Formation methodology

The social reality and the historical context of each nation and/or geographical area means that the formation process of the members of the Association must confront different demands. Normally, in planning a formation process, the following four elements are to be taken into consideration:

A catechumenal process helps young people mature and develop their faith. In this process, the Word of God is the enlightening center which motivates and leads the young men and women to a commitment to live their lives in an integral manner and to configure their lives to Christ. Through the use of the scrutinies one is able to measure, in an objective manner, the growth of the individuals and this provides the possibility of opening new channels.

The spiritual life of the young men and women (Christ centered and Marian) enables them to harmonize their life in the midst of the world through a life of prayer and through participation in the sacraments.

Their action program is developed in light of the objectives and lines of action that are developed on the national, provincial, diocesan and local level (campaigns, festivals, celebrations and forms of outreach to the poor).

The VMY does not work in an isolated manner but ministers as a community. From the parish or the diocese, the members work together with other active church groups and in a special way, seek to coordinate their work with others who share their charism, that is, with other members of the various branches of the Vincentian Family. This takes place on a provincial, regional and national level.