A Little Something about the Theology of the Body
I realize that too few Catholics have even heard of John Paul II’s Theology of the Body, and even fewer know even a little bit about what it is. The Pope’s biographer George Weigel has described the writings as a “theological time bomb”, and yet most people will not even know what hit them when it goes off.
Now, trying to “sum up” these writings is even more difficult, in my opinion, than making your way through the entire collected writings. Yes, there are prevalent themes, but these in themselves contain so much that they hardly describe what one can expect from the writings themselves.
This brings me to the reason for my post. I have been given the task of creating a flyer for our parish’s upcoming mission, during which the Theology of the Body will be presented. How on earth do I summarize these brilliant thoughts on one sheet of paper? How do I get those who read it to realize, “hey, this is about me”? Upon snooping around online, I kept returning to one link. The author, Anastasia M. Northrop, does a fantastic job of highlighting the main themes running through the writings, as well as bringing to the reader’s attention how the Theology of the Body applies to everyone.
http://www.jp2.info/Theology_of_the_Body.pdf
What I Wish Every Catholic Knew: At least the basics of John Paul II’s Theology of the Body
What I Wish Every Catholic Would Do: Read the above link, and seriously consider furthering your knowledge of this “theological time bomb.”
Remember, O most gracious Virgin Mary, that never was it known that anyone who fled to your protection, implored your help or sought your intercession, was left unaided. Inspired with this confidence, I fly to you, O Virgin of virgins, my mother: to you do I come, before you I stand, sinful and sorrowful. O Mother of the Word Incarnate, despise not my petitions, but in your mercy hear and answer me. Amen.
