About
A Container, Not a Program
Formation Labs is a practice-centered community for people who want to slow down, reflect, and integrate — not a set of answers to adopt or a system to complete.
We believe real change happens over time, in relationship, through practices that are lived rather than merely learned. So instead of offering quick transformation, we offer a way of being and practicing: retreats that create real space, conversations that stay honest, and a rhythm you can return to.
This is a space where leaders, seekers, and people in the middle of a transition can bring real questions — and be trusted to sit with them rather than rush to resolve them.
The Christ Pattern
Much of our work is grounded in a framework we call the Christ Pattern — four wisdom pillars drawn from the life and teachings of Jesus that help us live with greater peace, clarity, and purpose.
Awareness: Be
What is real and available to me here and now?
Our range of awareness shapes the quality of our lives. As we learn to notice what's happening within and around us, we move from autopilot to attentiveness — cultivating presence and peace.
Identity: Become
Who am I?
Our sense of identity becomes the truth we carry about ourselves and sets the course for how we live. By reconnecting with our truest self — grounded in God's love — we reclaim the freedom to become whole and integrated.
Community: Belong
How can I belong?
Belonging isn't just about fitting in — it's about being truly seen and accepted. When we experience safe, authentic connection, our capacity for love, trust, and grace expands.
Mission: Do
What can I do?
When our inner and outer lives align, our actions become an expression of purpose. We contribute meaningfully to the world through the gifts we develop and the work we offer.
Why it matters
The Christ Pattern isn't a formula to complete — it's a rhythm to return to. Most of us move through these four questions unevenly: aware in one season, disconnected in another; clear on identity but isolated in community. The pattern gives our retreats and conversations a shared language for naming where we actually are, rather than where we think we should be.
Guides for the Journey
Barry Brown
Founder of Formation Labs, Barry has guided hundreds of leaders, creatives, and faith-based practitioners in living integrated, meaningful lives. His wisdom is rooted in decades of spiritual formation work, mentorship, and community building.
Cathi Workman
Founder of Lantern Hill Consulting, Cathi brings deep creativity and strategic insight to her work with purpose-driven leaders and organizations. Her gift is helping people see new connections and spark transformative ideas.
Jon Eshleman
Jon is a spiritual mentor and guide, helping others live with intention, authenticity, and a deep sense of purpose. With a calm, thoughtful approach, he walks alongside individuals seeking clarity, connection, and a life rooted in the presence of God.
Jovanni Tricerri
A community builder, strategist, and leadership facilitator, Jovanni brings two decades of experience in resilience and collaboration. He helps people discover clarity, connection, and shared purpose.
Come As You Are
You don't need to have this figured out to belong here. Most people arrive tired, uncertain, or hopeful — sometimes all three. That's welcome.