Postulancy
After
a time of initial contact with the friars, if the Vocation Director
and the candidate agree that God may be directing him towards
Franciscan religious life, he will be asked to submit some forms
and documents (Baptismal and Confirmation certificates, autobiography,
medical examination letter of reference and other items.) in preparation
to enter Postulancy.
Postulancy
is the first of the three stages of initial formation; it is a
transitional stage between life in the world and religious life.
It provides the candidate with a concrete experience of Franciscan
life. Postulancy is a time of discernment during which the candidate
lives with the friars to get a closer, “inside” view.
The objective of Postulancy is to allow the candidate to discover
if the Postulant fits into Franciscan life: his capacity for living
in community (sharing, being responsible and getting along with
others) and for prayer. It also permits the friars to discern
the Postulant’s ability to live Franciscan life.
The Postulant
is expected to participate fully in the life of the fraternity,
living like a friar, but without taking the vows. He is expected
to be present at community prayer and to be involved in some volunteer
ministry. As well, he will receive instruction, which includes
sessions with his Postulant Director as well as classes and workshops
to facilitate his human, Christian and Franciscan growth.
The Postulant
is expected to provide for his own needs (medical, dental, and
personal). He may be expected to contribute financially to the
community by paying a moderate fee for room and board. Depending
on his financial state, he may need to work part time outside
the friary.
Postulancy
may last one or two years (approximately nine months for western
Canada and it begins in September).
During Postulancy,
the community will evaluate the Postulant’s suitability for
Franciscan Life. The Postulant is free to leave the programme
at any time on his own accord or he may be asked to leave if it
is thought that Franciscan life is not for him. If he is thought
suitable, however, he is informed and the Postulant makes a formal
request in writing to the Minister Provincial asking admittance
into the Next stage: Novitiate.
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