How do I become a sister? 
We hear this question a lot. How we get to be sisters can be mysterious to people who do not know someone who has entered the convent. As you read through this answer, be sure to remember that it is a process of at least three years….you don’t have to go through all of these changes overnight!


Discernment
(1/2 – 2 years)
  • Discover more about your prayer, your relationship with God, and your relationships with other people.
  • Discover whether you are truly attracted to religious life.
Application Process
  • If you and the community mutually agree that this is a good fit, you will make application to the community.
Candidacy
(1 year)
  • You will spend this year gradually learning and growing into life as a Dominican. You will study, pray, live in community, and minister in a way that complements your desires and gifts.
Novitiate
(2 years)
  • A period of study and continual discernment about the vocation to which God is calling you. At the end of that time you and the community will mutually decide if you are ready to profess vows.
Temporary Vows
  • First vows are made for three years.
  • Usually a sister in temporary vows renews for two more years.
  • At the end of the process, if you and the community believe you are ready, you will make perpetual profession, which means you profess vows for the rest of your life.
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