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Formation, Deformation, Transformation

Formation, Deformation, Transformation

Published by Karel San Juan, SJ, PhD

Life, it seems, brings experiences that form, deform, and transform us.

Formation.

We are formed as persons with unique characteristics, shaped by our unique histories and circumstances. Our faith teaches us that we are formed in original goodness, created by a Good Creator God - almighty in His beneficence and providence, and thus willed by this Creator to be good, and to be His partner in the continuing creation of the world. We are formed in, by, and for love, warmly held in God's hands, deeply cared for and unforgotten. As "works-in-progress", we are constantly borne in love and wholeness.

Deformation.

Though being formed in love and wholeness, we do get deformed. Deformation happens through experiences that wound us, that scar us, that weakens us. We get disoriented and we "miss the mark". We miss the point of life, and we forget that we are loved. We yield to temptation, we get pulled further toward the self, we narrow our vision, and we succumb to fear and to the power that destroys rather than builds. We see ourselves small, stunted, deformed, unable to move, grow, and claim joy and fulfillment in the world.

Transformation.

Amid our deformation, we can be pulled back on track. Our formation can continue. Transformation can happen. And it does happen, even slowly, painfully, unknowingly. There is something made available when we are created. And that is what we call grace. Grace freely given for us to claim. Grace that is strength, grace that is courage, grace that is possibility and hope. It helps us navigate darkness and see light. It helps us see change and newness in ourselves and in the world.

In the journey we call life, we go through formation, deformation, transformation. But we need to be aware of this. In Emmaus Center, we accompany you in this journey of seeing and claiming, this process of being transformed anew for your sake, for the sake of your community, and for the sake of the world we love. Your life - renewed, reclaimed - helps bring forth a new world of peace and justice.

Fr. Karel was former executive director of Emmaus Center.

This article was first published in “Formation in a Complex World” a series of brief articles featuring various perspectives on formation and psycho-spiritual integration by Emmaus Center.

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Come and be transformed on the Emmaus journey!

Are you searching for greater freedom, integration, and meaning? Do you sense a deep desire to serve others and spread hope?

Then come and embark on your own Emmaus journey. Be part of a community of individuals and groups who have experienced the grace of Emmaus.