Christian Lifestyles - Marriage, Family, and Vocation Course number: 044 Course Length: One Semester Credits: .5 Credits Grade Level: Senior Description This course explores vocations, matrimony, and family. Students will examine the theological, psychological, and sociological dimensions of human sexuality, love, and Christian lifestyles. Additionally, students will study the three primary facets of Jesus' commandment to love God, self, and neighbor. The course presents the beliefs, insights, and guidelines of Catholic teaching about loving and vocational choices. Students are given the opportunity to reflect and prayerfully develop a more mature and informed attitude and behavior in light of Gospel values. Objectives In addition to the general objectives of the Religion department, students in this course will be able to: Understand the Sacrament of Marriage and the Church's teachings and practice regarding this holy union. Understand Christian love and the nature of love as a growth process. Appreciate the importance of sexual expression and intimacy in marriage. Understand the Church's teaching and Christian values. Understand a family lifestyle. Understand shared responsibilities and equality in relationships. Recognize the true meaning of Christian love. Determine the appropriate ways of communicating our love. Understand the basis of human growth and development, integrating psychology and spirituality. Understand Catholic teaching on Family Planning methods. Acquire a deep respect for all human life, beginning with self and spreading outward to family, friends, and community. Texts and Materials Main texts: Christian Vocations, Michele McCarty The Word Made Flesh, Anthony Marinelli Supplemental Texts: New American Bible Catechism of the Catholic Church Course Outline I. The nature of Christian Love II. Dating, compatability, and engagement before marriage III. The Sacrament of Marriage IV. Intimacy V. Communication VI. Affection and sexual intimacy VII. The choice of a single life VIII. Family lifestyles IX. Concerns within the family X. Death and dying