I just re-listened to a CD that One More Soul included in an order as a freebie a while back, and wanted to share some thoughts.

About the CD:
Title: “Why Contraception Matters”
Speaker: Stephen Patton, M.A., J.D., with introduction by Bishop Victor Galeone
Sponsored by: Diocese of St. Augustine, Florida
Running Time: 60 minutes

Synopsis:Practically speaking, widespread use of contraception has led directly to massive increases of divorce and abortion. Personal union and yearning for fertility are written physically into the structure of sexual relations, and shutting down one of these aspects hurts the whole relationship. Stephen Patton gives an introduction to the pastoral situation of many–perhaps most–clergy, calling this prototypical priest, “Father Friendly,” giving a humorous but all too true insight into clergy’s general faithfulness but rampant lukewarmness. He likewise gives an introduction to the average Catholic parishioner couple, “Mr. & Mrs. Friendly,” a witty and all-too-accurate description of good intentions and Humanae Vitae ignorance out there. He shows us two things. First, why contraception really is a big deal, and how it is intrinsically linked to the evil of abortion. Second, he asks us all to take an honest look at the contraception crisis in the Church and wider culture today, and invites us to consider what we can do about it. There are practical, workable steps we can take to regain the overflowing life that God desires for us.

Strengths: Mr. Patton is a knowledgeable, educated and very well spoken man, and Director of the Family Life and Respect Life Office for the Diocese of St. Augustine in Florida. He is introduced by his Bishop, showing a great sign of respect, faithfulness and approval (although a degree from Franciscan University of Steubenville  bodes well also). The introduction is very witty, and a spot-on criticism of the rampant lukewarmness, indifference and ignorance of pastors and parishioners of Catholic (and I think this parallels to some extent non-Catholic Christian parishes as well) serves as a prelude to a deeper pastoral examination of conscience on how well Catholics (clergy and laypeople alike) know and promote the Church’s teachings, and the beauty of NFP.

Weaknesses: This is not necessarily the CD you want to give to someone who’s skeptical about NFP or the Church’s teaching. While this definitely could be useful and thought-provoking to someone with an open heart or a honest seeker, it may come off as preachy or critical to someone who’s first hearing about the teaching. Also, his style is not very animated (I had the sense he was reading his talk), and a bit droll. His message is very powerful, nevertheless, but it may not engage a young adult who’s not educated on this subject. Also, there’s a couple phrases that made me giggle/ cringe, like the marvelous “fertility dance” analogy that certainly is very true but seemed a little over the top and hyperbolic considering the tone and context.

Warning: This could be negative or positive depending on your viewpoint, but Patton, after some introduction, goes into a little detail about the nature of the nuptial union and orgasm. Screen this before giving to a young person or sensitive adult.

Recommendation:He makes some very poignant observations and some very challenging statements that’s worth a listen by every clergyman, DRE, youth director, NFP teacher and NFP apostle. Get it for free with your One More Soul order.