Father Tad Pacholczyk outlined on Apr. 22 six suggestions for Catholic parents to address the challenges of discussing human sexuality and pornography with their children. He emphasized that many young people are learning about sexuality primarily through internet pornography, sometimes as early as age eight or nine.
This topic is important because it affects how children understand relationships and personal values in a culture where explicit content is widely accessible online. The advice aims to help parents guide their children toward healthy perspectives rooted in faith.
Pacholczyk said that instead of having a single conversation known as “The Talk,” parents should engage in ongoing discussions that highlight the beauty of sexuality within marriage. He encouraged seizing everyday moments—such as seeing billboards or media images—to share family values and stories about respect and dignity. Regarding technology, he advised against allowing unrestricted internet access in bedrooms or on cell phones, suggesting these devices be monitored and kept in shared spaces to reduce exposure to inappropriate material.
He also recommended setting rules around dating practices and being actively involved in children’s relationships, saying such boundaries show parental care. “Talking to kids and helping them to become good stewards of the gift of human sexuality bestowed by God is hard work,” Pacholczyk said. “In a culture that forcefully communicates a pornified counter-gospel, though, it is certainly one of the most important and enduring gifts a parent can seek to provide for the happiness and well-being of their children.”
According to the official website, the Diocese of Springfield in Illinois promotes Catholic education, encourages vocations, supports 129 parishes across 28 counties, maintains key facilities like the Catholic Pastoral Center, spreads the Gospel through service initiatives, and is led by Bishop Thomas John Paprocki.
Pacholczyk’s guidance comes amid ongoing efforts by dioceses such as Springfield’s to foster faith through education while addressing contemporary issues faced by families.
