Sr. Mary Pauline Namuddu, LSOSF
Uganda’s youthful Catholic Church is primed for greater impact through quality-trained formators and committed consecrated women and men with other pastoral agents who are ready to give their lives for Christ like the Uganda Martyrs.
All consecrated persons are invited to recommit themselves to Christ and His Mission and have as their “Motto”: Christ’s Life is our life; His Mission is our Mission”
The Formation Ministry of the Religious in Uganda although is at its youthful stage, has greatly impacted the consecrated persons who are zealous in getting closer to their spouse. Those who are keen to listen to the voice of the Master inviting them to spend some quality time with Him in personal and communal prayer. Those who through their Superiors take time from their professional ministries and avail themselves for renewal courses which are regularly planned for members at different stages in their espoused life with Christ.
Formation for Mission:
Spiritual formation for ministry is the intentional process of developing a deeper relationship with God and growing in Christ-like character, which is then expressed in ministry and service. It involves practices like prayer, bible study, spiritual reading, spiritual accompaniment and community engagement, all guided by the Holy Spirit. This process is meant for every person who treasures friendship with the Creator. It aims to transform a person’s inner life, leading to outward actions that reflect God’s love and purpose.
In the Catholic Church, as we celebrate this Jubilee Year of Hope, the Formation Ministry of the Consecrated women and men in Uganda invites all its members to embark on personal and communal renewal. I invite all readers of this message to reflect on these Key Aspects of Spiritual Formation for Ministry in order to benefit from this Jubilee Year 2025.
Transformation- a process of becoming more like Jesus Christ, not just as outward behavior modification, but through a transformation of the inner self.
Community – Spiritual formation is often fostered within a transformative community of believers who provide support, encouragement and accountability as we live as synodal Church community.
Biblical Foundation – Spiritual formation is rooted in the bible, with scripture serving as a guide for understanding God’s character and will.
Ministry Expression – The goal of spiritual formation is not just personal growth, but also availability to effectively serve God and others through ministry.
Prayer – Regularly communicating with God, both in formal and informal ways, to seek guidance, express needs and cultivate a deeper relationship.
Silence and solitude – Creating space for quiet reflection and listening to God’s voice.
Increased Effectiveness – Spiritual formation equips individuals with the character and spiritual maturity needed for effective ministry.
Holistic Growth – It addresses the whole person – mind, body and spirit, leading to more integrated and balanced life.
Service – As invited to embrace living in Synodality, to actively participate in acts of service and ministry to others, reflecting God’s love in practical ways.
Purpose and Meaning – Formation helps individuals discover and live out their God-given purpose in ministry.
Resilience – Formation equips individuals to face challenges and setbacks with faith and perseverance.
Main Challenges in Faith Formation
- Limited Family Catechesis
- Uneven faith education backgrounds from families.
- Shortage of Formators
- Financial Constraints
- Growth in membership outpaces trained leaders
Way Forward
- Youth Formation Support – focus on catechesis programmes.
- Encourage institute leaders to promote formation apostolate urgently.
- Support for Religious formation and lay leader education.
Together, we will overcome challenges and build a Church rooted deeply in faith values.
