Workshop on “Growing towards Psychosexual and Celibate Maturity”, organized by the Salesian Psychological Association (SPA) South Asia
A Five -day residential workshop, “Growing towards Psychosexual and Celibate Maturity”, was organized by the Salesian Psychological Association (SPA) South Asia, at Ashir Bhavan, the Pastoral Centre of the Archdiocese of Verapoly, Ernakulam, Kochi, from 15th – 19th November 2024, for Priests, Brothers and Sisters. The facilitator for the workshop was Dr. Fr. Jose Parappully SDB, currently Director of Sumedha Centre for Psychological and Spiritual Wellbeing at Jharmari, Punjab, and the founding Secretary of SPA for nine years and its President for six years. The Workshop was organized under the leadership of Dr. Fr. C.M. Joseph Cherukunnel SDB (President, SPA) and Fr. N.K. George Nedumkallel SDB (SPA member), to commemorate the Silver Jubilee of SPA.
The workshop was officially inaugurated by Rt. Rev. Dr. Antony Valumkal, the newly consecrated Auxiliary Bishop of Verapoly Archdiocese. Twenty-two Priests, Brothers and Sisters, who were involved in various apostolates, including Formation, from various parts of the country actively took part in the workshop. The Workshop aimed at enhancing one’s understanding of both sexuality and celibacy and integrating them in healthy ways. Such understanding is essential especially in the current context of increased sexual boundary violations both offline and online. It also explored some challenges faced by Priests and Religious in regard to healthy celibate living and witnessing.
The following topics were covered in the workshop: Understanding, appreciating and integrating sexuality, intimacy and celibate chastity, Requisites for growing in psychosexual and celibate maturity, Celibate friendship – pathway toward psychosexual and celibate maturity, Heterosexual attachment dynamics, Sexual boundary violations, the prevalence, effects and healing from sexual trauma, Some contemporary challenges – pornography, masturbation, homosexuality, sexual abuse and their impact on healthy psychosexual integration.
The insights from the workshop enabled the participants to go home happy and satisfied at the personal introspection they had in their own lives, experiencing strength and commitment to lead happy celibate lives.
