Formation: The Path to Becoming a Sister
Once a candidate decides to enter the congregation, she embarks on a structured formation process that prepares her for the vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience. This process unfolds in distinct stages, allowing for gradual growth and deeper immersion into religious life.
2.1 Postulancy (1-2 years): The Initial Stage of Formation
The postulancy, which lasts between one to two years, is the first formal stage of formation. During this period, the candidate begins to live within the religious community, sharing in its daily rhythm of prayer, work, and study. She learns about the history and spirituality of the congregation, familiarizing herself with its apostolic mission and core values.
This stage is a time of adjustment, allowing the postulant to transition from secular life into the structured environment of a religious community. She participates in religious studies, attends theological courses, and engages in community service to gain a deeper understanding of the commitment she is about to make. This period also serves as a time for self-examination, where the postulant reflects on her readiness to embrace the vows of religious life.
2.2 Novitiate (2 years): A Time of Deep Spiritual Formation
If the postulant and the congregation discern that she is ready to move forward, she enters the novitiate, a two-year period of more intense spiritual and theological formation. This is a crucial stage in which the novice deepens her relationship with God and gains a profound understanding of the vows she is preparing to take.
The first year of the novitiate is primarily dedicated to prayer, study, and reflection. The novice undergoes formal religious education, studying Scripture, the history of the Church, the teachings of the congregation, and the charism of St. Gemma Galgani. She also spends significant time in silent prayer and contemplation, fostering an interior life rooted in faith and devotion.
During the second year of novitiate, the novice begins to engage more actively in apostolic work, applying what she has learned in practical ministry settings. She may assist in teaching, healthcare, parish ministry, or social outreach programs, depending on the needs of the congregation. This apostolic experience helps her integrate her spiritual formation with real-life service, preparing her for the responsibilities of religious life.
2.3 Temporary Vows (3-6 years): Commitment Through Vows
After completing the novitiate, the novice takes temporary vows, marking her official entry into the congregation as a sister. This stage, which lasts between three to six years, allows her to live fully within the community while continuing her personal and professional development.
During this period, the sister deepens her understanding of the vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience, embracing the lifestyle of a consecrated woman. She may pursue further education, receive specialized training, or take on greater responsibilities within the congregation’s apostolates. This time of temporary commitment serves as a bridge between initial formation and full integration into religious life.
2.4 Final Vows
When the sister reaches a point of certainty in her vocation, she prepares to take her final, perpetual vows. This lifelong commitment is preceded by an extended period of spiritual preparation, which may include a special retreat focused on renewal and deep reflection. Through prayer and discernment, she reaffirms her dedication to the mission of the congregation.
The profession of final vows is a moment of great joy and solemnity, marking the sister’s complete consecration to God. She fully embraces the charism of St. Gemma Galgani and commits herself to a life of service, prayer, and community within the congregation.