Our Formation
Formation
Comes First
The Saint John Society Volunteer Missionary Program is first and foremost a program of missionary formation, and secondarily a missionary program.
The mission year is an intentional investment in the person. Mission provides the setting, but the primary focus of the year is the growth of the missionary — spiritually, humanly, apostolically, and intellectually.
Formation Begins
Together
Formation launches with ten days of intensive, unified summer training, bringing together all SJS Volunteer Missionaries for the upcoming year.
This time introduces the shared foundations of prayer, community life, and mission, and provides a common starting point for the year ahead.
Centered in Christ
Formation is rooted in a lived relationship with Jesus Christ.
Throughout the year, SJS Volunteer Missionaries are supported by:
- Weekly retreats
- Weekly formations
- Teamwork and community
- Prayer woven into daily life
This Christ-centered foundation anchors the year and sustains missionaries in the demands of mission.
Close Accompaniment
Formation is personal and attentive.
SJS Volunteer Missionaries are closely accompanied by priests of the Saint John Society and sisters of the Society of Mary.
Spiritual direction, weekly retreats and formation, and real responsibility allow formation to be individually tailored to each missionary’s gifts, challenges, and vocational discernment.
How the mission is lived
As part of their formation, SJS Volunteer Missionaries
commit a year to:
Human Formation
Community life, teamwork, leadership skills, responsibility, and healthy rhythms of life.
Spiritual Formation
Learning how to pray, growing in the sacramental life of the Church, and deepening trust in God.
apostolic Formation
Giving talks, leading events, managing programs, and learning how to guide and accompany others.
intellectual Formation
Ongoing study and formation, including the opportunity to earn a Certificate in New Evangelization.
Prepared for Life
The formation of the mission year extends beyond the program itself.
SJS Volunteer Missionaries grow in skills that serve them in the professional and social world, while forming habits of faith, leadership, and responsibility that endure.
“The 'Four Pillars' really are pillars! Iʻve been sharing them and the many lessons and experiences from the VM year with so many people here. We are launching an Alpha Course, I am hosting Lectio Divina every Sunday, and starting to build a community. I have so much hope for the future.”
— Chloe, SJS Volunteer Missionary (2024–25).