“Fan into a flame the gift of God that you possess” (2 Tim 1:6) Best Practice - Rev Dr Gerard Fieldhouse-Byrne
As outlined in the recorded presentation I would like to suggest 3 points to consider as we think about Best Practice in regard to Ongoing Formation of Clergy. These suggestions are based on 19 years of work in this area with clergy, they are offered as part of the ongoing discussion at the conference.
Point One: Why do we do Ongoing Formation? This question is important as it forms the foundation of why continuing formation is important. It is not just another educational course or a certificate to be achieved. Ongoing formation is at the heart of the clergyman’s YES to serve the Church and the people of God. In my experience, raising awareness of this understanding amongst clergy and leadership teams always enables ongoing formation programmes to be accepted and to thrive. Encouraging our commitment to personal, ministerial and spiritual growth through ongoing formation is an expression of our commitment to our calling. The emphasis needs to recognize that ongoing formation offers the clergy a human, spiritual and ministerial opportunity to grow and develop. It is a positive expression of personal and ecclesiological accountability for ministry in the Church. Such a vision of ongoing formation that has this as its foundation will thrive.
Point Two: Subject Matter of Ongoing Formation Input is Crucially Important. This may seem obvious and indeed the best programmes take this seriously. They don’t just offer courses for priests but also offer the input that addresses the needs of clergy in a practical and personal way. For this to happen prior consultation with clergy is essential so that the topics for the formation input address ministerial and personal/human needs that they themselves have identified. My experience over 19 years of offering formation programmes is that clergy will tell you what they need and will attend workshops as a result. Input also needs to reflect local and national issues affecting clergy life and ministry. There is also scope to address ecclesiological and safeguarding issues in a way that encourages clergy to participate in the life of the Diocese and wider Church. The content needs to assist clergy grow humanly, pastorally, spiritually and as men of the Church. It needs to be practical, helpful and encouraging. It can also be a doorway for clergy to ask for personal help as well as pastoral assistance. It is also an effective way to build mutually supportive relationships between the Bishop, leadership teams and clergy.
Point Three: Feedback and Commitment. Honest feedback following the formation programmes is really very important. This enables the programme to grow and respond to actual clergy concerns and input. It shows that clergy are listened to and are involved in ongoing formation as collaborators rather than just objects. It helps them to take ownership of the programme and builds mature relationships with leadership teams and the Bishop. Commitment to such programs is important which is demonstrated by resourcing the program with personnel, availability and funding. It is important to follow-up on clergy feedback and to respond to their suggestions. Clergy involvement should be monitored and encouraged as this enables growth, accountability and mutual support.
Rev Dr Gerard Fieldhouse-Byrne
February 2024
St Luke’s Centre- Support of Best Practice in Ongoing Formation. Since 2005 the Centre has supported Diocese and Religious Congregations in the research and development of Clergy Ongoing Formation programmes. We have also worked with seminarians so that the foundations of a commitment to Ongoing Formation can be established in the House of Formation. The Centre has developed and facilitated Human Formation Programmes in seminaries and for men in formation for Religious Life. Working with Bishops, diocesan leadership teams and professional colleagues we have encouraged and supported the implementation of Ongoing Formation programmes. We have also offered workshops for Bishops’ Conferences to explore and address Ongoing Formation and clergy support needs. Following on from workshops we have been able to offer therapeutic support and professional accompaniment for individual clergy. We have also worked with clergy and Diocese to establish local support structures proactively so that priests can be referred and helped when needed.
Rev Dr Gerard Fieldhouse-Byrne is a priest of the Diocese of Salford in the UK. Since 2005 he has been the Executive Director of the St Luke’s Centre in Manchester. As a psychologist, counsellor and workshop facilitator he has worked with seminarians, Religious, clergy, Bishops and Religious Leadership Teams throughout Europe and internationally.