Formation and Your Council

"Formation" consists of events and resources to provide training and spiritual growth to local Vincentians.

• Our Spiritual Advisors provide formation in every meeting by leading our members in prayer and reflection.

• A Council usually has a Formation Committee to plan and provide a variety of experiences and training for the members.  Even very small Councils benefit from having a Formation Committee!

  • Learn more about Council Formation Committees here.  You don't need to do it all yourself.

• Looking for a specific workshop, event, or training?

  • Check out this Formation Resource list with references!

• What about the Ozanam Orientation? 

  • The Ozanam Orientation is a six-hour interactive workshop, offered annually or more often in most Councils.

  • Ozanam Orientations are taught by the Council's formation team.  If you don't have your own team:

  • The West Region Formation Committee arranges Ozanam Orientations for Councils which don't yet have their own formation team.  

    • It takes about 3 months to find a team and a location - call early!  

    • Expenses, including travel for the presenters, are normally paid by the hosting Council.  West Region can help if needed.

  • The West Region Formation Committee also trains formation teams for many Councils. 

Click Here to visit the National Council's formation website.

Due to our vast area, the West Region has made some adaptations to the roles and responsibilities defined in the National Formation Guidelines found on the National site.  Please see this below:  Western Region Adaptations to the National Guidelines

If your Council wants to know what is available, or would like help or advice on increasing Formation or Spirituality within your Conference, please contact the West Region Formation Committee.  The Committee members are available to help you!