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Stages of Formation

Process of Formation

STAGES OF FORMATION

            The supreme objective of formation in religious life is the transformation of oneself to Jesus Christ. (cf. Const. 118)

 

POSTULANCY of one year

 

            A period of adequate preparation, normally called “postulancy” or “probation” is the first requirement for initial formation to religious life in our monasteries.  It is to be made within the cloister... It is a period of practical knowledge of Carmelite religious life, enabling both the candidate and the community to discern her aptitude for consecrated life. (cf. Const. 122)

 

NOVITIATE for two years

 

            The novitiate, through which a candidate begins her life in the Order, is a period dedicated to spiritual formation.  Its goal is that the novices explore the depths of their vocation, contemplative life in Carmel, in a very concrete way; where they learn about and experience the spirit and life style of the Order; where they test the authenticity of their resolution and range of its ideals; where they demonstrate their suitability; and where in order to attain perfect love, they strive to practice the Evangelical Counsels they will one day profess. (Const. 123)

           

JUNIORATE for five years

 

            The purpose of thejuniorate is to provide a time extending throughout the period of temporary vows  for the adequate preparation for solemn profession. (Const. 143)

 

            During the juniorate, those in temporary vows commit themselves before God, the Church and the Order, to live according to the Rule, the Constitutions and other codes of law of their proper jurisdiction.  They endeavor to acquire and deepen the virtues that are necessary for the practice of the Evangelical counsels and common fraternal life, advancinhg in intimate union with God nad in the practice of the Divine Presence. Thus they shall arrive at the level of maturity which is required in order to be able to consecrate themselves to God in the Order for life by solemn profession. (Const. 144)

 

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