What Does "Formation" Mean?

 

Don't let the word "formation" scare you! Formation is really an opportunity and a journey – one of discovery and development. Formation will help you to grow, both spiritually and personally. It will help you to understand and determine your vocation. It will prepare you for the commitment to serve God’s people. Formation enables you to be certain that God is calling you to be a Divine Word Missionary.

 

The Society of the Divine Word has five different formation programs. They will help you to discern God’s call and acquire the intellectual and spiritual growth in a cross-cultural environment to prepare you for missionary service. Each of these programs is designed for different stages of your journey.

What Are The Types Of Formation Programs?

Divine Word College Undergraduate Formation Program

Located in Epworth, Iowa, Divine Word College is the only Roman Catholic college seminary in the United States with the primary mission of the education of men for missionary service. A seminary student’s formation program includes five main areas: Human, Spiritual, Intellectual, Cross-Cultural and Missionary Ministry Formation. More information...

Associate Formation Program

This is a residency program for college graduates who are considering a missionary vocation. Interested candidates live in a Divine Word community, continue with their education and participate in first-hand ministry. More information...

Brother Formation Program

This program allows Brother candidates to live in a religious community in the Chicago area, participate in ministry and attend a college or university to complete their education. More information...

Novitiate Formation Program

The Divine Word Novitiate is located in Techny, Illinois, 20 miles north of Chicago. Candidates spend a year in prayer, reflection and study of our religious community in order to answer the question: "Is this what God is asking of me?" More information...

Theologate Formation Program

Located in Chicago, Illinois, the Divine Word Theologate is the residence for our seminarians who are completing the graduate program in theological education and ministry formation at Catholic Theological Union (CTU). More information...