FORMATION FOR GROWTH OF CONSECRATED MEN AND WOMEN

By Christine Masivo

The Conference of Major Religious Superiors of Zimbabwe (CMRS – ZW) organizes training of Formators Program for both women and men Religious. The Training of Formators Program is designed to equip individuals with the skills and knowledge necessary to effectively train and mentor others in specific areas or disciplines. While the exact content and structure of such a program may vary depending on the context and the needs of the participants, there are some common elements that may be included and are a must in the formation of the consecrated.

The formators learn about effective teaching methods, instructional strategies, and adult learning principles. This includes techniques for engaging learners, facilitating discussions, and assessing their understanding. Formators receive in-depth training in the subject matter they will be teaching or mentoring the young men and women in their formation houses. This could be anything from theological studies to professional skills development.
Effective communication is essential for successful training. The formators are informed and educated as they learn how to articulate ideas clearly, actively listen to those whom they form, and provide constructive feedback. Formators are trained in leadership principles and mentoring techniques to guide and support the development of those they are training.

This includes skills in coaching, counseling, and fostering personal growth. Formators learn about the importance of cultural competence and ethical behavior in their role. They explore topics such as diversity, inclusion, and respect for different perspectives especially focusing on the African culture in the Zimbabwean context. Hands-on experience is often a key component of training programs.
The religious men and women who join the formation program have the opportunities to practice their teaching or mentoring skills through role-playing, case studies, or real-life projects that can help and enable the formees to integrate their class work in formation and thereafter in their apostolic life as religious men and women. Reflective practice is emphasized in their formation program as formators to help them to continuously improve their skills and effectiveness during their time of formation. They learn how to critically evaluate their own performance and make adjustments as needed, when they will be forming the people in the different levels of formation.
In today’s digital age, formators receive training in the use of technology for teaching and learning purposes. This include how to incorporate multimedia tools, online platforms, and virtual classrooms into their training programs. This help the formators to be able to help formees to join online classes and activities offered from the main offices at the CMRS that benefit them in their spiritual growth.
Overall, the training of formators program aims to develop competent, confident, and compassionate formators who can inspire and empower others to reach their full potential, as they help the church grow in Zimbabwe and the whole world as we are the missionary in return to the Western world as their numbers are down.