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Formation to Friar Life

The Program of Initial Formation is a gradual process of personal, spiritual, and ministerial development. During initial formation, candidates develop their personal character and theological understanding to be able to live and work effectively as Franciscan friars in service to the Church. There are three stages of initial formation.

Postulancy
Candidates begin their journey as postulants, spending a year or two living with our friar community in Wilmington, Del., and engaging in various aspects of our life and work. During this time, they are presented with resources, including workshops and personal advisors, to help them develop the psychological and emotional qualities necessary for religious life and ministry.

Novitiate
During the novitiate stage, candidates deepen their relationship with God. This year takes place at San Damiano Friary in Cedar Lake, Ind., about 40 miles east of Chicago, as part of a joint program with Assumption, Sacred Heart and St. John the Baptist Provinces. Receiving the habit, candidates are introduced more intensely to our Rule of Life and the history and traditions of the Franciscan Order. At the conclusion of the year, they profess their first vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience as Franciscan friars.

Post-Novitiate
For the next three or four years, while living at Holy Name College in Silver Spring, Md., student friars hone their ministerial skills and take coursework related to their field of interest. Those interested in priesthood are enrolled in a Master of Divinity degree program at nearby Washington Theological Union.

Initial formation concludes with profession of solemn or final vows, an event which fully incorporates student friars into our Province and the Franciscan Order. Friars preparing for ordination receive an additional year of training.