Resources to Help You Get Started

There are, generally speaking, three types of study groups on the Theology of the Body and/or Love and Responsibility: groups that watch videos or listen to tapes/CDs, groups that use explanatory books or introductory materials, or groups that read and discuss the actual texts of the Theology of the Body and/or Love and Responsibility (or other related encyclicals such as The Dignity and Vocation of Women).

To get your group started:

A good way to start, whether you intend to go on to studying the actual text or not, is by watching one of Christopher West's video series or one of the single talk overviews (also available on audio tape and CD) that can be found at Our Father’s Will Communications. These resources will introduce the main concepts to the group.

Recommendations:

The Theology of the Body In-Depth: This series consists of 6 presentations (including questions and answers) on 5 videos. You could show the videos to give people an idea of what they're getting into and then proceed with the study of the text.

Sacramental Sexuality: An Overview of the Theology of the Body: An excellent 3-part series

The Dignity of Man: An Introduction to the Anthropology of John Paul: Another 3-part series which includes a talk on the philosophical ideas of John Paul II.

In the Divine Image: An In-Depth Walk Through John Paul II’s Theology of the Body. By Katrina Zeno. An 8-part series accompanied by a workbook. For use directly with the text of the Theology of the Body.

A variety of other resources are available from Our Father’s Will Communications for teens, couples, singles, priests and religious, etc.. Speakers such as Fr. Roger Landry, Fr. Thomas Loya, Katrina Zeno, Dr. Philip Mango, Dave Sloan and others are great aids in understanding this rich teaching.

More ToB and L&R resources