In preparation for the upcoming Synod of Bishops in October 2018 on “young people, faith and vocational discernment,” 20 young Catholics, 70 theologians, and dozens of  priests and academics gathered in Rome from September 11-15 to begin preliminary conversations around the Synod’s theme.

St. Peter’s Basilica

According to Crux, philosopher and sexologist Therese Hargot ensured that sex became a major topic of conversation during the seminar. “Young people want to talk about sexuality and love,” Hargot said. Although the 5-day seminar was full of discussions and talks planned by the cardinal’s office on a variety of other topics, Hargot emphasized that young people have a distinct interest in talking about sexuality. Echoing Hargot’s concerns, Australian youth delegate Ashleigh Green expressed that young people have the desire to be heard when it comes to “issues that matter to them.” And among these issues  are sex, sexuality, and sexual orientation..

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