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Post-Novitiate
Aim of the Post-Novitiate Stage
103. Until perpetual profession1 the Brother's formation must be continued in a systematic and balanced way. It is organized with a view to the needs of the Church and of people; it is adapted to the personal capacities of the Brother; and it is in keeping with the charism of the Institute2. Throughout this time the Brother steadily deepens his sense of consecration to the Lord.
103.1 After the novitiate the formation of the Brother in temporary profession is continued in two stages: 1. in a community specifically designed for this purpose, under the direction of a Brother named by the Brother Provincial; 2. in an apostolic community, for the period before perpetual profession.
103.2 The first stage lasts at least two years. The first year, at least, is made immediately after the novitiate. (PC 18, 1)
103.3 When circumstances are such that other arrangements have to be made, the Brother Provincial and his Council will examine what is the best way to achieve the objectives aimed at in each stage.
The First Stage
104. The first stage following the novitiate is directed towards formation for mission. To benefit from this stage, the young Brother has to be capable of harmonising both his studies and his apostolic activities with the life of prayer and with community life. When his life is integrated in this way, the ideal of religious consecration will become more and more a lived reality for him1.
104.1 This stage must provide the Brother in temporary profession with courses of theological and professional studies designed to give him competence for the apostolic works of the Institute.
104.2 During this time the Brother is not to engage in any work nor accept any function that could interfere with his formation. The Superiors are to be attentive to this. (c 660, 2)
104.3 A Brother who is attending formation courses in a Province other than his own, follows the directives agreed on by the Brothers Provincial concerned.
The second Stage
105. The first years of apostolic activity are especially important for the Brother in temporary profession. Living in a suitable community and sharing fully in its life and mission, he continues the work of his own formation in a responsible way.
The Brother prepares earnestly for his perpetual profession. He must be assured of personal guidance throughout this stage.
105.1 The Brother Provincial can appoint a Brother who is not the local Superior to accompany the young Brother during this stage. The community into which he is received must also feel responsible for his formation.
105.2 Before perpetual profession a suitable time should be given to a more intensive spiritual preparation.
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