Check out photos and reflections on the J.O.Y. page at: https://www.joyformationprogram.com
J.O.Y. at a Glance
The J.O.Y. (Justice & Outreach Year) of Formation is an experiential learning program that links Catholic Social Teaching with the real-life challenges experienced by people living on the margins.
During 10 weekend sessions(September – June), participants will explore various issues of social justice including:
- International development, Economic Injustice & Peace
- Refugees
- Walking with Indigenous/ Métis people
- Anti-poverty
- Human Dignity
- Health & Elder Care
- Hunger & Food
- Restorative Justice
- Youth & Family
- Care of the Earth & Ecological Justice
By visiting local service agencies, meeting with those who work in these social justice fields and being with the people they serve, participants will gain an opportunity to broaden their understanding of the issues at hand and become equipped with the skills to engage in service outreach. Participants will be invited to enter into a process of personal transformation.
J.O.Y. in Spiritual Formation
During the 10 J.O.Y. weekends participants will be invited to bring their experiences of service and solidarity to prayer and theological reflection, benefitting from the support of their J.O.Y. community and a Spiritual accompanier.
2017 – 2018
| August 25, 2017 Morning orientation retreat | February 9 - 10, 2018 |
| September 15 – 16, 2017 | March 9 - 10, 2018 |
| October 13 – 14, 2017 | April 13 - 14, 2018 |
| November 17 - 18, 2017 | May 11 - 12, 2018 |
| December 8 - 9, 2017 | June 8 - 9, 2018 |
| January 19 - 20, 2018 |
J.O.Y. in the Field
In addition to the 10 weekend sessions, participants will have an opportunity to become familiar with and grow in one particular area of service through a volunteer Field Placement Experience. After a process of mutual discernment, participants will be partnered with an agency in their home community throughout the Diocese of Saskatoon for the duration of the program.
J.O.Y. in Your Life
This experiential opportunity will be offered to all lay people living in urban and rural communities. Through participation in the J.O.Y. of formation program, participants will become evangelizers of God’s deep love for those we encounter.
