels? How is it possible for me as a husband to be totally "disinterested" in my gift of self? Shouldn't I be "interested"? How can I integrate Theology of the Body into my priesthood? Ask Christopher West is a weekly podcast in which Theology of the Body Institute Director Christopher West and his beloved wife Wendy share their humor and wisdom, answering questions about marriage, relationships, life, and the Catholic faith, all in light of John Paul II’s beautiful teachings on the Theology of the Body. Want to support the Theology of the Body Institute? Become a <a href="https://community.theologyofthebody.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Patron</a>! Q1: Is it a sin to read romance novels if they facilitate my sexual relationship with my husband? Q2: Hi Wendy and Christopher, thank you very much for your inspiring and faithful testimony to the love of God to us human beings and the assignment He has bestowed upon us that we may learn to love as He loves us! As a Protestant Christian, unfortunately, I was beyond 30 when I discovered JPII's TOB but it has been so inspiring and enriching to my life that I have read all the 129/133 Catechesis. Anyway, what I wanted to ask or rather ask for your thoughts on is the notion "Gift of Self". I think that you have qualified this gift of self as "disinterested". To be honest I don't like this qualification! I think what it is supposed to mean is that I should not give a gift of self out of selfish motive? But I think that is something else than "disinterested". Christ's gift of self was certainly not in any way disinterested; moreover, He hoped and prayed that we as humans would respond to his gift of self through offering ourselves to him. I think this qualification is important because otherwise you - or at least I - feel that I have to reach towards something utterly unattainable when I want to give a gift of self to somebody else, and especially my wife. In this situation, I'm not disinterested, but highly interested in receiving her gift of self in return. In fact, that is often what I long for more than anything else. Now, of course, a gift of self should be given freely, totally, faithfully and fruitfully, without demanding or expecting a return-gift-of-self, but I most surely does hope and wish for reciprocity in our mutual giving of self. Being totally disinterested seems to negate the relationship between us. Thanks for commenting on this! Q3: I finally caught up on all 46 episodes of your podcast, TOB has been a blessing to me since high school in my own journey of healing. After reading many TOB texts my question is this: how can I as a newly ordained priest formally and informally preach/teach the TOB, especially for youth and young adults? Are there any homily aids by chance?(Christopher, I hear you about garlic/pores and to read your book Good News! :) Submit your question at <a href="http://www.askchristopherwest.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">AskChristopherWest.com</a>. Resources mentioned this week: <a href="https://shop.corproject.com/collections/other-featured-products/products/word-made-flesh-cycle-b-a-companion-to-the-sunday-readings-paperback-buy-one-share-one-when-you-use-the-discount-code-shareword-during-checkout?variant=29480694874214" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Word Made Flesh</a> Book Series <a href="https://tobinstitute.org/programs/tobi-schedule/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">TOB Institute Courses</a> Find Christopher West on <a href="http://www.facebook.com/cwestofficial" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Facebook</a> and <a href="http://www.instagram.com/cwestofficial" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Instagram</a>. Discover the <a href="http://www.tobinstitute.org" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Theology of the Body Institute</a>. If you enjoy the podcast, help us out by writing a <a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ask-christopher-west/id1448699486" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">review</a>. Thanks for listening! Christopher and Wendy hope their advice is helpful to you, but they are not licensed counseling professionals. If you are dealing with serious issues, please consult our <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1hIV5v0vJVxMFuaKyAtDreWwv_5218Rqw/view?usp=sharing" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">list of trusted professionals</a>. Featuring music by <a href="https://www.mikemangione.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Mike Mangione</a>. Produced by <a href="http://www.sounderandkey.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Sounder and Key</a>.

Wendy Doesn't Like Surprises | ACW58

Cake or pie? Seriously, that's a question this episode. Also, do you have any advice for my husband and I as we give a talk about NFP to a group of engaged couples? How do we begin to teach some TOB principles to our young children? Christopher and Wendy share some personal stories as they answer these questions. Ask Christopher West is a weekly podcast in which Theology of the Body Institute Director Christopher West and his beloved wife Wendy share their humor and wisdom, answering questions about marriage, relationships, life, and the Catholic faith, all in light of John Paul II’s beautiful teachings on the Theology of the Body.  This week’s questions: Q1: My husband and I have been asked to give a talk on NFP to a group of couples preparing for marriage. What wisdom can you share from TOB that might add some fuel to our fire?  Q2: How do we begin to teach some of these principles to young children? What are some techniques you’ve used with your own children? Q3: Cake or Pie. Which is the superior dessert? Submit your question at AskChristopherWest.com.  Resources mentioned this week:  The Good News about Sex and Marriage Especially Chapter 6! The Truth and Meaning of Human Sexuality Beyond the Birds and the Bees by Greg and Lisa Popcak Beyond the Talk: Christopher West Find Christopher West on Facebook and Instagram. Discover the Theology of the Body Institute. If you enjoy the podcast, help us out by writing a review. Thanks for listening! Produced by Sounder and Key. 

Cake or pie? Seriously, that's a question this episode. Also, do you have any advice for my husband and I as we give a talk about NFP to a group of engaged couples? How do we begin to teach some TOB principles to our young children? Christopher and Wendy share some personal stories as they answer these questions. Ask Christopher West is a weekly podcast in which Theology of the Body Institute Director Christopher West and his beloved wife Wendy share their humor and wisdom, answering questions about marriage, relationships, life, and the Catholic faith, all in light of John Paul II’s beautiful teachings on the Theology of the Body. This week’s questions: Q1: My husband and I have been asked to give a talk on NFP to a group of couples preparing for marriage. What wisdom can you share from TOB that might add some fuel to our fire? Q2: How do we begin to teach some of these principles to young children? What are some techniques you’ve used with your own children? Q3: Cake or Pie. Which is the superior dessert? Submit your question at <a href="http://www.askchristopherwest.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">AskChristopherWest.com</a>. Resources mentioned this week: <a href="https://shop.corproject.com/products/good-news-about-sex-and-marriage" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">The Good News about Sex and Marriage</a> Especially Chapter 6! <a href="http://www.vatican.va/roman_curia/pontifical_councils/family/documents/rc_pc_family_doc_08121995_human-sexuality_en.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">The Truth and Meaning of Human Sexuality</a> <a href="https://shop.ascensionpress.com/products/beyond-the-birds-and-the-bees-raising-sexually-whole-and-holy-kids" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Beyond the Birds and the Bees by Greg and Lisa Popcak</a> <a href="https://shop.corproject.com/collections/digital-downloads/products/beyond-thetalk-sharing-god-s-plan-for-sexuality-with-your-kids-mp3" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Beyond the Talk: Christopher West</a> Find Christopher West on <a href="http://www.facebook.com/cwestofficial" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Facebook</a> and <a href="http://www.instagram.com/cwestofficial" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Instagram</a>. Discover the <a href="http://www.tobinstitute.org" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Theology of the Body Institute</a>. If you enjoy the podcast, help us out by writing a <a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ask-christopher-west/id1448699486" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">review</a>. Thanks for listening! Produced by <a href="http://www.sounderandkey.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Sounder and Key</a>.

The Fridge is Dead, but My Soul is Alive | ACW6

How do I help my future potential spouse understand the shameful parts of my sexual past? I have many secular friends, whom I love very much. How do I respond to an invitation to a same-sex wedding from one of them with love and respect? Is there a theology to sexual positions? Ask Christopher West is a weekly podcast in which Theology of the Body Institute Director Christopher West and his beloved wife Wendy share their humor and wisdom, answering questions about marriage, relationships, life, and the Catholic faith, all in light of John Paul II’s beautiful teachings on the Theology of the Body.  Like the podcast? Become a patron of the TOB Institute. This week’s questions: Q1: As a 30-something woman who’s made some mistakes in the area of sex and sexuality, I feel immense shame. I hope that there is a holy marriage in the future, and that has always been a deep desire, but I worry about sharing some of these areas of my shameful past, that I may be rejected. Christopher, how did you go about sharing the painful parts of your past, and is it necessary to share all? Wendy, did you have to work through disappoint or concerns related to this?  (Part 2) Q2: So much of my life is secular. I love TOB and all our faith stands for. All my friends know I’,m a devout catholic who stands for everything the church teaches. But being immersed in so many secular circles has led me to knowing and loving many different people in different walks of life. I have not been asked yet, but I am nervous for the day when a friend invites me to a same-sex wedding? What do I say? How can I treat that situation with love and respect.  Q3: Is there a theology to sexual positions? For example, face-to-face versus other positions? Submit your question at AskChristopherWest.com.  Resources mentioned this week:  The Good News About Sex and Marriage Holy Sex!: A Catholic Guide to Toe-Curling, Mind-Blowing, Infallible Loving by Dr. Greg Popcak Find Christopher West on Facebook and Instagram. Discover the Theology of the Body Institute. If you enjoy the podcast, help us out by writing a review. Thanks for listening! Christopher and Wendy hope their advice is helpful to you, but they are not licensed counseling professionals. If you are dealing with serious issues, please consult our list of trusted professionals. Featuring music by Mike Mangione.  Produced by Sounder and Key. 

How do I help my future potential spouse understand the shameful parts of my sexual past? I have many secular friends, whom I love very much. How do I respond to an invitation to a same-sex wedding from one of them with love and respect? Is there a theology to sexual positions? Ask Christopher West is a weekly podcast in which Theology of the Body Institute Director Christopher West and his beloved wife Wendy share their humor and wisdom, answering questions about marriage, relationships, life, and the Catholic faith, all in light of John Paul II’s beautiful teachings on the Theology of the Body. Like the podcast? Become a <a href="https://community.theologyofthebody.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">patron</a> of the TOB Institute. This week’s questions: Q1: As a 30-something woman who’s made some mistakes in the area of sex and sexuality, I feel immense shame. I hope that there is a holy marriage in the future, and that has always been a deep desire, but I worry about sharing some of these areas of my shameful past, that I may be rejected. Christopher, how did you go about sharing the painful parts of your past, and is it necessary to share all? Wendy, did you have to work through disappoint or concerns related to this? (Part 2) Q2: So much of my life is secular. I love TOB and all our faith stands for. All my friends know I’,m a devout catholic who stands for everything the church teaches. But being immersed in so many secular circles has led me to knowing and loving many different people in different walks of life. I have not been asked yet, but I am nervous for the day when a friend invites me to a same-sex wedding? What do I say? How can I treat that situation with love and respect. Q3: Is there a theology to sexual positions? For example, face-to-face versus other positions? Submit your question at <a href="http://www.askchristopherwest.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">AskChristopherWest.com</a>. Resources mentioned this week: <a href="https://shop.corproject.com/products/good-news-about-sex-and-marriage" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">The Good News About Sex and Marriage</a> <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Holy-Sex-Toe-Curling-Mind-Blowing-Infallible/dp/0824524713" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Holy Sex!: A Catholic Guide to Toe-Curling, Mind-Blowing, Infallible Loving by Dr. Greg Popcak</a> Find Christopher West on <a href="http://www.facebook.com/cwestofficial" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Facebook</a> and <a href="http://www.instagram.com/cwestofficial" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Instagram</a>. Discover the <a href="http://www.tobinstitute.org" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Theology of the Body Institute</a>. If you enjoy the podcast, help us out by writing a <a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ask-christopher-west/id1448699486" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">review</a>. Thanks for listening! Christopher and Wendy hope their advice is helpful to you, but they are not licensed counseling professionals. If you are dealing with serious issues, please consult our <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1hIV5v0vJVxMFuaKyAtDreWwv_5218Rqw/view?usp=sharing" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">list of trusted professionals</a>. Featuring music by <a href="https://www.mikemangione.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Mike Mangione</a>. Produced by <a href="http://www.sounderandkey.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Sounder and Key</a>.

Receiving His Mercy | ACW37

How does one get as knowledgeable about TOB as Christopher West? Is it okay for Catholics to do yoga? As a mother, I often feel conflicted about covering up to breastfeed. What does TOB say about the theology of my body in this regard? Ask Christopher West is a weekly podcast in which Theology of the Body Institute Director Christopher West and his beloved wife Wendy share their humor and wisdom, answering questions about marriage, relationships, life, and the Catholic faith, all in light of John Paul II’s beautiful teachings on the Theology of the Body.  Want to support the Theology of the Body Institute? Become a Patron! Submit your question at AskChristopherWest.com.  Q1: How does one become as knowledgeable about TOB as Christopher West? Q2: I enjoyed attending yoga classes and found it had many beneficial effects, but stopped going as I was told it was not compatible with Catholic teachings. My understanding is that yoga has physical and spiritual elements and essentially you are using your body to get into a pose and in doing so opening yourself up to other undesirable forces.  However other Catholics I know are of the opinion that yoga is just a form of exercise. The poses are not inherently bad and you can avoid the [non-Catholic] spiritual &amp; meditative side of it and therefore it is not in conflict with Catholic teachings.   There are different opinions amongst the Catholic community on this and counter arguments to the above and I’m a little confused. From a TOB perspective can you share your views ?  If incompatible with Catholic teaching what are the consequences of practicing yoga?  Q3: Becoming a mother was a very enlightening experience, especially in regard to the Theology of the Body. Breastfeeding in particular is something I often contemplate which led me to a deeper understanding of the Theology of MY Body as a woman and mother. That being said, can you address the over-sexualization of a woman’s breasts? In our culture, if a woman breastfeeds her infant away from home, she often feels morally obligated to cover herself when she does this. While I understand this and do wear a cover, it frustrates me (and my babies). I struggle to understand why breasts, which are clearly designed to nurture infants, are hyper-sexualized and treated like a ”bedroom accessory”. Resources mentioned this week:  TOB Courses Theology of the Body for Beginners Find Christopher West on Facebook and Instagram. Discover the Theology of the Body Institute. If you enjoy the podcast, help us out by writing a review. Thanks for listening! Christopher and Wendy hope their advice is helpful to you, but they are not licensed counseling professionals. If you are dealing with serious issues, please consult our list of trusted professionals. Featuring music by Mike Mangione.  Produced by Sounder and Key. 

How does one get as knowledgeable about TOB as Christopher West? Is it okay for Catholics to do yoga? As a mother, I often feel conflicted about covering up to breastfeed. What does TOB say about the theology of my body in this regard? Ask Christopher West is a weekly podcast in which Theology of the Body Institute Director Christopher West and his beloved wife Wendy share their humor and wisdom, answering questions about marriage, relationships, life, and the Catholic faith, all in light of John Paul II’s beautiful teachings on the Theology of the Body. Want to support the Theology of the Body Institute? Become a <a href="https://community.theologyofthebody.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Patron</a>! Submit your question at <a href="http://www.askchristopherwest.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">AskChristopherWest.com</a>. Q1: How does one become as knowledgeable about TOB as Christopher West? Q2: I enjoyed attending yoga classes and found it had many beneficial effects, but stopped going as I was told it was not compatible with Catholic teachings. My understanding is that yoga has physical and spiritual elements and essentially you are using your body to get into a pose and in doing so opening yourself up to other undesirable forces. However other Catholics I know are of the opinion that yoga is just a form of exercise. The poses are not inherently bad and you can avoid the [non-Catholic] spiritual &amp; meditative side of it and therefore it is not in conflict with Catholic teachings. There are different opinions amongst the Catholic community on this and counter arguments to the above and I’m a little confused. From a TOB perspective can you share your views ? If incompatible with Catholic teaching what are the consequences of practicing yoga? Q3: Becoming a mother was a very enlightening experience, especially in regard to the Theology of the Body. Breastfeeding in particular is something I often contemplate which led me to a deeper understanding of the Theology of MY Body as a woman and mother. That being said, can you address the over-sexualization of a woman’s breasts? In our culture, if a woman breastfeeds her infant away from home, she often feels morally obligated to cover herself when she does this. While I understand this and do wear a cover, it frustrates me (and my babies). I struggle to understand why breasts, which are clearly designed to nurture infants, are hyper-sexualized and treated like a ”bedroom accessory”. Resources mentioned this week: <a href="https://tobinstitute.org/programs/tobi-schedule/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">TOB Courses</a> <a href="http://corproject.com/tobb/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Theology of the Body for Beginners</a> Find Christopher West on <a href="http://www.facebook.com/cwestofficial" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Facebook</a> and <a href="http://www.instagram.com/cwestofficial" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Instagram</a>. Discover the <a href="http://www.tobinstitute.org" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Theology of the Body Institute</a>. If you enjoy the podcast, help us out by writing a <a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ask-christopher-west/id1448699486" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">review</a>. Thanks for listening! Christopher and Wendy hope their advice is helpful to you, but they are not licensed counseling professionals. If you are dealing with serious issues, please consult our <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1hIV5v0vJVxMFuaKyAtDreWwv_5218Rqw/view?usp=sharing" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">list of trusted professionals</a>. Featuring music by <a href="https://www.mikemangione.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Mike Mangione</a>. Produced by <a href="http://www.sounderandkey.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Sounder and Key</a>.

Momma, Feed Us | ACW51

If I'm called to the celibate life, I feel like I would be missing out on so much! What does TOB have to say about the celibate life? What is the difference between delighting in my wife's body and lusting after her? How should a man think about the reality "God wants to marry us?" Ask Christopher West is a weekly podcast in which Theology of the Body Institute Director Christopher West and his beloved wife Wendy share their humor and wisdom, answering questions about marriage, relationships, life, and the Catholic faith, all in light of John Paul II’s beautiful teachings on the Theology of the Body.  Love the podcast? Become a patron of the Theology of the Body Institute.  This week’s questions: Q1: The more I hear the two of you talk on marriage and the spousal analogy, the more I desire to marry and have a large family, which has been my only desire all my life. I feel as though if I’m called to be a sister, to partake in the marriage of the lamb on Earth, I’ll be missing out on so very much. Can you direct me to any resources on TOB as it relates to the celibate life? Q2: What is the difference between a husband delighting in his wife’s body and lust? Q3: If God wants to marry us and Baptism is the way to enter the Marriage, then shouldn’t we think of our relationship with God as a marriage?  Submit your question at AskChristopherWest.com.  Resources mentioned this week:  The Good News about Sex and Marriage Find Christopher West on Facebook and Instagram. Discover the Theology of the Body Institute. If you enjoy the podcast, help us out by writing a review. Thanks for listening! Christopher and Wendy hope their advice is helpful to you, but they are not licensed counseling professionals. If you are dealing with serious issues, please consult our list of trusted professionals. Featuring music by Mike Mangione.  Produced by Sounder and Key. 

If I'm called to the celibate life, I feel like I would be missing out on so much! What does TOB have to say about the celibate life? What is the difference between delighting in my wife's body and lusting after her? How should a man think about the reality "God wants to marry us?" Ask Christopher West is a weekly podcast in which Theology of the Body Institute Director Christopher West and his beloved wife Wendy share their humor and wisdom, answering questions about marriage, relationships, life, and the Catholic faith, all in light of John Paul II’s beautiful teachings on the Theology of the Body. Love the podcast? Become a <a href="https://community.theologyofthebody.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">patron</a> of the Theology of the Body Institute. This week’s questions: Q1: The more I hear the two of you talk on marriage and the spousal analogy, the more I desire to marry and have a large family, which has been my only desire all my life. I feel as though if I’m called to be a sister, to partake in the marriage of the lamb on Earth, I’ll be missing out on so very much. Can you direct me to any resources on TOB as it relates to the celibate life? Q2: What is the difference between a husband delighting in his wife’s body and lust? Q3: If God wants to marry us and Baptism is the way to enter the Marriage, then shouldn’t we think of our relationship with God as a marriage? Submit your question at <a href="http://www.askchristopherwest.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">AskChristopherWest.com</a>. Resources mentioned this week: <a href="https://shop.corproject.com/products/good-news-about-sex-and-marriage" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">The Good News about Sex and Marriage</a> Find Christopher West on <a href="http://www.facebook.com/cwestofficial" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Facebook</a> and <a href="http://www.instagram.com/cwestofficial" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Instagram</a>. Discover the <a href="http://www.tobinstitute.org" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Theology of the Body Institute</a>. If you enjoy the podcast, help us out by writing a <a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ask-christopher-west/id1448699486" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">review</a>. Thanks for listening! Christopher and Wendy hope their advice is helpful to you, but they are not licensed counseling professionals. If you are dealing with serious issues, please consult our <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1hIV5v0vJVxMFuaKyAtDreWwv_5218Rqw/view?usp=sharing" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">list of trusted professionals</a>. Featuring music by <a href="https://www.mikemangione.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Mike Mangione</a>. Produced by <a href="http://www.sounderandkey.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Sounder and Key</a>.

What for Questions | ACW35

This week, Christopher and Wendy talk about struggles within families. How do I deal with my dad's pornography use? How do I help my mother be at peace with my upcoming marriage? As a disabled person, how do I find a spouse who loves me for me?  Ask Christopher West is a weekly podcast in which Theology of the Body Institute President Christopher West and his beloved wife Wendy share their humor and wisdom, answering questions about marriage, relationships, life, and the Catholic faith, all in light of John Paul II’s beautiful teachings on the Theology of the Body.  Want to support the Theology of the Body Institute? Become a Patron! Q1: I’m a 24 year old female and I have 5 younger siblings. I currently live at home with my family.  Can you please comment on how pornography use by a father can impact a daughter’s life and her relationship with her father. My father is currently viewing pornography. My mom is trying but she can’t control his behaviour and my dad is trying but I’m not sure he sees it as a problem or he says he’s trying but he says he needs this to cope with stress now. Addiction is tough and I understand sexual addiction and alcohol are tricky to stop and this leads to escalating fights in my family at times. I’m of course going to counselling and trying to reach out for support from friends and pastoral care. I’d really appreciate prayers and input! Q2: As I prepare for my upcoming marriage, I've found that my family (mostly my mother) has struggled with the idea of me getting married and "leaving her". (Even though she prayed for me to find a spouse for many years and my family approves and loves my fiance.) She has made comments about how I spend more time with his side of the family or worries how we'll handle future holidays/weekends; it seems that she is hurt by it. I should note that I'm also the first one to get married in my family. How do I handle this in the midst of the joyous time of preparing to enter a sacrament with my fiance?  Q3: I’ve been disabled from birth and marriage is something that’s a desire of my heart for sure. My counselor made me aware of the fact that people will sometimes marry disabled people to obtain government disability benefits. I'm afraid of becoming a victim of this ruthless practice. Any words of wisdom?  Submit your question at AskChristopherWest.com.  Resources mentioned this week:  Strive by Matt Fradd - Resource for addressing pornography use Find Christopher West on Facebook and Instagram. Discover the Theology of the Body Institute. If you enjoy the podcast, help us out by writing a review. Thanks for listening! Christopher and Wendy hope their advice is helpful to you, but they are not licensed counseling professionals. If you are dealing with serious issues, please consult our list of trusted professionals. Featuring music by Mike Mangione.  Produced by Sounder and Key. 

This week, Christopher and Wendy talk about struggles within families. How do I deal with my dad's pornography use? How do I help my mother be at peace with my upcoming marriage? As a disabled person, how do I find a spouse who loves me for me? Ask Christopher West is a weekly podcast in which Theology of the Body Institute President Christopher West and his beloved wife Wendy share their humor and wisdom, answering questions about marriage, relationships, life, and the Catholic faith, all in light of John Paul II’s beautiful teachings on the Theology of the Body. Want to support the Theology of the Body Institute? Become a <a href="https://community.theologyofthebody.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Patron</a>! Q1: I’m a 24 year old female and I have 5 younger siblings. I currently live at home with my family. Can you please comment on how pornography use by a father can impact a daughter’s life and her relationship with her father. My father is currently viewing pornography. My mom is trying but she can’t control his behaviour and my dad is trying but I’m not sure he sees it as a problem or he says he’s trying but he says he needs this to cope with stress now. Addiction is tough and I understand sexual addiction and alcohol are tricky to stop and this leads to escalating fights in my family at times. I’m of course going to counselling and trying to reach out for support from friends and pastoral care. I’d really appreciate prayers and input! Q2: As I prepare for my upcoming marriage, I've found that my family (mostly my mother) has struggled with the idea of me getting married and "leaving her". (Even though she prayed for me to find a spouse for many years and my family approves and loves my fiance.) She has made comments about how I spend more time with his side of the family or worries how we'll handle future holidays/weekends; it seems that she is hurt by it. I should note that I'm also the first one to get married in my family. How do I handle this in the midst of the joyous time of preparing to enter a sacrament with my fiance? Q3: I’ve been disabled from birth and marriage is something that’s a desire of my heart for sure. My counselor made me aware of the fact that people will sometimes marry disabled people to obtain government disability benefits. I'm afraid of becoming a victim of this ruthless practice. Any words of wisdom? Submit your question at <a href="http://www.askchristopherwest.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">AskChristopherWest.com</a>. Resources mentioned this week: <a href="https://www.strive21.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Strive by Matt Fradd</a> - Resource for addressing pornography use Find Christopher West on <a href="http://www.facebook.com/cwestofficial" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Facebook</a> and <a href="http://www.instagram.com/cwestofficial" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Instagram</a>. Discover the <a href="http://www.tobinstitute.org" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Theology of the Body Institute</a>. If you enjoy the podcast, help us out by writing a <a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ask-christopher-west/id1448699486" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">review</a>. Thanks for listening! Christopher and Wendy hope their advice is helpful to you, but they are not licensed counseling professionals. If you are dealing with serious issues, please consult our <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1hIV5v0vJVxMFuaKyAtDreWwv_5218Rqw/view?usp=sharing" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">list of trusted professionals</a>. Featuring music by <a href="https://www.mikemangione.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Mike Mangione</a>. Produced by <a href="http://www.sounderandkey.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Sounder and Key</a>.

In the Family | ACW66

How do I talk about cohabitation with my secular friends? My wife wants to use contraception, what should I do? How does Theology of the Body speak into seminary formation and discernment for priesthood? Ask Christopher West is a weekly podcast in which Theology of the Body Institute Director Christopher West and his beloved wife Wendy share their humor and wisdom, answering questions about marriage, relationships, life, and the Catholic faith, all in light of John Paul II’s beautiful teachings on the Theology of the Body.  Want to support the Theology of the Body Institute? Become a Patron! Q1: How can I charitably discuss the topic of living together before marriage with couples who do not share the faith? And in some ways may find Christianity in general to be abrasive. I want the best for these people, and my concern comes from a genuine desire for their good. Do you know of a secular approach to the topic of living together before marriage? Q2: My wife has been struggling greatly with NFP and has arrived at the point of wanting to use artificial contraception. What are my obligations as a husband and what should I do? Q3: Hello Christopher and Wendy. I just wanna ask for tips on how you would connect the Theology of theBbody with seminary formation/discerning for priestly life.  Submit your question at AskChristopherWest.com.  Resources mentioned this week:  A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood - Film about Fred Rogers Learn more about becoming a Patron of the TOB Institute!  Find Christopher West on Facebook and Instagram. Discover the Theology of the Body Institute. If you enjoy the podcast, help us out by writing a review. Thanks for listening! Christopher and Wendy hope their advice is helpful to you, but they are not licensed counseling professionals. If you are dealing with serious issues, please consult our list of trusted professionals. Featuring music by Mike Mangione.  Produced by Sounder and Key. 

How do I talk about cohabitation with my secular friends? My wife wants to use contraception, what should I do? How does Theology of the Body speak into seminary formation and discernment for priesthood? Ask Christopher West is a weekly podcast in which Theology of the Body Institute Director Christopher West and his beloved wife Wendy share their humor and wisdom, answering questions about marriage, relationships, life, and the Catholic faith, all in light of John Paul II’s beautiful teachings on the Theology of the Body. Want to support the Theology of the Body Institute? Become a <a href="https://community.theologyofthebody.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Patron</a>! Q1: How can I charitably discuss the topic of living together before marriage with couples who do not share the faith? And in some ways may find Christianity in general to be abrasive. I want the best for these people, and my concern comes from a genuine desire for their good. Do you know of a secular approach to the topic of living together before marriage? Q2: My wife has been struggling greatly with NFP and has arrived at the point of wanting to use artificial contraception. What are my obligations as a husband and what should I do? Q3: Hello Christopher and Wendy. I just wanna ask for tips on how you would connect the Theology of theBbody with seminary formation/discerning for priestly life. Submit your question at <a href="http://www.askchristopherwest.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">AskChristopherWest.com</a>. Resources mentioned this week: <a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt3224458/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood</a> - Film about Fred Rogers Learn more about becoming a <a href="https://community.theologyofthebody.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Patron</a> of the TOB Institute! Find Christopher West on <a href="http://www.facebook.com/cwestofficial" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Facebook</a> and <a href="http://www.instagram.com/cwestofficial" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Instagram</a>. Discover the <a href="http://www.tobinstitute.org" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Theology of the Body Institute</a>. If you enjoy the podcast, help us out by writing a <a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ask-christopher-west/id1448699486" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">review</a>. Thanks for listening! Christopher and Wendy hope their advice is helpful to you, but they are not licensed counseling professionals. If you are dealing with serious issues, please consult our <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1hIV5v0vJVxMFuaKyAtDreWwv_5218Rqw/view?usp=sharing" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">list of trusted professionals</a>. Featuring music by <a href="https://www.mikemangione.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Mike Mangione</a>. Produced by <a href="http://www.sounderandkey.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Sounder and Key</a>.

A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood | ACW54

Can a priest have a deep relationship with a female friend? Similarly, can a married man have a deep relationship with a female friend who is not his spouse? What does the Church teach on circumcision? Ask Christopher West is a weekly podcast in which Theology of the Body Institute Director Christopher West and his beloved wife Wendy share their humor and wisdom, answering questions about marriage, relationships, life, and the Catholic faith, all in light of John Paul II’s beautiful teachings on the Theology of the Body.  Want to support the Theology of the Body Institute? Become a Patron! Q1: To what extent can a priest go in his relationship with a female friend if they both understand that they have been given a deeper connection and a deep friendship that bears fruit through working together in the apostolate. Are they allowed to live that love and express it through a deep emotional and spiritual friendship or do they have to repress and transform it. What exactly includes a vow of purity? Q2: Thank you for both of your insight. I am trying to understand boundaries with the opposite sex within my marriage. My husband is a friendly guy and I feel that he does not shield our marriage. We have talked and he is very understanding of my feelings.  My question is what insight do you have about relationships with the opposite sex when married? I guess I am not trusting of others or how others might perceive "niceness" in this fallen world, I want to trust and look for the good but am having a hard time. Q3: What does the Catholic church teach on circumcision? Submit your question at AskChristopherWest.com.  Resources mentioned this week:  Springsteen on Broadway on Netflix TOB Pilgrimage to the Holy Land with Fr. Thomas Loya Find Christopher West on Facebook and Instagram. Discover the Theology of the Body Institute. If you enjoy the podcast, help us out by writing a review. Thanks for listening! Christopher and Wendy hope their advice is helpful to you, but they are not licensed counseling professionals. If you are dealing with serious issues, please consult our list of trusted professionals. Featuring music by Mike Mangione.  Produced by Sounder and Key. 

Can a priest have a deep relationship with a female friend? Similarly, can a married man have a deep relationship with a female friend who is not his spouse? What does the Church teach on circumcision? Ask Christopher West is a weekly podcast in which Theology of the Body Institute Director Christopher West and his beloved wife Wendy share their humor and wisdom, answering questions about marriage, relationships, life, and the Catholic faith, all in light of John Paul II’s beautiful teachings on the Theology of the Body. Want to support the Theology of the Body Institute? Become a <a href="https://community.theologyofthebody.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Patron</a>! Q1: To what extent can a priest go in his relationship with a female friend if they both understand that they have been given a deeper connection and a deep friendship that bears fruit through working together in the apostolate. Are they allowed to live that love and express it through a deep emotional and spiritual friendship or do they have to repress and transform it. What exactly includes a vow of purity? Q2: Thank you for both of your insight. I am trying to understand boundaries with the opposite sex within my marriage. My husband is a friendly guy and I feel that he does not shield our marriage. We have talked and he is very understanding of my feelings. My question is what insight do you have about relationships with the opposite sex when married? I guess I am not trusting of others or how others might perceive "niceness" in this fallen world, I want to trust and look for the good but am having a hard time. Q3: What does the Catholic church teach on circumcision? Submit your question at <a href="http://www.askchristopherwest.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">AskChristopherWest.com</a>. Resources mentioned this week: <a href="https://www.netflix.com/title/80232329" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Springsteen on Broadway</a> on Netflix <a href="http://corproject.pages.ontraport.net/tobpilgrimages" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">TOB Pilgrimage to the Holy Land with Fr. Thomas Loya</a> Find Christopher West on <a href="http://www.facebook.com/cwestofficial" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Facebook</a> and <a href="http://www.instagram.com/cwestofficial" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Instagram</a>. Discover the <a href="http://www.tobinstitute.org" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Theology of the Body Institute</a>. If you enjoy the podcast, help us out by writing a <a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ask-christopher-west/id1448699486" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">review</a>. Thanks for listening! Christopher and Wendy hope their advice is helpful to you, but they are not licensed counseling professionals. If you are dealing with serious issues, please consult our <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1hIV5v0vJVxMFuaKyAtDreWwv_5218Rqw/view?usp=sharing" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">list of trusted professionals</a>. Featuring music by <a href="https://www.mikemangione.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Mike Mangione</a>. Produced by <a href="http://www.sounderandkey.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Sounder and Key</a>.

Put It In The Light | ACW57

What do you think about the new Star Wars movies? What about Gone with the Wind? How do I love myself in the woman in the way I know I should?  Ask Christopher West is a weekly podcast in which Theology of the Body Institute Director Christopher West and his beloved wife Wendy share their humor and wisdom, answering questions about marriage, relationships, life, and the Catholic faith, all in light of John Paul II’s beautiful teachings on the Theology of the Body.  Want to support the Theology of the Body Institute? Become a Patron! Q1: Hi Christopher and Wendy! I know you're interested in movies, and that Gone with the Wind is one of the most influential movies ever. Do you have any thoughts on it?  Q2: As a young woman I find it hard to love myself as I deserve. Do you have any insights as to treating my own sexuality with love and respect, and how do I touch my own body in a pure way? Submit your question at AskChristopherWest.com.  Resources mentioned this week:  Talk by Fabrice Hadjadj Feasting on Food, Faith, and Beauty Pilgrimage Find Christopher West on Facebook and Instagram. Discover the Theology of the Body Institute. If you enjoy the podcast, help us out by writing a review. Thanks for listening! Christopher and Wendy hope their advice is helpful to you, but they are not licensed counseling professionals. If you are dealing with serious issues, please consult our list of trusted professionals. Featuring music by Mike Mangione.  Produced by Sounder and Key. 

What do you think about the new Star Wars movies? What about Gone with the Wind? How do I love myself in the woman in the way I know I should? Ask Christopher West is a weekly podcast in which Theology of the Body Institute Director Christopher West and his beloved wife Wendy share their humor and wisdom, answering questions about marriage, relationships, life, and the Catholic faith, all in light of John Paul II’s beautiful teachings on the Theology of the Body. Want to support the Theology of the Body Institute? Become a <a href="https://community.theologyofthebody.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Patron</a>! Q1: Hi Christopher and Wendy! I know you're interested in movies, and that Gone with the Wind is one of the most influential movies ever. Do you have any thoughts on it? Q2: As a young woman I find it hard to love myself as I deserve. Do you have any insights as to treating my own sexuality with love and respect, and how do I touch my own body in a pure way? Submit your question at <a href="http://www.askchristopherwest.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">AskChristopherWest.com</a>. Resources mentioned this week: <a href="https://youtu.be/yWO0PLsHYdM" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Talk by Fabrice Hadjadj</a> <a href="http://corproject.pages.ontraport.net/tobpilgrimages" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Feasting on Food, Faith, and Beauty Pilgrimage</a> Find Christopher West on <a href="http://www.facebook.com/cwestofficial" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Facebook</a> and <a href="http://www.instagram.com/cwestofficial" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Instagram</a>. Discover the <a href="http://www.tobinstitute.org" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Theology of the Body Institute</a>. If you enjoy the podcast, help us out by writing a <a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ask-christopher-west/id1448699486" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">review</a>. Thanks for listening! Christopher and Wendy hope their advice is helpful to you, but they are not licensed counseling professionals. If you are dealing with serious issues, please consult our <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1hIV5v0vJVxMFuaKyAtDreWwv_5218Rqw/view?usp=sharing" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">list of trusted professionals</a>. Featuring music by <a href="https://www.mikemangione.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Mike Mangione</a>. Produced by <a href="http://www.sounderandkey.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Sounder and Key</a>.

A New Hope | ACW55

As Christopher and Wendy take a week off, we share a very special talk from Christopher in the Sistine Chapel, which John Paul II called "The Shrine of Theology of the Body". It was recorded at the TOB Institute Pilgrimage to Rome and Assisi in Fall of 2018.  Ask Christopher West is a weekly podcast in which Theology of the Body Institute Director Christopher West and his beloved wife Wendy share their humor and wisdom, answering questions about marriage, relationships, life, and the Catholic faith, all in light of John Paul II’s beautiful teachings on the Theology of the Body.  Want to support the Theology of the Body Institute? Become a Patron! Submit your question at AskChristopherWest.com.  Resources mentioned this week:  John Paul II's Speech for the Rededication of the Sistine Chapel - April 8, 1994 Virtual Tour of the Sistine Chapel Join us on a pilgrimage! Find Christopher West on Facebook and Instagram. Discover the Theology of the Body Institute. If you enjoy the podcast, help us out by writing a review. Thanks for listening! Christopher and Wendy hope their advice is helpful to you, but they are not licensed counseling professionals. If you are dealing with serious issues, please consult our list of trusted professionals. Featuring music by Mike Mangione.  Produced by Sounder and Key. 

As Christopher and Wendy take a week off, we share a very special talk from Christopher in the Sistine Chapel, which John Paul II called "The Shrine of Theology of the Body". It was recorded at the TOB Institute Pilgrimage to Rome and Assisi in Fall of 2018. Ask Christopher West is a weekly podcast in which Theology of the Body Institute Director Christopher West and his beloved wife Wendy share their humor and wisdom, answering questions about marriage, relationships, life, and the Catholic faith, all in light of John Paul II’s beautiful teachings on the Theology of the Body. Want to support the Theology of the Body Institute? Become a <a href="https://community.theologyofthebody.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Patron</a>! Submit your question at <a href="http://www.askchristopherwest.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">AskChristopherWest.com</a>. Resources mentioned this week: <a href="http://w2.vatican.va/content/john-paul-ii/en/homilies/1994/documents/hf_jp-ii_hom_19940408_restauri-sistina.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">John Paul II's Speech for the Rededication of the Sistine Chapel - April 8, 1994</a> <a href="http://www.museivaticani.va/content/museivaticani/en/collezioni/musei/cappella-sistina/tour-virtuale.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Virtual Tour of the Sistine Chapel</a> <a href="https://tobpilgrimages.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Join us on a pilgrimage!</a> Find Christopher West on <a href="http://www.facebook.com/cwestofficial" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Facebook</a> and <a href="http://www.instagram.com/cwestofficial" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Instagram</a>. Discover the <a href="http://www.tobinstitute.org" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Theology of the Body Institute</a>. If you enjoy the podcast, help us out by writing a <a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ask-christopher-west/id1448699486" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">review</a>. Thanks for listening! Christopher and Wendy hope their advice is helpful to you, but they are not licensed counseling professionals. If you are dealing with serious issues, please consult our <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1hIV5v0vJVxMFuaKyAtDreWwv_5218Rqw/view?usp=sharing" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">list of trusted professionals</a>. Featuring music by <a href="https://www.mikemangione.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Mike Mangione</a>. Produced by <a href="http://www.sounderandkey.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Sounder and Key</a>.

Christopher's Talk in the Sistine Chapel | ACW45 | Bonus Episode

I know I'm made for motherhood, but in the midst of breastfeeding difficulties, postpartum depression, and other difficulties, my body and brain seem to resist it. How can this be? As a future doctor, how do I lovingly care for transgender patients without affirming a falsehood? My husband relies on sexual intercourse for emotional wellbeing, but I don't seem to be enough for him. How can I help him? Ask Christopher West is a weekly podcast in which Theology of the Body Institute Director Christopher West and his beloved wife Wendy share their humor and wisdom, answering questions about marriage, relationships, life, and the Catholic faith, all in light of John Paul II’s beautiful teachings on the Theology of the Body.  Want to support the Theology of the Body Institute? Become a Patron! Q1: I know on an intellectual level that I was made for motherhood, but in a physical sense, it seems like my body has resisted. I have struggled to successfully breastfeed despite great efforts. I've also had intense postpartum anxiety and depression each time. It seems my brain chemistry is stealing my joy in motherhood. It makes me really feel this dichotomy. How can I be made for motherhood when my body and brain seem to resist it so much? Q2: I am a medical student and I will be going into clinics in a few short months. How should I approach conversation with and documentation of transgender patients? Obviously, these people need to be loved and cared for by their doctors in the same that all patients do, but i suspect that there will be pressure to call them by their preferred pronouns and to refer to them in that way in official documentation of visits. I do not want to cause scandal by affirming a falsehood, but I also do not want to cause them unecessary suffering in a settting wher I may not have time to establish the relationship it takes to unpack confusion.  Q3: I have seen that my husband relies a lot on sexual intercourse for his emotional well-being, but he's never satisfied. He's been going through very difficult times this past year, mostly because of work-related problems. We also have young children who still wake up at night, and I have a very busy work schedule. We definitely need to work out how and when to take some time for us. But seeing as even when we had time, I was not enough, how can I help him?  Submit your question at AskChristopherWest.com.  Resources mentioned this week:  Theology of the Body for Beginners Find Christopher West on Facebook and Instagram. Discover the Theology of the Body Institute. If you enjoy the podcast, help us out by writing a review. Thanks for listening! Christopher and Wendy hope their advice is helpful to you, but they are not licensed counseling professionals. If you are dealing with serious issues, please consult our list of trusted professionals. Featuring music by Mike Mangione.  Produced by Sounder and Key. 

I know I'm made for motherhood, but in the midst of breastfeeding difficulties, postpartum depression, and other difficulties, my body and brain seem to resist it. How can this be? As a future doctor, how do I lovingly care for transgender patients without affirming a falsehood? My husband relies on sexual intercourse for emotional wellbeing, but I don't seem to be enough for him. How can I help him? Ask Christopher West is a weekly podcast in which Theology of the Body Institute Director Christopher West and his beloved wife Wendy share their humor and wisdom, answering questions about marriage, relationships, life, and the Catholic faith, all in light of John Paul II’s beautiful teachings on the Theology of the Body. Want to support the Theology of the Body Institute? Become a <a href="https://community.theologyofthebody.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Patron</a>! Q1: I know on an intellectual level that I was made for motherhood, but in a physical sense, it seems like my body has resisted. I have struggled to successfully breastfeed despite great efforts. I've also had intense postpartum anxiety and depression each time. It seems my brain chemistry is stealing my joy in motherhood. It makes me really feel this dichotomy. How can I be made for motherhood when my body and brain seem to resist it so much? Q2: I am a medical student and I will be going into clinics in a few short months. How should I approach conversation with and documentation of transgender patients? Obviously, these people need to be loved and cared for by their doctors in the same that all patients do, but i suspect that there will be pressure to call them by their preferred pronouns and to refer to them in that way in official documentation of visits. I do not want to cause scandal by affirming a falsehood, but I also do not want to cause them unecessary suffering in a settting wher I may not have time to establish the relationship it takes to unpack confusion. Q3: I have seen that my husband relies a lot on sexual intercourse for his emotional well-being, but he's never satisfied. He's been going through very difficult times this past year, mostly because of work-related problems. We also have young children who still wake up at night, and I have a very busy work schedule. We definitely need to work out how and when to take some time for us. But seeing as even when we had time, I was not enough, how can I help him? Submit your question at <a href="http://www.askchristopherwest.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">AskChristopherWest.com</a>. Resources mentioned this week: <a href="http://corproject.com/tobb/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Theology of the Body for Beginners</a> Find Christopher West on <a href="http://www.facebook.com/cwestofficial" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Facebook</a> and <a href="http://www.instagram.com/cwestofficial" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Instagram</a>. Discover the <a href="http://www.tobinstitute.org" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Theology of the Body Institute</a>. If you enjoy the podcast, help us out by writing a <a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ask-christopher-west/id1448699486" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">review</a>. Thanks for listening! Christopher and Wendy hope their advice is helpful to you, but they are not licensed counseling professionals. If you are dealing with serious issues, please consult our <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1hIV5v0vJVxMFuaKyAtDreWwv_5218Rqw/view?usp=sharing" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">list of trusted professionals</a>. Featuring music by <a href="https://www.mikemangione.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Mike Mangione</a>. Produced by <a href="http://www.sounderandkey.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Sounder and Key</a>.

The Look of Love | ACW60

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