Abstract:
Sexual abuse is an attack against the human body. It has a long history. Sadly, not only the laity perpetrate sexual abuse but priests as well. This is certainly a "disgrace" for the Church because sexual abuse is very contrary to the moral and theological meaning of the body. Not only that, but sexual abuse is also against the identity, nature, and function of the priesthood. Awareness of widespread abuse has given rise to various movements and protests, both in society at large and within the Church. The sexual abuse scandal, raises questions about the theology of priesthood. John Paul II contests for and promotes respect for the human body. He poured out his concern for humanity, especially protection for the human body, in his Theology of the Body. Through this Theology of the Body, he reminds and invites everyone to realize, understand and maintain the nobility and sacredness of the body. He based his belief in the nobility of the human body by stating that "The Body, in fact, and only the body, is capable of making visible what is invisible: the spiritual and the divine." Through John Paul II’s Theology of the Body, the author will examine the issue of sexual abuse, will show the relevance of the theology of the priesthood and will offer a few evaluations.
