Pornography Help

Pornography’s Impact on Those Who View It

Pornography is pervasive and both adults and children can come across it in many ways without intending to. By its nature, it is meant to entice us to want to look at more. As a billion dollar industry it is designed to draw people in, including children, and keep them wanting more. Pornography negatively impacts the user, their families, and others they engage in watching. It is never beneficial and can easily become an addiction. 

Human Dignity

At the heart of the faith teachings is the knowledge that each person is created in the image and likeness of God and therefore has innate dignity. The Catechism of the Catholic Church states the following:

The divine image is present in every man. It shines forth in the communion of persons, in the likeness of the union of the divine persons among themselves (cf chapter two). 1702

Endowed with “a spiritual and immortal” soul,5 The human person is “the only creature on earth that God has willed for its own sake.”6 From his conception, he is destined for eternal beatitude. 1703

The human person participates in the light and power of the divine Spirit. By his reason, he is capable of understanding the order of things established by the Creator. By free will, he is capable of directing himself toward his true good. He finds his perfection “in seeking and loving what is true and good.” 1704

At times however, freedom of choice leads individuals to act in a manner that impacts their sense of dignity and self-worth. One issue that negatively impacts and harms individuals is pornography. We can never forget however the words of Pope Francis, which remind us that, “No one can strip us of the dignity bestowed upon us by this boundless and unfailing love. With a tenderness which never disappoints, but is always capable of restoring our joy, he makes it possible for us to lift up our heads and to start anew.” (The Joy of the Gospel, 3)    

Pornography Causes Pervasive Harm

Pornography causes harm, but our faith tells us that with God we can overcome its negative impact on our lives. A consistent message from the Scriptures is that humans may fail, may forget, may not fully understand or acknowledge the defects of their actions, but God understands. He knows what is right and He will prevail.

The Catechism of the Catholic Church warns all Catholics to be on guard against pornography. This means avoiding seeking it out and using it, as well as rejecting any image or thought that we may accidentally encounter.

Pornography is arguably the most negative aspect of the internet. Thirty years ago a person wanting to look at pornography had to sneak off to the store…today it is available in private, in our own homes and for the most part free. Children as young as eight are seeing graphic and aggressive sexual encounters on the internet when they are not yet old enough to understand what intimate love is meant to be in our relationships.

There is much for us to learn in order to better understand the negative impact pornography exerts in the lives of people who view it, whether infrequently or frequently. Pornography hurts men, women, adolescents, children, married and single – it does not discriminate in who it will harm.

Below are links to excellent websites with information provided to educate you on issues related to pornography:

1. http://integrityrestored.com/
2. http://www.debttolife.com/9-reasons-why-porn-will-ruin-your-marriage
3. http://www.covenanteyes.com/2010/07/06/the-effects-of-pornography-on-wives-and-marriages/
4. http://fightthenewdrug.org/get-the-facts/#sthash.t9KBMLIc.aKqO7SZk.dpbs

Help for Issues Related to Pornography

https://www.joinfortify.com

Fortify is a science-based recovery tool to help individuals quit pornography through comprehensive training, real-time analytics, and interactive support so that more people can find greater happiness and lasting love.

Uses a model of learn, connect and track with ongoing support.

Among those consistently using Fortify, over 90% report that it has significantly helped them move toward more lasting change.

Internet protection for yourself and your family can be found at Covenant Eyes

What does Covenant Eyes provide?

Find Peace of Mind with Internet Accountability Software

Internet Accountability monitors the websites visited, the search terms used, and the YouTube videos watched, and lists them in an easy-to-read Report that is designed to start a conversation about healthy online habits.

Parents, see where your kids go online. Adults, reduce Internet temptations and protect the relationships you value most.

Call: 1- 989.720.8000
E-mail:  info@covenanteyes.com 
Website: www.covenanteyes.com
Protect Love. Stop Porn (You Tube)
Video:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8nzdDVFA0dE

21 Day Detox for Breaking Free from Pornography

Matt Fradd offers this free program that supports and educates men so they can break the bond of pornography.  The program offers a practical step-by-step plan to break free from pornography, and a supportive community of men from around the world journeying together. You’ll also have lifetime access to the challenge and current and future live events. 

       Website: https://www.strive21.com/

Integrity Restored

Our mission at Integrity Restored is to help restore the integrity of individuals, spouses, and families that have been affected by pornography and pornography addiction. Integrity Restored provides education, training, encouragement, and resources to break free from pornography, heal relationships, and to assist parents in preventing and responding to pornography exposure which is so devastating in the lives of our children. We are also a resource that trains and helps clergy in assisting families at the parish level, so that the domestic church truly becomes what it is, the human space in which we encounter Christ.

E-mail: admin@integrityrestored.com
Website: www.integrityrestored.com

RECLAiM – Online Recovery Program

RECLAiM Sexual Health offers a science-based, Catholic Online Recovery Program and other resources for those who desire to reclaim God’s plan for their lives and the lives of loved ones impacted by pornography or other unhealthy sexual behaviours.

The RECLAiM Sexual Health Online Recovery Program provides a unique integration of Theology of the Body, The Brain Science of Change, proven cognitive tools, accountability, group support, faith practices and prayer all in one, online community. Working at your own pace in an anonymous and safe environment, you can begin to change your unhealthy sexual behaviours and reclaim God’s original plan for your life and your sexuality.

Website: https://reclaimsexualhealth.com/

Fight the New Drug

Fight the New Drug consists of a group of passionate and innovative problem-solvers who want to make a difference in the world. Their mission is to raise awareness on the harmful effects of pornography through creative mediums.

Fight the New Drug exists to provide individuals the opportunity to make an informed decision regarding pornography by raising awareness on its harmful effects using only science, facts, and personal accounts.

Website: http://fightthenewdrug.org/
Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ys2n8NpKo6s

Please feel free to contact the Family Ministry Office at 905-528-7988 for further assistance and support.