Our Stages of Formation

Answering a call to religious life requires an initial period of training and formation both in the spiritual and consecrated life as in the particular charism of each institute. This stage is known as initial formation.

The process of formation is not ended when a Sister makes her perpetual profession, for even then, a Sister must continually renew her response through on-going formation on religious life and training for the apostolic activities of the institute.

The process of formation fosters conversion, which increasingly conforms one’s life to that of Jesus in holiness and perfect love. This is a life-long process of “putting on Jesus Christ” and living “in accord with the Spirit.” However, the initial stages of that process is essential to laying a strong foundation for fulfilling one’s vocation to consecrated life.

For the Disciples of the Lord Jesus Christ, this process includes the following stages.

The initial 3 months living in the community to more deeply discern the call.  Lay clothes are worn during this time.

The next 9 months of discernment, continuing study and work with the community.  At this point, the women receive the community crucifix, and replace the garments of the world with the garments of repentance- a black skirt and white blouse are worn.

A 2-year intensive time of study, and learning to live religious life in community.  A novice receives a habit, which includes a white veil, which indicates she is a Sister in training, and a cross which we carry in our belt.  She also receives a new religious name, and is now addressed as, “Sister.”  Novices also train for our apostolate of evangelization, including giving talks, and music ministry.

Vows of chastity, poverty, and obedience are made first for 1 year, and renewed periodically for at least 3 years, according to the Rule of the Third Order Regular of St. Francis.  A promise to live in fellowship in the Spirit with all the DLJC Sisters is also made at the time of professing vows.  A gray veil is worn, and the Sisters become actively involved in community life and the apostolate during this time.

A public profession of vows is made for a lifetime commitment, and the Sister is mystically wedded as a Bride of Christ.  She receives a ring which says, “Jesus is Lord,” and a blue band is added to the veil, signifying her Marian consecration.