Listening to the Movement of the Spirit

‘God’s call, rooted in love, continues to be recreated and rewoven in the context of our changing world.’  This document is divided into three section: A, B and C.  It contains 'Orientations for Formation' and continues to be used as a guideline by many who seek deeper meaning in their lives.

INTRODUCTION

As the Institute of the Infant Jesus Sisters expands its horizons throughout our ever-changing world, we are constantly challenged and enriched by a growing number of nationalities and cultures.  While remaining united in heart and spirit we live out our mission in circumstances that vary greatly from one area to another.

This document seeks to rediscover the IJ vision and keep it alive in our wide ranging situations . It seeks to put new language on the essential elements of our spirit and reflect the reality of the world in which we live today.

It is complementary to the Book of the Institute, while drawing inspiration from our Foundational Documents, the General Chapter and other International Assemblies. It is being offered, not only for newer members, but also for each one’s continuing formation. The need for continuing formation becomes more urgent as we move into diverse areas of ministry in response to the calls that reach us today. We are being invited to remember the past with gratitude, to live the present with enthusiasm and to look to the future with confidence, relying on our loving and faithful God.

We recognise the very diverse situations in which we live and the need to respect the culture and uniqueness of each one. It is therefore important that the way of implementing this document be worked out in each country and adapted to the evolving realities of each situation.

At the Council of the Institute in Madrid 2003 the importance of inviting contributions from the newer members of the Institute was recognised.  The insights from their International Meeting in Uttoxeter, England 2004 have been incorporated into this document, together with the serious work done in each country afterwards.  We thank all those whose wisdom and experience have contributed to bringing this document to birth.

We trust that, with this document as a tool, we may give space for the Spirit to breathe new life into our initial and ongoing formation, while we stay with the question of our last International Collegial Assembly:

"Lord, in what direction is the breath of your Spirit leading us?"