Stages of Formation: Young Professed

As a professed of temporary vows (PTV), you will have the opportunity to deepen your life with Christ and to make the mission of the Society your own. You will enter into a full-time ministry that draws on your gifts, education and experience. The emphasis during this stage, which normally lasts six years, is on personal integration. This includes learning to balance the apostolic and contemplative dimensions of life as an RSCJ. Living as a member of an RSCJ community, engaging in individual and communal prayer, receiving spiritual direction, making annual retreats and reflecting regularly on your life experiences support this integration. In addition, young professed are encouraged to attend periodic gatherings with other young professed as a way of helping build relationships as sisters and peers.

The formation program for the PTV is adapted to the needs of each woman. Some elect to continue their theological and professional education. Studies at this stage are focused on developing a deeper faith, strengthening your individual gifts and broadening your knowledge and understanding of the world.

When you are ready to profess final vows as a Religious of the Sacred Heart, you will experience first hand what it means to be a member of an international community by living for several months in another country, usually in a developing part of the world. Most often, the international experience includes language study and ministry among people who are marginalized or poor.  Toward the end of this stage, you will share an additional six months, usually in Rome, with other professed of temporary vows from around the world who are also preparing for final vows. This time together includes study of the guiding spirit and principles of the Society as set forth in our constitutions, as well as a thirty-day retreat and many opportunities to learn about the life of the Society throughout the world.

The ceremony of profession of final vows may be held either in Rome or in your home province, the United States.

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For further information:

RSCJ Vocation Director
2545 Bayou Road
New Orleans, LA 70119-2302
1.888.844.7725 or vocations@rscj.org