Novitiate
The
stage of the Novitiate lasts a complete year, and usually begins
in the month of August (For western Canada it begins in June).
This is the "official" beginning of his Franciscan life.
The novice is given the title "Brother" and may now
wear the religious habit. A retreat of one week precedes the celebration
of being received into the novitiate.
The novitiate
is a privileged time of profound spiritual experience, sustained
accompaniment, and periodical evaluations. This powerful experience
is conducted by a Novice Master, who can count on the support
of the community. Novitiate is a structured time in an environment
of prayer and fraternal life. At the moment, the Novitiate takes
place in Lachute, a quiet town located in the "Basses Laurentides"
region of Quebec. From Western Canada, however, the Novices are
sent to Wilmington, Delaware, in the United States, to join other
English-speaking Novices. It provides an inner-city experience
with the poor along with time of retreat.
The Novitiate
stage involves taking a break from professional activity and formal
academic studies. It is above all a time to discern your vocation,
with an emphasis on prayer and with opportunities to serve the
poor.
The Novitiate
is designed to furnish the right people, environment and resources
to acquire: 1) A solid understanding of the heritage of the Christian
faith, the Catholic Church, and the Franciscan charism; 2) A prayerful
experience; 3) An understanding of the three religious vows (poverty,
chastity, obedience); and 4) Knowledge about the Rule, and Franciscan
spirituality and history.
At the end
of the Novitiate year, the Novice requests in writing to his Minister
Provincial to profess his first religious vows. Thus begins the
time of formation in Temporary Vows.
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