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Membership Process

Entering the FSPA community involves a series of steps:

Initial Inquiry

The first step is one of obtaining information, both for the candidate and FSPA, and seeking vocation direction. It includes communicating with an FSPA member or vocation minister by telephone, mail, or personal contact; attending a Come and See Weekend; and being prayed for in the FSPA Adoration Chapel.

Companion

A companion sister is appointed to help the candidate get to know religious life. They share prayer and personal and spiritual values; participate in local community gatherings; and discern a call to FSPA community.

Associate (six months to one year)

After the application process is completed, formal entrance takes place in August or January in La Crosse, Wis. It includes continuing to develop personal spirituality; learning FSPA history, traditions, and Franciscan spirituality and values; and working within and experiencing community life.

Novitiate (two years)

After public indication of a desire to dedicate her life to God as FSPA, she enters the novitiate. This is a time for intense study of the vows, prayer, Franciscan life and values. Nine months of this canonical year are spent at the Midwest Common Franciscan Novitiate in Joliet, Ill. The second year (apostolic year), is a time of continued study of the vows and integration into ministry in a setting that offers a multicultural experience.

Temporary Vows (three to six years)

During temporary vows, a sister lives her vows in the FSPA community and grows in a Franciscan way of life. Careful attention is given to balancing ministry, prayer, community life, and personal enrichment and preparing for permanent commitment.

Final Vows

After the preparation described above and mutual discernment with the FSPA community, a sister publicly affirms her commitment for life. After pronouncing her perpetual vows, she receives a ring, which identifies her as a full participant in the FSPA community for the rest of her life.

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