Steps to Becoming a Sister
Step One: Inquiry
- The process of becoming a Sister of St. Joseph
is a gradual one which gives you and the Congregation time and freedom to get
to know each other. As an Inquirer,
you will meet regularly with the Vocation Director and you will be invited to
come to community celebrations, to share prayer, meals, and conversations with
us, and to visit us in our places of ministry. After a time of
getting to know each other, prayer and mutual discernment, you may say, “I found where I
belong and where I am my best self” and request entrance to the congregation.
Step Two: Candidacy 1–2 years
- The Candidacy Phase is about trying
on our way of life, to see if it fits. As a Candidate you will meet regularly with the Candidate Director and have an opportunity to discern
God’s call to religious life by experiencing life in community with our
Sisters. As part of a community, you will join in everything from prayer and
meditation to planning meals and scrubbing kitchen floors! You will be encouraged to maintain active, healthy relationships with your
friends and family, but dating is discouraged. During this time you will
maintain your work or continue your studies.
Step Three: Novitiate 2 years
- The Novitiate is a time of study,
reflection, and service. This is a time to increase your knowledge of theology
and the meaning of the vowed life. You will also acquire a greater
understanding of the mission, spirit, and history of our Congregation. As a
Novice you will meet regularly with the Novice Director, live in community with
a group of Sisters, and participate in the life of the Congregation. At this
time you will be asked to begin living your life more fully as a Sister of
Saint Joseph. At the end of your Novitiate, and with mutual discernment
with the congregation, you
may request to take your first vows, or determine that you are called to a
different way of life.