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How to Become a Byzantine Benedictine Sister

AFFILIATE PROGRAM

An affiliate may be associated with the community from several months to several years. This will depend upon the woman's age and circumstances. She makes periodic visits and spends weekends and days of recollection at the monastery, becoming acquainted with the ministries of the sisters. She may live in for longer periods of time. The affiliate meets with the vocation director periodically to facilitate discernment.

CANDIDATE PROGRAM

Candidacy lasts from six months to two years. Advantage is taken of theology classes and workshops and possible participation in inter-community programs. Preparation for ministry as needed by the individual begins.

NOVITIATE PROGRAM

The length of the novitiate is one year with an extension possible of six months. The novice receives specific instruction on Scripture, the Holy Rule of Saint Benedict, the Constitutions of the Federation of Saint Scholastica, the nature of Benedictine community, and the living tradition of the community. Where suitable, she also participates in inter-novitiate programs, theology classes, and workshops offered in the local area.

SCHOLASTICATE PROGRAM

The period of temporary vows is three years. The scholastic may renew these vows annually for three more years. For a good reason these vows may be renewed for an additional three years. During these years the scholastic will become more fully incorporated into the community. She may continue her formal education at this time and participate in a part-time or full-time ministry for which she is qualified.

At the end of the Scholasticate Program, with the approval of the community, she makes simple perpetual vows.

Contact Sister Agnes at agnes@netdotcom.com for more information.