John P. Mullooly

From the Editor’s Desk: Making a Contribution

One of the problems faced by an editor is that of finding suitable material to fill his pages. That is particularly so in a special interest publication, such as this one. One reason is that our readership consists of very accomplished, highly motivated men and women who constantly seek improvement in the areas addressed by The Linacre Quanerly. This is a discerning group which both desires and needs the best that can be obtained. Another reason, still more important, is that there is a moral obligation on our part to present the teachings of the magisterium of the Church as well as humanly possible. This we owe to our readers and our Lord. We have been fortunate that, over the years, quite a number of scholars and health care professionals have had much to say of considerable value. At times, there has even been something of a surplus. This has sometimes meant delay and we thank those who have waited patiently for their papers to be published. As noted on our cover, this journal is concerned with the philosophy and ethics of the practice of medicine. Any reader can help us in our efforts. This can be done by encouraging colleagues to send us, for publication, any writings which will address the ethical concerns of the Catholic physician. As a practical matter, it helps immensely if the submission is typed, double-spaced, and on good quality paper. Our proofreader asks that small typefaces be avoided, as these are difficult to edit. As always, we are here to serve. We value the suggestions and contributions of our readers. Please help us to continue our work.

Book Review: The Homosexual Person: New Thinking in Pastoral CareThe Homosexual Person: New Thinking in Pastoral CareHarveyJohn F., O.S.F.S. Ignatius Press. San Francisco, 249 pp.

For the average citizen, homosexuality is a condition poorly understood, repellent, and confusing. For this reason, it is essential that this recently published book by Father Harvey be widely read by physicians, nurses, medically oriented persons , and religious. Laymen interested in this problem will also gain deep insights into the many individuals afflicted with this disorder. John Harvey is a moral theologian and psychologist who has devoted more than 34 years to studying, researching and counseling. He brings deep insight to this field of homosexuality. In this book , Father Harvey grounds his observations on the sound foundation of the magisterial teaching of the Catholic Church and integrates medical, psychological and psychiatric research into the various chapters. In the first chapter, he discusses at length the definitions of homosexuality and the distinctions between homosexual activity and orientation, compulsive and non~ompulsive activity . In Chapter 2, he reviews the more recent theories concerning the origins of homosexuality. In Chapter 5, he deals with the major dissenting theological views of Charles Curran, Philip Keane , John McNeil and Gregory Baum. Following up on this is an excellent section elucidating the argument from revelation and reason in favor ofthe official teaching of the Church. Chapter 7 is, perhaps, the most practical section of this book, as Harvey presents pastoral perspectives and programs for those afflicted by this disorder. This chapter describes one-to-one counseling and its relationship to group therapy and group spiritual direction. This is an especially strong chapter. It gives hope to all that they can lead deep spiritual, chaste lives. Relying heavily on spiritual and psychological counseling, following the 12 steps of Alcoholics Anonymous, many homosexuals have been freed from the tyranny of their own condition and gone on to live chaste and integrated lives. For special criticism, Harvey points out the deficiencies of Dignity and New Ways Ministry, organizations of dissenting Catholics. In Chapter 8, he deals with the problems of the married homosexual , the apparent ado lescent homosexual and AIDS. His ninth chapter is devoted to psychological and pastoral reflections on pedophilia and its treatment, along with the ethical aspects of the trea tment. The final chapter is a capsule summary of the entire book in which he succinctly states his conclusions.