Ongoing formation: Spirituality of the Heart as a Process-Oriented Spirituality

What I would like to share on this occasion is the fruit of my reflection on an experience I had while participating in a facilitation course offered through the Ongoing Formation Commission. It is a reflection on the very core of our life: the Spirituality of the Heart.

During one of the sessions, I was deeply moved when I read that the Spirituality of the Heart can be understood as a form of spirituality that is “process oriented.” It is a spirituality that views Christian life as a continuous journey of transformation rather than merely a system of beliefs or a set of rigid rules. At its heart lies the conviction that renewal begins within the human heart, where God’s love is encountered, received, and allowed to shape one’s entire being.

This process of transformation unfolds through four interconnected movements (Four movements of the Spirituality of The Heart): Encounter, Intimacy, Conversion, Mission. First, there is an encounter with God’s unconditional love through everyday experiences, relationships, suffering, beauty, and prayer. These moments awaken us to God’s presence, who has, in fact, been at work in our lives all along. This encounter gradually develops into Intimacy, where a person grows in self-awareness and in relationship with God. Through this intimacy, individuals begin to recognize their true identity as persons loved by God and created in His image.

From this intimacy emerges Conversion, or transformation. This is not merely a matter of moral improvement but an ongoing change of heart. Old attitudes, fears, and self-centered tendencies are gradually replaced by compassion, openness, humility, and greater freedom. For this reason, the Spirituality of the Heart understands conversion not as a single event but as a lifelong process.

Ultimately, a transformed heart naturally flows into Mission. Mission is understood not simply as an activity or a task, but as the visible expression of a heart shaped by the love of Christ. A person becomes more capable of showing kindness, accompanying others, acting with compassion, and serving those around them, especially those who are marginalized in society.

I have come to believe more deeply that the Spirituality of the Heart is truly a process-oriented spirituality because it continually invites people into deeper encounter, greater intimacy, ongoing conversion, and renewed mission. It is a lifelong and dynamic journey of living ever more fully within the Heart of Christ.

Bram Tulusan, MSC. Indonesian Province