Topic 1

Question 1

What is a sexual relationship

Answer 1

A relationship where both partners agree to have sex on a regular basis

Question 2

What are the Christian attitudes towards sexual relationships?

Answer 2

Sexual relationships outside marriage either casual sex or with a partner and homosexual sex are considered adultery. Christian beliefs hold that sex outside marriage is wrong and that love should be permanent, committed and open to new life.

Question 3

Church teachings on pre-marital sex

Answer 3

• Presbyterian church: sex should be enjoyed within the full context of marriage
• Church of Ireland: sex is a wonderful gift and we should question any behavior which devalues it
• Catholic Church: against sex outside marriage and conception
• Rural Christian view: sex is a sacred act that should only happen in a committed relationship

Question 4

Why might some people choose to remain celibate?

Answer 4

• Some religious orders ask their members to not be in any sexual relationships so they can devote themselves to god
• Some people are still looking for the right person
• Divorced man might not want to become involved in another relationship

Question 5

Opinions on a married clergy

Answer 5

Clerical marriage is an accepted practice in the Protestant demonitions. Catholic Church recommends priests to stay single so they can devote themselves to god

Question 6

What is a same sex relationship?

Answer 6

Where two people of the same gender are in a sexual relationship

Question 7

What are the Christian attitudes towards same sex relationships?

Answer 7

. They are divided .For some it’s the ultimate taboo and homosexuals shouldn’t be welcomed into the Christian fellowship. Many Christian’s believe however that there’s no issue in being in a same sex relationship

Question 8

What are the church teachings on same sex relationships?

Answer 8

• Catholic Church : homosexual people are called to chastity and homosexual acts are disordered, even though Jesus works accept it
• Church of Ireland : homosexual acts are incompatible with scripture and parishes are approved to homosexual practices
• Presbyterian church : they suggest that young people are confused and need to come to terms with their sexuality

Question 9

What is marriage?

Answer 9

A spiritual union between two people. They’re usually engaged and have been together for a while before they get married

Question 10

What is the biblical teaching on marriage?

Answer 10

Genesis 2:21-24 : marriage is sacred
2 Samuel 11:12-25 : marriage should be exclusive
Marriage involves give and take and should be built on love and respect

Question 11

What is the general timeline of a wedding ceremony?

Answer 11

1. Introduction and declaration of purpose
2. The vows
3. Exchange of rings
4. Warning
5. Pronouncement
6. Signing of the register

Question 12

What is the law on same sex marriage?

Answer 12

In England and wales the marriage act was passed on on 17 July 2013 and the first gay marriage was on 29 March 2014. The government believes this shows society’s respect for all individuals

Question 13

What are the church teachings on marriage and family?

Answer 13

1. Catholic Church : to have children, exclusive
2. Presbyterian church : exclusive, sacred
3. Methodist church : exclusive, permanent, to have children, sacred
4. Church of Ireland : to have children