Stages of Formation
Candidate
Following a time of discernment and acceptance, this beginning period of 4-6 months allows the candidate a time of orientation into and living of community life. She begins formation classes.
Postulant
The postulant continues to adjust to the prayer and work of the community, while continuing formation classes. She wears a brown jumper and while blouse and receives a Tau cross. This period lasts 1-2 years.
Novice
When the postulant, in discernment with her Sister Servant, is ready to make a deeper commitment to the community, she is invested as a novice. She receives a white veil, her religious name (she begins to be called “Sister…”), a copy of the TOR (Third Order Regular) Rule and community constitutions. Novitiate normally lasts for two years. This is a time for developing a deep prayer life, and study.
First Vows
Having met the requirements for novitiate, the sister professes to God the vows of poverty, chastity and obedience for a period of one year. She receives the community habit with a black veil and the Tau cross with corpus. She continues formation classes and the work and ministry of the Community. She renews her vows every year until final vows.
Final Vows
After a period of three to six years, with the acceptance of the Community, the Sister professes her perpetual vows in the community. She receives a ring, signifying her permanent commitment. She vows to live the counsels of poverty, chastity, and obedience for the rest of her life. This is a joyous celebration for the Sister, her community, family and friends, as she gives herself to Christ as His spouse.