From 13th to 27th September 2024, the Formation Skills for Today Programme was held, bringing together men and women religious from different congregations and cultural backgrounds. The two-week programme created a space for learning, sharing, and deepening the skills needed for formation ministry in today’s context.
A total of 14 participants attended. They represented diverse congregations including the Daughters of the Most Blessed Trinity, Franciscan Missionaries of Mary, Society of the Infant Jesus, Sisters of the Holy Family of Nazareth, Religious of the Virgin Mary, Society of the Divine Word, Servants of the Holy Spirit, Missionaries of Africa, Handmaids of the Holy Child Jesus, and the Marian Sisters of the Eucharistic Love. Participants came mainly from Ghana and Poland, reflecting the intercultural spirit of the programme.
The sessions covered a rich variety of topics. Among them were: the meaning of formation, formation for mission, walking with formatees, intercultural community living, report writing and evaluation, planning and development, relationships and conflict, anger management, and self-care for formators. Special emphasis was also placed on accompaniment and the Eucharist as central to the journey of formation. The daily rhythm of morning and evening prayer, together with moments of recreation and games, fostered a balance of spirituality, learning, and community life.
Facilitation was carried out by a committed team including Br. Joseph Tsiqueye, CSC; Br. Emmanuel Affum, SVD; Br. John Badu Affum, CSC; Fr. Moses Arthur, OFM Conv.; and Fr. Alfons Amanor, SVD, with the support of the community. Their insights, experience, and guidance enriched the participants’ understanding and practice of formation.
In the end, the programme was more than just a training; it was an experience of living and learning together across cultures and congregations. Participants expressed gratitude for the opportunity to strengthen their skills, deepen their spiritual journey, and return to their communities better equipped for the mission of formation.