One File

MISSIONARIES OF FAITH
PHILIPPINE PROVINCE
INITIAL FORMATION ITINERARY

OF THE MISSIONARIES OF FAITH
IN THE PHILIPPINE CONTEXT
AND
CLUSTER FORMATION PROGRAM:

ONGOING PRIESTLY FORMATION
ITINERARY
IN THE PHILIPPINE PROVINCE
October 2022
PART I
TABLE OF CONTENTS
PART I
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Prologue
Chapter One: ASPIRANCY STAGE: PROPAEDEUTIC
Introduction…………………………………………………….….1
A. Who can be admitted in the Aspirancy Program?...................2
B. Objectives …………………………………………………...4
1. General Objective…………………………………...…...4
2. Specific Objectives…………..………..…………………4
C. Core Values….…………………...………………………….4
D. Dimensions of Formation……………………………………4
1. Human Dimension……………………………………….4
2. Spiritual Dimension……………………………………...8
3. Intellectual Dimension…………………………………10
4. Pastoral Dimension……………………………………..11
5. Charismatic Dimension………………………………...13
6. Religious Dimension…………………………………...15
Chapter Two: POSTULANCY STAGE: DISCIPLESHIP
Introduction………………………………………………….…...18
A. Objectives…………………………………………………..20
1. General Objective ……………………………………...20
2. Specific Objectives……………………………………..20
B. Core Values………………………………………………...20
C. Dimensions of Formation…………………………………..20
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PART I
TABLE OF CONTENTS
LEVEL I: FIRST TWO YEARS OF POSTULANCY

1. Human Dimension……………………………………20
2. Spiritual Dimension…………………………………..25
3. Intellectual Dimension………………………………..29
4. Pastoral Dimension……………………………………31
5. Charismatic Dimension……………………………….33
6. Religious Dimension………………………………….36
LEVEL II: LAST YEAR(S) OF POSTULANCY

1. Human Dimension…………………………………….38
2. Spiritual Dimension…………………………………...44
3. Intellectual Dimension………………………………...48
5. Charismatic Dimension………………………………..53
6. Religious Dimension…………………………………..55
Chapter Three: NOVITIATE FORMATION PROGRAM
A. Objectives of Formation …………………………………..57

1. General Objective……………………………………...57
2. Specific Objectives…………………………………….57
B. Dimensions of Formation………………………………….58
1. Human Dimension……………………………………..58
2. Spiritual Dimension……………………………………61
3. Intellectual Dimension…………………………………63
4. Pastoral Dimension…………………………………….64
5. MF Dimension…………………………………………64
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PART I
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Chapter Four: THE JUNIORATE: THE CONFIGURATION

STAGE
A. Objectives…………………………………………………65
1. General Objective……………………………………..65
2. Specific Objectives……………………………………66
B. Core Values……………………………………………….66
C. Dimensions of Formation…………………………………66
1. Human Dimension……………………………………66
2. Spiritual Dimension…………………………………...76
3. Intellectual Dimension………………………………...79
5. Charismatic Dimension………………………………..85
6. Religious Dimension…………………………………..89
Chapter Five: VOCATIONAL SYNTHESIS: PASTORAL

STAGE
Introduction…………………………….………………………...94
A. Objectives…………………………………………………..95
1. General Objective………………………………………95
2. Specific Objectives……………………………………..95
B. Core Values………………………………………………...95
C. Dimensions of Formation…………………………………..96
1. Human Dimension……………………………………..96
2. Spiritual Dimension……………………………………98
3. Intellectual Dimension………………………………..103
5. Charismatic Dimension……………………………….108
6. Religious Dimension………………………………….110
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PART II
TABLE OF CONTENTS
PART II
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Prologue: THE NECESSITY OF CLUSTER

FORMATION IN THE BASIC PLAN FOR
THE ONGOING FORMATION
OF MF PRIESTS
Chapter One: CLUSTER FORMATION OF

MF YOUNG CLERGY
A. The MF Young Clergy……………………………………113

B. Collated Concerns, Needs, and Problems Per Aspect of
Ongoing Formation……………………………………….113
C. Cluster Formation of MF Young Clergy………………….117
Chapter Two: CLUSTER FORMATION

OF MF MIDDLE CLERGY
A. The MF Middle Clergy……………………………………119

C. Cluster Formation of MF Middle Clergy…………………121
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PART II
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Chapter Three: CLUSTER FORMATION

OF MF SENIOR CLERGY
A. The MF Senior Clergy…………………………………….124

C. Cluster Formation of MF Senior Clergy………………….126
Chapter Four: STRENGTHENING UNITY

AND SENSE OF BELONGINGNESS
A. Bonding by Cluster………………………………………...128
B. Bonding by House………………………………………….129
C. Bonding by the Entire community…………………………129
D. Fiesta Celebrations…………………………………………129
E. First Monday Devotion in Honor of our Queen of Confessors of
Faith………………………………………………………...130
F. Sports Fest………………………………………………….130
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PART I
INITIAL PRIESTLY FORMATION

ITINERARY
IN THE PHILIPPINE CONTEXT
PROLOGUE
Coming up with a priestly formation program that

is both inculturated and contextualized is a matter of
necessity. With the publication of the new Ratio
Fundamentalis Institutionis Sacerdotalis in 2016, the
updating of a formation program becomes even more an
urgency.
This document, THE INITIAL PRIESTLY

FORMATION ITINERARY OF THE
MISSIONARIES OF FAITH IN THE PHILIPPINE
CONTEXT, is an attempt to follow the directives of the
new ratio, on the one hand, and to contextualize the
formation program of the Missionaries of faith, on the
other hand. Both exigencies, however, point to another
necessity: to give due importance not only to the four
aspects of formation namely, human, spiritual,
intellectual, and pastoral, but also to the religious and
charismatic dimensions of forming MF priest.
While due diligence was observed in grounding the

initial priestly formation program in the charismatic
identity of MF contained in the Constitutions and GOF,
this document follows religiously the directives of the new
ratio, “The Gift of Priestly Vocation”, on the need to
develop an integrated program of formation for the priests
of the Missionaries of Faith in the Philippines.
An integrated program of formation proposes a

pedagogical itinerary to achieve the objectives of every
formative stage and the diverse dimensions of formation,
foreseeing the most convenient means, the times of their
application and the educational gradualness that is most
pertinent, according to local circumstances. The formation
program includes various programs that are more specific,
one for every stage. This is elaborated by the formators
and constitutes the formative itinerary.
Integral approach to formation has the following

advantages: first, it provides a panoramic view of the
entire seminary formation process; second, it clarifies the
goals of every stage and aspect; third, it establishes the
linkages between and among stages and aspects; and
fourth, it ensures the appropriateness of formation
program. Rolled into one, an integral approach makes a
formation program appropriate, that is, it is a priestly
formation that respects the different phases of growth
undergone by the seminarians while maintaining the
essential elements applicable to all and it is a formation
program that is appropriate to the specific needs and
culture.
The task of developing a program of integral

formation takes a concrete expression through the
FORMATION ITINERARY1. Attested by the Ratio
Fundamentalis, this has to be adopted by every seminary
and formation house, exercising contextualization.
Ensuring the integrality of formation process, a

basic formative principle, which allows the seminarian to
grow in an integral way, that is, simultaneously cultivating
all the dimensions of formation, is so important because
“together, these four dimensions give shape and structure
to the identity of the seminarian and the priest and make
him capable of that gift of self to the Church, which is the
essence of pastoral charity.”
1
Congregation for the Clergy, The Gift of Priestly Vocation: Ratio
Fundamentalis Institutionis Sacerdotalis (Pasay City: Paulines Publishing House,
2017), 10. [Hereafter RFIS-2016]
If we allow accompaniment to take just any
direction without a clear program (formation itinerary),
most probably there will be no growth and the person will
not be truly formed. An accompaniment where growth is
not seen is a waste of time and effort.
Goals must be articulated in every aspect of

formation (spiritual-human-intellectual-pastoral-
religious-charismatic), as well as in every stage of
formation (aspirancy-propaedeutic, postulancy-
discipleship and juniorate-configuration, and pastoral
integration-vocational synthesis).
It is for these reasons and exigencies that this

document was born.
INITIAL PRIESTLY FORMATION ITINERARY OF THE MISSIONARIES OF FAITH
CHAPTER 1: ASPIRANCY STAGE: PROPAEDEUTIC
Chapter One:
ASPIRANCY STAGE: PROPAEDEUTIC
Introduction
Aspirancy is a time of discernment intended to help young men make

their personal decision regarding God’s plan for them. This normally takes
at least six months. The purpose of this stage is to provide young men who
show signs of having a religious vocation with the necessary formation as
they prepare to follow Christ with a generous spirit and purity of intention.
A young man who feels that God is calling him to the religious life will be
assisted by the formator of the Aspirancy Program who will accompany him
through the discernment process.
As stated in our Constitutions no. 63, “To the young people whom
the Lord calls to consecrate themselves to Him in our Congregation should
be asked to undergo a period of discernment and formation.” A similar
provision can be found in the General Directory of the Missionaries of Faith
[Hereafter GD] no.100:
“We must begin a process of discernment of vocation with those who
believe that they have discovered in themselves the call, through
listening to the Word of God, praying, and doing fraternal dialogue
(personal accompaniment). Those then who feel called to full
communion with our Congregation are to know and to experience,
in some way, our life and our mission.”
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Aspirants will be taught the value of prayer, silence, study, work,

community life, rest, etc., seeing to it that they observe these with an upright
intention and exactness and considering these values to be advantageous as
a disciplinary, formative and educational process for their future Postulancy.
Emphasis is given to maximizing the potential of all their qualities,
attitudes and capacities, both human and Christian that will allow them to
discover their vocation and to respond appropriately.
A. Who can be admitted in the Aspirancy Program?
Chapter VIII of GD says:
99 § 1. The admission2 and dismissal3 of candidates is

regulated by the norms of Canon Law and the proper law of
the Congregation.
§ 2. According to the Universal Law4, any baptised Catholic

with the right intention, who possesses the required
qualities, who is not prevented by any impediment can be
admitted to the Congregation. Moreover, candidates are to
have reached the required age, be in good health, of suitable
character and have sufficient qualities of maturity in order
to embrace the life proper to the Institute. Their health,
character and maturity are to be verified, if necessary, even
2
Cf. CC art. 62.
3
Cf. CC art. 119.
4
Cf. CIC cann. 597 §§ 1-2; 642-643.
Page | 2
by using experts, without prejudice to the prescript of Can.

220.
§ 3. Cannot be admitted to the Congregation:
• one who is married, while the marriage continues to
exist;
• one who is currently bound by a sacred bond to
some Institute of Consecrated Life or is
incorporated in a Society of Apostolic Life, without
prejudice to the prescript of Can. 684;
• one who enters the Institute induced by force, grave
fear or malice;
• one who is accepted by a superior induced in the
same way.
§ 4. According to the Constitutions, those who, being free of
any canonical impediments, have the following qualities can
be admitted to be part of the Congregation:
• serious desire to completely follow the religious life
according to the spirit of our Congregation;
• willingness to undertake missionary activity and to
live a community life;
• possesses docility to obedience, availability to
humble and hidden service;
• capacity to love renunciation and the cross;
• reveal aptitudes for priestly life for those who are
called to the priesthood5.
102. For every aspirant accepted in the community, there

will be a personal file card (record) with all the useful data
to know his personality. This file, prepared and updated by
5
Cf. CC art. 62; CA-MF 94.
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the responsible superiors will follow the candidate in the

successive stages of the formation.
B. Objectives
General Objective: The aspirancy stage aims to introduce a candidate to

Religious and/or Priestly life and to the formative process that this entails. It
also aims at starting a process of vocational discernment.6
Specific Objective: Through the programs of the aspirancy stage,

particularly focusing on one's human and Christian dimensions, the
candidates are "helped to recognize their vocation and respond to it whatever
be the design of God for each of them"7.
C. Core Values
Aimed Core Values in formation: Aspirancy as a stage of transition from
the common life of adolescents and young men outside the structured life of
religious formation necessitates certain specific value-centered formation
that seeks to contribute to the objective of vocation discernment. These
values are: Honesty, Trustworthiness, Openness, and Docility.
D. Dimensions of Formation
1. Human Dimension: A journey into oneself to discover,
appreciate, and attain respect and appreciation for self and
others.
a. Responsible: Counselor / Psychologist in coordination
with the rector
6
Cf. Constitutions, 63 and GOF, 100.
7
Constitutions, 101.
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Areas of Concern Indicators Programs

Basic knowledge • Calm acceptance - Introduction to
of self and family of one's Human Formation
origin giftedness and Program (HFP) by a
poverty qualified counselor at
• Health the start of formation
Awareness year
• Family History / -HFP Session on
Background * Healing the Inner
• Personal Child
Interests (sports, - Monthly counseling
talents and sessions of aspirants
skills, hobbies,
etc.)
Adaptability/ • Openness and - HFP Sessions on
Tolerance/ willingness to * Discovering the
Flexibility do things, Need for Healthy
follow the Boundaries
schedule, obey * Discovering the
their superiors, roots of Authority
and accept Hang-up.
others'
legitimate
differences
Basic acceptance • Healthy - HFP Sessions on
of others interaction with * Interculturality
others * Understanding
• Respect for Inferiority/Superiority
cultural Complex
differences
(tradition, tribe,
Page | 5
region, custom
and upbringing,
etc.)
Basic • Courtesy, social - HFP Sessions on
understanding and graces, hygiene, * Social Graces
application of gratefulness - Community
personal and inter- • Being on time Evaluation per
personal etiquette. always semester
Initial formation of • Openness to - Community
trust and values formators Evaluation per
• Openness semester
towards fraternal - Regular Individual
correction Colloquium with the
• Sensitivity to the formator(s)
needs of others, - Evaluation of
etc. formators per
semester
- Mid year and end of
the year evaluation by
formators
Transparency and • Compliance
Accountability in with the
handling finances prohibition on
and gifts the use of
electronic wire
transfer and the
like
• Follows
faithfully the
policy of
surrendering
personal money
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and of
informing the
formators of any
gift received
without
prejudice to the
discretion of the
formators
Education in the • Generally, those -During this stage the
Proper Use of Mass discerning for aspirants are not
Media the possibility of allowed to use
priestly vocation cellular phones
today were born
in the
information age
and have spent
nearly their
entire lives
surrounded by
computers,
gadgets, smart
mobile phones,
digital devices
and other forms
of technology
and influenced
by social media.
Formands
described as
“digital natives”
must be initiated
into the
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disciplined use
of these
communication
devices, the
responsible
utilization as
stewards of
these
(undeserved)
resources for
interconnectivity
and critical
application of
available social
media platforms
into their
formative
journey.
2. Spiritual Dimension: Initiation to spiritual life, and the

acquisition of basic habits in spiritual exercises that are crucial
for its development.
a. Responsible: Spiritual Director

Self-awareness of • Knowledge of - Introduction to
one's stage in the the basic prayers Spiritual Formation
spiritual life (Creed, Our Program (SFP) by
Father, Hail Community Spiritual
Mary, Prayers of Director at start of
the Order), formation year
personal prayer
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(silence and - Monthly Spiritual

meditation), Direction
liturgical and - SFP Session on
other devotional * Spiritual practices
prayers in the Church
• Appreciation of * Introduction to
silence Spirituality
Motivational • He discerns his - Monthly Spiritual

Clarity purpose in life. Direction
• He clarifies his - Daily meditation
life’s direction - SFP
and purifies his Session/Workshop on
motives for * Spirituality of
choosing a Journal Writing
particular path of
life, especially
his motivation
for the
priesthood.
Introduction about • Openness to - Group Spiritual
vocation share one's Direction facilitated
vocational by the Spiritual
journey Director before the
• Capacity to end of each semester
empathize with - Annual Retreat
another's story of - Monthly
faith Recollection
Formation of a • Respect and - SFP Session on
"Sense of the reverence for * Introduction to
Sacred" sacred places Liturgy
and objects
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* Liturgy of the
Hours
* Holy Eucharist and
Adoration
Initiation towards • Starts to develop - Communal
an understanding the habit of Penitential Services
of sin and grace, confession with adoration twice
and the Sacrament each semester
of Reconciliation - The Spiritual
Director makes
himself available for
confession of
aspirants (e.g. before
the mass of the day)
3. Intellectual Dimension: The candidate achieves an intellectual

level of awareness regarding one's biases and prejudices, the
purification of mindsets that are not helpful in formation, and
an intellectual openness to learn, and love for the truth.
a. Responsible: Rector
Areas of Indicators Programs

Concern/Focus
Basic knowledge • Rudimentary - Regular classes
about the teachings knowledge of the on Christian Faith
of the Church Catechism of the based on the CCC,
Catholic Church and, preferably, the
(CCC) contextualized
national catechism
Page | 10
published in
response to the
CCC (cf.
Catechism for
Filipino Catholics)
Open disposition • Basic knowledge - Regular classes
towards academic of philosophy, on introduction to
formation music and philosophy,
languages. language course(s),
• Acquisition of e.g. English, Latin
study habit - Weekly music
practice
- At least 2 hours of
study each
weekday, in the
study hall,
monitored by
formator
Self-knowledge • Capacity for - Individual
introspection, Colloquium with
self-critique, and formator(s)
the purification of - Daily journaling
motives which may be
shared to the
counselor and/or
Spiritual Director
4. Pastoral Dimension: The candidate becomes aware that

vocational life is a life of mission, and that religious life is a
life of service to others, especially those who are in need.
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Concern
Knowledge that • Appreciation of - Regular manual
growth in work work (house and
religious life • Awakening to garden work)
entails "death to service - House assignments
oneself," a and responsibilities
generous (beadle, ministry
response to the head, kitchen
call to leave one's manager, etc.)
comfort zone for - Take turns in
the sake of others preparing meals for
the community
Discovery and • Capacity to - Weekly music
development of effectively practice
skills and talents communicate - Weekly communal
that are useful in ideas creatively, reading of texts where
pastoral ministry through various the aspirant can
means, especially receive constructive
through verbal comments and
communication suggestions on one's
diction,
pronunciation,
posture, and develop
skills for oral
communication.
Initial exposure • Capacity for - Monthly exposure to
to pastoral setting pastoral empathy, various pastoral
"feeling the pains ministries (parish,
of others" prison, school, etc.)
especially those
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• Capacity for self- where postulants and

transcendence professed are having
their pastoral
immersion for the
aspirants' mentoring
- Observance of a
Day of
Fasting/Abstinence
each week
5. Charismatic Dimension: The candidate is initiated into the

unique charism of MF and how this charism is lived in a
community.

Initiation into the • Basic knowledge - Reading of the
Charism of MF of the Order: biographies of the
history, founders, founders of the
and missions of the Order
Order - SFP Session on
* History of the
Order of MF
- Film showing on
pertinent videos
related to the
Order, or mission
of the Order
Intimations of MF • Strong awareness - Daily Eucharistic
Spirituality of being a Catholic celebration
• Initial decision to - Daily 30-minute
follow Christ in meditation
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discipleship
manifested in
religious
attendance in
liturgical
celebration and
performance of
duties in the
seminary
Initiation to • Memorization of
Marian devotion Marian prayers
• Study the proper
way of praying the
Rosary
• Daily recitation of
the Holy Rosary
• Introduction to
Marian popular
devotions
especially devotion
to Mary as Queen
of Confessors of
Faith
Initiation into the • Fidelity to the - Daily communal

Liturgy of the praying of the Lauds and Vespers,
Hours Lauds and Vespers preferably chanted
- 15-minute page-
by-page daily
reading of
Scriptures (from
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Genesis to
Revelation)
- 15 minute daily
spiritual reading
(both the daily
bible and spiritual
reading are
preparations for the
Office of Readings
by the time
candidates have
become professed)
6. Religious Dimension: The candidate is initiated to the unique
character of vocation to the religious life, a life consecrated to
God in the service of the Church in the context of community
life.

Initiation into the • Faithful - As part of
Religious Life in attendance to initiation into
the Church community religious life, there
schedule must be a
community bell to
signal community
schedule, and
likewise horarium
posted and
distributed so that
the aspirants may
know where "the
Page | 15
voice of God" calls

them.
Initiation into • Development of - The community
fraternal life in the capacity to horarium is to be
community relate and to be observed especially
open to the in those moments
community when the whole
• Absence of community is
particular expected to be
friendships and present
cliques that draw - Aspirants are to
division in the be assigned to their
community seats in study hall,
chapel, and dining
room to avoid one
from gravitating to
another person
- Aspirants are to
live in dormitories.
-They are to be
assigned to
cleaning
assignments
changing each
month.
- Community
outing twice a year,
with the last one
towards the end of
the formation year.
At ease with the • He does not have
community the tendency to
Page | 16
withdraw from the

community
• He participates in
community
activities
• He follows the
community
schedule
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CHAPTER 2: POSTULANCY STAGE: DISCIPLESHIP
Chapter Two:
POSTULANCY STAGE: DISCIPLESHIP
Introduction
The Postulancy Stage of formation in the Missionaries of Faith is a

two-level formation comprising the Discipleship Stage set out in the new
Ratio Fundamentalis. As a school of holiness, formation to a vocational life
recognizes that a candidate is called by Jesus to follow him and be like him.
The initial response to this is the "come and see" experience of the Aspirancy
Stage of vocational discernment in lived community. Having a foretaste of
religious life in the Aspirancy Stage and giving one's generous yes to the call
of God, the candidate enters the Postulancy Stage, the Discipleship Stage in
one's sequela Christi.
Realizing that vocation to the religious life is not primarily a

personal initiative motivated by curiosity or self-interest, the candidate
responds generously to God's invitation to come and follow Jesus. Vocation
is a gift coming from God given to us, unworthily, to which our response is
a humble fiat in imitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Jesus "chose twelve
disciples to stay with him"8. Postulancy is the formation of a disciple who
was called by Jesus "to stay with him". Jesus called his disciples to follow
him and be missionaries of the Father's Good News, to be preachers of the
8
Mk 3:14
Page | 18
advent of God's Kingdom, but before sending them out on mission, Jesus
wanted his disciples to "stay with him" so that by listening to him and being
with him (discipleship), they may become like him (configuration), in
persona Christi capitis.
As Aspirancy is preparatory to Postulancy, so Postulancy is also

preparatory for Novitiate formation. Postulancy formation, then, takes on the
learnings and values acquired from Aspirancy but compounds this further as
preparation for Novitiate formation. Vocation is a grace and, as St. Thomas
Aquinas affirms, "grace builds on nature." The effectivity of graces rests on
the ability of nature to receive this grace freely and generously. The thrust of
Postulancy then is human formation.
The first level of Postulancy, that corresponds to the first two years
of Philosophy studies, focuses on the growth towards self-identity and
human maturity. Human formation, which starts communally and generally
during Aspirancy, focuses on the personal level and individual prevalent
issues of each postulant seeking to make the candidate "fully human," a
fertile ground for the grace of vocation to germinate and flourish.
The second level of Postulancy, that corresponds to the last year(s)

of Philosophy studies, focuses on the religious and charismatic dimensions
of formation as hearing the call to religious life and listening to the Word of
God as a genuine disciple of Jesus, keeping God's word and acting on it. This
is to prepare the postulant for Novitiate formation. By helping the postulant
to become fully human, with the acquisition of human virtues like "sincerity
of mind, a constant concern for justice, fidelity to one's promises, refinement
in manners, modesty in speech coupled with charity,"9 the candidate
becomes open to the Christian values of the Gospels, especially the
evangelical counsels of humility, chastity, poverty and obedience which will
become crucial in their entry to Novitiate formation.
9
Optatam Totius, 11.
Page | 19
A. Objectives
General Objective: Through the programs of the Postulancy stage,

particularly focusing on the religious and charismatic dimensions, the
candidates are "being prepared prior to their admission into the Novitiate"10.
Specific Objective: The Postulancy stage aims to help the candidates to

develop a clear sense of self-identity, and to grow in human maturity in order
to introduce them to the generous acceptance of the grace of vocation to the
religious life.
B. Core Values
Aimed Core Values in formation: Postulancy as a stage of preparation

towards embracing religious life in Novitiate Formation is focused on
preparing one's humanity for the grace of vocation within the Order. This
necessitates certain specific value-centered formation that seeks to contribute
to the objective of human formation towards embracing vocation to the
religious life.
These values are: Authenticity, Inner Harmony, Self-respect, and Gratitude
C. Dimensions of Formation
LEVEL I: FIRST TWO YEARS OF POSTULANCY
1. Human Dimension: Achievement of a healthy balance

between self-identity and group identity.
10
GOF, 118.
Page | 20

with the Rector

Concern
Self-acceptance • In touch with his - Introduction to Human
and Self-esteem feelings, Formation Program
memories, and (HFP) by a qualified
experiences counselor at start of
• Manifests a sense formation year
of self- - HFP Sessions on
integration, and a * Sex and the need for
calm sense of healthy intimacy
self-acceptance - Monthly counseling
sessions of seminarians
- Daily journal writing
as a means of self-
expression, self-
discovery, and self-
acceptance
Social Skills • Generous and - HFP Sessions on

dedicated in * Maintaining Healthy
serving his Boundaries especially
neighbor/co- in community living
postulants - Group counseling and
• Sensitive to the processing moderated
needs of others by the
• Capable of counselor/psychologist
developing - Assignment of
mature, balanced responsibilities in the
and healthy community
Page | 21
relationships with - Postulants are to live

both sexes in dormitories. They are
• Manifests to be assigned at least
behavior by groups of three, with
appropriate to each group assignment
various social changing each semester.
settings - A postulant is
• Accepts and assigned as bell-ringer,
appreciates each taking turns every
corrections and month.
compliments
without
conditions
• Can handle
conflicts and
differences
• Can integrate into
the community
• Sensitive to time
(observes
deadlines, keeps
track of time, and
is always on time
for schedules)
• Capacity to work
with ease and
comfort in a team
• Capacity to deal
with personality
differences
Creativity • Manifests, - HFP Sessions on
(awareness and utilizes, and
Page | 22
development of hones his gifts * Living and

one’s gifts and and talents Discovering Your
talents) • Can channel his Strengths (Strength-
fertile based therapy)
imagination and - Workshop on Theatre
abundant Arts
energies towards - Free time for
more creative and postulants to engage in
service-oriented creative pursuits (e.g.
expressions learning musical
• Manual work and instruments, painting,
household repair writing, etc.)
as a form of - Learning manual skills
ascetical practice of seminarians. (Skill
development training
needed for the house)
Obedience and • Learns to relate - HFP Sessions on
Discipline with authority * Addressing Authority
figures with trust Hang-up.
• Knows how to - Communal Evaluation
address his issue per semester
of authority - Individual Colloquium
hang-up with the formator(s)
• Comfortable - Evaluation of
dealing with his formators per semester
superiors without - Mid year and end of
abandoning the year evaluation by
discipline and formators
crossing
boundaries
between superior
and subordinate
Page | 23
• Accepts
interdependence
as concomitant
with, and not
contrary to,
autonomy and
inner
directedness
Conscience • Has a well- - Group Evaluation per
Formation formed semester
conscience - Monthly counseling
• Capable of sessions of postulants
discerning what (complimented by
is true, good and monthly spiritual
just though direction)
guidance
provided by
Sacred Scriptures
and Teachings of
the Church
• Learns to heed
the inner law that
is God’s voice
within him
Witnessing • Relates in new
ways with his
family, relatives
and the
environment
which he left
behind
Page | 24
Transparency • Compliance with

and the prohibition on
Accountability the use of
in handling electronic wire
finances and transfer and the
gifts like
• Follows
faithfully the
policy of
surrendering
personal money
and of informing
the formators of
any gift received
without prejudice
to the discretion
of the formators
2. Spiritual Dimension: To awaken and develop in the

seminarian a sense of the sacred in life through spiritual
exercises and spiritual direction, so that he could be a good
Christian and be able to crystallize his decision to follow Jesus
Christ in the religious life and/or ordained ministry. The focus
here is the communal aspect.

Integration of • Awareness of the - Introduction to
Personal and various Spiritual Formation
Communal Prayer expression of Program (SFP) by
personal prayer, Community
Page | 25
like meditation, Spiritual Director at

contemplation, start of formation
mental prayer and year
devotional prayer - Monthly Spiritual
• Able to determine Direction
the approach and - SFP Session on
type of prayer * Seminars on
most suited to his Prayer and
personality Spirituality in the
• Awareness of and Christian Tradition
appreciation for - Group Spiritual
the different Direction facilitated
forms of prayer by the Spiritual
evident in popular Director before the
religiosity end of each
• Find spiritual semester
nourishment and
joy in community
prayers such
common morning
and evening
prayer, adoration,
and vigils
• Capacity to lead
in the community
prayers.
Marian spirituality • Manifests - Daily rosary
and devotion to the devotion to the (except Friday
saints Blessed Virgin which is Way of the
Mary and the Cross)
saints. - Weekly praying of
the Chaplet of St.
Page | 26
• Imitation of the Michael the

virtues of Mary Archangel
such as - Daily prayer in
obedience, honor of the Holy
humility, purity, Founders and St.
fidelity Joseph
-Annual Marian
pilgrimage every
October
Sacramental and • Progressively - SFP Sessions on
Communal Prayer learns and * Liturgy and
appreciates the Sacramentology
vital role of the * General
sacraments in his Instruction of the
spiritual Roman Missal
development. - Postulants are
• Sees the value of alternately assigned
sacraments and functions to serve in
community for his masses and
spiritual life. liturgical activities
• Can ably
assist/lead in the
liturgy and
spiritual acts of
the community
and fulfill
assigned liturgical
functions.
Eucharistic • Begins to value - Daily eucharistic
spirituality the Eucharist, not celebration
as a mandatory - Weekly Adoration
daily activity, but and Benediction
Page | 27
more as a - Monthly circular

sacrament that adoration
ever renews him
and the
community in
Christ.
• Learns the
meaning of self-
giving love from
Jesus in the
Eucharist.
• Develops
devotion to the
Eucharistic
presence through
benedictions and
visits to the
Blessed
Sacrament.
• Regular moment
with the Lord
before the Blessed
Sacrament for at
least 30 minutes
daily.
Sacrament of • Awareness of the - Communal
Reconciliation need for Penitential Services
continuous with adoration once
conversion. a month
• Develops the - The Spiritual
practice of Director makes
himself available for
Page | 28
examination of confession of
conscience. postulants (e.g.
• Develops the before the daily
habit of going to mass)
confession.
Scriptures in • Values the Word - Weekly Lectio
Personal Prayer of God in Divina to be led by
Personal Prayer the Spiritual
• Considers the Director
Scriptures as an - 15-minute page-
indispensable part by-page daily
of his spiritual reading of
growth. Scriptures (from
Genesis to
Revelation)
Development of • Awakened and - daily 15 minute-
the Sense of the developed sense spiritual reading
Sacred of the sacred. - 30-minute
• Capacity to meditation twice a
interpret both his day, one in the
prayer and morning and one in
ordinary life the evening
experiences from
the perspective of
faith.
3. Intellectual Dimension: The postulant attains basic

analytical/critical skills through the study of philosophy. He
has an appreciation of philosophy as a genuine "love of
wisdom" which will prepare him for "a loving veneration of
truth, which leads one to recognize that the truth is not created
Page | 29
or measured by man but is given to man as a gift by the

supreme Truth, God”11.

Basic knowledge • The postulant - Enrollment at the
of Philosophy and strives to bring out designated higher
Religious his best in his educational
Education academic studies institution (HEI) to
at school, not pursue
settling for the philosophical
least. studies in
preparation for
theology
Healthy • Has knowledge of - Regular classes on
disposition philosophy, music language course(s),
towards learning, and languages. e.g. Latin, Italian
acquisition of • Manifests study - Weekly music
knowledge and habit practice, and if the
skills • Reads books and postulant is willing,
other reading sessions on playing
materials musical
instrument(s)
study during
weekdays, in the
study hall,
monitored by a
formator
11
PDV, 52.
Page | 30
Self-knowledge • Manifests - Daily journaling

and a sense of introspection, self- which may be
interiority critique, and the shared to the
purification of counselor and/or
motives Spiritual Director
Constant search • Consistent honesty - Individual
for, and loving and truth-telling Colloquium with
veneration of, the formator(s)
Truth
4. Pastoral Dimension: The postulant attains a critical awareness

of pastoral situations, awakening in him a sense of mission and
service, especially to the marginalized. He attains an
appreciation of work and the apostolate, developing in him
personal charism for a mission within the Church, but realizing
likewise that his first mission is towards his own community in
the Order. The postulant is capable of working in a team.
a. Responsible: Pastoral Director

Awakening to a • Participates - Introduction to the
sense of mission actively in the Pastoral Immersion
in the Church pastoral immersion Program (PIP) to be
program given by the
(catechesis, Pastoral Director at
hospital apostolate, the beginning of the
recollection formation year. This
giving) PIP includes both
• A sense of pastoral the program during
empathy for the School Days and
needs of others. Summer to ensure a
seamless
Page | 31
progression of
program.
- Weekly pastoral
immersion to
various ministries
(parish, prison,
school, etc.)
according to the
year level of the
postulant
Discovery and • Development of - Weekly music
development of talents and charism practice
charism for the • Able to convey - Weekly
mission ideas effectively submission of a
through various Pastoral Reflection
means of paper to the Pastoral
communication Director which
• Willing to explore should reflect the
talents and skills postulant's capacity
and share these to for "social
others. consciousness" and
• Socially critical discernment
Conscientized in utilizing the
view of the Pastoral Cycle
Catholic Social Method (See-Judge-
Teaching Act)
- PIP Session on
* Catholic Social
Teaching
Positive outlook • Accepts and does - Regular manual
towards the assigned tasks work (house and
with a sense of garden work)
Page | 32
communal and fraternal service, - House

personal chores and not assignments and
grudgingly. responsibilities
• Has a sense of self- (beadle, ministry
transcendence head, kitchen
manager, etc.)
- Take turns in
preparing meals for
the community
5. Charismatic Dimension: The candidate has an experience of

the charism of MF lived in the community, and likewise
discovers and integrates his own personal talents and charism
to the community.

Integration of one's • Shares talents - Community
charism and talents during liturgy and Cultural Night or
for the good of the other community Socials, at least
community activities once a semester
Broadening one's • Knowledge and - Reading of the
knowledge of MF understanding of biographies of the
as a religious Order the history, founders of the
charism, and Order
mission of the - SFP Session on
Order * History of the
Order highlighting
the post-
Page | 33
foundation phase
of the Order
- Film/video
showing on the
mission of the
Order in other
countries
Deepening of MF • He practices
Spirituality in terms the regularity
of discipleship of prayer
(from duty to
habit)
• On his own, He
practices other
devotions such
visit to the
blessed
sacrament,
divine mercy
chaplet and
devotion to the
patroness of the
order.
• He reports to
Spiritual
Direction
regularly
• He goes to
confession
regularly (as
scheduled and
later as habit of
Page | 34
repentance and
conversion)
• He renounces
his vices and
bad character
traits
Appreciation for • Fidelity to the - Daily communal
the Liturgy of the praying of the Lauds and Vespers
Hours Lauds, Vespers, (preferably
midday prayer and chanted), and
night prayer midday prayer and
night prayer.
Development of • Daily recitation of
devotion to Mary the Holy Rosary
as model of (personal or
discipleship communal)
• Deepening of
devotion to Marian
popular devotions
especially devotion
to Mary as Queen
of Confessors of
Faith
• Marian Pilgrimage
with emphasis on
reflection on Mary
as model of
disciples
• In imitation of
Mary, the disciple,
He manifests
values of
Page | 35
discipleship such
as regularity of
prayer sequella
Christi), obedience,
humility, purity,
• Capacity to be
cheerful in doing
tasks especially
difficult ones and
in difficult
situation
6. Religious Dimension: The candidate experiences vocation to

the religious life in the context of community life and actively
engages himself towards being formed into this community.

Experiencing • Faithful and - Through the
Religious Life in active community bell and
the Church participation in the horarium, the
community postulant disposes
schedule himself to responding
• Awareness that generously to where
sensitivity to "the voice of God"
time is calls him.
sensitivity to the - Observance of a Day
time and needs of Fasting/Abstinence
of other people each week.
Page | 36
Experiencing • Development of - The community

fraternal life in a sense of horarium is to be
community community observed especially in
• Absence of those moments when
particular the whole community
friendships and is expected to be
cliques that present
create division in - Postulants are to be
the community assigned their seats in
• Development of study hall, chapel, and
the character of dining room to avoid
being a team- one from gravitating
player in the to another person
community - Postulants are to live
in dormitories. They
are to be assigned at
least by groups of
three, with each group
assignment changing
each semester.
- Community outing
twice a year, with the
last one towards the
end of the formation
year.
- Communal
Evaluation per
semester
Belongingness to • He voluntarily
the community involves himself
in community
activities, even
Page | 37
without being
told
• He initiates in
the community
• He can relate
well with the
immediate
community
• He considers
himself part of
the congregation
• He values
events, people,
properties of the
congregation
LEVEL II: LAST YEAR(S) OF POSTULANCY
1. Human Dimension: The senior postulant manifests a sense of

personal integration and affective maturity. He can maintain healthy
boundaries in all relationships mindful of his identity as a postulant of
the Order. At this stage, sessions with the counselor will no longer be
monthly, but still on a regular basis depending on the need of the
senior postulant. Group counselling is still on a regular basis.

with the rector
Page | 38

Concern
A healthy and • Strives to leave - Introduction to Human
sufficiently behind adolescent Formation Program
developed behaviors to give (HFP) by a qualified
personality way to a more counselor at start of
suitable for adult conduct formation year
religious life • Manifests sense - HFP Sessions on
and mission in of integration, * Sex and the need for
the Church accepting one's healthy intimacy
strengths and * Erickson's Theory of
weaknesses, not Psychosocial
conceited when it Development
comes to * Stress Management
affirmations and - Regular counseling
not discouraged sessions of senior
when it comes to postulants on a need
criticisms basis
• Manifests other- - Daily journal writing
centeredness, as a means of self-
accountability, expression, self-
the capacity to discovery, and self-
commit oneself acceptance
and the
willingness to
sacrifice
• Capacity to
manage time and
responsibilities
• He is capable of
developing
mature, balanced,
Page | 39
and healthy
relationships with
both sexes
• Learns the virtue
of relying on the
providence of
God through
practices such as
seeking for
monetary and in-
kind assistance.
Leadership • Cultivates his - HFP Sessions on
potentials for * Maintaining Healthy
leadership Boundaries especially in
• Takes initiative community living
for visioning, * Basic Counseling
animating skills and techniques
groups, * Leadership skills and
deliberating group management
community rules, techniques
planning and - Group counseling and
managing processing moderated
activities and by the
collaborating counselor/psychologist
with others - Assignment of
responsibilities in the
community
- Senior postulants are
to actively help in
preparing for the
calendaring of activities
for the next formation
Page | 40
year and help the

Pastoral and Spiritual
Directors regarding
Formation Programs.
Physical- • Manifests - HFP Sessions on
Emotional- emotional * Gender, Sexuality,
Sexual- integrity and a and Same-Sex
Relational balanced Attraction
Integrity appreciation of * Psychosexual
the gift of Integration
sexuality * Identity Formation
• Has calm * Cognitive Behavioral
acceptance of his Therapy (CBT)
emotional and
sexual needs and
is honest about
them, especially
to his mentors in
the seminary
• Grows in genuine
respect for
women with
whom he can
relate maturely
• Can handle
attractions and
emotions.
• Develops a
healthy sense of,
and care for his
body, manifested
through
Page | 41
engagement in
sports, manual
labor, and other
physical
activities.
Obedience and • He learns to - HFP Sessions on
Discipline relate with * Addressing Authority
authority figures Hang-up.
with trust. - Communal Evaluation
• He knows how to per semester
address his issue - Individual Colloquium
of authority with the formator(s)
hang-up. - Evaluation of
• He is comfortable formators per semester
dealing with his - Mid year and end of
superiors without the year evaluation by
abandoning formators
discipline.
• He accepts
interdependence
as concomitant
with, and not
contrary to,
autonomy and
inner
directedness.
Conscience • He has a well- - Group Evaluation per
Formation formed semester
conscience. - Counseling sessions of
• He is capable of postulants
discerning what (complimented by
is true, good and
Page | 42
just though monthly spiritual

guidance direction)
provided by - HFP Workshop on
Sacred Scriptures *Value Development
and teachings of Process
the Church.
• He learns to heed
the inner law that
is God’s voice
within him.
Witnessing • He relates in new
ways with his
family, relatives
and the
environment
which he left
behind.
Transparency • Compliance with
and the prohibition on
Accountability the use of
in handling electronic wire
finances and transfer and the
gifts like
• Follows faithfully
the policy of
surrendering
personal money
and of informing
the formators of
any gift received
without prejudice
Page | 43
to the discretion
of the formators
2. Spiritual Dimension: The senior postulant has internalized a sense

of spirituality through regular spiritual direction, inculcating habits
of spiritual life, a strong capacity for discernment which will help
him crystallize his decision to follow Jesus Christ in the religious life
and/or ordained ministry. The focus here is the personal/individual
aspect, especially in view of one's personal relationship with Christ,
which is crucial in the transition from discipleship to configuration
stage of formation.

Concern
Regularity of • Knowledge of the - Introduction to
Spiritual rudiments of spiritual Spiritual
Direction direction Formation
• At ease in sharing his Program (SFP)
interior life with a co- by Community
discerner Spiritual Director
• Establishes the habit of at start of
reporting to spiritual formation year
direction through an on- - Monthly
going relationship Spiritual
characterized by a Direction
certain continuity and - SFP Session on
consistency * Basics of
Spiritual
Direction giving
Page | 44
- Group Spiritual
Direction
facilitated by the
Spiritual Director
before the end of
each semester
Solitude and • Consistently finds extra - Annual retreat
Silence time for prayer amidst - Monthly
other pursuits recollection
• Comfortable with - 30-minute
silence and solitude meditation, one
• Has the habit of taking in the morning
time to pause and reflect and one in the
on experiences evening
Discernment • Learns discernment - SFP Sessions
which results to a on
growing clarity about * The Process of
one’s vocation Christian
Discernment
Commitment to • Appreciates the value of - SFP Sessions
Christian priesthood, celibacy, on
virtues proper and marital life * Intimacy and
to priests and • Proud of his vocation the Celibate Life
religious • Assists at liturgical * Chastity,
functions with diligence Celibacy and
and joy Fraternal Life in
• Speaks well of priests, Community
proud of being a
seminarian
• Practices chastity,
maintains healthy
Page | 45
relationship with
opposite sex
• Lives a simple lifestyle
• Avoids exclusive
friendships/relationships
Devotion to the • Manifests devotion to - Daily praying
Blessed Virgin the Blessed Virgin Mary of the rosary
Mary and the and the saints -First Monday
Saints • Imitation of the virtues Consecration to
of Mary in a deeper way the Blessed
such as obedience, Virgin Mary as
humility, purity, fidelity Queen of
Confessors of
Faith
- Annual Marian
pilgrimage every
October
Sacramental • Progressively learns and - SFP Sessions
and Communal appreciates the vital role on
Prayer of the sacraments in his * Liturgy and
spiritual development Sacramentology
• Sees the value of * General
sacrament and Instruction of the
community for his Roman Missal
spiritual life - Postulants are
• Can ably assist/lead in alternately
the liturgy and spiritual assigned
acts of the community, functions to serve
fulfills assigned in masses and
liturgical functions liturgical
activities
Page | 46
Eucharistic • Begins to value the - Daily

spirituality Eucharist, not as eucharistic
mandatory daily celebration
activity, but more as a - Weekly
sacrament that ever Adoration and
renews him and the Benediction
community in Christ - Monthly
• Learns the meaning of circular adoration
self-giving love from - Regular
Jesus in the Eucharist moment with the
• Develops devotion to Lord before the
the Eucharistic presence Blessed
through benedictions Sacrament at
and visits to the Blessed least 30 minutes
Sacrament daily.
Sacrament of • Awareness of the need - Communal

Reconciliation for continuous Penitential
conversion Services with
• Develops the practice of adoration once a
examination of month
conscience - The Spiritual
• Develops the habit of Director makes
going to confession himself available
for confession of
postulants (e.g.,
before the daily
mass)
Scriptures in • Values the Word of God - Weekly Lectio
Personal Prayer in Personal Prayer Divina to be led
by the Spiritual
Director
Page | 47
• Considers the Scriptures - 15-minute

as an indispensable part page-by-page
of his spiritual growth daily reading of
Scriptures (from
Genesis to
Revelation)
Development of • Awakened and - daily 15-minute
the Sense of the developed sense of the spiritual reading
Sacred sacred - 30-minute
• Capacity to interpret meditation twice
both his prayer and a day, one in the
ordinary life morning and one
experiences from the in the evening
perspective of faith
3. Intellectual Dimension: Through analytical/critical skills acquired

through the study of philosophy, the senior postulant is capable of
reading the signs of the times as they unfold in human history, and
how, with open reason, faith throws light on the fragility of human
condition because of sin. The senior postulants are capable of
utilizing philosophy in order to pastorally discern and critically
evaluate social conditions which are fertile fields for mission and
evangelization.

Knowledge of • Pursues studies in - Enrollment at the
Philosophy and the spirit of fides designated higher
Religious quaerens educational
Education intellectum institution (HEI) to
• Through pursue
philosophical philosophical
Page | 48
studies, the senior studies in

postulant is able to preparation for
determine how theology
various ideologies
come into play in
socio-political and
economic
conditions.
Healthy and open • Manifests study - Updating of
disposition habit library books and
towards learning • Reads books and academic journals
other reading for use of
materials candidates.
• Able to provide - Senior postulants
critical analysis of are to spearhead,
socio-cultural organize, and
realities of the engage in academic
contemporary conferences and
period. debates on
contemporary issues
- Senior postulants
are to write and read
philosophical
reflection papers to
the community for
critique and
discussion.
study during
weekdays, in the
study hall,
Page | 49
monitored by a
formator
Self-knowledge • Manifests - Daily journaling
and a sense of introspection, self- which may be
interiority critique, and the shared to the
purification of counselor and/or
motives Spiritual Director
Constant search • Consistent honesty - Individual
for, and loving and truth-telling Colloquium with
veneration of, the formator(s)
Truth
Sensitivity to the • Aware of the - The senior
Signs of the Times pressing issues of postulants are to
the times. initiate, organize,
• Has knowledge contribute and
about and even publish (digitally) a
involved in the semestral
issues concerning community
life and culture, newsletter which
ecology and becomes the output
stewardship, for news,
politics, reflections, and
globalization, creative writings of
justice and peace, the members of the
inter-religious community,
dialogue, and the manifesting the
Church of the Poor community's
• Has a strong grip sensitivity to the
of reality signs of the times.
Page | 50
4. Pastoral Dimension: The senior postulant is capable of socio-

cultural analysis of life situations that invites him for a Christ-like
service to the world as a religious of the Order. Because of this, he
is evangelically responsive to people's needs, capable of
community building, and advocates for peace and justice.
Responsible: Pastoral Director

Concern
Has a sense of • Participates - Introduction to the
mission in the actively in the Pastoral Immersion
Church pastoral Program (PIP) to be
immersion given by the rector at
program the beginning of the
• A sense of formation year. This
pastoral empathy PIP includes both the
for the needs of program during
others. School Days and
Summer to ensure a
seamless progression
of program.
- Leads the weekly
pastoral immersion to
various ministries
(parish, prison, school,
etc.)
Discovery and • Able to convey - The senior postulant,
development of ideas effectively before the start of the
charism for the through various formation year, should
mission means of come up with a
communication detailed plan for
pastoral immersion
Page | 51
• Willing to explore (for

talents and skills himself/community)
and share these to which shall be
others. submitted and
• Socially deliberated by the pool
Conscientized in of formators. This
view of the written detailed plan
Catholic Social should include the
Teaching rationale, objective,
areas of concern,
indicators, set of
programs, timeline
schedule, target people
and contacts.
- Weekly submission
of a Pastoral
Reflection paper to the
rector which should
reflect the postulant's
capacity for "social
consciousness" and
critical discernment
utilizing the Pastoral
Cycle Method (See-
Judge-Act)
- PIP Session on
* Community building
/ Basic Ecclesial
Communities
* Catholic Social
Teaching
Page | 52
Positive outlook • Accepts and does - Regular manual

towards the assigned tasks work (house and
communal and with a sense of garden work)
personal chores fraternal service, - House assignments
and not and responsibilities
grudgingly. (beadle, ministry head,
• Has a sense of kitchen manager, etc.)
self- - Take turns in
transcendence preparing meals for
the community
5. Charismatic Dimension: The candidate has an experience of the

charism of MF as it is lived in the community, and likewise
discovers and integrates his own personal talents and charism to
that of the community.

Lifestyle of • Embraces the - Periodically, the
Humility and humanizing and rector makes
Simplicity the liberating unannounced
aspects of inspection of
simplicity and dormitories and
humility personal cabinets
• Self-worth is not and study tables of
based on his all postulants.
possessions - SFP session on
• Has no attachment * Poverty and
to comfort, to Simplicity
luxurious tastes, * The virtue of
Humility
Page | 53
and to wealthy - "Grace of Giving

benefactors Program," where
• Has inculcated postulants
deep in himself voluntarily
the spirit of self- contribute a portion
sacrifice expressed of their personal
in his appreciation allowance for a
of the dignity of particular cause, as
manual work, in a community (e.g.
the courageous those affected by
facing of life’s natural disasters,
pains and orphanage, etc.)
challenges, and
the joyful
acceptance of
difficulties.
Awareness and • Manifests and - Free time for
development of hones talents and postulants to
one’s gifts and gifts engage in creative
talents pursuits (e.g.,
learning musical
instruments,
painting, writing,
etc.)
Integration of one's • Shares talents - Community
charism and talents during liturgy and Cultural Night or
for the good of the other community Socials, at least
community activities once a semester
Broadening one's • Knowledge and - Reading of the
knowledge of MF understanding of biographies of the
as a religious order the history, founders of the
charism, and Order
Page | 54
mission of the - SFP Session on

Order * History of the
Order highlighting
the post-foundation
phase of the Order
- Film/video
showing on the
mission of the
Order in other
countries
Deepening of • Faithful - Daily Eucharistic
Eucharistic attendance and celebration
Spirituality active - Weekly adoration
participation in - 30-minute
mass and meditation twice a
eucharistic day, one in the
adoration morning and one in
the evening
Appreciation for • Fidelity to the - Daily communal
the Liturgy of the praying of the Lauds and Vespers
Hours Lauds, Vespers, (preferably
midday prayer and chanted), and
night prayer midday prayer and
night prayer.
6. Religious Dimension: The candidate experiences vocation to the

religious life in the context of community life, and actively engages
himself towards being formed into this community.
Page | 55

Sense and • Clarity of - SFP seminars on
significance of elements on the documents:
religious life in the religious life, e.g., * Vita Consecrata
Church and in the call of God, * Fraternal Life in
World and clarity of vocational Community
vocational paths: discernment and
laity, religious and human response,
priestly life. community life,
apostolate and
mission, and the
religious vows
Happy in being with • He finds joy and
the congregation comfort in the
company of the
immediate
community
• He is happy to
involve himself in
community
activities
• He exerts effort to
make the
community happy
Page | 56
CHAPTER 3: NOVITIATE FORMATION PROGRAM
Chapter Three:
NOVITIATE FORMATION PROGRAM
A. Objectives of Formation
1. General Objective:
The Novitiate year of the Missionaries of Faith is a period of deep

discernment to follow the path of our Lord Jesus Christ as a Missionary. To
initiate integrally the candidates into following the missionary life of Jesus
Christ the Evangelizer.
“The Novitiate is a time during which the novices discern, deepen
and mature their divine vocation, prepare themselves for the profession in
our Congregation, endeavor to lay the foundations of our lives as
Missionaries of Faith.”12
2. Specific Objectives:
a. To enable the Novices to have a better knowledge of the call

of God as a religious missionary set forth in the
Congregation.
b. To experience the way of life according to the Missionaries
of Faith General Order of Formation;
12
Constitutions, art. # 83
Page | 57
c. To conform their minds and hearts with its missionary spirit,

putting into practice the MF Motto “Gratia et Gaudium in
Fide”, that is, living in the state of Grace and Joy in Faith,
so that they can mature in their faith and in their vocation to
follow Christ, as the real Master of their calling.
d. To test their intention in the religious life and as well as, to
test their fitness as a religious missionary for the
Congregation.
B. Dimensions of Formation
1. Human Dimension
Goal/focus; a balanced synthesis of all the aspects of the personality, with

special attention paid to the affective dimension through education of the
heart and the mind.13

-to form the novice • Further Creating and
in the human virtues development of a introduction
which, enlivened by sincerity of spirit, situations to form
the Christian spirit, the constant in the novice,
are necessary for a respect of justice, through the
true maturity fidelity to the working of the
given word, Holy Spirit and the
kindness in help of the Virgin
manners, Mary, the new man
discretion and who is in Christ
charity in talking Jesus.
and in acting,
13
Cf. Canon 646.
Page | 58
sensibility toward
those who suffer
and in need.
To progress further • Seeing chastity

in the knowledge within a solid and
and the acceptance healthy affective
of himself so that he balance, serene
may recognize the and positive
gifts of God, interpersonal
humbly correct his relationships,
faults, and control of one's
overcome his feelings, full
limitations. participation in
the common life.
Page | 59
A well-rounded • Regarding
understanding of poverty, the
what the vows novice must give
imply to the human proof of a simple
person. life, austere and
poor, by keeping
in mind the local
conditions and by
overcoming easy
temptations of
consumerism.
• The novice must
be helped to
understand that
obedience and
humility are valid Learning manual
instruments for his skills of
authentic human seminarians such
growth, for the as cooking,
formation of his gardening, and
character and for livestock
the common good
• Manual work and
household repair
as a form of
ascetical practice
Transparency and • Compliance with
Accountability in the prohibition on
handling finances the use of
and gifts electronic wire
transfer and the
like
Page | 60
the policy of
surrendering
personal money
and of informing
the formators of
any gift received
without prejudice
to the discretion of
the formators
2. Spiritual Dimension
Christ-the way, the truth and the life-is our only Master. Wherefore,
fundamental to the formation of the novices will be his word, his
example, his presence in the Church and in the sacraments, and in
particular in the Eucharist.
-To develop a
familiarity with the
great authors of the
spiritual tradition of
the Church and
with the lives of the
saints.
-To enlighten the • Frequent - Development of a

novices about the nourishment of the well-rounded
sense and the value Word of God schedule of
Page | 61
of prayer in its • Devotion to the liturgical, common

various forms and Blessed Virgin and personal
how to overcome Mary and in prayer as proposed
the difficulties particular, to the by the Church and
which they may Holy Rosary our charism. To
encounter. • Novices must be foster personal
helped to encounters with the
understand and to novice so as to
practice interior guide him in the
and exterior things of God.
silence only as a
means for the
regular life of the
community, but
above all as a
condition which
favors the hearing
of God who
speaks to us and
gives a taste of
divine things
Intensification, • A solid mentality One hour daily
appreciation and of faith and a adoration before
understanding of convinced the Blessed
liturgical prayer, ecclesial sense; Sacrament while
Lectio Divina, • Capacity and kneeling down
prayer in common fidelity to conduct
and personal prayer a life of personal
prayer in its
various forms;
• fidelity and
assiduity to the
Page | 62
communitarian
prayer,
• Assiduity to the
sacrament of
reconciliation and
to the spiritual
direction;
• A correct setting
of his spiritual life
by overcoming
eventual distorted
mentality and
attitudes.
3. Intellectual Dimension
Areas of Concern
• The Novices should study the Constitutions of the
Missionaries of Faith
• The Novices should study the Charism of the
Missionaries of Faith and start to put them into practice
• The Novices should study the Directory of the
Missionaries of Faith
• The Novices should study the Decree on Religious Life
and the Code of Canon Law on Religious life
• The Novices should study the History and Foundation of
the Missionaries of Faith
• The Novices should study about the Sacraments and
Liturgical celebrations and the Sanctification of Time.
• The Novices should study the Introduction to the Word of
God
Page | 63
• The Novices should study Psychology and the Theology

of the Body
• The Novices should study the Art of Preaching to the
Word of God
4. Pastoral Dimension
Programs
• The Novices have their pastoral formation every Sunday in
serving the Liturgical celebration of the Holy Mass with
the lay people in our neighborhood.
• Every 1st Monday of our devotion to the Blessed Virgin
Mary under the title, the Queen of Confessors of Faith, the
Novices are allowed to serve in the Holy Mass and have a
fellowship with the Benefactors and friends.
MF Dimension
Areas of Concern
• The Novices should be initiated in the religious life
according to the Constitutions, charism, spirituality, and
mission of the Missionaries of Faith.
• The MF Novices should come to know and experience the
following of Christ as poor, chaste and obedient.
• The MF Novices should discover the meaning of the
Marian devotion under the title “Maria Regina
Confessorum Fidei.
• The MF Novices should experience the missionary
community life in a stable way and in keeping with the
Constitutions.
Page | 64
CHAPTER 4: THE JUNIORATE: THE CONFIGURATION STAGE
Chapter Four:
THE JUNIORATE: THE CONFIGURATION STAGE
1. General Objectives: To prepare the candidates for the solemn

profession through the following:
a. Acquiring a deeper knowledge and commitment of the spirit
and of the aims of the Congregation;14
b. Intensifying the preparation for specific apostolic mission;15
c. Cultivating the hearts and the minds and open them to the
action of the Spirit, following the formation program;16
d. Making them authentic Missionaries of Faith;17
e. Loving and venerating with filial trust the Blessed Virgin
Mary, Queen of Confessors of Faith;18
f. The total love of Christ and brethren.
14
GOF, Article 466.
15
Ibid.
16
GOF, Article 467.
17
Ibid.
18
Ibid.
Page | 65
2. Specific Objective: The configuration stage aims to help the

religious develop as a mature and responsible man, with human and
religious virtues necessary to live fully his baptismal and religious
consecration. Focusing on the spiritual dimension of formation, the
Temporary Professed is expected to deepen his knowledge of the
Word of God, to cultivate more intensely his life of prayer and the
liturgy and to better assimilate the spirituality of the Order through
the study of the Constitutions and our history.
B. Core Values
Aimed Core Values in formation: The Configuration Stage for the

Temporary Professed Religious is both an (1) introductory experience of
consecrated life because of their temporary vows, and (2) a preparation for
these candidates to embrace fully the religious life through the perpetual
vows which they will make at the end of this stage. This necessitates certain
specific value-centered formation that seeks to contribute to the
configuration of the candidates into the image of Jesus Christ who called
them to the Order.
These values are Leadership, Humility, Compassion, and Authenticity.
1. Human Dimension: These are the acquisition of the concrete values

and attitudes of the Human Jesus of the Gospels, and to live these
out in one’s daily life in a community as a temporary professed
religious. Likewise, it is the achievement of integral growth and
comprehensive development of the essential human dimensions of a
professed which are one’s physical, psychological, sexual, affective,
and socio-cultural dimensions.
Page | 66

Capacity for • Has the capacity - Introduction to
definitive self- for evangelical Human Formation
giving self-donation and Program (HFP) by
willingness to the rector at the
carry the many beginning of the
crosses that self- year. HFP at the
giving entails. configuration is
This self-giving is more personalized,
rooted in a healthy workshop-based,
sense of love of and practicum-
oneself, that is, centered, utilizing
comprising of self- the professional
knowledge, self- help of institutes
appreciation, and specializing on
self-acceptance psychology and
• Has a sound sense pastoral ministry.
of self-acceptance
enabling him to Program elements:
appreciate his * Clinical Pastoral
genuine Education (CPE)
giftedness, * Course on
accepting himself Pastoral Counseling
as God accepts * Self-care and
him, and gives of mental health
himself in - Sessions with
disinterested counselor as needed
service
• Has a healthy
sense of self-
esteem,
comfortable with
Page | 67
his own
brokenness and
fragility, seeing
God’s gracious
and merciful love
in his life
Healthy Attitude • Has a developed - Assignment of

towards and about and healthy sense responsibilities in
Authority and appreciation the community and
of authority, not in the apostolate.
motivated by fear, Aware that
but open and authority hang-up
trustful of his and attitudes
superiors. He sees towards authority
his consecrated emerge when one is
obedience as in fact given
leading him “in a authority, the
spirit of faith and temporary
love, to empty professed is given
himself of his will more
in order to do the responsibilities in
will of God the the community.
Father” Senior Professed
• Capable of mature are to take charge
communication of leadership with
with superiors that formators acting as
is characterized by guides. The
respectful dialogue community is to
and surrender of have shared turns in
one’s self to God’s leadership.
will as reflected in
Page | 68
the will of the

person in
authority, and
capable of
overcoming
difficulties if such
may happen.
• Capacity for a
mature and
responsible
exercise of
freedom
Celibate Chastity • Has developed a - Human Formation
and Sexual healthy sense of Programs:
Maturity sexuality that sees * Psycho-sexual
this as a truthful Integration (PSI)
and mature * Protection of
capacity for loving Minors and
relationships. He Vulnerable Adults
sees religious
chastity as “a
decidedly positive
force, profoundly
fruitful in the
apostolate,
efficacious in the
development of
[himself] and
source of great
interior peace”
• Sees that his vow
of chastity is a
Page | 69
symbol of self-gift
to God and to the
Church. “Chastity,
in fact, transforms
the man in his
profound being,
frees his heart and
renders it capable
of loving, in an
undivided way
with all the
richness of his
love, God and his
neighbor”
• Honesty and
openness to one’s
superiors and
those entrusted to
one’s formation
regarding one’s
issues in the area
of sexuality and
celibate chastity
• Capacity for warm
and respectful
friendship without
exclusivity,
possessiveness or
manipulation. He
has the capacity
for pure love and
respect to others
Page | 70
especially with the

opposite sex,
conscious of
proper boundaries
that as a religious
one has to
maintain to
cultivate healthy
relationship with
others
Detachment and a • Maintains a simple - Periodically, the
Lifestyle of lifestyle, avoiding rector makes
Simplicity extravagance in unannounced
taste or seeking inspection of
conveniences in rooms, personal
life. He sees his cabinets, and study
consecrated tables of the simple
poverty as placing professed.
him “in his true
dimension of
creature who
recognizes his
every good thing
as gift of God,
provident and
loving Father”
• Maintains a
healthy attitude
towards wealth
and money in the
spirit of
evangelical
Page | 71
stewardship. “This
poverty is lived by
the religious in
community, where
everything should
be in common”
• Knows that one’s
self-worth is not
defined by what
one possesses.
Rather, he
embraces his
poverty in the
spirit of graced
humanity, with
faith in divine
providence. Sees
one’s poverty as a
condition for the
Church’s
preferential love
for the poor, as
conscious
attention to the
wise use of
material goods and
modern
technology, and a
genuine
appreciation, care,
and respect of
God’s creation
Page | 72
Motivational • A level of maturity - Utilization of

Maturity in one’s character semestral peer
congruent with evaluation
one’s - Daily journal
developmental writing as a means
stage, with a calm of self-expression,
and open self-discovery, and
disposition to self-acceptance
discover possible - Once a month use
immature of personal cellular
motivations and phones
behaviors, and a - Responsible use
willingness to be of the community
helped in cellular phone
addressing these
as part of growth
towards greater
maturity
• Clarity of
motivation in
embracing the
religious life, and
an openness to
further growth as
part of one’s self-
transcendence
• One is clear about
who he is and
about the Father’s
purpose for him in
pursuing single-
Page | 73
mindedly his
religious vocation
Development of an • Appreciates - Workshop on
aesthetic sense, various modes of Theatre Arts
awareness of social artistic expressions - HFP session on
and environmental and engagements * Catholic Social
justice, and the in such creativity Teachings
cultivation of a if one has it * Fratelli Tutti
moral conscience • Cultivates the * Eco-theology and
enabling him to do building up of a Spirituality
something for the community that
greater good. recognizes the
dignity of others
and of the whole
creation
• Has respect for the
dignity of others,
capable of
altruism that
capacitates one to
work for justice
and peace on
behalf of those
marginalized by
the society. “His
life becomes a
strong appeal for
the conversion of
hearts, for justice
and for love for
the poor”
Page | 74
• Sees his life and

vocation as
participation in the
transformation of
society as service
of the Kingdom of
God
Transparency and • Compliance with
Accountability in the prohibition on
handling finances the use of
and gifts electronic wire
transfer and the
like
the policy of
surrendering
personal money
and of informing
the formators of
any gift received
without prejudice
to the discretion of
the formators
Capacity for team • Tries to blend well
ministry with others and
not choosy of
companions/
teammates
• Ability to work
with various
personalities
Page | 75
promoting a
common goal
• Capable of
conflict resolution
in view of the
common good
Ascetical practice • Manual work and Learning manual

household repair skills. (Skill
as a form of development
ascetical practices training needed for
the mission)
2. Spiritual Dimension: The temporary professed centers his life in

the Paschal Mystery of Christ "expressed in the faithful and worthy
celebration of the liturgical actions, especially of Holy Mass, of the
Liturgy of the Hours, of the Sacrament of Reconciliation and
through Eucharistic Adoration and the preaching of the word of
God"

Prayer as intimacy • The temporary - Introduction to
with God and professed manifests Spiritual
community. a solid prayerful life Formation
through regular Program (SFP) by
participation in Community
communal prayers Spiritual Director
and devoting time at the start of
for personal formation year
prayer/meditation - Monthly
Spiritual
Direction
- SFP Session on
Page | 76
- Group Spiritual
Direction
facilitated by the
Spiritual Director
before the end of
each semester
- Daily one hour
meditation
- daily 15-minute
spiritual reading
Growth in • Faithful attendance - Daily eucharistic
Eucharistic and active celebration
spirituality participation in - Daily Adoration,
mass and eucharistic one-hour kneeling
adoration. down
- Monthly circular
adoration
- Professed are
alternately
assigned functions
to serve in masses
and liturgical
activities.
Holiness as • Manifests profound - Daily praying of
imitation of the devotion to Mary the rosary
Blessed Virgin and the Saints and -First Monday
Mary and the encourages others to consecration to
Saints do the same. the Blessed
Virgin Mary as
Queen of
Confessors of
Faith
Page | 77
-Annual Marian
Pilgrimage every
October
Sacrament of • The Temporary - Communal

Reconciliation as a Professed has the Penitential
means of continual habit of regularly Services with
conversion towards going to confession. adoration once a
holiness of life. • Regularly examines month
one's conscience - The Spiritual
Director makes
himself available
for confession of
the professed
(e.g., before the
daily mass)
A spiritual life that • Meditates and - Weekly Lectio
is rooted and is prayerfully reads the Divina to be led
nourished by the Word of God by the Spiritual
Word of God • Considers the Director
Scriptures as an - 15-minute page-
indispensable part by-page daily
of his spiritual reading of
growth. Scriptures (from
Genesis to
Revelation)
- Weekly Gospel
reflection to be
given by a
professed to the
community
Page | 78
3. Intellectual Dimension: Through the acquisition of a "forma

mentis," with solid competence in philosophy and theology, the
temporary professed religious are made capable of proclaiming
"the Gospel message to the people of our own day in a way that is
credible and can be understood. It seeks to enable them to enter
into fruitful dialogue with the contemporary world, and to uphold
the truth of the faith by the light of reason, thereby revealing its
beauty”19. Intellectual formation in the configuration stage is aimed
always towards pastoral ministry, and the effective and efficient
communication of God's Good News.

Solid competency • The temporary - Enrollment at the
in ecclesiastical professed strives designated higher
sciences that is to bring out his educational
pastorally oriented best in his institution (HEI) to
and "gives a academic studies pursue theological
reason for hope" at school, not and ministerial
to people in the settling for the studies
margins (1 Pt least.
3:15).
Dialogue with the • Ability to discern - The temporary
contemporary the signs of the professed are to
world in the light times in the light initiate, organize,
of the Gospel of the need for contribute and
evangelization publish (digitally) a
semestral community
newsletter which
becomes the output
19
RFIS-2016, 116.
Page | 79
for news, reflections,

and creative writings
of the members of the
community,
manifesting the
community's
sensitivity to the
signs of the times.
Healthy • Eagerness to - Regular classes on
disposition learn and know language course(s),
towards learning for the sake of e.g. Latin, Italian
about the faith, understanding the - At least 2 hours of
other cultures, and faith, other study period on
the society at large people and weekdays
in view of cultures - As a house of
evangelization formation, the
temporary professed
may initiate
seminars/symposia on
Christian faith and
current events
- Keep oneself
updated regarding
news about the Order
through publications
(Notiziario,
Nyamilima, etc.)
Profound • Manifests - Daily journaling
understanding of introspection, which may be shared
self that enables self-critique, and to the counselor
one to understand the purification and/or Spiritual
another of motives Director
Page | 80
Search for the • Consistent - Individual

Truth and loving honesty and Colloquium with
veneration of God truth-telling formator(s)
and the mysteries
of faith
4. Pastoral Dimension: The temporary professed, through the

realization of their evangelical vows, become true pastors after the
heart of the Good Shepherd, Jesus, the Servant, Priest and Head.
a. Responsible: Pastoral Director

Concern
Becoming a man • Participates - Introduction to the
with others, for actively in the Pastoral Apostolate
others. Pastoral Program (PAP) to be
Apostolate given by the Pastoral
Program Director at the
• Capacity to beginning of the
become formation year. This
"shepherds with PAP includes both the
the smell of program during School
sheep" (Pope Days and Summer to
Francis). ensure a seamless
• Faithful and progression of
committed in program.
one's apostolate, - Aware of his talents
yet able to and skills, the
balance its professed may also
demands with the come up with his own
demands of PAP which he needs to
prepare in writing, and
Page | 81
religious should have the

community life. explicit approval of the
Pastoral Director
Insertion into the • Knowledgeable - Weekly pastoral
living Church on the renewal apostolate to various
movements and ministries (parish,
covenant prison, school, etc.)
communities so according to the year
that he can guide level of the temporary
them in their professed.
specific gift but - Summer Apostolate
can also integrate Program (in cycle)
them in the total - PAP Seminar on
pastoral life of * Renewal Movements
the parish or in the Church
diocese one finds
oneself.
• Capacity to serve
parish
communities in
their various
needs, especially
in community
building and
organization.
Competency in • Ability to - Admission to the
Sacramental effectively Ministry of Lector
Ministry of the express in word (2nd year) with one
Word and deed one’s whole year of active
understanding of ministry as lector.
Scripture and
Tradition in a
Page | 82
manner that is - PAP Program:

inculturated and *Recollection/retreat-
contextualized. giving
• Ability to *Seminar/Workshop-
collaborate with giving on pertinent
others, especially pastoral issues (e.g.
lay people in the social and ecological
Ministry of the justice)
Word.
• Capacity to
proclaim God's
Word as
animated by his
own love of
Scriptures.
Competency in • Ability to guide - Admission to the
the Sacramental and lead people Ministry of Acolyte
Ministry of with edification (3rd year) with one
Worship and to personal and whole year of active
Sanctification communal ministry as acolyte.
prayer. - Submission of a
• Ability to theological reflection
recognize cultural paper at the end of
values that are each semester will be
vehicles of true asked in order to help
prayer and the professed in
worship, and to integrating one’s
tap symbols and pastoral experience in
practices that the light of the Gospel.
could be The theological
integrated into framework See-Judge-
Page | 83
communal Act may be used on

worship. this regard.
• Development of - PAP Program:
proper * Promotion of
dispositions for eucharistic adoration
prayer and and liturgy of the hours
worship in the parishes
* Liturgical practicum
Competency in • Capacity to serve - PAP Program
Institutional parish * Best practices in
Management and communities in Parish/Pastoral
Pastoral their various Administration and
Leadership needs, especially Financial Management
in community * Basic Ecclesial
building and Communities
organization
• Developed
relational
capacity that
promotes
collaboration in
ministry
• Ability to plan,
execute, and
evaluate pastoral
strategies in the
apostolate
• Takes initiative
in pastoral
leadership and
contributes
creative skills for
Page | 84
the good of those

in need
Discovery and • Able to convey - Weekly music
development of ideas effectively practice
charism for the through various - Weekly submission
mission means of of a Pastoral Reflection
communication paper to the Pastoral
• Willing to Director which should
explore talents reflect the postulant's
and skills and capacity for "social
share these to consciousness" and
others. critical discernment
• Socially utilizing the Pastoral
Conscientized in Cycle Method (See-
view of the Judge-Act)
Catholic Social - PAP Session on
Teaching * Catholic Social
Teaching
Positive outlook • Accepts and does - Regular manual work
towards the assigned tasks (house and garden
communal and with a sense of work)
personal chores fraternal service, - House assignments
and not and responsibilities
grudgingly (beadle, ministry head,
• Has a sense of kitchen manager, etc.)
self- - Take turns in
transcendence preparing meals for the
community
5. Charismatic Dimension: The Temporary Professed Religious

enters a more profound assimilation into the charism of the Order,
Page | 85
incorporating his life into the spirituality of the Order as evidenced

in his apostolate and participation in fraternal community life.
Through a life of fidelity to the Constitutions, the professed gives
witness to the vitality of the Spirit.

Concern
Becoming a • Facility in liturgical serving, - The
"man and mastery of the correct professed
consecrated rubrics of the Sacramental Rites actively
to divine and other Liturgical actions. engages in
worship" liturgical
programs,
events, and
formation,
especially in
parishes and
mission areas
where they
are assigned
for apostolate.
- The
professed are
to wear their
habit
especially in
the school,
liturgical
celebrations,
and the
apostolate.
Page | 86
The • The eucharist becomes the - Liturgical

Eucharist in source and summit of the prayers,
action religious' sanctification and the especially
apostolate. circular
• Encourages others to put the adoration as
eucharist at the center of their venue for
lives. "intercessory
ministry" that
is, for the
community to
pray for the
intentions of
others.
- Promotion
of the
eucharistic
charism of the
Order in their
apostolate.
- Promotion
of the Order
to others,
through
(social) media
and other
means in the
apostolate.
Consecratio • Fidelity to the praying of the - Daily
n of the Day Lauds, Vespers, midday prayer communal
through the and night prayer Lauds and
Liturgy of • The professed begins to Vespers
the Hours incorporate the habit of (preferably
Page | 87
likewise praying the Office of chanted), and

Readings. midday
prayer and
night prayer.
- Daily
recitation of
the Office of
Readings.
Embracing • The professed is willing to - The
the embrace the penitential community
"precious dimension of the Order decides on
value of the manifested in obedience, in concrete acts
Cross" imitation of the Paschal of penance,
Mysteries of Christ, by doing internal and
voluntary acts of penance. external,
personal and
communitaria
n for their
sanctification
and for the
reparation of
sins.
Imitating • Learns to serve the Church with
Mary as gladness
model of • He accepts
obedience responsibility/assignment/missi
and total on without complain/not
availability choosy of assignment and of
teammates
• He has developed sense of self-
giving
Page | 88
• He manifests humble service

and pastoral flexibility
• He perseveres in doing mission
even in difficult pastoral
situations
• He tries to blend well with
pastoral companions even in
the trying circumstances
• He is capable of team ministry
He lives in • He has deep friendship with
a specific Jesus
and • He practices asceticism as
profound conditions for obedience
way the • He is available to the demands
theological of the mission
virtue of • He dedicates himself with
faith strength and joy to apostolic
activities, relying on the
providence of God
6. Religious Dimension: The temporary professed religious attains to

a full understanding of, and fidelity to, the vows of chastity,
poverty, obedience which make him fully configured to Christ in
his state of life. He is always willing to prioritize the needs of
others without the cost of personal growth due to neglected
personal needs, experiencing a sense of fulfillment in living the
fraternal common life.
Page | 89

Following the spirit • Faithful and active - Through the
of the MF charism, participation in community bell
the embodiment of community and the horarium,
a lifestyle that schedule. the professed
manifests their • Lives according to disposes himself to
desire for the one's means. responding
reform of the clergy • Awareness that generously to
and the faithful by sensitivity to time where "the voice of
means of the is sensitivity to the God" calls him.
apostolate time and needs of - Although living
other people. in their respective
rooms, the
professed do not
choose their
rooms, but are
assigned each year
as a sign of
detachment and to
maintain
simplicity.
Fraternal life in the • Development of a - Every gift that the
spirit of the first sense of temporary
apostolic community professed receives,
community • Absence of be it monetary or
particular in kind, shall be
friendships and brought to the
cliques that draw attention of those
division in the responsible for
community formation who will
• Development of decide on it.
the character of
Page | 90
being a team- - the community

player in the horarium is to be
community. observed
• He practices especially in those
inclusivity in moments when the
words and in whole community
deeds especially is expected to be
during the present
community - professed are to
activities and be assigned their
interaction seats in study hall,
chapel, and dining
room to avoid one
from gravitating to
another person
- Community
outing twice a
year, with the last
one towards the
end of the
formation year.
- Peer Evaluation
- Community
Cultural Night or
Socials, at least
once a semester
Full configuration • Manifests joy and - SFP sessions:
into Christ through contentment in * Witnessing to the
fidelity to the living out the vows in the secular
religious vows religious vows in world
fraternal * Vows and the
community Apostolate
Page | 91
• He embraces the
religious vows as
a source of
strength and daily
renewal
• He is firm about
right values and
therefore tries to
counteract
negative sub-
cultures in the
community
• He deals well with
all the members of
the community,
but he observes
boundaries
Developed sense of • He loves and cares
loving MF as a for the MF not
family only as his
congregation but
as his family
• He strives to make
the MF family
grow by his own
initiative for the
good of the order
(positive
contribution for
the growth of MF
and not only as
recipient)
Page | 92
• He has deep
acceptance of the
lights and
shadows not only
of the members of
the family, but of
the entire
congregation.
• He exercises
prudence by not
putting the
congregation into
bad light before
others, especially
the lay
• He tries to
represent the MF
always with
dignity and in
loving ways in all
his ministries
Page | 93
CHAPTER 5: VOCATIONAL STAGE: THE PASTORAL STAGE
Chapter Five:
VOCATIONAL SYNTHESIS: PASTORAL STAGE
Introduction
Religious formation is "one unbroken missionary journey of

discipleship"20. The initial formation begins with aspirancy towards the
profession of the solemn vows. This "solemn profession is the highest and
most complete expression 'usque ad mortem' of the consecration to God in
the service of the Church, and of full aggregation in our religious family"21.
After the reception of the perpetual profession, in view of the

provision in GD number 18822, the stage leading to the ordination to the
diaconate will be dedicated to the vocational synthesis to be given to the
candidate as proposed by the new Ratio Formationis and an opportune time
for the practice of perpetual vows. The provincial superior, with the consent
of his council, shall appoint a pastoral director for this purpose. This non-
20
RFIS-2016, 54.
21
Constitutions, 133
22
“ The temporary professed are to make the perpetual profession at least
one year before the ordination to the diaconate. Those aspiring to priesthood can be
promoted to the diaconate only after having completed the fifth year of the
curriculum of philosophical and theological studies and after having made the
perpetual profession. “
Page | 94
academic year is called Vocational Synthesis or Pastoral Stage by the new

Ratio Formationis. "This stage has a twofold purpose: on the one hand it is
about being inducted into the pastoral life, with a gradual assumption of
responsibilities in a spirit of service; on the other hand it is about making a
suitable preparation, with the help of a specific accompaniment, in view of
priesthood"23.
1. General Objective: The Vocational Synthesis stage of the professed

religious is fundamentally a period of integration of all dimensions
of formation, namely, human, spiritual, intellectual, religious and
charismatic, that is focused and is oriented towards the profession of
perpetual vows in the Order, with the professed serving the Church
through the Institute either as a Coadjutor Brother or a cleric,
namely, permanent deacon or priest.
2. Specific Objective: Through the agency of the designated Pastoral

Director / Vocational Synthesis Mentor, the candidate is guided
towards perpetual profession, life of priestly service or service as a
coadjutor brother within the common fraternal life of the Order. He
experiences a foretaste of balancing the demands of pastoral ministry
and fidelity to Order's common life.
B. Core Values
Aimed Core Values in formation: The Vocational Synthesis Stage for the
professed religious is geared towards the achievement of a balance between
pastoral demands and religious community living. This necessitates certain
specific value-centered formation that seeks to contribute to the
23
RFIS-2016, 74.
Page | 95
configuration of candidates into the image of Jesus Christ who called them
to the Order.
These values are: Resiliency, Self-confidence, Initiative, and Diligence
1. Human Formation
GOAL VIRTUES/VALUES AND THEIR

INDICATORS
Integration and The Physical Dimension:
continued living • Has a healthy and balanced lifestyle as a way
out of cardinal of life
and theological • He responsibly cares for his physical health to
virtues and the be able to give himself to the ministry.
evangelical • He is capable of balanced self-renewal and
counsels in the appropriate self-care (rest and sleep, nutrition,
Person of Jesus physical activity and proper decorum)
Christ which
includes physical The Psychological Dimension: He continues to
dimension, grow in affective maturity.
psychological • He is emotionally balanced—being calm and
dimension, moral having self-possessed demeanor in the various
dimension, and situations he finds himself in
interpersonal • He nurtures a strong sense of self-control,
dimension. characterized by sensitivity and self-discipline
• He practices transparency and
disclosure moving within the atmosphere of
trust, dialogue, respect and communication
• He acts with an interior freedom and not out of
“merely external and formalistic obedience”
Page | 96
• Having developed an intimate relationship with

God, he is able to transcend from his own
person, his own affect, desires and intentions,
to the person of Jesus
The Moral Dimension:

• He continuously nurtures an upright, formed
and clear conscience.
• He is motivated to live a life of simplicity and
detachment
• He shows respect, obedience, openness and
trust to his mentors and superiors
accompanying him.
The Interpersonal Dimension: The candidate

possesses a healthy sense of self.
• He is able to establish mature and well-
balanced relationships with men and women of
various ages and social conditions in the spirit
of pastoral charity and fraternal communion
while being mindful of ministerial boundaries.
• Through his pastoral immersion, he is able to
exercise committed servant-leadership and
encourage a sense of collaboration.
• Grounded on the pastoral realities in his
immersion, he can read and discern the signs of
the times He is an active agent of social
transformation in the local church in the areas
of justice, peace, integrity of creation
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• He is a capable of responsible employment of

tools for New Evangelization especially the
social media.
2. Spiritual Formation

INDICATORS
This stage seeks Consecrated Service: “Do you resolve to be
to accompany and consecrated for the Church’s ministry by the laying
assist the on of my hands and the gifts of the Holy Spirit?”
candidate to • Following the footsteps of Jesus, the Good
“synthesize and Shepherd, the candidate learns to offer himself to
express the be consecrated and consecrate his service for the
profound meaning Church.
of the Sacrament • He possesses a missionary spirit and enthusiasm
of Orders in the to be assigned anywhere, having full trust that
Church” 24. As God will accompany him
such, he is • He manifests selfless dedication to service for
gradually God and His people.
embracing the
priestly identity Humble Charity: “Do you resolve to discharge the
he has been office of deacon with humble charity in order to
preparing for and assist the priestly Order and to benefit the Christian
eventually people?”
becoming ready • He embraces humble charity: has a balanced and
to be the good mature capacity to enter into relationship with his
shepherd of the neighbor; by overcoming every form of self-
community. promotion or emotional dependency, he allows
24
Ibid.
Page | 98
himself to be a man of communion, of mission

With these and of dialogue; and he is able to give himself
objectives in the generously and with self-sacrifice for the People
spiritual sphere, of God.
the seminarian • He has the basic awareness of whose needs are to
is sub sequentia s be satisfied in the service offered
erving as the gate • He gives priority to the needs of the people before
for the his own personal interests
sheep. Hence, he • He has the courage to pray and to surrender to
needs to God “Not my will but Yours be done…”.
continuously
develop virtues Joyful Witnessing: “Do you resolve to hold fast to
and values, based the mystery of faith with a clear conscience, as the
on the Promises of apostle urges, and to proclaim this faith in word and
the Elect in the deed according to the Gospel and the Church's
Rite of Ordination tradition?”
of a Deacon. • He is capable of joyful witnessing: capacity
These values that for complete giving of self for the service of
are internalized in
the People of God; ‘… capable of loving
this stage, prepare
the candidates as people with a heart which is new, generous
“a living and pure- with genuine self-detachment, with
reflection of the full, constant and faithful dedication and at
humanity of Jesus the same time with a kind of divine jealousy
and a bridge that and even with a kind of maternal
unites people with tenderness’”26.
God”25. • He manifests urgency, necessity, and conviction
to live out the faith in worship /prayer, service,
and community
25
RFIS-2016, 63.
26
RFIS-2016, 39.
Page | 99
• He finds joy in becoming an alter Christus and

having the enthusiasm in doing what is right.
Dedicated Celibacy: “Do you resolve to keep

forever this commitment to remain celibate as a sign
of your dedication to Christ the Lord for the sake of
the Kingdom of Heaven, in the service of God and
man?”
• He embraces celibacy as a gift, and not just a
norm
• He recognizes and welcomes celibacy as a sign
of complete dedication to God and to neighbor
• He understands, by the light of faith, the
evangelical power of celibacy but at the same
time, he esteems correctly the values of married
state
• He has a profound appreciation of spiritual
fatherhood, a greater dedication to being a spouse
of the Church, and a deeper commitment to be
configured to Christ, the Spouse, deserving of all
our love and devotion.
• He understands that celibacy means individual
heart for Jesus.
Faithful Worship/Prayer: “Do you resolve to

maintain and deepen the spirit of prayer that is
proper to your way of life and, in keeping with this
spirit and what is required of you, to celebrate
faithfully the Liturgy of the Hours with and for the
People of God and indeed for the whole world?”
• He imbibes the value of faithful
worship/prayer: he takes special and faithful
care of his interior spiritual life, centered
principally on communion with Christ through
Page | 100
the Mysteries celebrated in the course of the

Liturgical Year, and nourished by personal
prayer and meditation on the inspired Word; in
silent prayer, which opens him to an authentic
relationship with Christ, he becomes docile to
the action of the Spirit, which gradually molds
him into the image of the Master; by this
intimate relationship with the Lord and by their
fraternal communion, he is helped to recognize
and correct spiritual worldliness: obsession
with personal appearances, a presumed
theological or disciplinary certainty, narcissism
and authoritarianism, the attempt to dominate
others, a merely external and ostentatious
preoccupation with the liturgy, vainglory,
individualism, the inability to listen to others,
and every form of careerism; he manifests
simplicity, sobriety, serene dialogue and
authenticity.
• He considers prayer as a way of life
• He is faithful in praying the Liturgy of the
Hours
• He resorts to Spiritual Direction to further
spiritual enrichment.
• He is committed to daily prayer, regular
availment of the Sacrament of Reconciliation
• He finds the Holy Eucharist as daily source of
strength
• He is committed to pray for the intentions of
those who recommend themselves to him
• He has deep appreciation of silence and solitude
• He has a heightened devotion to Mary.
Page | 101
Continued Configuration to Christ: “Do you

resolve to conform your way of life always to the
example of Christ, of whose Body and Blood you are
a minister at the altar?”
• His heart and his life are conformed to the Lord
Jesus, in this way becoming a sign of the love
God has for each person: he preaches the Gospel
and becomes an instrument of the mercy of God;
he guides and gives correction; he intercedes and
cares for the spiritual life of the faithful entrusted
to him; he listens and welcomes, while also
responding to the demands and the deep
questions of our time”27.
• He manifests profound love for the Eucharist
• He has a deepened friendship with Jesus,
• He is eager to be an alter Christus
• He exemplifies God's mercy, as instruments or
vessels of mercy (to be dispensers of God’s
mercy)
Spiritual Sacrifice (Kenosis): Another important

value that the candidates of this stage need to
inculcate is spiritual sacrifice. It presents that “the
sacrifice offered by Christ the Priest was new in a
particular way: he did not offer the blood of goats or
of calves, but his own blood, to do the will of the
Father.”28
• He is ready to lay down his life for the faith
• Dying to oneself is part of his life
27
RFIS-2016, 40.
28
RFIS-2016, 36.
Page | 102
• He is willing to be the gate for the sheep.
3. Intellectual Formation

INDICATORS
Particular 1. The Good Shepherd Knows His Sheep
Goal: From the • He takes every opportunity to learn more
time he leaves about the Missionaries of Faith by studying
the seminary up the history of the order but at the same time
until his becoming aware of the order’s place and
ordination to the contribution to the Universal Church.
diaconate and • As a future pastor with the smell of the sheep,
priesthood, the he is expected to be engaging into the socio-
candidate will be economic, cultural, political and ecological
spending this concerns of the people and their locality with
period knowing a keen sense of the signs of the times.
more deeply and
intimately the 2. The Good Shepherd Leads His Sheep
diocese he is to • The candidate acknowledges that the priest is an
serve. enabler and synthesizer of ministries, thus
throughout this short stage he takes every
The candidate opportunity to be honed and mentored in
draws from the managerial skills in different aspects like parish
gains of the management, financial management and school
initial stage of administration.
formation. As he • He exercises leadership bearing in mind the
is introduced to vocational ethics (professional ethics) that
pastoral ministry comes along with it. Ministry with
and new accountability is a mark of a true leader.
responsibilities,
Page | 103
he will have to 3. The Good Shepherd Feeds His Sheep

put into good use • Already fully available to assist and observe
the principles he the faithful’s way of prayer and traditions, the
has learned from candidate moves into a familiarity and
the appreciation of the life of worship in the
classroom. The diocese and the cultivation of this worship as
strength of the a source of life and his mission.
candidate as well
as the aspects of • Mindful of the liturgical norms and applying it
his personhood now in the field, he looks at them not as burden
that still needs to but as a means to instilling fidelity to the
improve will be church, on his part as a minister, and fostering
discovered and dignity and beauty to the liturgy itself.
determined. Thr • He knows by heart what pastoral reason truly
oughout his stay means – not for the convenience of the pastor
in the seminary, but for the sake of the faithful, that is,
he was gradually genuinely responding to their needs.
introduced into • At this stage, he can lead Sunday Celebrations
the heart of the in the Absence of a Priest and preach to the
Good faithful.
Shepherd. At • He is to take serious attempts to developing
this stage the and improving his preaching skills by
characteristics welcoming observations and evaluations from
and values of the the faithful.
Good Shepherd
are expected to 4. The Good Shepherd Gives His Life to
be already His Sheep
growing in the • He is aware and he understands that ordination
heart of the does not only confer sacred function and
candidate. ministry but that which makes the priest
intimately linked with a Particular
Church. Therefore, he manifests commitment
and devotion to the Order.
Page | 104
• He immerses himself into the life and

ministries of the Order taking them as his own
and not to desire to work somewhere else.
• He is aware that commitment to priesthood is
a lifetime of learning.
• He desires for continual formation by
constantly being abreast with church
teachings, current and recent church and papal
documents, regular reading and attending
seminars.
4. Pastoral Formation

INDICATORS
The Pastoral Zeal and Commitment: Pastoral
candidate’s induction zeal and commitment are the enhancements
to the pastoral life of of pastoral presence, accompaniment, care
the particular church and pastoral leadership and discernment. It
where he belongs and is also its intensification by finding concrete
his suitable expression and application of the knowledge
preparation for the and charism of the candidate which he has
priestly ministry with identified and developed in the
the help of a specific configuration stage.
accompaniment.29
• The candidate finds concrete
expression and applies his knowledge
and charism in the pastoral setting he is
assigned
29
Cf. RFIS-2016, 74.
Page | 105
• The candidate freely gives himself to his

assigned placement and not being choosy.
b. Pastoral Charity as a Way of Life:

Pastoral charity is demonstrated
through “compassion, generosity, love
for all especially the poor and zeal for
the Kingdom that characterizes the
public ministry of the Son of God”30.
• He does not have the tendency or has not

demonstrated a sense of “entitlement”, a
belief that he is deserving of or entitled to
certain privileges that arise from his
status.
• He is not attached to things, to people or
even to his own achievements.
c. Pastoral Competence: Pastoral

competence is the virtue of
professionalization of the candidate for
ordination.
• He is equipped with highly specialized

skills needed for the priestly duties and
ministry.
• He is immersed in the different forms of
social communication media. He is
aware that media is a tool for new
evangelization, however, he knows how
30
RFIS-2016, 119.
Page | 106
to utilize them with critical discernment

and analyzing.
d. Pastoral Management and

Leadership: The candidate at the
pastoral stage is sent to a parish, which
is the “living cell of local and
specialized pastoral work in which they
(candidates) will find themselves faced
with the kind of problems they will
meet in their future ministry”31.
• He becomes progressively capable of

handling events, situations and
circumstances in the parish, and to
employ efficient time management.32.
• He develops skills for dialogue,
collaboration, pastoral management and
the sense of being a team player as he
works with the laity in various programs
and activities.
5. Charismatic Dimension: The professed religious in the

pastoral year is to manifest a personal integration of one's
vocational story with the spirituality of the Holy Founders,
fidelity to the Constitutions and Rules of the Order, and the
31
PDV, 58.
32
UPPPF, 168.
Page | 107
charism of the Institute, making them his own and showing

appreciation for these as a way of pursuing holiness of life.
1. Responsible: Vocational Synthesis Mentor

Concern
Man consecrated • Ever deeper - The professed
to divine worship knowledge of the actively engages in
liturgical rites, liturgical programs,
fidelity to the events, and formation,
liturgical norms, especially in parishes
and a solicitude where they are
for decorum in assigned for
keeping with his apostolate
identity as a
religious of the
Order
• Wearing of the
religious habit as
a sign of their
consecration in
the Order,
especially in
liturgical
celebrations and
the apostolate
The Eucharist in • The eucharist - Daily Eucharist and
action becomes the regular adoration
source and - Promotion of the
summit of the eucharistic charism,
religious' especially of circular
Page | 108
sanctification and adoration, of the

the apostolate. Order in their
• Encourages apostolate.
others to put the - Promotion of
eucharist at the devotion to our Holy
center of their Founders, and the
lives. Order itself, to others,
through (social) media
and other means in the
apostolate.
Consecration of • Fidelity to the - Daily communal
the Day through praying of the Lauds and Vespers,
the Liturgy of the Liturgy of the and midday prayer
Hours Hours and night prayer.
- Daily recitation of
the Office of
Readings.
Imitation of the • Voluntarily does - "Grace of Giving
Paschal Mystery acts of penances, Program," where the
of Christ possibly by professed voluntarily
taking turns, contributes a portion
drawing from the of his personal
tradition of the allowance for a
Order in a particular cause (e.g.
manner that the those affected by
fruits of these natural disasters,
acts of orphanage, etc.)
mortifications are - Observance of a Day
directed towards of Fasting/Abstinence
the good of each week.
others, especially -Personal acts of
those in need penance and sacrifice
Page | 109
He imitates Mary • He lives the

in his life virtues of
obedience,
chastity and
poverty with
Mary as his
model
6. Religious Dimension: The integration of one's personal

pursuit of holiness with the total configuration of one's self
to the humble, poor, chaste and obedient Christ, through the
profession and living out of one's vows in the Order. The
religious in the Vocational Stages takes upon himself the
initiative to be faithful to his vows, finding joy and
contentment in fraternal community life.
1. Responsible: Pastor or Superior where the

professed religious is assigned

Radical • Undivided love - The Pastoral
configuration into for God and Director is to draw up
Christ through chaste love for a program that will
fidelity to the others, practicing enable the candidate
vows prudence and to integrate pastoral
maintaining work in the apostolate
healthy and fidelity to
boundaries religious community
• Simple style and life.
austere life, - Peer evaluation of
intentionally those in the Pastoral
limits desires Synthesis Stage
Page | 110
and pretensions
that do not
conform to the
spirit of poverty
• Recognition that
obedience to
superior is a yes
to God's plan
• Manifests a
humble spirit in
imitation of the
humility of
Christ
Fraternal life in • A healthy sense - The pastoral director
community of community and the superior of
life the community where
• The candidate is the candidate is
a team-player assigned is to
• Able to live one's regularly/monthly
religious life and have an individual
actively give colloquium with the
himself in the candidate regarding
apostolate his transition from
without showing theological studies to
preferences to the apostolate.
members of the - a community outing
religious is to be organized to
community help the candidate
• Manifests joy ease into fraternal
and contentment community life in the
in fraternal context of the
community apostolate.
Page | 111
Page | 112
PART II
CLUSTER FORMATION PROGRAM:

ONGOING PRIESTLY FORMATION
ITINERARY
IN THE PHILIPPINE PROVINCE
ONGOING PRIESTLY FORMATION ITINERARY
OF THE MISSIONARIES OF FAITH IN THE PHILIPPINE PROVINCE
PROLOGUE
PROLOGUE
THE NECESSITY OF CLUSTER FORMATION
IN THE BASIC PLAN FOR THE ONGOING FORMATION OF
MF PRIESTS
A. What is Clergy Ongoing Formation?
Following the footsteps of Vatican II's Presbyterorum

Ordinis and John Paul II's Pastores Dabo Vobis, clergy
ongoing formation can be defined as the continuing
integration of priestly identity and functions or service for
the sake of mission and communion with Christ and the
Church. Integration is at the heart of ongoing formation.
The task of integration is to bring together priestly identity
(who we are) and ministry (what we do). The growth of
the priests is really a growing integrity or connectedness
of their ministry and their life.
PROLOGUE
B. Objective of Ongoing Formation
The aim of ongoing formation is to identify the true

formative points of human, intellectual, spiritual, and
pastoral encounter that priests must face in their ministry
and lives and that are the privileged places where God's
transforming grace touches them.
A basic plan of priestly formation ought to inspire and

challenge priests to respond to the promptings of God's
grace. This means to respond to priests' formational needs
in a way that is timely, practical, and specific. In other
words, it locates the ongoing priestly formation in the
Missionaries of Faith in the circumstances of the present
times.
PROLOGUE
C. The Necessity of Cluster Formation in the

Organization of a Basic Plan
of Priestly Formation
In the organization of a basic plan of permanent priestly

formation, there is a part that is common for the entire
presbyterium and there is a part that is specific to the
different ages and special moments of priestly ministry
and life. The former treats ongoing formation in a
"synchronic" way, noting that there are elements or
dynamics of ongoing formation that are the same at every
moment of priests' lives. The latter proceeds
"diachronically", identifying the different formational
tasks appropriate in the different ages of priestly ministry
and life. This points to the necessity of cluster formation.
Ongoing formation is designed to be sensitive and

responsive to the nature, the characteristics and
peculiarities, the specific needs and challenges confronted
by each age group or age bracket of the clergy. Ongoing
formation for priests seeks to respond decisively and
effectively to these needs and challenges, with the goal in
PROLOGUE
mind of increasing effectivity and the potential fruitfulness

of the pastoral ministry and the life of witness of the
individual priest who finds himself in one of a wide array
of pastoral or ecclesial settings.
D. Objectives of Cluster
The purpose of dividing the MF priests into smaller groups

or cluster is twofold: first, it is a locus of ongoing priestly
formation; and second, it is a structure of synodality in the
order.
The former is meant to address the different formational

tasks appropriate in the different ages and special
moments of priestly ministry and life. The goal is to
identify the true formative points of human, intellectual,
spiritual, and pastoral encounter that priests must face in
their ministry and lives according to their specific needs
and special situations.
The latter means that the cluster groupings becomes an

avenue of participation and collaboration where
PROLOGUE
suggestions and voices are listened to and heard. Agenda

are cascaded down to this level and priests are encouraged
to participate in the discussion and deliberation.
Cluster Groupings, therefore, can be a venue for formation

and participation.
CHAPTER 1: CLUSTER FORMATION OF MF YOUNG CLERGY
Chapter One:
CLUSTER FORMATION OF MF YOUNG CLERGY
A. This cluster, MF Young Clergy, is composed of priests in the 1-

15th year in the priesthood.

Ongoing Formation
Areas Concerns, Needs and Problems

Human Formation o Just by the thought of aging, I get
overwhelmingly emotional. Instead of
being thankful, I get frustrated
brought about by physiological
changes
o Find it difficult to quit smoking
o I struggle in channeling my sexual
energy into something meaningful
o Problem in addressing sexual urges
and sexual energy
o Sexual -sinasarili ang problema
o Wanting to engage into a sexual and
physical interaction
o Still strong sexual urge and drive
Page | 113
o Weak integration pf sexuality

o Health
o Health issue, maintenance medicine
o Eating food that are prohibited
o There is an abuse physically due to
too much engagement in sports
o Problem in giving more time to sports
and less time for rest and bonding
with family and parish staff
o Need for a regular check-up
o Psychological -maiinitin ang ulo
o Irritable
o Capacity to relate with others
o To grow in love of others
o Some priests are difficult to reach out
o Shy
o How to deal with relational
problems/attitudes
o I want my capacity for
communication to be more enhanced
o Need for regular time for rest and
vacation
o Always looking forward to rest and
vacation
o Additional money/allowance for
medicine/maintenance/ physical
check up
Intellectual o Unfulfilled promise by superiors to

Formation take doctoral studies
A. o Need for further studies but hesitant
because of age factor
Page | 114
o Hasty preparations of homily

o The need to revisit and study what
priests are doing, how they are
representing Christ, and why
o Need to attend seminar for updating
o Need for updating in major
theological areas of special pastoral
concern
o Need for symposiums, updating,
conferences on major theological
areas of special pastoral concern
o Problem in reading and self-study
o Madaling antukin sa pag-aaral
o Forgetfulness
o Struggles in terms of paper works
o Material obstacles
Pastoral Formation o I tend to be judgmental in my
interaction with fellow priests and
laity alike
o Sometimes, I question the efficacy of
the sacraments especially the
anointing of the sick
o Problem of looking for vocation in
the congregation
o Needs new ways and strategies to
attract more vocations
o I need regular updating on ministry of
shepherding
o Training and seminar on leadership
and management
o Seminar on leadership
Page | 115
o Not trying to give seminar and

formation to parish ministries
o Lack enough time in preparing
homily
o Need more training for ministry of the
Word
o Not trying to engage in a dialogue,
interaction with some organizations
and ministries
o Not giving enough time in my
pastoral duties and responsibilities
o Lack of dialogue, communication and
interaction
o Spiritually drained, need personal
Spiritual retreat
Formation o More retreat and recollections
o Need for community prayers, retreat,
recollections
o Problem of financial stability now
and in the future
o Formation in obedience (Sometimes I
do not ask permission)
o Authority hang-up
o I obey but grumbles inside
o I am attracted to simplicity of life but
juts could not keep up with its
demands
o Formation in simplicity of lifestyle
o I am not charitable enough
o Pastoral charity -to be able to perform
my duties
o Formation in celibacy
Page | 116
o Celibacy – Need self-control

o Sometimes lack enough time in
prayer life
o Consistency in prayer
o If tired, prayer is sacrificed
o I don’t pray the hardest I should
o My own rating of discipleship is
horribly down
C. Cluster Formation of MF Young Clergy
Areas Program Activities Timeframe

Human 1. Health Care A. Annual A. Every
Formation Program General 2nd Monday
Executive Check- of August
up
B. Every 3rd
B. Blood chem Monday of
(follow up) February
2. Fitness & Sports
Program
3. Social & Bonding Quarterly
Recreational 3rd Monday
Program of February
3rd Monday
of June
3rd Monday
of October
Page | 117
4. Psycho-sexual It will be
integration integrated to the
program bonding
a. The expert will
give the talk
Intellectual Updating Participation in If there is an
Formation programs updates through opportunity
symposia,
seminars,
conventions and
conferences
Pastoral 1. Pastoral Team Cooperation and
Formation Ministry assistance to each
other
2. Income Solicitations and
generation for the economic projects
MF young Clergy
fund
Spiritual 1. Spiritual Pilgrimage
Formation Renewal
2. Outreach Confession and
Program other acts of piety
Page | 118
CHAPTER 2: CLUSTER FORMATION OF MF MIDDLE CLERGY
Chapter Two:
CLUSTER FORMATION OF MF MIDDLE CLERGY
A. This cluster, MF Middle Clergy, is composed of priests in the 16-

25th year in the priesthood.

Ongoing Formation

Human Formation o Laboratory examinations reveal some
medical problems
o Financial support for health issues
o Physical
o Regular exercise
o To know more about myself
o Because of bullying of others, I used to
lose my temper at ayoko sumama sa
grupo kasi sila din ang nagsisiraan
Page | 119
sometimes at kinakayakayanan lang

ang iba
o Hard to forget what had happened
(relational)
o Problems of disunity - Very hard to let
go/move on especially if it is the fault
of others
o My memory is deteriorating, I easily
forget
o Experiencing some signs of andropause
o Big task given by the diocese
o Too many political issues
o I need an update on all of these areas
Intellectual Formation (major theological areas and special
B. pastoral concerns)
o Updating on ethics or medical ethics
o Sometimes preaching without action,
Pastoral Formation planning without execution
o I need to be an effective leaders and
manager,
o I need updating in leadership and
management I need to improve myself
in the pastoral formation because I lack
knowledge of institutional
management. I need to have skills or
training in this aspect
o Financial management
o Parish Management
o Simplicity of Life (Ito nakita ko na sa
Spiritual Formation ibang pari pero mangilan ngilan lang
sila…sana ma acquire ko ito sa buhay
ko kasi ngayon iba na lifestyle ng mga
pari
o Its very hard for me to practice
simplicity of life
Page | 120
o I need guidance in order to arrive to a

true conviction of living a simple life as
a religious and as a missionary priest
o More input of discipleship, pastoral
charity, celibacy, obedience and
simplicity of life
o Still struggling in pastoral charity,
discipleship and celibacy
C. Cluster Formation of MF Middle Clergy

Human 1. Health Care A. General 2023 & 2026
formation Program Executive Check -up; 2024, 2025,
Follow up: annual 2027, 2028
regular check up
B. Active life style:

personal awareness
and care on what we
intake towards
healthy life; zumba,
walking, jogging
C. Raise Funds for

medicine & exercise
facilities
D. Identify a
particular hospital
and doctors for all
medical procedures.
Page | 121
2. Relational A. Identify a priest

Aspect who can accompany
a problematic priest.
B. Cluster/provincial
bonding
C. Personal/Spiritual
Accompaniment
1. Outing
2. Sports
3. Relaxation
3. Personal and Professional
emotional aspect Assistance
1. Psychologist
2. Psychiatrist
3. Spiritual Director
Intellectual Updating
Formation programs
Intellectual Further Studies,
Development Modular Studies,
Seminars,
Conventions &
Training.
Pastoral 1. Skills & - Each community/
Formation Knowledge Parish Orientation on
Development financial
management.
- To invite an expert
for this aspect.
- Seminars on
pastoral planning,
management &
leadership.
2. Ministry of Orientation before
Preparation assuming certain
responsibilities and
Page | 122
positions such as
Parish Priests,
Parochial Vicars,
Guests Priests,
Chaplaincy,
Formators, Mission
Appeals (cultural
orientation, inclusive
language &
practices)
Spiritual 1. Religious - Revisit on
Formation Formation evangelical councils
(MF dimensions)
- Monthly
recollection by
Community (Theme:
going back to our
Charism)
- Input on priestly
conscience
- Realizing all our
passion to religious
life.
- Strengthening the
values of
transparency &
accountability
- Seminars on
Spiritual Direction
and continue to
consult personal
spiritual director
regularly.
Page | 123
CHAPTER 3: CLUSTER FORMATION OF MF SENIOR CLERGY
Chapter Three:
CLUSTER FORMATION OF MF SENIOR CLERGY
A. This cluster, MF Senior Clergy, is composed of priests in the 25

years in the priesthood onwards.

Ongoing Formation

Human Formation o Dahil going old na may mga
karamdaman so minsan parang
affected ang isip dahil hindi sanay
na may sakit kaya psychologically
affected parang iisipin mo na may
sakit ka
o With this affective integration
minsan di pa mawala yung
affection sa pamilya lalo na kung
may mga karamdaman na feel
mong naheheal kapag kasama ang
pamilya…so laging nag-iisip to
have time for rest and vacation
o Affective integration
Page | 124
o Health, irritable
o Care for physical well-being
o Under medication
o Starting to have some health issues
by not living a good lifestyle
o Regular scheduled time for rest and
vacation
o A place for physical relaxation and
rest
o Psychological and sociological self-
knowledge
o Attraction to the opposite sex
o sometimes sexual desires
o Concerns with physical,
psychological, sexual and social
o Resolution of personality quirks
that impede communion
o Capacity to relate with others
o capacity for communication as
listener
o Continuous grounding of my
Intellectual ministry and life in the underlying
Formation assumptions of faith (2)
D. o Laziness to study the updates on the
documents of the church
o Updating in Major theological areas
of special pastoral concern
o To have more knowledge
Pastoral Formation o Difficulty in reading church lay
o Ministry of shepherding
o Difficulty in approaching people
Page | 125
o Hard to approach by the people

o Knowledge of institutional
leadership and management
o Health would sometimes hinder me
Spiritual Formation to join community common
prayers, especially in the morning
o Spiritual dryness
o As religious, need to observe and
live the vows of obedience,
chastity, poverty
o Formation in celibacy (2)
o Self-control on how to relate with
the opposite sex
o Formation in Discipleship
o Obedience
o Formation in Simplicity of Life
o Always having the desire to
accumulate material things
C. Cluster Formation of MF Senior Clergy

Human Health Care E. Annual General A. Every
formation Program Executive Check - month of
up January
(Shouldered by the
Community)
4. Fitness & Exercise Everyday
Sports
Page | 126
Program
5. Social & Bonding
Recreational Vacation (MOA)
Program
Intellectual Updating Participation to the If there is an
Formation programs Seminar opportunity
Pastoral Pastoral Always ready to
Formation Needs help the needs of
others
Spiritual Spiritual • Pilgrimage, Every year
Formation Renewal retreats If there is an
• Participation to opportunity
the
spiritual
conference 30 days
• Giving
Spiritual
talks or
retreats
• Personal
solitude
Page | 127
OF THE MISSIONARIES OF FAITH IN THE PHILIPPIE PROVINCE
CHAPTER 4: STRENGTHENING UNITY AND SENSE OF BELONGINGNESS
Chapter Four:
STRENGTHENING UNITY AND
SENSE OF BELONGINGNESS
The following activities are proposed to strengthen unity and

sense of belongingness of the priests of the order:
A. Bonding by Cluster
Members of the Clergy will be clustered as follows:1] those in

the 1-15th year in the priesthood. 2] those in the 16-25th year in the
priesthood. 3] those in the 26th year onwards.
Activities during the cluster gathering are to be determined by

the members of the group. Suggested activities during the bonding are:
swimming, sports activities, watching movies at cinemas, eating at
buffets and restaurants, spiritual exercises, reflections, talks and
sharing. The bonding by the cluster will be done quarterly
Every house will take turn with regards to the sponsorship of

the bonding. The members of the said house will facilitate the
bonding and the activities connected to it.
Page | 128
B. Bonding by House
This bonding is designed for members of the same house.

However, the members, if they agree, could invite members
belonging to other houses. It is highly recommended that this
bonding by the house should be done monthly. The bonding between
houses who are geographically close are also encouraged.
C. Bonding by the Entire community
The entire province should have a bonding at least once a year.

As much as possible, it should be separate from the retreat or other
spiritual exercises. The facilitator of this bonding is to be appointed by
the provincial superior.
The Family Day Celebration is to be celebrated every two

years. The Provincial Superior will designate a specific committee to
spearhead the activities/programs of the said celebration. In this
committee, a priest will be appointed to oversee the activities and
programs. Only the immediate family members of the confreres can
be allowed to join in the family day. However, others can join if the
community will not oppose to it.
D. Fiesta Celebrations
To promote the sense of belongingness within the community,

participation in these feasts is highly encouraged among the members
of the province. These feasts which we should participate in are: The
feasts of St. Sebastian in Lumban Laguna, St. Cajetan in Tulay na
Lupa, Labo, Camarines Norte and St. Jude the Apostle in Southgate
Subd., Calumpang, Tayabas City. Attendance on the Feast of Queen
of Confessors of Faith, the patroness of the Congregation is obligatory.
Page | 129
E. First Monday Devotion in Honor of our Queen of Confessors of

Faith
The province is also promoting the first Monday devotion in

honor of our patroness. This is a Monthly Celebration of the Holy
Eucharist in honor of the Blessed Virgin Mary. This is celebrated at
the Provincial House, Vesco Subd. San Pablo City, Laguna.
Participation to this devotion is not obligatory but every confrere is
highly encouraged to join in the celebration.
F. Sports Fest
Every year, sports fest is to be held in the province. The place

and time of this celebration is to be determined by the formation team.
Page | 130

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MISSIONARIES OF FAITH

INITIAL FORMATION ITINERARY

CLUSTER FORMATION PROGRAM:

Chapter Two: POSTULANCY STAGE: DISCIPLESHIP

LEVEL I: FIRST TWO YEARS OF POSTULANCY

LEVEL II: LAST YEAR(S) OF POSTULANCY

Chapter Three: NOVITIATE FORMATION PROGRAM

A. Objectives of Formation …………………………………..57

Chapter Four: THE JUNIORATE: THE CONFIGURATION

Chapter Five: VOCATIONAL SYNTHESIS: PASTORAL

Prologue: THE NECESSITY OF CLUSTER

Chapter One: CLUSTER FORMATION OF

A. The MF Young Clergy……………………………………113

Chapter Two: CLUSTER FORMATION

A. The MF Middle Clergy……………………………………119

Chapter Three: CLUSTER FORMATION

A. The MF Senior Clergy…………………………………….124

Chapter Four: STRENGTHENING UNITY

INITIAL PRIESTLY FORMATION

Coming up with a priestly formation program that

This document, THE INITIAL PRIESTLY

While due diligence was observed in grounding the

An integrated program of formation proposes a

Integral approach to formation has the following

The task of developing a program of integral

Ensuring the integrality of formation process, a

Goals must be articulated in every aspect of

It is for these reasons and exigencies that this

Aspirancy is a time of discernment intended to help young men make

Aspirants will be taught the value of prayer, silence, study, work,

A. Who can be admitted in the Aspirancy Program?

Chapter VIII of GD says:

99 § 1. The admission2 and dismissal3 of candidates is

§ 2. According to the Universal Law4, any baptised Catholic

by using experts, without prejudice to the prescript of Can.

102. For every aspirant accepted in the community, there

the responsible superiors will follow the candidate in the

General Objective: The aspirancy stage aims to introduce a candidate to

Specific Objective: Through the programs of the aspirancy stage,

Areas of Concern Indicators Programs

2. Spiritual Dimension: Initiation to spiritual life, and the

a. Responsible: Spiritual Director

Areas of Concern Indicators Programs

(silence and - Monthly Spiritual

Motivational • He discerns his - Monthly Spiritual

3. Intellectual Dimension: The candidate achieves an intellectual

Areas of Indicators Programs

4. Pastoral Dimension: The candidate becomes aware that

Areas of Indicators Programs

• Capacity for self- where postulants and

5. Charismatic Dimension: The candidate is initiated into the

Areas of Concern Indicators Programs

Initiation into the • Fidelity to the - Daily communal

Areas of Concern Indicators Programs

voice of God" calls

withdraw from the

The Postulancy Stage of formation in the Missionaries of Faith is a

Realizing that vocation to the religious life is not primarily a

As Aspirancy is preparatory to Postulancy, so Postulancy is also

The second level of Postulancy, that corresponds to the last year(s)

General Objective: Through the programs of the Postulancy stage,

Specific Objective: The Postulancy stage aims to help the candidates to

Aimed Core Values in formation: Postulancy as a stage of preparation