ICYM Allahabad Organises ‘Flesh and Bones’ Seminar on Life and Family

PRAYAGRAJ, August 31, 2026: The Indian Catholic Youth Movement (ICYM) of the Diocese of Allahabad organised a two-day seminar, “Flesh and Bones,” bringing together young people and seminarians to reflect on the dignity of human life, sexuality and family in the light of Catholic teaching.

The programme, held on August 29 and 30 at the Bishop’s House in Prayagraj, was attended by about 150 youth and seminarians.

Bishop Louis Mascarenhas of Allahabad presided over the inaugural session and urged participants to shape their lives according to the teachings and values of the Church.

In his address, the bishop reflected on the principles of the papal encyclical Humanae Vitae, reaffirming the Church’s teaching on the sanctity of human life, marital fidelity and responsible love. He also referred to the Church’s opposition to artificial contraception, masturbation, sterilisation and abortion.

Ajin Joseph, Associate Secretary of the Family Commission of the Conference of Catholic Bishops of India (CCBI), with special responsibility for the Pro-Life Ministry, served as the resource person for the seminar.

His sessions addressed a range of contemporary issues concerning human life and sexuality, including abortion, premarital sexual relationships, pornography, masturbation, artificial contraception, gender and LGBT-related questions, and euthanasia.

The programme also sought to address questions frequently raised by young people, including whether the Church is opposed to sexuality, the effects of pornography and masturbation, responses to arguments supporting abortion, and the Church's understanding of human life, gender and sexuality.

Drawing on Church teaching, Scripture and his experience in pro-life ministry, Joseph presented the sessions in a manner intended to help participants understand the Church's approach to contemporary ethical and social questions.

He also introduced participants to The Chosen, the popular television series based on the life and ministry of Jesus Christ.

Participants described the seminar as an opportunity to engage openly with questions concerning life, relationships and sexuality while examining them from the perspective of Catholic faith and moral teaching.

The programme was organised under the leadership of Fr. Joel Fernandes, Youth Director of the Diocese of Allahabad. The two-day initiative concluded with a renewed call to young Catholics to uphold the dignity of human life and make informed decisions guided by faith, conscience and the teachings of the Church.

By Ms. Neha Pushpa Toppo

Secretary, ICYM Allahabad