Formation (Becoming a Sister)

When a young woman has visited the Convent and begins to feel that God may be calling her to the Religious Life, she is encouraged to come for a month to live, pray, and work with the community. At the end of this period, she goes away for a time of further discernment. If desired, she then applies to become a Postulant - one who is asking: "Is this my call?" as she enters more fully into the Convent life.

After about six months as a Postulant, if it seems that God is indeed calling her to be an All Saints Sister, she then receives the habit and enters into a period of training as a Novice. During the time of the Novitiate, which usually lasts from two to three years, there is instruction in the Monastic tradition and the Community's Rule, as well as in such subjects as Scripture, Christian Doctrine, and Church History.           

Visitation                                                            Postulants on stroll

At the end of the Novitiate, if she is elected to Simple Profession, she makes vows for a three year period before she is eligible for election to Life Vows. During this time she lives and works within the Professed Community.

Clothing of Novice                                                      Reception for Novice

    Novice at work                                           Novice at Play