Discernment in common with those in formation for ministry | Ignite the Way
Fr Somy Matthew Mannoor, SJ, a Jesuit from India and formation delegate, presents a case study in the 19th episode of Ignite the Way video series on discernment in common, particularly focusing on young religious in formation. He shares two concrete examples illustrating how collective discernment operates in real situations.
The first example involves planning a program for priests in formation, highlighting a three-stage discernment process: initial deliberations by Major Superiors, participants involvement with dialogue and tension, and finally a stage of attentive listening leading to consensus.
The second example concerns a group of scholastics during the pandemic, where open and non-judgmental listening helped them move past agitation to make collective decisions.
Key learnings emphasize the importance of preparing participants through prayer and reflection, fostering openness and indifference to personal desires, and facilitating free and fearless expression. The overall message underscores that discernment is more about deep listening and openness to the Spirit rather than getting what one wants.
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