What the Catholic Church teaches about sex before marriage
In short
The Catechism of the Catholic Church (paragraph 2353) defines fornication as sexual union between an unmarried man and woman, and calls it gravely contrary to human dignity and to the purpose of sexuality, which it links to marriage and children. Elsewhere the Catechism lists fornication among offences against chastity. Catholic dioceses in Britain teach from the same text.
What the full article will cover
- How does the Catechism define fornication?
- Why does Catholic teaching link sexuality to marriage?
- What does the Church say about cohabitation?
- How do Catholic parishes in Britain approach cohabiting couples?
- How does this compare with Anglican teaching?
Frequently asked questions
- Is fornication a mortal sin in Catholic teaching?
- Can a cohabiting Catholic receive communion?
- Does the Catholic Church marry couples who live together?
- What does the sixth commandment cover in Catholic teaching?
Sources
- vatican.va — https://www.vatican.va/archive/ENG0015/__P85.HTM
- vatican.va — https://www.vatican.va/archive/ENG0015/2/S.HTM
General information, not legal or religious advice.