In the recently concluded Fall Semester 2023, the Counseling Service at Antonine University (UA) launched the fourth edition of the “How to Be Mentally Stronger, Happier, and Resilient” series with 4 awareness sessions, aiming to address the holistic well-being of the UA community. Three of these sessions fall under the thematic umbrella of “Human Sexuality Today,” offering diverse perspectives from both scientific and spiritual angles.
Renowned psychotherapist, Dr. Marie Khoury, led 2 of these sessions at the Hadat–Baabda Campus. On October 3, the inaugural awareness session of the series, entitled “Sexual Identity: Normality or Perversion?” aimed at exploring the nuanced aspects of sexual identity and examining the diverse questions that arise in this exploration. During the session, Dr. Khoury emphasized that current studies suggest that the concept of “sexual instinct” cannot be applied to today’s society. Research indicates that our inherited genes do not fully express themselves unless we are in an environment that triggers their activation. Therefore, sexual desires are not inherent instincts but rather develop through environmental influences.
The second installment of the awareness series was presented in a session titled “Sexual Orientation: Genetics, Epigenetics, or What?” and took place on October 31. This session delved into the different studies that suggest sexual orientation is not hereditary or genetic but is influenced and shaped by environmental factors such as parental relationships, education, friends, and social life. Dr. Khoury highlighted the importance of considering these environmental influences when discussing sexual orientation. In both sessions, Dr. Khoury’s expertise brought a valuable perspective to the discussions, offering insights grounded in research and clinical experience.
Complementing the scientific approach, the third session, “Who Am I to Judge?” – Pope Francis, took a spiritual and religious turn. It was presented by Fr. Gabriel Tabet, Director of the Support Office for Vulnerable People at the Maronite Archdiocese of Beirut, on November 30. This session explored the viewpoint of the Church regarding homosexuality, starting with Pope Francis’s famous response, “Who am I to judge?” Fr. Tabet emphasized that scientific studies presented to the Church have shown that homosexuality is neither a choice nor a disease. In his message, the Pope mentioned that Roman Catholic Priests are not prevented to administer blessings to same-sex couples while not being part of regular Church rituals, nor given in context related to civil unions or wedding. This session added a unique dimension to the series, broadening the scope of discussions beyond the psychological aspects.
In addition to the sessions on human sexuality, Dr. Marie Khoury also conducted an awareness session on “Managing Anxiety Amidst Adversities, Bouncing Back, and Rebuilding Oneself” on November 29 at the Hadat–Baabda Campus. This session aimed to provide attendees valuable insights and practical strategies to help them adeptly navigate anxiety in challenging situations and foster resilience.
As the curtain falls on this enriching series, UA’s Counseling Service stands triumphant in its mission to cultivate mental strength, happiness, and resilience. The diverse sessions not only facilitated understanding but also nurtured an environment of open dialogue and growth. Moving forward, the University remains committed to fostering well-being, creating a community that thrives on compassion, knowledge, and resilience.
For those interested in watching these enlightening sessions, they can access them on YouTube via the following link.