Formators Challenged to Rethink Youth Accompaniment
By: Sr Lillian Gathoni, SMK
“Young people, the younger generation, the generation of today, are really very sensitive to the feedback you give them. But not just the content of it. The manner in which you deliver it is bigger than even the content itself.”
The reflection by Dr Elias Mokua, SJ, captured one of the key messages of his presentation on the second day of the annual formators’ meeting at Dimesse Spiritual Centre on 3rd of November 2026.
Similarly drawing from the Synod’s Study Group 4 on formation, Dr Mokua challenged formators to move away from attitudes that encourage exceptionalism, “I am so special, I’m so different.” and instead nurture a sense of belonging and shared responsibility.
In his presentation, “Accompanying Today’s Young Generation: Research-Based Insights,” he highlighted the pressures in shaping young people, including digital relationships, questions of identity, changing technology and uncertainty about the future.
He urged formators to communicate clearly, offer timely and constructive feedback, invite questions and protect the dignity of those they accompany.
The message was clear: formation must go beyond giving instructions. It calls for listening, dialogue and a willingness to journey together across generations.