Formation for Mission
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What is Formation?
Formation in the traditional Catholic context is a transformational process. It refers to the forming or shaping of the whole person, not just the intellect but the spiritual, to take up and carry on the mission of Jesus Christ in the world. Formation is catechesis, that is, the teaching of the faith. Its aim is to deepen people's contact with Jesus Christ through educational and sacramental enrichment opportunities. Ultimately spiritual growth is the encounter with God’s Spirit that advances spiritual growth. The aim of any formation for Mission programme then is to facilitate and nurture that internal encounter with God through communal support and resources provided in a range of ways. Spiritual formation of staff in Catholic schools is universally acknowledged as critical to the effective mission of Catholic schools. |
By its very nature, the Catholic school requires the presence and involvement of educators that are not only culturally and spiritually formed, but also intentionally directed at developing their community’s educational commitment in an authentic spirit of ecclesial communion. Congregation for Catholic Education, Educating Together In Catholic Schools: A Shared Mission Between Consecrated Persons and The Lay Faithful, (2007, n.34) Faith formation of Catholic school community members is Christ-centred. It is an intentional, ongoing and reflective process that focuses on the growth of individuals and communities from their lived experiences, in spiritual awareness, theological understanding, vocational motivation and capabilities for mission and service in the Church and the world. A Framework for Formation for Mission in Catholic Education; National Catholic Education Commission, 2017, p. 9). |
