The Oblate Formation Process
The
formation programme is designed in such a way that it develops the
Human, Spiritual, Missionary and Academic dimensions of our lives.
Apart from our daily prayer and academic classes that we attend at the institute (see time table) we have monthly retreats.
These are preached by different members of the formation team and other
Oblates who are able to avail themselves. This is a time to reflect on
our relationship with God and how academic work and daily life are
enhancing our faith and preparing us for ministry. We also have annual
retreats, usually towards the end of the winter break.
We have Spiritual Conferences twice
a month. At these conferences various themes, aspects of Oblate Life,
Spirituality and Human Development are discussed at great length.
The community of St. Joseph's is international, with scholastics from:
Cameroon, Congo Brazzaville, Kenya, Lesotho, Namibia,
Nigeria, South Africa, Zambia and Zimbabwe. This diversity enriches our
life. As part of our formation, we spend time learning and practicing
songs from the different units. This allows us to share in the cultures
of our Brothers and at the same time it deepens and personalizes our
liturgies.
As part of our recreation, we have socials and sports. During the
socials we get to relax, listen to music, play a few games, chat and
share a few drinks. While on the sports field, the tempo increases . We
compete against each other and other communities in soccer, volleyball
and tennis. We also take time off, once a year, to go out as a
community for a picnic.
Another important element of our formation is community service. During this
time, we clean and maintain our property. The last Saturday of every
month is given to the students as a 'day off'. We have to be home
before supper.
All these aspects not only build community but also enhance personal
development. They develop the physical, spiritual, psychological,
academic and affective dimensions of the person. This is the model of
our formation.
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