So, what is Natural Family Planning (or NFP) anyway? The Church encourages married couples to learn about NFP methods because they represent authentic family planning that can be used either to achieve or postpone pregnancy. NFP makes use of periodic abstinence from sex based upon the observation of the woman’s natural signs of fertility, in order to space births or to limit the number of children when there is a serious reason to do so. No drugs, devices, surgical procedures, or other artificial means are ever used to avoid pregnancy. This practice fosters in married couples an attitude of respect and wonder in their openness to human life, which is always sacred! It also fosters profound respect for one’s spouse, which is necessary for authentic intimacy. Be on the lookout for more information about Natural Family Planning in the bulletin each week leading up to Natural Family Planning Awareness Week, July 22-28. For more information about Natural Family Planning education in our area, contact Peg Hensler (403-7156; [email protected]).