Nothing can substitute for this true conversion and personal encounter with Christ. Spiritual formation cannot produce it, for it is God’s gracious gift; but spiritual formation can teach and help those who seek it, prepare them to receive it; and, when it is given, develop its fruits in their lives and ministries.
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In each year of the formation process, participants will take time together for a retreat experience, usually in a day-long format. The third year (end of program) retreat may be an overnight experience. As Co-Workers notes, these times of retreat create the environment where participants can be open to meeting the living Lord.
On both the individual and communal levels, participants will be invited to advance in their own human and spiritual formation and to enhance their relationships with one another. Themes for the retreats may focus on such area as growing in relationship with Jesus, the baptismal call to ministry, and nurturing our servant hearts.
Depending on current enrollment, retreats may be offered for all sites together or on an individual site basis, at the discretion of the Institute director and site staff. |
