Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Incheon (Agenzia Fides) - In the area of pastoral ministry, the Korean Church has seen a growth in the number of psychological problems, including people with whom it is very difficult to relate, people that suffer stress from the pace of modern life, or who carry the effects in their soul of trauma or negative experiences, all of which can be a grave obstacle in spiritual growth.
In order to respond to this new challenge, the Pastoral and Social Ministry Center of Incheon has started a new Institute for psychological and spiritual growth, in efforts to accompany those persons suffering psychological difficulties, linked to spiritual ones. In this manner, the Institute hopes to use the instruments of psychology in harmony with the teachings of the Catholic faith, leading the person to recognize and heal their own wounds and thus, gradually come to appreciate more deeply the gifts the Lord gives each person over the course of his life.
The institute will be comprised of Christian psychologists, priests, and theologians, and will offer scientific study results and publications, formation courses, encounters, and programs in parishes, schools, and associations.
One of the specific themes of the Institute, one which will be greatly focused upon, is Counseling, geared towards laity, couples, and families, as well as priests and religious. The Institute will also prepare students with courses on the theory and practice of Counseling, aimed at application in pastoral and social ministry. (PA) (Agenzia Fides 21/04/2008; righe 19, parole 238)
