What's the difference between education and formation? Education transmits information and knowledge. Formation emphasizes the process of human growth and development. When the two happen together, the educational process can foster broad individual and social development.
In my theology course on the Church and global cultures at the Loyola University Chicago John Felice Rome Center, students explore the course themes—with a particular focus on the relationship between the Church and disability culture—but they also have the chance to encounter communities on the ground that embody the importance of meeting one another, the value of community, the need for a more just and peaceful society.
Since February 2020, students in this course have had the opportunity to meet and build moments of shared community with members of Fede e Luce. The course's service-learning component connects classroom learning with community service. To date, these encounters have taken place over three separate academic semesters (spring 2020, fall 2021, and spring 2022), made possible by the generous support of Fabio Bronzini, Daniela Guglietta, and many Fede e Luce members who have participated in this initiative.
The structure of the meetings has evolved over time. Introductions are always important. Once in the classroom, each student and Fede e Luce guest is invited to introduce themselves through an object or photograph that captures some aspect of who they are or what matters to them. This gives everyone the chance to present themselves beyond words, sharing something meaningful. I remember students who spoke no Italian (but English) and Fede e Luce members who spoke no English (but Italian) introducing themselves creatively in a language beyond words—a powerful sign of inclusion and accessibility.
After introductions, there is time for shared activities. In February 2020, some students joined a Fede e Luce gathering. Conversation, a shared meal, and creating carnival masks enriched the time together. In October 2021, the shared activity took place on campus: a community olive harvest to make oil. In February 2022, following a virtual testimony by Larysa Grygoryeva about the tragic situation in Ukraine, students and Fede e Luce members created "mosaics of peace" together, expressing creatively the importance and urgency of peace. These meetings give everyone the chance to know one another and to experience precious moments of community.
The feedback has been deeply positive. Fede e Luce members expressed joy and satisfaction at bringing their voice and experience into the university setting. Students, who reflect on their experience at various points throughout the semester, have spoken of gratitude for meeting Fede e Luce, discovering shared interests, learning across language barriers, and experiencing genuine reciprocity and fellowship.
Already we are planning the next meeting. These moments can be rich occasions for individual and communal growth—examples of a humanity that flourishes and speaks in the language of hope.