"The method of teaching by example is most necessary for us,...
This is also one of the most efficacious means
of inspiring others with love of the religious state,..."
Jeanne de Matel

A woman called to be an Incarnate Word Sister is admitted into Formation -- the process by which the christian person, inspired by the Spirit and assisted by the Congregation, responds to the grace of union with God for the service of God's people. The designated Director assists and guides the woman through the Stages in Formation.

• AFFILIATE: 6 months to a year
  The affiliate, still living at home and works at her usual job or goes to school, meets regularly with the Vocation Director. She attends special occasions or weekends in the Congregation to know the Sisters better.



• PRE-NOVITIATE: 6 months to 2 years
  The pre-novice lives with the Sisters, and participates in the daily prayer and community life of the Congregation. She is guided by the Formation Director in her human and spiritual development to prepare her to make a full and responsible choice of religious life.



• NOVITIATE: 2 years
  A time of preparation for a life consecrated by profession of the evangelical counsels (poverty, chastity and obedience). The novice strives to become rooted in the Incarnate Word in order to give herself generously to God and to others. She is assisted in her preparation for life as a Sister of the Incarnate Word by study of Scripture, theology, the vowed life, history of the Church and the Congregation.
    


• TEMPORARY PROFESSION: 3-6 years
  The Sister in temporary profession continues the development of her understanding of religious life and she participates in the life and ministry of the Congregation. Her Formation Director provides continued guidance to prepare her for perpetual profession.  



• PERPETUAL PROFESSION: 
  After the Sister has completed at least three years of temporary vows, she may be admitted to perpetual profession. A Sister in perpetual vows, with the other perpetually professed members, is responsible for the life, mission and ministry of the Congregation. 

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