The formation period for a woman wishing to make a vowed commitment consists of live-in associate or postulate, novice and temporary profession [3-5 years] prior to making perpetual vows.
Live-In Associate: A woman who has completed the live-in Associate commitment may choose to enter the community as a vowed religious. At that time she would be able to move to the next level of formation. The associate is involved in a ministry.
Postulate: As a postulant the focus is on learning Benedictine Spirituality, living in community, prayer, and the charisms of the community. This formation can take place for six to twelve months depending on each person. During this time of discernment the candidate continues to listen to God's call for her. The postulant may continue her college education or may be involved in a ministry.
Novice: The focus of the novitiate year is further study of the Benedictine way of life and a study of the Benedictine Vows of Stability, Obedience, and Conversion of Life. The novitiate is one year plus one day in length. During this year the novice does not work or study outside of the Monastery.
Temporary Profession: During the temporary profession [three to five years in length] Sister continues to study the vows, the Benedictine Spirituality, prayer, and continues her college education or is involved in a ministry.
Perpetual Profession: Sister continues in discernment throughout temporary profession. At which time she believes that she is called to live the Benedictine Way of Life, she asks to make her perpetual commitment. At this time Sister receives her profession ring as a symbol of her life long commitment to God and the community.
