In partnership with the UISG and the USG, the Discerning Leadership Program has once again brought together leaders from across Africa and Asia for an enriching journey of formation, reflection, and transformation. The third edition of the DL Online Formation provided over 240 Superior Generals and General Councilors with a unique space to integrate leadership and management skills with Ignatian spirituality, fostering a more discerning and synodal approach to leadership.

A formation tailored to global leadership challenges

Religious leaders today face complex and evolving challenges, from intercultural collaboration to decision-making in diverse and dynamic contexts. This year’s 12-day program was designed to address these realities through:

• Culturally Relevant Content – Tailored to the specific needs of leaders in Africa and Asia, ensuring deep engagement and practical application with tools to navigate uncertainty and guide communities with hope and direction.
• Interactive & Experiential Learning – Going beyond theory, participants practiced how to foster collaboration, inclusion and co-responsibility in leadership teams; to shift from hierarchical leadership to shared, synodal leadership rooted in discernment; to handle organizational conflicts constructively, enhancing team cohesion.
• Peer Exchange & Community Building – Small group sessions created trust-filled spaces for dialogue, strengthening mutual support among participants.
• A Spiritually Rooted Approach – Integrating Ignatian spirituality into leadership, allowing for a holistic and faith-driven transformation, connected to each organization’s charism.

We are now equipped to transform our leadership teams into spaces of discernment, dialogue, and unity.

Leadership styles and synodality are tools we can bring directly into our communities to foster mission-aligned leadership.

A Ripple Effect: Spreading the Impact of Discerning Leadership

The impact of the Discerning Leadership Online Formation extends far beyond its 240 participants. Many have committed to sharing their learning, mentoring, and accompanying others within their congregations and organizations. By applying the tools and methods gained, they are fostering a culture of synodal leadership, ensuring that the principles of discernment, collaboration, and servant leadership take root at all levels. This cascading effect is nurturing new generations of leaders, shaping communities where listening, dialogue, and shared mission become central to leadership and decision-making.

We will bring these insights to our teams and communities, so leadership becomes a shared journey of service and discernment

The entire course of formation was very enriching for me. The friendly atmosphere created between the team and the participation enhanced our openness, trust and eagerness to learn and share. It was very enlightening and directive for me as a leader.

It was a memorable and enriching experience. The entire process was peaceful, and I could sense the guidance of the Holy Spirit. I was able to practice active listening throughout.

Transformative and enriching. It exceeded my expectations and gained lots of insights. I found myself engaging in deeper self-reflection, which helped me better understand my strengths, areas for growth, and how I relate to others as a leader

My horizon is totally changed. I saw that the team had good cooperation and tacit understanding, and was able to provide timely assistance and handle problems as quickly as possible. I reviewed my own leadership experience and identified my strengths and weaknesses.

The overwhelmingly positive response to this edition reinforces the growing need for leadership development within religious congregations. As we continue to evolve, the DLP remains committed to empowering leaders to navigate the complexities of their ministries with a discerning heart.

Stay tuned for future opportunities to engage in the next editions of the DLP formation!