Aquino and Rosales Learning Output 3

September 14, 2024
Aldrine G. Aquno, fmgs and John Lorenz R. Rosales, MS Ferdinand Dagmang, Ph.D
CICM Maryhill School of Theology Christian Sexual Ethics
General Theology Program III Professor
Learning Output 3
Catholic teachings on sexuality have long been shaped by a classicist worldview, which considers
moral principles to be static, fixed, and universally applicable. This approach has guided the
Church’s stance on sexual ethics for centuries. However, modern theologians such as Salzman and
Lawler have brought to light the contrast between the classicist worldview and what they term the
historically conscious worldview. This latter view sees morality and ethical norms as dynamic,
evolving, and shaped by particular historical and cultural contexts. This lecture will explore how
Catholic sexual ethics are traditionally understood, the role of natural law and human reason, and
the importance of dialogue and openness to new perspectives in an ever-changing world.
Classicist vs. Historically Conscious Worldviews
The classicist worldview, which dominated Catholic thought for centuries, views reality as
something objective, immutable, and universally applicable. This has had profound implications
for how the Church approaches moral questions, particularly in areas of sexuality. In this view,
what is "natural" is understood to be a reflection of God's eternal will, and therefore, unchangeable.
Sexual ethics, under this framework, are set in stone; the norms proclaimed by the Church are
expected to be observed without deviation.
However, Salzman and Lawler argue that this rigid approach can sometimes fail to account for the
complexities of human experience and societal evolution. The historically conscious worldview,
on the other hand, acknowledges that human understanding of truth and morality can develop over
time. This does not mean that moral truths become relative, but that the application of these truths
must take into consideration the context in which they are lived. In this view, Catholic sexuality
should not be seen as an unalterable set of rules but as a field in which ongoing discernment and
dialogue are necessary.
The Role of Natural Law and Human Reason
Central to the Church's moral teachings is the concept of natural law, which is based on the belief
that certain moral principles are inherent in human nature and can be known through reason.
According to the natural law tradition, these principles are in line with God’s will and are therefore
binding. Catholic teachings on sexuality often rely on natural law to argue that certain acts (such
as contraception or same-sex relationships) are inherently wrong because they go against what is
perceived as the natural purpose of sex, namely procreation and the union of a man and a woman.
However, as human knowledge and cultural circumstances evolve, there is room to reconsider how
natural law is interpreted. Human reason is not passive; it plays an active role in discerning how
moral principles should be applied. Theologians argue that human reason can and should engage
with new scientific, psychological, and sociocultural insights to better understand human sexuality.
For example, the understanding of sexual orientation, gender identity, and human relationships has
changed significantly in recent decades, and these developments must be seriously considered by
the Church.
Perspectivism, as an alternative to strict relativism, advocates for engaging with different

viewpoints and recognizing that truth can be seen from multiple angles. Unlike relativism, which
denies the existence of any universal truth, perspectivism allows for the coexistence of multiple
truths while still seeking a deeper, more inclusive understanding of the moral reality. By adopting
this approach, the Church can revise some of its teachings without abandoning its core beliefs.
Conscience and Moral Discernment
The Catechism of the Catholic Church emphasizes the importance of conscience as a key element
in moral decision-making. Conscience is described as the "judgment of reason" by which an
individual determines the moral quality of a particular action. A well-formed conscience does not
simply adhere to Church teachings without question but actively engages with those teachings in
light of personal experience, cultural context, and the guidance of the Holy Spirit.
In the area of Catholic sexuality, the role of conscience becomes especially important. While
Church teaching offers general guidelines, individuals are called to make moral decisions based
on their own informed conscience. This requires a process of discernment, where the person takes
into account not only the official teachings of the Church but also their unique situation and the
available knowledge.
Pope Francis has emphasized this in his apostolic exhortation Amoris Laetitia, where he calls for
a more compassionate and pastoral approach to moral issues, particularly those related to family
and sexuality. He suggests that rigid application of moral norms without consideration of
individual circumstances can lead to alienation and unnecessary suffering. Instead, the Church
should accompany people on their moral journeys, offering guidance while respecting the primacy
of conscience.
The Need for Open Dialogue
A central issue in the debate about Catholic sexuality is the lack of open dialogue within the
Church. Many faithful feel that the Church’s teachings on sexual morality are out of touch with
modern realities. Without ongoing conversations about these teachings, the Church risks alienating
large segments of its members. The lack of dialogue often leads to misunderstandings, a sense of
being judged, and division within the Church.
Salzman and Lawler, along with many contemporary theologians, argue that the Church must
foster an open and honest dialogue about sexuality and other moral issues. This dialogue should
not be limited to the hierarchy but should include laypeople, scholars, and those directly affected
by the teachings. Engaging in this dialogue can help the Church to better understand the lived
experiences of its members and to offer guidance that is both faithful to its traditions and
responsive to contemporary challenges.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Church’s approach to Catholic sexuality must evolve in light of changing
societal norms and deeper understandings of human nature. While the classicist worldview has
provided stability, the historically conscious worldview offers a way for the Church to remain
relevant and compassionate in today’s world. By embracing the role of human reason in moral
discernment, fostering open dialogue, and recognizing the importance of conscience, the Church
can continue to uphold its teachings while responding to the needs and experiences of its members.
Ultimately, this requires a shift from seeing morality as a static set of rules to understanding it as
a dynamic process of discernment that involves all members of the Church. It is only through
ongoing conversation and mutual understanding that the Church can fulfill its mission of guiding
people toward a deeper relationship with God and a more just and loving world.

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September 14, 2024

Classicist vs. Historically Conscious Worldviews

The Role of Natural Law and Human Reason

Perspectivism, as an alternative to strict relativism, advocates for engaging with different

Conscience and Moral Discernment

The Need for Open Dialogue

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