Steps in Becoming a Sister of Compassion

Step One: Come and See (1 - 2 years)

Initial contact is made by a woman who has given serious thought to the vocation of a Religious Sister. She will have stayed with a community for short periods, had time with them in prayer and community, and observed the works of the Sisters of Compassion. During this time a Sister of Compassion is chosen to accompany her on the journey of discernment. The woman may remain in employment and/or volunteer their time to the ministry of the Sisters of Compassion. There is no obligation for the women to commit to religious life at this stage; it is a time of discernment and searching out their life call.

Step Two: Pre Noviciate (3 - 12 months)

While continuing her present work or study, a woman would formalise her desire to become a Sister of Compassion, and come and live in community.

Step Three: Noviciate (2 years)

A formal application and acceptance is made and the woman is received into the Novitiate. The Noviciate is an initiation into the life of a Sister of Compassion. The time of Novitiate is spent in learning to be attentive and responsive to the action of God, and to learn about and experience the Sisters of Compassion life in prayer, community living and ministry.

Step Four: Temporary Profession (3 - 5 years)

At the completion of Novitiate vows are made annually and are renewed for a period of time (no least than 3 years and no more than 6 years). The woman is prepared for or fully involved in ministry, and given the guidance and support to enable her to make a definitive choice with complete awareness and freedom before taking Final Profession.

Step Five: Final Profession (life commitment)

The formation process culminates in the perpetual profession of a woman as a Sister of Compassion, and she is incorporated as a life member of the Congregation. However formation is an on-going process and every help is available to continue to grow and deepen ones commitment.