The General Secretariat for Formation organized an Online Ongoing Formation for Formators on September 25th. On this occasion, we had the joy of welcoming Sister Teodora Shulak, MSSR, Superior General of the Missionary Sisters of the Most Holy Redeemer. As part of the General Secretariat for Formation, Sister Teodora presented the theme “The Importance of Human Formation in the Formation Process.”
The meeting was inaugurated with a few words from Father General Rogério Gomes, C.Ss.R., who emphasized the importance of human formation, a fundamental aspect of developing missionaries who are capable of responding to contemporary world challenges. He also reminded us of the formator’s mission, stressing the importance of their work within the Congregation. He said: “This is your mission.” Furthermore, he mentioned that on the feast of Blessed Gaspar Stanggassinger, he would send a letter to the entire Congregation emphasizing the important work of the formators.
During her presentation, Sister Teodora highlighted the importance of human formation as a fundamental pillar in the formation process. She referred to the Apostolic Exhortation Pastores Dabo Vobis, which states that human formation is the foundation upon which the other formative dimensions—pastoral, intellectual, and spiritual—should be developed. According to this vision, divine grace does not eliminate human nature but perfects it, underscoring the need for adequate human formation for effective ministry.
Sister Teodora addressed affective maturity, which involves self-knowledge and the ability to regulate and express emotions appropriately. This affective maturity is crucial, as a Redemptorist must be able to manage his emotions to maintain healthy pastoral relationships and serve authentically and effectively. It was mentioned that a candidate without this maturity could face serious obstacles in fulfilling future pastoral responsibilities.
In her presentation, she delved into the internal tension that exists between the “real self” (who I am at this moment) and the “ideal self” (who I want to become) and how the process of personal maturation helps integrate both aspects. Human formation allows candidates to recognize and accept their shadows and internal conflicts, leading to a deeper understanding of themselves and their pastoral mission.
Another essential aspect addressed was personal integration, where balancing what a person thinks, feels, and does (head, heart, and hands) is necessary for achieving a mature and integrated personality.
Human formation is essential for future Redemptorists to lead with compassion and wisdom and promote authentic relationships with the communities they serve. The path to a full and effective pastoral life begins with self-knowledge and the development of affective maturity, which enables the Redemptorist to integrate all dimensions of his personal and ministerial life.
The meeting concluded with a thank you to Sister Teodora Shulak for her valuable presentation, which provided a space for deep reflection on the challenges and opportunities of human formation in consecrated life. The participation of the formators was also acknowledged, as their contributions enriched the dialogue and highlighted the importance of strengthening human formation at all formative levels.
Fr. Gerardo Hernández Carrasquillo, C.Ss.R.
Executive Secretary of the General Secretariat of Formation
