SUMEDHA OUTREACH: WORKSHOP FOR HYDERABAD SALESIANS

Dr Jose Parappully, Director of Sumedha Centre, Jharmari, Punjab, was invited to do a Workshop on Growing Toward Psychosexual and Celibate Integration.

The works are in three batches. The first Workshop was from 6 to 8 August 2025.  There were 26 participants.

The second was held on 1-3 December 2025. There were 28 participants. The third workshop is scheduled for 3-5 February 2026.

The content of these interactive Workshops included: Requisites for Psychosexual and Celibate Integration; Sexual Re-Awakening at Midlife; Understanding Sex, Sexuality and intimacy; Problematic Sexual Behaviours (Sexual Boundary Violations, Online Pornography); Celibacy and Chastity; Friendship as a Pathway Toward rowing in Psychosexual and Celibate Maturity. The process included Input, Introspection and Interaction in micro and macro groups. The presentations were enriched with the use of Media (Music and Videos.)

Participants in both the completed Workshops were immensely satisfied with the Workshop, finding the contents extremely relevant and useful at this perio0d in their lives. Most parti9icipants were he 40’s.

First Workshop

In the first Workshop five participants gave a 10 out of 10 on usefulness of the workshop, seven gave and six gave an 8.

Some typical feedback comments from the First Workshop participants:

·         “These three days’ workshop helped me to be aware of my life and relationships and to make the necessary changes in my life.”

·         “It gave me a comprehensive idea of sexuality. Topics on Intimacy, Pornography, and the Purpose of Celibate Chastity were most useful for me.”

·         “It was a good opportunity to look back at my sexuality and the vow of chastity and come to terms with myself, my past and see the beautiful possibilities ahead that can emerge from now.”

·         “It has shaken and broadened my understanding of sex, sexuality and intimacy.”

·         “The topics on “Online Pornography” and “Celibate Friendships” were very enriching and beneficial.”

·         “The topics covered in this Workshop were all very useful and important to me. It has given me lot of knowledge about my psycho-sexual life and how to integrate it into my celibate life. The sessions and group discussions have given me lot of clarity about my boundaries.”

 

Second Workshop

Four of the participants of the second Workshop gave 10 out of 10 on Usefulness. Ten gave a 9; Nine gave an 8.

 

Some typical feedback observations:

·         “The workshop was refreshing, challenging. “

·         “I greatly appreciate the clear and thought provoking presentation.”

·         “The workshop has had a tremendous on my life.”

·         “The content was very good and informative. The process was comfortable, helpful for reflections and self-analysis.”

·         “The content on Online Pornography especially was very useful for me. The process or methodology was very useful to learn, to remember, to focus.”

·         “It gave me clarity about concepts like Intimacy, Celibacy, Chastity. It explained how one need to handle himself as a Celibate.”

·         The programme was well planned, made maximum use of available time. Most useful was Requisites and Helps for Mature Celibate Friendship.” The content offered in this 3-day workshop will be explored in greater details during the 12-Week Sumedha Sadhana Fe 07-May 01, 2026 at Sumedha Centre Jharmari. Registration is open. contact: sumedhacentre@gmail.com 

 

SUMEDHA OUTREACH - TWO WORKSHOPS FOR KARNATAKA JESUITS

 Workshop on PSYCHOSPIRITUAL DYNAMICS AT MIDLIFE FOR KARNATKA JESUITS

45 Jesuits of the Karnataka Province attended a Three- day workshop on Psychospiritual Dynamics at Midlife in two batches. In the first batch there were 27 participants in the second 28 participants. The workshop was held at Prerana- Jesuit Spirituality Centre at Bangalore from 21 to 26 October.

Dr Jose Parappully, Director of Sumedha Centre, Jharmari, facilitated the Workshops.

Topics covered included: Awakening to Midlife; Loss and Recovery of Meaning and Purpose; Midlife Questioning; Midlife Journeys; Emotional Awareness of Mortality; Reassessment of Life and Priorities; De-Illusioning; Loneliness; Sexuality and Intimacy; Boundary Violations; Celibacy and Chastity; Friendship.

These topics were based on Dr Parappully’s recently published book: “Psychospiritual Dynamics at Midlife and Beyond.”

Feedback from the First Group

The feedback from the participants indicate that they had found the workshop – content and methodology -- followed very useful.

On scale of 1 to 10 on Usefulness of the Programme, one representing “Very little useful” and 10 representing “Immensely useful” the participants in the first Workshop gave the following grades:

Nine participants gave a perfect 10 out of 10. Three gave a 9. Ten gave an 8. Three gave 3, one 6 and another 5.

Some typical comments from the First Group

“It was very useful to discover some of them areas I am struggling with.” Age. 44.

“What was most useful was the way the programme was conducted. It had sharing, reading, discussions, which helped me to understand the content better. All content from beginning till end was useful.”  Age 44

“In terms of my knowledge and understanding of midlife transformation, the sessions were very informative and thought provoking.” Age 41.

“The course has provided me with innumerable insights into midlife journey.” Age. 41

“It helped me to reflect on myself. It clarified a number of questions. It deepened my thirst to explore more.” Age 40

“The workshop created an awareness in me, clarified my doubts and widened my horizon on the transitions taking place during midlife.”  Age 41

“Personally I feel grateful because it helped me to see many aspects of my own life closely.” Age 43

 

Feedback from the second group

Five participants gave 10 out of 10 on usefulness, six gave 6, nine gave 8, and 2 gave 2. (6 participants had to leave early and was not present for the feedback session.

Some typical comments

“Well structured, thought provoking. Lots of insights on the afternoon of life.” Age 45.

“It was quite an eye-opener for me. What I liked most is that it was a sort of evaluation of life for me. … A lot of scope was given for personal reflection, and sharing in which we could express ourselves. Your answers to questions were also very appropriate and to the point.” Age 62.

 “This programme was useful, insightful, informative an enriching. It clarified many of my doubts and answered many questions regarding midlife and its different aspects. It opened up my horizon and accept and reconcile with my midlife transition.” Age 44.

“I found this programme very timely and apt. I have benefitted immensely from it. I could see the many examples from the book reflected in my own life. I got insights as to how to proceed from now on.” Age 45.

 “I liked the personal reflection, group discussions, the relaxed time-table. These things helped me to go through these 3 days’ of seminar in a very peaceful and meaningful manner. I am now personally equipped with a new way of looking at my life, my relationships, with people, my ministry, etc.” Age 49.

“All the sessions were very useful and thought provoking. It was a time for me to know myself and to see where I stand, what precautions I need to take an be vigilant when it comes to the aspect of friendships.” Age 45.

“I got newer perspectives on religious life. It helped me to know at a deeper level my past and present and reclaim and renew my present and future. It helped to reconcile with my past and purify my friendships. It invited me to give priority to God, community and ministry. I felt invited to cultivate healthy friendships.” Age 43.

 

The topics explored in these three-day workshops are dealt with in greater detail and depth during the 12-week “Sumedha Sadhana - A Psychospiritual Wellbeing Journey” conducted at Sumedha Centre, Jharmari, Punjab.

The next programme is from February 07 to May 01, 2026. For a brochure and other details please contact: sumedhacentre@gmail.com

 

SUMEDHA OUTREACH: ONE-DAY WORKSHOP IN KOLKATA

 Dr Jose Parappully, Director OF Sumedha Centre, Jharmari, was invited to conduct a one-day workshop on the topic “Psychosexual and Celibate Maturity” for a group of Salesian Sisters in their 30’s and 40’s. There were 43 participants.

The programme was organized by the FMA Province of Kolkata at its Provincial House in Dum Dum, Kolkata on 5^th October, 1925.

The workshop content included The Dynamics of Midlife, especially the Emergence or Re-Emergence of Sexuality and Intimacy needs, Sex, Sexuality and Intimacy. Celibate Chastity and Celibate Friendship and Heterosexual Attachment Dynamics.

The workshop was highly interactive, with ample time for participants to introspect and share in groups their response and reaction to the topics explored in the light of their own personal experiences of these.

Participants found the workshop immensely helpful. They were able to resonate with the topics explored as these reflected their own experiences of sexuality, celibacy and intimacy.

Twenty three of the 43 participants gave a perfect 10 on a scale of 1 to 10 on Usefulness.

Some typical comments;

“The workshop was most useful for me because it made me reflect more about my state of life especially on chastity, relationships and friendships, and celibate loneliness.” (Age 42)

 “I realised that many of the topics explored are in line with my own experiences. It has helped me to understand myself better and also to assess my approach towards my struggles in the past. Now I have been enlightened to face my inner struggles which I couldn’t share openly with others before.” (Age 47)

 “It was useful because it was very interesting, and interactive and it is related to our own life which we face everyday of life.” (Age 39)

“It helped me to review my life and change for the better.” (Age 44)

“It helped me to overcome my past life of pain.” (Age 40)

“Sharing was very enriching and gave me the realization that I am not the only one experiencing these struggles.” (Age 38).

”It was a clear presentation that I could understand easily.” (Age 24)

“Many examples throughout the presentation helped me to understand things in a better way.” (Age 41)

The topics explored in this one-day workshop are dealt with in greater detail and depth during the 12-week “Sumedha Sadhana - A Psychospiritual Wellbeing Journey” conducted at Sumedha Centre, Jharmari, Punjab.

The next programme is from February 07 to May 01, 2026. For a brochure and other details please contact: sumedhacentre@gmail.com

 

 

HELPING SURVIVORS HEAL FROM THE EFFECTS OF SEXUAL ABUSE.

 

37 religious women and men and priests participated in a training workshop on “Protection of Minors from Sexual Abuse (POCSO” and “Helping Survivors to Heal from the Effects of Sexual Abuse.”

Dr. Jose Parappully, Director of Sumedha Centre, Jharmari, Punjab, facilitated this five-day workshop at the National Vocation Service Centre, Pune. Participants were doing a 9-month Diploma Course on Religious and Priestly Formation and Counselling Skills.

This Training  Workshop was held from October 13-17, 2025.

Feedback from the participants showed that all found the workshop immensely useful.  24 of them gave perfect 10 out of 10 on Usefulness of the Workshop for them personally. Four gave a 9. Six gave an 8 and 3 gave a 7.

Some typical comments:

“I would like to give a 10- “Immensely Useful” because this is the first time I got detailed awareness about POCSO Act 2012, and related topics., especially Trauma of Sexual Abuse and its Effects, and Approaches to Healing.” F 28

“I learned many things I was ignorant about, such as professional boundaries, the importance of human formation.” M. 37

“I was ignorant about many things. Through this class I am enriched and enlightened.” F. 35

“It gave me skills and means to support those who have been abused.” M. 43

“The programme was very useful. I really liked it so much.” F. 33

 “Through this class I came to know many aspects of trauma, how sexual abuse can affect the person. I learned about POCSO.” M. 29

“When I came here I was deeply troubled because many of my candidates had been sexually abused. I had many doubts about how to help them. Now my doubts are cleared and I feel confident.” F. 40

“The relevant studies, videos, detailed explanation by the facilitator were very apt. It provided clarity on the topic. I feel it my privilege that such a scholar taught me this subject. I am happy to be a student of such an Enlighted person. ” M. 40

 

HEALTH AND HAPPINESS IN THE POST-MIDLIFE YEARS

 The first “Health & Happiness in the Post Midlife Years – Aging gracefully” programme at Sumedha Centre Jharmari concluded on the 13^th September. This 4-week-long residential programme had commenced on the 17^th August, 2025.

The programme was based on the book “Psychospiritual Dynamics at Midlife and Beyond: Guide Posts for a Healthy and Happy Second Half of Life, “authored by Dr. Jose Parappully, the Director of Sumedha Centre.

The content of the programme included: Self-Awareness; Awakening to Post-Midlife; Psychospiritual Dynamics at Post-Midlife; Transformational Processes, and Spirituality for the Post-Midlife years.

The process was experiential. Besides input there were much time devoted to introspection, journaling and Expressive Arts, Sharing Circles and somatic meditations. Relevant movies, videos and songs helped to better understand the dynamics as they played out in the lives of people. There was also time for fun, to relax together.

All participants expressed great appreciation for the programme. They all observed that they had benefitted immensely from the programme. It had truly helped them, providing insights and practices to make their post-midlife years healthy and happy.

Some comments from the participants.

“The programme was very helpful to understand that there is in the post- midlife years a great opportunity to make life better. It provided me all the ingredients needed for aging gracefully.” Bhasker

 “I found this course much useful for me. It provided me new insights with regard to aging gracefully and has helped me understand and live the post-midlife spirituality. The topic “Burnout” was an eye-opener.” Deepak

“The programme helped me slow-down and reflect on my life, deepening my awareness of the connection between body-mind and spirit. It provided deep insights into the inner shifts that occur at midlife.  It offered practical tools for aging gracefully. The importance of both psychology and spirituality in this process was enlightening. The programme taught me to see post-midlife not as decline, but a time to live more meaningfully.” George

“I benefitted a lot through the insightful inputs, the introspection, the journaling and the sharing. These helped me to go back over the way I had lived so far and decide to make changes so that I will not repeat the mistakes of the past that led to burnout.” Jose

 “The programme on the whole was well designed and executed. It exceeded my expectations. The rich, relevant and well-researched inputs, the meditations and reflections helped me to see my life in perspective, accept my past journey as unique and plan my years ahead to be spent in gratitude and praise. The somatic exercises made my body flexible, and I feel healthier and more energetic.” Thomas

The next “Health and Happiness” programme is from May 09 to June 05, 2026.  Registration is open. Contact: sumedhacentre@gmail.com.

 

 

53rd SUMEDHA SADHANA CONCLUDES

 The 53^rd edition of the Sumedha Sadhana – A Psychospiritual Wellbeing Journey at Sumedha Centre, Jharmari concluded successfully on August 02. This 12-week residential programme had begun on May 11.

There were 9 participants from five religious congregations and 2 dioceses.

The programme consisted of several modules, all related to psychospiritual wellbeing. Among these were: Self-Awareness, Midlife Dynamics, Unconscious Dynamics, Emotional Hygiene, Breathwork, Somatics, Trauma and Healing, Psychosexual and Celibate Integration, Holistic Spirituality, Prayerfulness and Meditation Practices. The final concluding modules integrating all the previous ones were group therapy and a psychospiritual retreat.

The process followed during the Sadhana was very experiential, using dance, expressive drawing and movement, time for introspection and journaling and weekly day of Recollection and Integration, as well as creative liturgies and sharing circles.

There were also moments for relaxation through recreation and picnics. The trip to Chandigarh included a visit with the newly appointed Bishop Sahaya Thatheus, The Cathedral and the Church of Our Lady of Miracles, beside the tourist places such the Sukhna Lake and the Rock Garden.

Participants stated in their feedback that they were immensely satisfied with the programme.

Some typical comments:

 “Every module brought me more and more healing. I came alive again.” A.

“Sumedha Sadhana was a sacred pilgrimage for me. Every module helped me to transform myself into a better and more loving and compassionate human being.” A

“I came very angry, with myself and others. My heart was broken into bits through hurt and pain. Life had become meaningless. Sumedha has helped to put back the bits and make me more whole.” A.

“I came broken and bruised, weeping. I go back joyfully. I’m able to let go all the hurts and woundings. I journey forward with hope. I have bounced back.” C.

“Sumedha Sadhana was a time of grace. I cherish my time at Sumedha” D.

“The best programme I have attended so far.” D.

“At Sumedha I experienced god in a profound way. Sumedha is a healing powerhouse.” L.

“Lot of suppressed emotions and negative energy released. Confusion has disappeared. Wonderful insights. Brought me freedom.” M.

“Here I got what I needed. A palace where I felt loved.  Where I could be myself, express myself the way I wanted. My life as priest is going to be different. Sumedha was more useful to me than the many programmes I have attended abroad” Y.

We were fortunate to have had Archbishop Emeritus of Raipur, Most Rev. Joseph Augustine, with us on the last two days of the programme. He attended the final session of the presentation by the participants of the fruits of their labour though expressive arts. The archbishop was very appreciative of the work Sumedha Centre does and the way each of the participants had benefitted. He observed Centres like Sumedha is the need of the Indian Church today to help priests and religious.

The next Sumedha Sadhana is from 25^th September to December 17, 2025. Registration is open. A few seats re available. Contact: sumedhacentre@gmail.com

PSYCHOSPIRITUAL DYNAMICS AT MIDLIFE AND BEYOND - Guideposts for a Healthy and Happy Second Half of Life.

 I am very happy to introduce  a  new book I have authored and  published by St. Paul's on Psychospiritual Dynamics at Midlife and Beyond. 

Brief Description of Content

Psychospiritual Dynamics at Midlife and Beyond presents pathways to health and happiness in the second half of life. After presenting the experiences that indicate awakening to psychological midlife, the author goes on to describe some of the major dynamics of midlife and the transformational processes that we have to engage in during midlife in order to make the second half of our life meaningful, satisfying and fruitful. In the last few chapters of the book he describes the dynamics of the post-midlife years, particularly those related to aging gracefully, and the types of spiritualties relevant to that period of our lives. Each chapter has real life stories to illustrate its contents and introspective questions for readers to stay with in order to make the reading itself a personal transformative process.

 

Appreciation for and endorsement of the book

No work on mid-life that I have come across contains such a thorough, detailed and panoramic treatment of such a vast range of topics in such a practical manner. I am so grateful to Jose Parappully for giving us this work, and I recommend it whole-heartedly to the seeker of life.

Br. Philip Pinto CFC

Former Superior General of the Christian Brothers

 

The unique merit of this book is that it combines admirably both psychology and spirituality. In order to find the water that will quench the thirst of our minds and hearts, Fr. (Dr) Parappully draws from two wells – psychology and spirituality.

This book is a treasure. You will do well to buy copies to gift to your friends who are at midlife or have gone beyond it. They are sure to thank you for such a gift. Bishops and Major Superiors can achieve what they have failed to achieve over the years simply by getting their priests or religious to read and discuss the contents of this book.

M.A. Joe Antony, SJ

Editor, JIVAN and former Editor, The New Leader

 

In Psychological Dynamics and Midlife and Beyond, Dr Parappully invites us to take a long, lingering look at ‘mid-life,’ in the context of our adolescent dreams, as he sets to work ‘on the shattering of illusions, our false and idealized notions about self, others and the world,’ with a view to making the life that remains ‘satisfying and generative in meaningful ways.’

 

This book invites candid introspection; it helps expose the illusions we live by; it pulls the plug from under the carefully cultivated self-images and storylines that we create, project and maintain, showing in the process how fragile is our hold on balanced living.

 

Stephen Mavely, SDB

Former Vice Chancellor, Assam Don Bosco University

 

the book is available from St. Paul's Book Stores in most towns and cities and online at the link below:

https://stpaulsbyb.com/.../psychospiritual-dynamics-at.../

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