The Workshop was organised under the leadership of Dr. Father C.M. Joseph Cherukunnel SDB (President, SPA) and Father N.K. George Nedumkallel SDB (SPA member), to commemorate the Silver Jubilee of SPA.

Rt. Rev. Dr. Antony Valumkal, the newly consecrated Auxiliary Bishop of Verapoly Archdiocese, officially inaugurated the workshop. Twenty-two Priests, Brothers and Sisters, involved in various apostolates, including formation, from various parts of the country, took part in the workshop. Enhancing one’s understanding of both sexuality and celibacy and integrating them in healthy ways was felt essential, especially in the current context of increased sexual boundary violations both offline and online. The workshop explored some challenges faced by Priests and Religious with 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 satisfied with the personal introspection they had in their own lives, experiencing strength and commitment to lead happy celibate lives.