Vir Virtutis

A Lenten reflection on virtuous masculinity

A few months ago, I was asked if I would be willing to speak on the topic of Theology of the Body and masculinity at one of our diocesan high schools. I agreed, initially under the impression that I would be speaking to the male high school students. A few weeks later when the advertisement flyer was distributed, I realized my mistake:

Frankly, it was a little bit of a relief to yap at a crowd of men wider than only high schoolers. However, I decided I did need to sharpen my approach. Especially following Hannah, who presented on Pope St. John Paul II’s Theology of the Body with excellent knowledge.

My basic thesis is this: Authentic masculinity is rooted in virtue, internal truths expressed externally. A man’s masculinity is not defined merely by his physical body, but by his character. To be a truly good man is to excel in virtue. While every person, both male and female, is called to every virtue, we can identify virtues which are particularly masculine. In my talk, I delve into six:

Courage - taking initiative, facing challenges

Fortitude - remaining dependable, even in times of hardship

Contrition - true sorrow for sin and desire for amendment

Temperance - practicing self-control, guarding our dignity

Chaste Love - conquering sexual desire and being able to make a gift of the self

Obedience - submitting the will to those with right authority

I hope you might find this talk to be insightful and interesting. It is certainly not comprehensive, but I hope it offers something beneficial to men desiring to grow in virtue.