1. The Inquiry Period   is a “getting acquainted” time and can take some months or even a year depending on your level of interest and desire. This stage begins with contacting (phone, e-mail etc) the Vocation Director. He will gather some initial information to determine your eligibility to join the Franciscans. If you qualify, the Vocation Director will meet with you. Eventually you would be invited to visit the friars for a few days. The Inquiry stage is a time for two-way dialogue and discernment. Once it is concluded that God may be calling you to Franciscan religious life, you will be asked to submit the necessary documents by May 1st of the year you wish to enter postulancy.


2. The Postulancy Programme is the first of three stages of initial formation and the transitional stage between life in the world and religious life. It is a time of discernment for both you and the friars. While your discernment is enhanced through experiencing Franciscan communal living, the friars are able to discern your ability to live this life.


Postulancy begins in September and lasts about a year. Approximately nine months are spent in the formation house in a more structured setting. At the completion of this period, you may leave the friary for some time to visit other friaries, or family, or to take a short holiday.

           
Postulancy is not the time for you to dispose of your possessions and bank account. You will be expected to provide for your own needs – medical, dental, transportation and personal as well as have sufficient funds to return home. As well, you will be expected to contribute financially to the community by paying a moderate fee for room and board.

 
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About us

 Is this calling for me?

Process of Initiation into Franciscan Life

Tips for Discerning God's Will

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When possible, you will participate in all aspects of the fraternal life of the professed community: Liturgy of the Hours, Eucharist, meals, community celebrations, house chapters and recreation.

 

You will meet regularly with the Director for informal instruction, attend occasional workshops, and take a few classes at Newman College as requested. The costs of these classes would be assumed by the Franciscans. You will also participate in volunteer ministry out side the friary. You may work part time if that is necessary for you. If you choose to study part time you may do so at your own expense and with the Director’s permission. 


You will receive regular evaluations as to your suitability for Franciscan life. You are free to leave at any time if you feel Franciscan life is not for you or you may be asked to leave. Towards the end of postulancy you may be recommended by the community to enter the Novitiate.

           
If you desire to proceed to novitiate, you will submit written application to the Minister Provincial, by August 1, and sign a release form indicating freedom to enter religious life. With the Minister Provincial’s permission, you may then proceed to novitiate.

  
   
 
3. The Novitiate is a one-year period of intense Franciscan spiritual formation through prayer, direction, reading, pastoral activities and communal life. Your financial needs are now assumed by the Franciscans but you will need to bring suitable clothing, other personal items and funds to return home if you leave. Novitiate ends with your first profession of temporary vows.

Temporary Profession begins when you profess Simple Vows which are renewed yearly for about four years. During this time you must complete at least two years of Theological training at Newman Theological College. Future studies will depend on your aptitude and choice of future work or ministry. The time of Temporary Profession ends with the profession of Solemn Vows.

Permanent Profession begins when you profess Solemn Vows and lasts your whole life. This is a joyous occasion where your family and friends are invited to join the friars in the celebration. You would now enter into ministry or may continue in further studies.