Spiritual Formation

Jesus came to save us and to give us life in abundance (John 10:10). To begin his ministry of salvation, he called twelve disciples to train them, so that even after his death the twelve might continue his work. Some theologians even say that this is why, when those came to arrest Jesus to condemn him, he expressly asked that his disciples be left unharmed, for he knew that they would carry on his mission – and this is precisely what happened.

The Church has always placed special emphasis on formation. Over the years, she has trained her ministers. In Cameroon, becoming a priest requires around ten years of training, including parish placements, philosophy and theology. And even once one has become a priest, the training does not stop; for priests continue to be trained according to their bishop’s judgement.

At every stage of life, training is very important. People train to become teachers, doctors, engineers, craftspeople and so on, and the quality of that training determines one’s potential performance in their field of study. Parents seek out schools for their children that offer them a good education.

Christian life, therefore, also requires formation, for, as Saint Pope John Paul II said, we must not be mediocre Christians. When this formation is lacking in some Christians, they end up joining sects. This is the tragedy facing some people today. St Paul emphasises this formation: ‘What you have learnt from the teaching, pass on to others who will in turn teach it’ (1 Tim 4:7–11). Am I cultivating my spiritual life? If so, am I doing enough?

I have always been deeply impressed by a lay elder in this regard: when we were young, he placed great emphasis on spiritual formation. When he got his first job, he resolved that as soon as he received his monthly salary, he would buy a spiritual book every month from the Catholic bookshop for his spiritual edification. Why do so many neglect the formation of their souls?

For some time now, in the interests of formation, we have recommended that every member of the Word of God Groups obtain a copy of the ‘Catechism of the Catholic Church’. During the Year of Faith, Pope Benedict XVI called on Christians to read and study the ‘Catechism of the Catholic Church’. We therefore encourage all families to obtain this document and to read or reflect on it frequently. Our prayer sheet regularly includes a paragraph from the Catechism to be read each day. May each of us make resolutions to nurture our spiritual growth more effectively during this spiritual year.

Henri Bayemi