Getting to know us: Candidacy and Postulancy
The first stage comprises the candidacy and the postulancy. This phase usually lasts between six months and two years. During this time, the prospective member gains a deeper understanding of the life and mission of the Salvatorians. At the same time, he has the opportunity to discern his own vocation.
The community also takes time to get to know the candidate. Together, they consider whether the path of a religious brother or priest within the Society of the Divine Saviour is the right one.
Deepening one’s vocation: the novitiate
This is followed by the novitiate, a one-year period of introduction to religious life. As the Salvatorians are an international community, the novitiate is often undertaken jointly with other provinces.
This period focuses on the spiritual life and deepening one’s relationship with God. The novices explore the spirituality, history and mission of the Salvatorians and gradually grow into the way of life of a religious. At the same time, both the novice and the community assess whether his personal vocation can flourish within the community.
At the end of the novitiate, the novice takes his first vows: poverty, chastity and obedience.
Formation and Deepening: Juniorate or Scholasticate
Following first profession, the next phase of formation begins. Brothers enter the juniorate, whilst candidates for the priesthood enter the scholasticate. During this time, they either undertake theological studies or receive appropriate vocational training for their future role.
During these years, the brothers renew their vows annually. Upon making their perpetual vows, they finally commit their lives permanently to God and the Salvatorian community.
Entry requirements
Anyone wishing to join the Salvatorians should meet the following requirements:
- Male, single and Catholic
- Aged between approximately 20 and 45
- A-levels or completed vocational training
- Clarified status regarding civilian or military service
- Existing health insurance
- A lived faith and active involvement in the Catholic Church
- Ability to live independently
- Experience of living within a Salvatorian community
Key criteria for a vocation
The following are particularly crucial for a vocation to the Salvatorians:
- a desire for a deep spiritual life
- a willingness to dedicate one’s life to God as a priest or brother in a religious order
- an openness to being sent out to serve others
- good mental and physical health
- the ability to live in community and take on responsibility
Those who choose this path embark on a spiritual journey in which God and the community, step by step, discern together where the vocation is leading.
