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Over 18 Parent Seminar

Last Thursday over 70 parents, teachers and people interested in finding out more about the harmful nature of the pornography industry visited the Edmund Rice Centre to watch the documentary titled ‘Over 18’. Lara Kirk who works for the Archbishops Office in the area of Family, Marriage and Relationships gave a brief overview around some of the effects that watching pornography can have on people socially, physically, mentally and spiritually. One of the important findings that was regularly referred to both by Lara and I throughout the documentary, is the distortion that occurs between the highly explicit manufactured porn scenes and real life. This distortion does a disservice for all in society and namely our men in our schools’ context, who are attempting to create authentic meaningful relationships.

At the end of the screening, attendees were invited to share their thoughts and this is where openly and honestly many outlined their concerns in the area of sexual education with their children. Many referenced effective strategies that they are using, good resources both online and books and also highlighted the importance of having ongoing proactive conversations about everything that our young people may be facing including the use of pornography.

There will be further screenings around Canberra and I will share the information with the St Edmund’s College community. You can watch the trailer at https://vimeo.com/188956393

Michael Monagle (Director of Mission and Identity)