Formation programme offers inner transformation for the Church and world

19 Feb, 2025 | Church, News, World

“Ask any of the over 1,000 priests or religious who have participated in the Religious Formation Ministry Programme over the last 43 years and they will describe it as a “before and after” moment in their lives!” according to Sister Jennifer Burke, RJM, Director of Religious Formation Ministry Programme.

“Since its inception in 1982, the affectionately known ‘Loreto House’ Programme, has remained committed to its vision of being a beacon in the area of formation.  Its relentless quest to equip participants with human, spiritual and pastoral competencies in order to be able to face the ever-changing challenges of today’s Church and world, means that the Programme itself is continually evolving to ensure its relevance and freshness.

Sister Jennifer continued,”The photographs of the groups of past participants that adorn the walls of the Programme’s premises in Saint Raphaela’s School Campus, Stillorgan, Co Dublin and website, are testimony to the changing face of religious life and the Church both in Ireland and around the world over the past four decades.  Today, the RFM Programme incarnates the radical, missionary desire of the current membership of the Association of Leaders of Missionaries & Religious of Ireland (AMRI) to develop and support the global Church by providing this unique formation opportunity.

“The Programme brings together priests and religious from around the world for a nine-month journey of inner transformation, based on an experiential, process-based approach to adult learning.  Female and male religious, together with diocesan clergy, find a space to learn from each other in an atmosphere that treasures diversity and encourages personal growth.  Those selected to participate in the Programme are usually preparing to assume roles of responsibility in formation or leadership within their own Dioceses or Congregations.”

“The journey draws on the wisdom and expertise of many guest speakers who facilitate sessions on a vast range of contemporary topics relating to human development, spirituality, theology, group dynamics, social awareness and pastoral work.  Participants also do an eight-day directed retreat; engage in Pastoral Placement; and commit to attending individual counselling and spiritual accompaniment.  The members of the RFMP Team are a constant presence also, mentoring, supporting and facilitating the participants on the journey.” Sister Jennifer said.

Applications are currently being accepted for the 2025-2026 Programme, which will begin on 18 September 2025 and conclude on 19 June 2026.  The closing date for applications is Friday 11 April 2025.  Potential overseas participants are strongly advised to apply early in order to allow sufficient time to obtain the required Minister of Religion Visa.  For further information regarding the RFM Programme visit loretohouse.com

Thanks to Jennifer Burke, RJM, Director of Religious Formation Ministry Programme, who provided this story to CatholicNews.ie.

ENDS

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