“Educating youth about sexuality, affection, and love in a modern society where strict views on sexuality and liberation coexist is undoubtedly a challenging task. However, I believe this is a path that must be traversed to fully experience and convey God’s love,” shared one of the participants. The participants echoed the words of Pope Francis, recalling his Apostolic Exhortation in Christus Vivit (81), which states, “Young people are aware that the body and sexuality have an essential importance for their lives and for their process of growth in identity” recognizing the vital need to cultivate qualities as educators in matters of sexuality, which will be essential for them as future Salesian pastors.
In addition to the research, reflection, and sharing that took place in a lively atmosphere, each day of the seminar was enriched with special elements. The first day, 14 December, coincided with the week designated by the Korean Bishops' Conference for Social Doctrine, and participants also took part in a demonstration to condemn actions that undermine human dignity and worth according to the teachings of the Gospel.
On the second day, 15 December, an aspirant Andrew Kim Min-seong, serving in the military, visited, and Fr Savio Kim Hyung-seok, who returned from studying in Rome since 2018, came to share their joy of reuniting after a long time. The afternoon soccer match, filled with youthful cheers and shouting, warmed the chilly atmosphere that had remained below freezing throughout the day.
On the third day, 16 December, they had a bittersweet farewell as they shared moments with Dominic Kim Hyun-ki, who was 'finally' graduating from the initial formation period after a long journey, along with Cl. Gabriel Kim Seon-woo (going to Rome for UPS) and Francis Jeong Hoe-in (heading to Manila, Philippines) as they prepared for their studies abroad. On the final day, during the concluding Mass, five clerics., including Paul Kang Kyung-mo, Moses Jeong Min-soo, Paul Choi Jun-mo, Peter Yoon Si-mon, and Andrea Shin Hyeong-joo received the ministry of Reader, stepping into a public phase toward the priesthood.
This seminar was not merely an academic learning experience; it became a time to strengthen brotherhood and a sense of community further. Although the schedule was short, participants deeply reflected upon and shared the intense themes of faith and love, confirming once again the beauty of fraternal community life.
By Moses Jeong Min-soo
https://www.infoans.org/en/sections/news/item/23031-south-korea-2024-winter-seminar-for-initial-formandi-on-sexuality-affection-and-love#sigProIdbde50b390b
