Ministry Formation

Leading with Mission. Serving together.

At Ascension, we believe caring for our patients begins with caring for ourselves and our fellow associates. As part of our identity as a ministry of the Catholic Church, Ministry Formation provides a unique set of offerings, from onboarding to year-long programs, that support every associate’s personal growth, professional development, and spiritual well-being.

Through a dynamic portfolio of programs, resources, and community-building engagements, Ministry Formation helps our teams connect meaningfully with their values, build supportive networks, and find deep purpose in our shared Mission.

A welcoming community for all

We celebrate the diverse gifts, beliefs, and traditions of all associates. Through reflection, wellness resources, and shared learning, associates find opportunities to grow personally while preventing burnout and building lasting connections.

Leadership rooted in Mission

Leadership development is a shared priority at Ascension. Our Ministry Formation programs provide support throughout every stage of your career.

  • Emerging & mid-level leaders: Roots of Ministry Leadership and the Foundations of Ministry Leadership Program combine business competencies with Mission-centered learning.
  • Supervisors & executive teams: Our Ministry Leaders’ Retreats and Leadership Immersions focus on renewal, healthcare ethics, and values-driven leadership, providing skills and insights to lead our ministry forward.
  • Executive leaders: For over 20 years, our Executive Ministry Leadership program has prepared executives to lead at Ascension with the rigor the industry demands and the heart our ministry invites.

The impact of our investment

Leaders who participate in the Foundations of Ministry Leadership Program experience turnover rates that are, on average, 50% lower.

Formation opportunities from the start

From your first day at Ascension, you will have opportunities to grow through:

  • Welcome & integration: Start with One Community for One Mission, our new associate welcome.
  • Team & culture building: Shape your workplace through local Values in Action Councils, service opportunities, and team learning modules.
  • Spiritual well-being: Access meditation resources, mindfulness programs, burnout prevention resources, and more.