Redemptorist Vocations

In this stage, Vocation Ministry Coordinators help a candidate discern his vocation to religious life. During this time, the candidate continues to meet with Vocation Ministry Coordinators and becomes associated with a local Redemptorist Community. He also begins a mentor relationship with a member of that local community, continues with spiritual direction, and participates in a Live-In Experience to further deepen his understanding of Redemptorist life and mission.

During this stage, the candidate completes application forms, participates in a psychological assessment, lives in a Redemptorist student house, continues with spiritual direction, completes studies in Philosophy, begins or continues learning Spanish, and decides whether to apply for novitiate.

During this stage, the candidate dedicates a year to deeper discernment and to spiritual and personal growth. He studies in detail and lives more deeply the vows of chastity, poverty, and obedience, as well as the history and charism of the Congregation of the Most Holy Redeemer. Finally, in consultation with the leaders of the Congregation, he decides whether to profess Temporary Vows in the Congregation of the Most Holy Redeemer.

During this stage, the candidate completes his studies for ministry, pursues prayer, retreats, and mentorship to grow in spiritual maturity, and works alongside other Redemptorists in a variety of missionary ministries. Finally, in consultation with the leaders of the Congregation, he discerns and decides whether to profess Final Vows in the Congregation of the Most Holy Redeemer.

During this stage, the candidate completes a Master of Divinity program, pursues prayer, retreats, and mentorship for growth in spiritual maturity, and works with other Redemptorists in a variety of missionary ministries. He also completes all internship experiences. In consultation with the leaders of the Congregation, he discerns and decides whether to profess Final Vows in the Congregation of the Most Holy Redeemer and whether to be ordained as a deacon and then as a priest.

Completion of these initial stages does not mark the end of formation. Indeed, continuing education and formation remains ever important and vital. It is always necessary for Redemptorists to grow deeper in their spiritual life and so bear greater witness to the people of God by their preaching and the example of their life.