Religious Formation Ministry Programme
Dublin, Ireland
Celebrating Forty Years
Welcome to the RFM Programme
The Religious Formation Ministry Programme (Loreto House) is a one-year renewal programme offered by the Association of Leaders of Missionaries and Religious of Ireland (AMRI). Since 1982 the RFM Programme has become renowned for its excellence. Participants minister in every continent throughout the world. Female and male religious, together with diocesan clergy, find a space to learn from each other in an atmosphere that treasures diversity and encourages personal renewal.
The Religious Formation Ministry Programme is well underway for this new year! As ever, our enthusiastic group of participants this year hail from many different corners of the world. Our recent pilgrimage to Glendalough was an ideal opportunity for them to immerse themselves in the riches of Irish nature, spirituality and culture. As well as discovering the outer landscape, their RFMP journey is also leading them to explore the wonder and mystery of their own inner landscape.
Present Participants and the Team on the recent visit of Gerard Gallagher, AMRI Secretary General, to us in our new homeNOW accepting Applications for 2025-2026
The next session runs from
18 September 2025 to 19 June 2026
We recommend applying early
as soon as possible
Are you longing to embark on a life-changing journey of inner transformation and experiential learning? Are you seeking to integrate the human, spiritual, pastoral and intellectual dimensions of formation? Are you looking to develop your pastoral leadership and teamwork skills? Are you open to a Gospel-rooted, deeply incarnational, faith-based challenge? Are you willing to launch into an inter-national, inter-cultural and inter-congregational adventure?
If your answer is YES then contact us at rfmploretohouse@gmail.com today! We would be delighted to tell you more about the Religious Formation Ministry Programme, address any specific queries you may have and guide you along the application process.
To open a printable copy of an Application Form Click Here
To open a printable copy of a Recommendation Form Click Here
Loreto House has a new Home!
After more than 20 years in the beautiful surrounds of the Willow Park campus in Blackrock, the Religious Formation Ministry Programme has relocated to Saint Raphaela’s campus in Stillorgan.
We deeply appreciate the generosity of the Spiritan Congregation who have hosted us for over two decades.
With great excitement and appreciation we acknowledge the openness of the Handmaids of the Sacred Heart who have welcomed us for this year. We look forward to the journey ahead as we embrace change in a very real way.
See more about recent happenings on the Programme page
Contact Us
For further information and application forms please contact:
Jennifer Burke, RJM Director Religious Formation Ministry Programme,
Clonmore House,
St. Raphaela’s School Campus,
St. Raphaela’s Road,
Kilmacud Road Upper,
Stillorgan,
County Dublin,
Ireland
A94 R7N8
Tel: 089 469 6892
Email: rfmploretohouse@gmail.com
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the RFM Programme for you?
The RFM Programme addresses the task of preparing women and men in a cross-cultural setting for the ministry of leadership, initial formation, and ongoing formation. Many religious and priests also choose the Programme for renewal and discernment during a time of transition. The Programme offers unique opportunities for human development and personal transformation and enables participants to engage with current realities in the Church and the world with greater skill and confidence. All this happens through the many and varied presentations given on different aspects of theology, spirituality, prayer, psychology, and pastoral practice.
When will the Programme begin in 2025?
The Team looks forward to welcoming new participants on 18 September 2025 to 19 June 2026. You can arrive from 1.00pm to begin at 1.30pm.
Our location now is: Religious Formation Ministry Programme, Clonmore House, St. Raphaela’s School Campus, St. Raphaela’s Road, Kilmacud Road Upper, Stillorgan, Co. Dublin, Ireland, A94 R7N8
Please apply in time for your visa and try to arrive in Ireland at least two weeks in advance in order to rest and find your way around Dublin.
How has the RFM Programme developed?
From its inception the RFM Programme has incorporated the very best available contemporary insights in spirituality, theology, cosmology, psychology, social justice, and group dynamics thus giving participants a vision of formation and leadership which energises and renews them as they return to take up their roles in whichever ministry they have been appointed to. RFMP has become renowned for its excellence and participants minister on every continent. The RFM Programme continues to develop and adapt to meet the needs of participants in a rapidly evolving universe. In the rich and challenging environment of diverse cultures, worldviews and experiences, RFMP aims to create an inclusive, welcoming community which seeks to read the signs of the times from a Gospel perspective. In 2022 the RFM Programme celebrated its fortieth year in existence.
How does the RFM Programme operate?
The RFM Programme is process oriented. By this we mean that time is given for personal reflection which allows each participant ample opportunity to assimilate new insights and learnings. Each participant will be assigned a mentor from the team who will accompany him/her throughout the year at RFMP. Regular group work in various forms is a hallmark of the RFM Programme. Full participation is mandatory. Although no formal examinations take place, participants will be required to write reflection papers on relevant topics throughout the year. We expect that each participant gives his/her full attention to the RFM Programme while at the same time enjoying the rich social and cultural life Ireland has to offer.
Who can join the RFM Programme and how long does it last?
The RFM Programme follows the September to June academic year and welcomes male and female consecrated persons and priests from all over the world. We aim to provide a robust experience of Human, Spiritual, Intellectual and Pastoral formation in the context of the new reality of the Church and world.
Is the RFM Programme residential?
RFMP is non-residential.
Participants find accommodation with their own religious communities in Dublin or with a sponsoring community or local parish. We provide participants with a list of suitable accommodation from which they can make their own choice. Our excellent facilities in Loreto House provide ample space and opportunities for participants to interact with each other, form friendships and relax together.
What is the weather like in Ireland?
Participants who come from warm climates will need to adjust to the colder temperatures in Ireland. It is advisable to bring warm clothing in preparation for the wet winter months. Although snow doesn’t fall every year it is rare that such snowfalls are very heavy or last for a long time. In the past some participants have taken great delight in experiencing snow for the first time.
Do I need a visa?
For all information please follow the link www.irishimmigration.ie.
- Applicants to RFMP should apply for a Minister of Religion Visa.
- Allow four months for your visa application to go through and follow all instructions meticulously as required on the application form.
Various Recent Events
- Life in RFMP
- jude
27 March 2025 : Jude Lal Fernando from Trinity College, Dublin concluded the series he had on RELIGIOUS PLURALISM and Interfaith Dialogue. The modules which ran for three weeks included Buddhism, Hinduism, Encounter with Muslims and visiting places of Worship in Dublin. We had an enriching encounter with our sisters and brothers at the Sik Temple and in the Clonskeagh Mosque.
- vowed
Diarmuid O'Murchu, MSC facilitated these three days and enabled us to engage with the vows as evolving. The new insights were really deep and the participants found them empowering and life-giving.
- ignatian
Ignatian Spirituality: 18 & 19 March: These two days were creatively led
Brendan McManus, SJ from the Manresa Spirituality Centre. His material and exercises enabled us to deepen the sessions already covered in Spiritual Accompaniment. - patrick
14 March 2025 was an enjoyable day. After a session on Praying with Nature lead by Damian Brensnahan, SMA the Loreto Family moved into the celebration of St. Patrick's Day.
- judaism
Judaism: 12 March 2025
Peter Admirand from DCU facilitated this day and broadened our horizon on the religion and their practices. - Passover Preparation
Preparation for Passover [7 March 2025] with Therese Fitzgerald, a Sister of Sion, enabled the participants to renew their knowledge of Jewish-Christian relationship as well as understanding the symbols and meaning of the Passover Meal.
- Spiritual Accompaniment 1
Spiritual Accompaniment Module
10 March 2025 saw the conclusion of the 12-week Module of Spiritual Accompaniment Which was facilitated by the Loreto House Formation Team. In these photographs, the participants are using symbols to describe their experiences and learnings from the sessions. The positions of the symbols portray these and how they envisage that they will integrate them in their own lives and in their ministries in the foreseeable future. - spiritual-accom3
Spiritual Accompaniment 2
- Spiritual Accompaniment 1
Spiritual Accompaniment 3
- Spiritual Accompaniment 4
Spiritual Accompaniment 4
- Group Process
Group Process
- women-scripture
Women In Scriptures [6 March 2025]:
Amanda Dillon creatively brought the group through a journey with the women in Scriptures - Faith and Culture
Faith and Culture (on 11 March 2025 with Michael Conway)
Father Michael Conway, from University of Maynooth engaged the participants on an enriching input. Each one felt really challenged to embrace the new model of being church, moving from the hierarchical model to a synodal way of being with others. - Intercultural day-7
Intercultural day-1
- Intercultural day-3
Intercultural day-2
- Intercultural day-5
Intercultural day-3
- Intercultural day-4
Intercultural day-4
- Intercultural day-1
Intercultural day-5
- Intercultural day-2
Intercultural day-6
- Intercultural day-6
Intercultural day-6
- building
Community Building with Laurie & Sean, both of whom are facilitators in peacebuilding; Mediator and Conflict Resolution Trainer.
The 5-day module 24 - 28 February 2025, brought the participants through an interactive journey of resilience, trauma relief, community building, conflict resolution and a host of other aspects to facilitate one in appreciating and celebrating diversity in relating with people. - 21.2. Desert day
Desert Day February 21st
- spirituality-laudatosi Laudato si
Donal Kirk, CFC gave an enriching and reflective day on the Spirituality of Laudato Si!
- gay-lesbian-sexuality
This picture was at the end of a 2-day session on UNDERSTANDING GAY & LESBIAN SEXUALITY. This module was given by Stephen Vaughan. He invited four other people for group discussions during the second half of the second day which was on 7 February. The participants continued to widen their horizon through their interactions at the different sessions.
- dreams
At the end of a two-day module on Dreams which was delivered by Paddy Greene, SJ
- APT
Four members from APT Ireland (Act to Prevent Trafficking) had an enlightening module with the participants.
- synodality
At the end of a full day on Synodality with Dr. Jessie Rogers. Jessie walked this module through the Acts of the Apostles. The participants were inspired to engage in spiritual conversation and to deepen their synodal way of being as an integral part of life.
- christmas5
Presenting the Gifts
- christmas1
Enjoying the Chrstmas Celebration 2
- christmas6
Enjoying the Chrstmas Celebration 3
- christmas7
Enjoying the Chrstmas Celebration 5
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2024-2025 Participants' reflections on their experience of the RFM Programme
What a magnificent experience! My unique experience in the RFM (Loreto House) Programme has been profoundly enriching. It has been a journey of inner healing, personal transformation and self-discovery for me. The RFM Programme has transformed me to live out my faith with greater conviction, purpose and compassion.
Benjamin Jigeesh Mulakunnath
Missionaries of Africa (White Fathers)
India
I feel very blessed to have been part of the Loreto House Programme.
I have experienced a deeper sense of self. I have been able to embrace my uniqueness, and I have been empowered to love and accept who I am and what is more to be a free and authentic witness of Christ Jesus.
Michelle Ankrah SSL
Institute of the Sisters of Saint Louis
Ghana
What a journey! A time of growth, maturity, joy, friendships – but also challenges, tears, and risks. Yet I am leaving full of energy and a desire to serve, with a new perspective of the world, the Church, my faith – and an entirely different view of myself. I am deeply grateful to God for this season.
Štěpánka Šenkeříková
Czech Congregation of Dominican Sisters
Czech Republic
At every stage of life, we encounter thresholds that mark both endings and new beginnings. Through the RFM Programme, I have learned to embrace these transitions with greater openness and trust. I am deeply grateful for every moment spent in Loreto House. The RFMP Programme has truly been a transformative journey and a synodal path that continues to invite me to work, live, and love in deeper communion with all creation.
Mihwa Kim
Missionary Sisters of St. Columban
Korea
The RFM Programme has been a graced adventure for me that has brought me into a space of deeper inner freedom and trust. I came into the Programme with a desire and a need to explore and understand the seemingly contradictory aspects of myself. Each module, encounter and experience deepened my self-knowledge and self-acceptance. Thanks to this time in Loreto House, my ‘yes’ to God has deepened – not just as a response, but as a way of life.
Elvine Msimuko FMDM
Franciscan Missionaries of the Divine
Motherhood
Zambia
The Religious Formation Ministry Programme (Loreto House) is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. It initiates and equips a person with the tools to enter a life-long journey of discovering self, others and the world. I am grateful I came here.
Ignatius Nshing MHM
St. Joseph's Missionary Society (Mill Hill Missionaries)
Cameroon
My experience was totally remarkable.
I came to know myself much better and the course brought me to a different dimension of myself.
Julie Pacheco
Daughters of the Cross of Liège
Pakistan
The RFMP experience has reshaped my perspectives about so many things in my life. I have experienced significant personal growth, and I have gained new insights which I will be forever grateful for.
Celestina Ikpeni OLA
Missionary Sisters of Our Lady of
Apostles
Nigeria
Through the RFMP Programme, I have learnt to:
Focus on building up my personal strengths
Celebrate what is right in the world
Know myself better and what helps me to grow
Evaluate my life and activities from time to time in order to see what needs to be adjusted for my own growth and development.
Angelina Adomah OLA
Missionary Sisters of Our Lady of Apostles
Ghana
RFMP has offered me ample opportunities for personal growth and self-transformation. It was a journey of self-discovery and intentional change that led me to a more fulfilling and authentic life. Generous listening and patience encouraged me to be a blessing to others and to be open to new experiences and learning.
Anita Dung Dung
Congregation of Our Lady of the Missions
(RNDM)
India
The RFMP has greatly helped me love my life more freely, inviting me to live more consciously, savouring my uniqueness as a person with the realisation that my story is different from the rest. I am immensely thankful to God and to everyone in the Loreto House Programme family for accompanying me on my journey.
Lulu Nayak MHM
St. Joseph's Missionary Society
(Mill Hill Missionaries)
India
The RFM Program has been a great inner journey of transformation and self-discovery for me personally. It renewed in me the invitation to experience, share, appreciate and celebrate individual giftedness; always being aware that “I am because we are” (African Proverb). This program opened me up to view life with a broader lens and through the eyes of compassion.
Lucy Chimezie FMDM
Franciscan Missionaries of the Divine Motherhood
Nigeria
My Personal Creed after RFMP:
I believe in God's Unconditional Love and God’s Omnipresence in me, in others and in the cosmos.
I believe in my identity as a spiritual being on a synodal, human and cosmic journey.
I believe that a reflective life brings inner freedom, healing and authentic discipleship.
Diyane Rema OLA
Missionary Sisters of Our Lady of Apostles
Togo
I am grateful to God, my Congregation and the entire Loreto House Team for their untiring support during the Religious Formation Ministry Programme. It has been a journey of personal growth and transformation. Among the various topics, I was touched by the inputs on Building Community. The wisdom I drew from this module will go a long way in helping me in my encounter with myself, with others and in my ministry
Ishrat Sadiq
Union of the Presentation of the Blessed Virgin
Mary
Pakistan
I express profound gratitude to my Congregation, the RFMP Team, facilitators, and my colleagues for their love, support, and encouragement throughout the course. The Loreto House Programme is a transforming journey that offered me the opportunity to discover more about myself, including my strengths and areas for improvement. It is experiential and allowed me to deepen my relationship with God through praying with nature, which depicts my connectedness with all creatures. It has improved my listening abilities and modified my perspective on various facets of life. This period has inspired me to see the beauty of all creation. As a result, I feel blessed and grateful to face the future with renewed energy and a positive attitude.
Chinenyenwa Kanulor MMM
Medical Missionaries of Mary
Nigeria
Looking back I would say I have made a great inward journey of discovering myself, with my strengths and areas of growth. I have come to the realisation of owning who I am, of being open to continue the journey of growth and of looking forward to the future with hope
Chinenye Anyanwu
Missionary Sisters of the Assumption
Nigeria
The RFM Programme has been a transformative pilgrimage—one that awakened in me a deep self-awareness, enriched my mind with fresh insights, and opened my heart to the beauty of diversity. It has granted me an inner freedom that feels like stepping out of an old shell and into a renewed self—more grounded, more whole. This sacred journey has not only marked a significant shift in my life but has also equipped me with the tools to walk boldly into the future. I carry it all—these learnings, this growth—as treasures in the bag of necessity for life’s unfolding path.
With a grateful heart, I thank God. Truly, it has been a journey of grace—memorable, meaningful, and deeply life-giving.
Felicia Ehinmisan OLA
Missionary Sisters of Our Lady of Apostles
Nigeria
I count it as a blessing to have been one of the participants of the Religious Formation Ministry Programme for 2024/2025. Through different courses, particularly those on Formation and Religious Life, I was able to deepen my understanding of community living. I have come to realise that community living is more than just a building and walls. It is a place built on mutual relationships where every member feels nourished and accepted just as they are.
Sandra Mwaanga
Religious Sisters of Charity (RSC)
Zambia
The Religious Formation Ministry Programme
offered me a valuable space for spiritual
reflection, personal renewal, human
development and deepening of my commitment
to religious life. It was a journey of self-discovery
and I found myself. Engaging with a diverse group
of participants, I found new inspiration and
strength for ongoing ministry.
Agunwa Stella Nkiruka, MMM
Medical Missionaries of Mary
Nigeria
Contact Us
For further information and application forms please contact:
Jennifer Burke, RJM
Director
Religious Formation Ministry Programme
Clonmore House
St. Raphaela’s School Campus
St. Raphaela’s Road
Kilmacud Road Upper
Stillorgan
County Dublin
Ireland
A94 R7N8
Tel: 089 469 6892
Email: rfmploretohouse@gmail.com
