Becoming a Brother
The process of becoming a Brother of St. John of God begins with the first contact by someone who shows an interest in our way of life. This is the stage where an individual can meet the Brothers, have questions answered, and see our way of life. In addition, it is an opportunity for the individual to continue his discernment.
The man who wants to continue his discernment and who has all the requirements to become a Brother, can now apply to begin the formation program. This is a period where a candidate lives with a community of Brothers, sharing in its spiritual and apostolic activities.
To speak with someone about your vocation to the Hospitaller Order of St. John of God, please contact the Vocations Counselor:
Candidacy, which typically spans 9 to 12 months, during this time the candidate embarks on the initial phase of discernment. He resides with a local community and is immersed in its daily life and routines. He actively participates in its ministry to gain insights into the community’s mission. This participation helps him discern whether this path aligns with his own calling. Throughout this period, the candidate deepens his understanding of the spirituality of hospitality, the core value of the Hospitaller Order of St John of God.
Postulancy, which typically lasts at least 6 months, is the next stage of formation. A period of intense discernment, where the candidate reflects on their vocation and seeks alignment with the religious life. He begins an extended experience of what religious consecration entails in terms of prayer, community life and mission. This is a period of exploration, learning, and growth, as he prepares for the next stages of formation.
Novitiate, where the postulant becomes a formal member of the Hospitaller Order of St. John of God. During this stage of formation, the novice commits himself to reflect on the charism of the Order and his vocation to the Church by living the vows we profess. This period of novitiate is 2 years, after which the novice Brother will profess temporary vows of Poverty, Chastity, Obedience and Hospitality in service to the sick, poor and those in need.
Scholasticate, is a period when the Brother continues to pursue his human, professional, theological, spiritual and pastoral formation. During this period, the Brother seeks to integrate vocation and mission and begins preparation for solemn profession, through which he will consecrate himself forever to God and the Order with his vows and service to the sick, poor, and those in need. It is a significant and transformative period that shapes the Brother’s future path in the Order, a time of deep exploration, learning, and growth, preparing him for the lifelong journey of serving others in the manner of St John of God.