Contents

The Handbook is set out systematically in order to assist those who wish to deal with a particular topic at any given stage in the formation process. Basically, the outline is as follows:

Section 1 – Specific Redemptorist Formation

In this chapter, the heart of our spirituality and charism are dealt with. Outlines are offered that can be further developed and elaborated in particular formation programs. Specifically, the reflections are on the following topics:

(i)      Redemptorist Spirituality

(ii)     Redemptorist Spirituality in Practice: Lifestyle

(iii)    History of the Congregation

(iv)    Moral Theology in the Redemptorist Tradition

(v)     Preaching in the Redemptorist Tradition

(vi)    The Sacrament of Reconciliation in the Redemptorist Tradition

(vii)   Spiritual Direction and Discernment in the Redemptorist Tradition

(viii)  Partnership in Mission and Lay Collaboration

(ix)    Formation for Apostolic Work in Community

Section 2 – Vocation Promotion

In this section some ideas on vocation promotion are suggested. By the very nature of our international character this has to be fluid enough to adapt to the variety of cultures in which we work. Also some criteria for the acceptance of possible candidates or aspirants are suggested.

(i)   Vocation Promotion

The first contact with the Congregation involves vocational promotion and accompaniment. The Secretariat has communicated with RYVM to see areas of common interest and networking. As indicated, suggestions in this section are general, by nature of the individual culture and geographical situation of each Unit.

(ii)  Criteria for acceptance of Candidates

It has long been the practice in the Congregation when discerning vocations, to investigate spiritual background, physical health, mental health and educational standards. With the development of a more holistic sense of the person, this has extended to areas such as motivation, family background, emotional health and inter-personal issues.

Section 3 – Psychological Assessment

Psychological assessment and testing are often sources of anxiety and even division in some Units. At times formators feel unable to enter into this particular dimension of discernment. Information about the nature of testing, the kind of questions which might be used and how to interpret psychological data is offered here.

Section 4 – Accompaniment and Evaluation

Accompaniment, in general, is a difficult task and one which needs more than simply the formal monthly colloquium. Suggestions are offered for a more 'professional' style of accompaniment. Similarly, some ideas for the ongoing evaluation of candidates at each stage of their formation process are offered. As will be noted at each stage, some professional assistance may be required, as stated in the article on psychological assessment

(i)   Accompaniment

Styles of accompaniment vary greatly throughout the Congregation. In initial formation a regular and ordered method of accompaniment is necessary. Spiritual directors, confessors and formators all make up part of the support network of persons who journey with those in these formative stages.

(ii)  Evaluation Tools

This document outlines the aim and manner of evaluation at the different stages from vocational accompaniment, postulancy, novitiate, from the time of first profession to the end of initial formation, and includes indicators for human, spiritual, community professional/academic, and pastoral evaluation. This would include evaluation of a pastoral year where such a program takes place.

Section 5 – Formation for Celibacy

This section deals with the delicate task of 'investigating' the heart for living a celibate lifestyle in the Congregation and for the ongoing evaluation of candidates at each stage of their celibate development. Areas of intimacy, sexuality, sexual orientation and above all sexual difficulties and disorders are outlined. Psychosexual development, professional and personal boundaries are also discussed in relation to consecrated chastity.

Section 6 – Transition to Ministry

Transition to ministry is a most important stage of formation. It is a time of conflicting emotions of power and vulnerability, of separation from the closer fraternity of the formation community to the wider community of the Unit. Accompaniment and encouragement are essential during this period.

Section 7 – Ongoing Formation

All our formation documents stress that formation does not cease at the end of formal studies. We are beginning to do more work on transition to ministry programs in all Units of the Congregation. Some Units have criteria for sabbaticals and for ongoing formation in ministry. However, we need to do some more work on formation for the 'Third Age'. Here we deal with:

(i)   The agents of ongoing formation and continuing education

(ii)  The dimensions of this process

(iii) The tools and opportunities available

(iv) Specific areas of attention

Section 8 – The Formation of Brother Candidates

All Redemptorist are equal and have the right to a quality formation. At times Brother Candidates follow the same formation course as those studying for the priesthood. At other times, it differs at various stages. While not wishing to create any form of separation, the vocation of the Brother appears to require different specialization in some dimensions of the program. These are discussed, and possibilities offered.