Taking A Step

The process of becoming a Sister of St. Joseph is gradual, giving a woman and the Congregation time and freedom to get to know each other. The very first stage, candidacy, is about trying on our way of life to see if it fits.

Candidacy: 1 - 2 years
During this time, a woman has an opportunity to discern God’s call to religious life and to experience life in a community of vowed women religious. As part of a community of Sisters, she will join in everything from prayer and meditation to planning meals and pitching in with household chores. She will be encouraged to maintain active, healthy relationships with her friends and family, but dating will be discouraged. She will maintain her job and continue to keep her income, but will be asked to pay rent to the Congregation and to live simply.

The length of this phase varies from one to two years depending on the individual. At the completion of this phase, a Candidate may choose to move forward and become a Novice or she may discover God is calling her somewhere else.

Novitiate: 2 years
The Novitiate is a time of study, reflection, and service. As a Novice, a woman increases her knowledge of theology and the meaning of vowed commitment. She also acquires a greater understanding of the mission, spirit, and history of our Congregation.

Just as she did in her Candidacy, a Novice will live in community with a group of Sisters and participate in Congregational events. At this time, she will also be asked to begin living her life more fully as a Sister of Saint Joseph.

At the end of her Novitiate, a novice may request to take her temporary vows, or once again determine that she is called to a different way of life.

Temporary Professed: 3 - 6 years
Once she has made her vows, a woman enters fully into the life of a Sister of Saint Joseph of Rochester. The time for temporary profession ranges from a minimum of three years to a maximum of six years, during which she will also engage in full time ministry. At the end of this period, the Sister is free to request final vows and permanent membership in the Congregation, or it may have become clear that God has another plan for her.

The Sisters of Saint Joseph of Rochester are daring and innovative, we are pioneers and risk takers, we are loving and faithful. We are just like you! If you would like to learn more about becoming a Sister of Saint Joseph of Rochester, please contact Sister Donna Del Santo, (585) 641-8122.