The Vision: Spiritual Formation is a “process of being conformed to the image of Christ for the sake of others.” (Dr. Robert Mulholland - Invitation to a Journey)
This definition helps us see that spiritual formation is on-going over our life time. It is not a simple “fix” to become who God created us to be. In many ways we have become wounded people. We have learned habits and ways of being that are not God’s ways. Spiritual formation is a journey back to God. It is a journey to greater intimacy with God. That is the process and the goal. Being transformed into Christ-likeness includes disciplines and practices involving the Word of God, prayer, a devotional life, discernment in our life choices, healing, commitment to community, serving others and above all ~ learning to love and experience God. “Love the Lord God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the first and greatest commandment.” (Matt. 22:37-38)
To keep all of our growth, development and spiritual formation from becoming self-centered and self-focused… authentic spiritual formation will always be for the sake of others. This is the essence of love summarized by Christ in the second great commandment: “Love your neighbor as yourself. All the Law and Prophets hang on these two commandments.” (Matt 18:39-40)
The progression of spiritual formation is outlined in various stages of the New Testament. It is most fully spelled out in II Peter 1: “Now since you have become partakers of the divine nature,” the writer says, “applying all diligence, in your faith supply moral excellence, knowledge; and in your knowledge, self-control, and in your self-control, perseverance, and in your perseverance, godliness; and in your godliness, brotherly kindness, and in your brotherly kindness, love.” (vv. 4-7)
The Spiritual Formation Leadership Team:
Elizabeth Whatley, Rev. Gloria Wilson, Pam Townsend, Sarah Hicks, David Boyd, Rev. Chelsea Brown, Esther Williams, Rev. Dan Morris, Rev. Tim Trent.
For information about Spiritual Formation, please contact Elizabeth Whatley, Chair, Division of Spiritual Formation, Conference Board of Discipleship: awfspiritualformationteam@gmail.com
Spiritual Formation Links