Stages of Formation

Becoming a Sister of Divine Providence is a five-stage process:

ASPIRANCY: (not more than two years)
The aspirant – “One who hopes”

• A woman between 18 and 45 years of age
• Discerns her call with the support of a vocation director and prayer support of the religious community
• Shares occasionally in the life of the CDP community – meals, prayer, and celebrations

POSTULANCY: (one – two years)
The postulant – “One who seeks”

• Lives in community for further discernment
• Continues full-time work or education
• Deepens her understanding of prayer, theology and CDP life

NOVITIATE: (two years)
The novice – “One who is ‘new’ in living the religious lifestyle”

• Studies theology of the vows, charism, history and constitutions
• Develops an intimacy with God through prayer and spiritual reading
• Does some volunteer work
• Integrates prayer and apostolic ministry by means of some formative activity

TEMPORARY PROFESSION
The Sister – “One who announces her commitment to God” (three – six years)

• Lives the commitment to the vows of poverty, obedience and celibacy
• Continues personal and spiritual growth and study
• Deepens personal incorporation of CDP charism
• Prepares for perpetual vows

FINAL PROFESSION
The Sister makes a life commitment to God and to the community.

To contact Sr. Fidelis in the vocation office, please email her at vocation@cdpkentucky.org.