This integration weaves together the student's lived experience, study of theology, sense of vocation, and future goals. The academic dean and spiritual director share responsibility for setting the general direction of program activities, together with faculty and students comprising the Formation Planning Committee. Participation in the lay ministry formation program is required of all MAPS and MDiv students, although lay formation program activities are also open to other students of the school. Candidates for lay ministry are expected to participate in an annual review of their formational development during their years of study at The Saint Paul Seminary School of Divinity. As the student progresses in their program of preparation, they work with a review team consisting of a personal spiritual director and faculty adviser.
New students meet with their adviser to design a formation development plan.
In the plan, they address selection of a spiritual director, identification of opportunities for retreat during their program of study, and determination of areas for growth in personal spirituality. This plan then serves as the foundational guide for all subsequent formation activities through the remainder of the student's degree program. On an annual basis, the student and adviser work together to review and assess the student's formation progress. A summary of the formation assessment meeting is kept on file at the school. The primary source for formation is the student's everyday experiences in the midst of the world and church.