Formation Process

 

Postulants

Postulancy is normally a six to ten month period depending on the candidate. The postulant studies religious/spiritual life in general, including the Essential elements of Religious Life, the Catechism of the Catholic Church, and the Consitution of the community all while living the SJW life under the direction of the Formation Directress.

There are no secular studies during this time. Postulants wear a black uniform skirt, white blouse, and black shoes.

Novices

The Two-year novitiate begins with the canonical year, which is devoted to a deepening of prayers and spiritual instruction. Second-year novices may engage in apostolic activities, but may not be responsible for full-time apostolic positions.

Novices study the vows in detail, Holy Scripture, religious/spiritual life, Church History, and the spirituality of the Sister of St. Joseph the Worker. The novice is gradually guided in the development of an intimate union with Christ from Whom all her apostolic activity flows, and is helped to grow in a warm fraternal charity with her Sisters.

Novices wear the black habit with a blue scapular and veil in honor of our Blessed Mother, the Model of all religious.

Temporary Professed Sisters

During the time of temporary profession (3-6 years), the Sister may engage in religious, apostolic, and professional studies and activities. She is helped to broaden her understanding of a religious vocation.

At the time of First Profession, the young sister is given a black scapular and black veil. The black color of the habit is a reminder that we are to daily die to self in order to live for Christ.

The crucifix we wear is an exterior sign of our devotion to our Crucified Lord. It is blessed and put on the newly professed during the Mass of First Profession.

Professed Sisters

After completing the period of initial formation, each Sister by prayers, study, and reading continues to discharge her lifelong obligation to advance in holiness, learning, and professional competency.