The goal and purpose of the Noviciate is to achieve “that cohesive unity whereby contemplation and apostolic activity are closely linked together”.

A Novice strives to become imbued with the spirit of the Gospel, and to understand the congregation and community. To understand her vocation better, the novice will spend time in silent prayer and reflection, community living, spiritual studies and reading.

The Noviciate consists of a two year period. In the first year the Novice will not participate in apostolic work, and will remain in the Provincial house. This first year is one of intense study and introduction to Carmelite spirituality. In the second year, some time will be spent in active apostolic work away from the Noviciate. Her spiritual formation will include, study of:

• the Rule and Constitutions of the Congregation
• Bible and catechism of the Catholic Church
• some documents of the Second Vatican Council
• recent documents of the Church and diocese
• autobiograhy of our Mother Foundress and her letters
• the lives and writings of Carmelite Saints, especially St. Teresa of Avila, St. John of the Cross, and St. Theresa of Liseux.

During the Noviciate, the novice will delve deeply into her spiritual formation and:

• be led to cultivate both human and Christian virtues
• be introduced to a fuller way of perfection
• be acquainted with the mystery of salvation and to read and meditate on the Holy Scripture
• be prepared to cultivate the worship of God in the Sacred Liturgy
• be introduced to a way of life that is consecrated to God
• be educated about the charism, spirit, purpose, discipline, history and life of our Congregation
• be introduced to sisterly life in the sense of the Gospels
• be imbued with a love for the Church and its pastors.

Click here to read "Musings on the Mother Foundress" written by Sister Rosario during her Novitiate.

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