The Loyola School of Theology (L.S.T.) invites you to the online oral defense of the S.T.L. Tesina entitled “TOWARDS PSYCHOSEXUAL INTEGRATION AND CELIBATE MATURITY IN SEMINARY FORMATION IN VIETNAM: An Exploratory Study” by DINH VAN TRONG, S.J. on 27 November 2024, Wednesday, 10:30 a.m. The Board of Examiners is composed of Fr. Teodulo Gonzales, S.J., Ph.D. (Adviser), Myrna Joyce Sanchez, Ph.D. (Second Reader/Principal Examiner), and Fr. Jordan Orbe, S.J., Psy.D. The defense is being held in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree Licentiate in Sacred Theology concentrating in the field of Spirituality and Pastoral Psychology. It is open to the public.
Abstract: This study examines the urgent need to strengthen celibacy formation within Vietnamese seminaries, with a focus on the psychosexual integration and celibate maturity of seminarians. The research undertakes a detailed analysis of cultural, social, religious, and psychological factors that shape seminarians’ psychosexual identities and their effects on the commitment to celibacy. Drawing on data from surveys, interviews, observations, and case studies within the seminary context, the findings reveal significant deficiencies in existing formation programs, particularly in areas related to sexual education and affective maturity. The study aligns these issues with theological teachings on sexuality and celibacy, situating psychosexual formation within the Church’s doctrinal framework. Two models are proposed to aid seminarians in the self-assessment of their psychosexual development, facilitating their progression toward psychosexual integration and celibate maturity. The study further recommends the inclusion of human formation, counseling, spiritual direction, and community-building efforts to address the identified gaps. These strategies aim to deepen the Church’s understanding of psychosexual development and its relevance to priestly ministry, offering a structured approach that could hopefully influence seminary formation in Vietnam.
