YOUCAT Lesson 414
YOUCAT the catechism
for Catholic youth
414 What does the Church say
about using condoms to fight AIDS?
Apart from the fact that condoms provide no absolutely safe
protection against contagion, the Church rejects their use as a one-sided,
mechanical method of fighting AIDS epidemics and advocates above all a new
culture of human relationships and a change in social consciousness.
The sixth commandment, according to the USCCB, summons
spouses to an emotional and sexual fidelity they call essential to marriage and
is reflective of God's fidelity to humanity. ….. 414
Only practicing fidelity and refraining from casual sexual
contacts can provide lasting protection from AIDS and teach a holistic approach
to love. Respect for the equal dignity
of women and men, concern about the health of the family, responsibility in dealing
with one’s urges and desires, and also refraining (at appropriate times) from
sexual union are all part of it. In the
countries of Africa where societal campaigns have promoted such behavior, the
rates of infection have decreased significantly. Besides that the Catholic Church does all she
can to help people who are afflicted with AIDS.
“Fidelity within marriage and abstinence outside it are the
best ways to avoid infection and to halt the spread of the virus. Indeed, the values that flow from an
authentic understanding of marriage and family life constitute the only sure
foundation for a stable society.” Pope
Benedict XVI, December 14, 2006
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