Formation Articles

Formation articles are short, practical essays on various topics related to Christian spirituality. We've composed these articles to equip Christians in their work within the church and the broader culture.

The Value of Spiritual Direction in the Formation Journey

In 2004 when I entered my Master’s program in spiritual formation, I knew nothing about the ministry of spiritual direction. I was keenly interested in how God changes His children—grows them up in Christlikeness--but unfamiliar with spiritual direction and unsure how direction fits into the change process. Now fifteen years later and having practiced as a spiritual director for over a decade, I have a deep appreciation for spiritual direction and the role it plays in spiritual transformation.

Creating an Organizational or Group Life Map

A life map is a self-reflection tool that individuals create to help them grasp the arc of their life story. You can use a life map to gain an overview of your life or to focus just on specific themes, like one’s hardships, joys or dreams.

Life Mapping Your Small Group, Church or Organization

Debbie was the first one to notice what made our recent weekend meeting special: everyone attending our Grafted Life Council Meeting was also there for our very first one 9 years ago.