Formation structures of the religious of Notre Dame of the Missions (RNDM) in Bangladesh: Their implications for on-going formation

Date of Publication

9-2009

Document Type

Master's Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Education Major in Religious & Values Ed w/Spec in Formative Counseling/Spiritual Direction

Subject Categories

Religious Education

College

College of Liberal Arts

Department/Unit

Theology and Religious Education

Thesis Adviser

Ma. Corazon P. Manalo

Defense Panel Chair

Rito V. Baring

Defense Panel Member

Ferdinand D. Dagmang
Rebecca G. Cacho

Abstract/Summary

This study explored the formation structures among the Religious of Notre Dame of the Missions (RNDM) sisters in Bangladesh. The present study also attempted to draw up implications to the RNDM on-going Formation Program based on its findings. The respondents of the study were 50 perpetually professed sisters whose age ranged from 30 to 70 years. Having employed quantitative research design, the ranking format of a multiple-choice type questionnaire on difficulties and problems of the sisters and how they handle with them and the checklist of a four-point rating scales questionnaire on the formation needs of the sisters were used for data collection.

The sisters’ problems identified from this result were as follows: lack of understanding and support (highest rank), inability to find spiritual support (second highest), problem with health (third highest). For the questions concerning their method of handling their problems, the majority of respondents appreciated and gave the highest rank to the following: talking it over with someone, either with their spiritual directors, Province or local leaders or formators, with whom they feel easy and free to share their problems. The respondents of this study also have given importance to personal characteristics such as: a trustworthy person(s), one who keeps secrets, and empathetic, understanding, and experienced person(s).

The formation structures of the sisters in the area of community life, spiritual life, apostolic life and human needs were noted in general as “Good.” But there are some items in these areas which showed a low mean average. This indicates a need to

have various formations for the sisters. Among the five variables of religious life, “leadership” was noted as “Somewhat Good”, with a low mean average. This means that formation needs in leadership are highly estimated by the majority of the respondents. Therefore, priority should be accorded to formation of leaders in Bangladesh.

The results of the study are deemed useful in looking into implications concerning the RNDM formation in the Bangladesh Province. In particular, the RNDM on-going formation program of sisters will draw inspiration from the findings of this study. A proposed framework for on-going formation was prepared based on Van Kaam’s Formation Field.

Abstract Format

html

Language

English

Format

Electronic

Accession Number

CDTG004640

Shelf Location

Archives, The Learning Commons, 12F Henry Sy, Sr. Hall

Physical Description

1 computer optical disc ; 4 3/4 in.

Keywords

Spiritual formation—Catholic Church; Religious of Notre Dame of the Missions

Upload Full Text

wf_no

Embargo Period

1-26-2024

This document is currently not available here.

Share

COinS