The relevance of religious formation to celibate living : a psychosexual analysis of lay consecrated persons

Abstract

The aim of this study was to explore the meanings and experiences which six lay consecrated persons have constructed regarding the formation they received in relation to their understanding and living of consecrated celibacy in the world. A psychosexual analysis was used to shed further light on this relationship. The study adopts Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis as a methodological approach. The data was collected through in-depth semi-structured interviews. The following five main themes emerged from the analysis of the data: (a) perception of the institution as a forming and a sustaining structure, (b) the experience of choice, loss and mourning, (c) dealing with ongoing challenges, (d) life as an important instructor, (e) aids towards authentic celibate living. The participants described their experiences of initial and on-going formation as providing a supporting and sustaining structure necessary for celibate living. They related how life experience becomes the main instructor for celibate living, linking the formation provided with the evolution of their meaning and understanding of celibacy. Participants felt that a personal encounter with a spiritual director helps them live through several experiences of loss linked to a celibate choice and other life challenges. Cultivating a profound relationship with Jesus Christ and valuing relationships within their groups become a source of support for celibate living.