RS Topic 1 - Relationships

Contraception could be a form of good stewardship by making sure that each and every child is wanted, loved and cared for.

NO artificial methods of contraception are allowed!

The only methods that are allowed are those which are natural such as widthdrawal are allowed.

God told people to "Have many children" - Why should we want to stop that from happening?

Contraception is accepted but only to be used in a temporary situation.

They should only be used in marriage and therefore not as an aid to promiscuity.

Permanent methods are rarely used because couples are expected to have children.

Divorce should be avoided because wedding vows were made in the presence of God.

Some vicars will allow divorced people to remarry in a Church under certain conditions.

Catholics are strongly against divorce and it is completely forbidden.

A divorced Catholic would not be allowed to take part in Communion or remarry in a church.

Any other sexual relationship is classed as adultery.

A duty

For example : Looking after your parents when they get old.

'Make up after a break up'

The process of saying sorry, making up and starting again.

For example: A religious couple may seek counseling before divorce.

A strong bond between people.

Agape

An endless love for one another regardless of your flaws.

Phileo

Affectionate love for somebody, it makes you desire a friendship with them.

Storge

Family and friendship love, this love is unconditional.

Eros

The passionate and intense love that arouses romantic feelings.

Working against each other rather than together.

For example:In the context of marriage - A religious believer would try to avoid this because Jesus said that divorce is wrong.

Not engaging in sex before marriage.

Because "Sex is a gift from God."

Being devoted and keeping promises

For example: Keeping your wedding vows.

The contract (Nikah) is signed in front of witnesses - this makes a marriage legally binding.

Vows are exchanged - Outlines the contract between the two families and the responsibilites of the bride and groom.

The ceremony involves the recitation of Ayahs - This shows that the marriage is sanctioned by Allah.

A set amount of money or jewellery is paid by the groom's family to the bride (The Mahr) - This ensures the financial stability of the bride if anything happens to the husband.

Sex is an act of worship and this is devalued if not within marriage.

Sex outside of marriage shows a lack of respect for Allah and the partner you will eventually marry.

More liberal Christians allow sex before marriage as long as it is in a long-term commited relationship. 

Promiscuity is seen as a 'sin of the body' and a devaluation of God's gift of sex.

Sex outside of marriage may be seen as wrong by the Ten Commandments as they state that "Thou shalt not commit adultery."