Conquering the vice of auto-eroticism; living chastity.

Masturbation is an offense against love, because it makes the excitement of sexual pleasure an end it itself and uncouples it from the holistic unfolding between a man and a woman. That is why, “Sex with yourself” is a contradiction of terms.” [ccc 2352] YOUCAT 409

“The church does not demonize masturbation, but advises that it is not innocent. In truth, many youth and adults are in danger of becoming isolated in their consumption of lewd pictures, films and Internet services, instead of finding love in a personal relationship. Loneliness can lead to a blind alley in which masturbation becomes an addiction. Living by the model “for sex I do not need anyone; I will have it myself. however and whenever I need it” makes nobody happy.” YOUCAT 409

When one lacks chastity, love loses its force in us and we become easy prisoners of dissaffection, of violence and of degradation.” Moses Azevedo, Shalom Community.

Chastity is a virtue that leads one to see and treat others and oneself as God desires, with transparency in our acts and true love.

The Catechism of the Catholic Church teaches that”“Chastity includes an apprenticeship in self-mastery which is a training in human freedom.”. §2339

Adailton Batista

translated from Portuguese, except for parts from YOUCAT and the Catechism of the Catholic Church