Our process is founded on the pedagogy of Ignatius of Loyola, mostly of his Spiritual Exercises, as well as the contributions of modern psychology and sociology.
Communities, teams, groups of young people, married couples, need to be creative in finding time in their busy schedules, to stop, breathe, listen, rest, and to come together. Where do they find that time ?
In a circle, each person occupies a similar space. And each person has an equal voice, from the youngest to the oldest, from the most to the least educated. The Holy Spirit is speaking through each one.
At the center of the circle : an open Bible. Someone brings us together and invites us to listen to Him.
Personal prayerful reflection precedes small group sharing. It ensures depth and freedom for the conversations.
The participants are invited to look at their personal stories to heighten their awareness of the graces received and to glance at the future in order to be open to the desires that the Lord has placed in their hearts.
The sharing in large groups is often prepared by small group sharing of 5 to 6 people. The small group helps to build trust and allows freedom of speech for the individuals.
In the 1st round, each participant is invited to say something that came up from his or her personal prayerful reflection. The other participants listen actively. In the 2nd round, people are invited to freely interact with one another. In the 3rd round, the group converses together with the Lord who is present among them.
The communal celebration of God’s mercy is a powerful part of the process. It is a festive moment. Here creativity is needed.
When we are reconciled, the risen Lord calls us to work with Him for peace and reconciliation in the world.