The Catechism in a Year (with Fr. Mike Schmitz) Day 312: Polygamy, Incest, and Free Union (2025)
7 snips
Nov 8, 2025 Explore the profound discussions around polygamy and its contradictions to true marital unity. Delve into the dark implications of incest and its impact on family dynamics. Fr. Mike draws connections between incest and the sexual abuse of minors, emphasizing the lasting damage. The concept of ‘free union’ is examined, critiquing its lack of commitment. He discusses the failures of trial marriages in maintaining fidelity. Ultimately, there’s a heartfelt message of hope for victims and the guilty, highlighting the possibility of healing and change.
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Polygamy Contradicts Conjugal Communion
- Polygamy directly contradicts conjugal communion and the equal dignity of men and women.
- A convert previously in polygamy must still honor obligations to former wives and children in justice.
Incest And Abuse Destroy Family Integrity
- Incest and sexual abuse corrupt family bonds and regress toward animality.
- Abuse by caregivers compounds the harm and scars victims physically and morally for life.
Reject Cohabitation Without Commitment
- Avoid 'free union' or cohabitation because it denies juridical and public commitment.
- The Catechism calls these situations offensive to marriage and destructive of family and fidelity.
