The “real model method” was thought out by a Colombian Jesuit, Fr. Jesus Andres Vela. The Group has studied and adapted the method, and used it for its own planning and for the pre-project of renewal of religious Institutes of active life. Here we can simply try to give a basic idea of it, conscious that a method is learnt by putting it into practice and reflecting on it.
The “real model” method does not begin from principles or from a general analysis and diagnosis of the situation. It begins from the action of the persons or group in question, from their action and the understanding that this action reflects. This does not imply undervaluing principles and analysis; they come later.
 

The method is spelt out in three phases.

First is the perceptive phase: the perception of the information on the pastoral action is organised around 4 aspects: those doing the action; the addressees, the social context and the principles and criteria used for the analysis. From this starting point, those concerned draw up a picture of the problematic situation, defining a hypothesis of it that will be verified in the following stages. 

Second is the analytical phase: those concerned begin a critical analysis of their pastoral action, in the light of their doctrine and criteria. This is the reflective phase, which concludes with the formulation of a second hypothesis to be planned.

Third is the operative phase: the pastoral planning is drawn up.

The spirituality of the method is that of Christian discernment in faith, applied to the facts of a situation, in order to perceive and circumscribe the problematic situation of the pastoral action and the possible paths of solution. These alternatives are then evaluated so as to choose what seems more conformed to God’s will, that is, with the teaching of the Church and with fidelity to the needs and aspirations of persons. This choice of God’s will is then spelt out in objectives, targets and plans of action and organisation.

In terms of spiritual attitudes and discipline of work, this discernment demands a serach for and love of the truth, interior freedom and freedom from external conditioning factors, for the purpose of seeking, choosing and acting according to the plan of God and its demands.