What is the difference between attraction and lust? My friend is considering using IVF to try to conceive. How can I help her? My son is going through marriage prep and has asked me for reading recommendations. What do you recommend?

Ask Christopher West is a weekly podcast in which Theology of the Body Institute President Christopher West and his beloved wife Wendy share their humor and wisdom, answering questions about marriage, relationships, life, and the Catholic faith, all in light of John Paul II’s beautiful teachings on the Theology of the Body.

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Q1: I was recently reading a novel written from a Christian perspective with Christian characters. One of the characters mentions that his growing attraction for the girl "had only started with lust." This line was jarring to me and brought to my attention that many Christians have a mistaken idea that any attraction that is not immediately and obviously spousal must be sinful.

Q2: I'm writing because I found out my best friend (who is Catholic, mind you) is planning on turning to IVF after years of trying to conceive. She has had several miscarriages as well. What can I say to her that will encourage her that IVF is not the answer to the future full of hope that she is seeking?

Q3: My son is getting married in the fall. Both he and his fiance are Catholic. He recently asked me if I had any reading recommendations to supplement his marriage prep. I am looking at several of your books and looking for your guidance. I'm considering "Good News About Sex and Marriage" or "Theology of the Body for Beginners". Thoughts?

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Resources mentioned this week:

TOB Virtual Conference - Premium passes are still available, also check our our offerings in Spanish.

Into the Deep Retreats

Catholic Marriage Summit

The Good News about Sex and Marriage

Books by Greg and Lisa Popcak

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Christopher and Wendy hope their advice is helpful to you, but they are not licensed counseling professionals. If you are dealing with serious issues, please consult our list of trusted professionals.

Featuring music by Mike Mangione.

Produced by Sounder and Key.