Catholic Church: 'Pray before sex'

September 2, 6:23 PMCulture & Events ExaminerRick Marianetti

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The Catholic Truth Society has published a book that includes a prayer to be recited before sex.

According to the Society's website, the 64-page "Prayer Book for Spouses" offers "couples a ready, thorough and reliable support to the daily challenges and joys of married life. Drawing on Scripture, Catholic teaching and spirituality and the Marriage Rite itself, this prayer book encourages the loving and spiritual dimension essential to the life of Christian spouses.”

While known for its stern and sometimes contradictory strictures on sexual behavior--including a preference for “caution before coiton” over birth control--this is the first time a church representative has suggested adding a ceremonial component to the act.

The prayer*
"Father, send your Holy Spirit into our hearts. Place within us love that truly gives, tenderness that
truly unites, self-offering that tells the truth and does not deceive, forgiveness that truly receives, loving
physical union that welcomes. Open our hearts to you, to each other and to the goodness of your will.
Cover our poverty in the richness of your mercy and forgiveness. Clothe us in our true dignity and take to
yourself our shared aspirations, for your glory, for ever and ever. Mary, our Mother, intercede for us. Amen."

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*Source: The Independent