An Ecumenical Spiritual Formation Community
Friends in Formation is an ecumenical community that offers spiritual formation programs customised to the context and needs of Africa. Our focus is to train leaders of the broader African church including ministry leaders, with support from Renovaré and other organisations such as Mosaïek Church, the Jesuit Institute and the Assemblies of God Church of South Africa. The leadership of Friends in Formation South Africa come from varied church backgrounds and have been influenced by the work of Dallas Willard, Richard Foster, Trevor Hudson, and Renovaré.
Our vision is to offer rigorous learning, prayerful praxis, and intentional community in an ecumenical way to fulfil the mission of training disciples of Jesus Christ to experience the with-God life more fully, and to deepen the awareness of God’s love and presence through spiritual formation practices.
As part of this program, we would look to teach and train a cohort of church and ministry leaders and influencers on soul care, spiritual formation, principles of discipleship and intimacy with God, and equip them to teach others in their circle of influence. We hope to have this program accredited by the broader church in Africa so that this program could be part of the continuing education and accreditation needs of the participants.
The cohort for this two year program will begin in February 2026.
FAQ
Why is community so important?
Spiritual transformation takes place in degrees (2 Corinthians 3:18) over time with others (1 Corinthians 12) in the context of disciplines and practices that open us to God. Community and transformation are integrally related. Often it is the lack of community and an individual, privatized approach to transformation that limits the capacity to see others as instruments of God’s grace and limits the work of transformation in our lives.
What does ecumenical mean?
The ecumenical approach places a focus on unity between Christian and is considerate in integrating the main streams of spirituality within the Christian faith. It is a generous and curious openness to all Christ-followers. This program is ecumenical as we are not teaching doctrine, but seeking to learn to do the things that Jesus taught his disciples to do.
What is spiritual direction?
Spiritual direction creates a sacred space for you to get in touch with God, with yourself, and with your life. It is a place to discern the movement and activity of God in your life and offers a deepening and widening of your self-awareness. There is a safe space to attend, explore, and reflect upon your inner journey and what it means for the world you live in. To listen and tend to the longings in your heart and life. To deepen your intimacy and relationship with the Divine.
What is a retreat?
When we choose to retreat, we make a generous investment in our friendship with Christ. It is a key practice that opens us to God and God’s movement in our lives. A retreat is a winsome invitation from God to greater freedom and surrender. A retreat offers a space and a time to step away from everyday life to focus on God and yourself.
What can I expect from the retreats?
You can look forward to renowned Christian speakers, along with generous time spent resting, praying, being in silence, reading Scripture and enjoying community with the purpose of growing in God.
Do I have to attend all the retreats?
Yes. The retreats are key integration sessions.
What is the time commitment for this program?
You will need to commit around 4–5 hours per week to get the most out of this program.
Will there be in-person classes?
With the exception of the two retreats per year, all groups and discussions will take place online. The retreat dates for 2026 are 16–20 March and 1–4 September.
Do I need any previous qualifications?
No prior studies or qualifications are necessary.
What are the payment terms?
-
The program fee of R9,500 per year can be paid in monthly instalments of R1,000 over 9 months starting in February 2026.
Contact Us
If you would like to learn more about this program please write to Inge Basson or Becky Grisell
Program Director
