FORMATION TERMINOLOGY

TO FORM: This verb means to give shape to, to build up

FRANCISCAN FORMATION is that process of giving shape to and building up our vocation as Secular Franciscans.  This formation never ends - it is a lifelong process.

FRANCISCAN FORMATION DIRECTOR is the Holy Spirit.  Always pray to the Holy Spirit for guidance then proceed as the Spirit directs.

FRATERNITY FORMATION DIRECTOR is that person who has been elected as a member of the fraternity council to both assist in the animation of the fraternity and to direct the process of formation in that fraternity.  The formation that this person "directs" is for those who are just beginning the process (we refer to this as "initial formation") and for those who have already been professed (we refer to this as "ongoing formation").

FORMATOR: this term describes anyone who assists in the formation process - either initial or ongoing.  This could be the fraternity Formation Director, another member of the fraternity council, another professed brother or sister, or some other qualified person - or any combination of these.

FORMATION TEAM:  It is helpful to rotate the role of Formator for ongoing formation at each fraternity gathering.  In this way, our brothers and sisters grow by taking on this responsibility.  On the other hand, it seems to be more beneficial to have only one or two Formators for the Inquiry phase and the Candidacy phase.