INTERESTED IN A RELIGIOUS VOCATION?
INTRODUCING THE SERVITE FRIARS
Our community is based upon a shared faith in the love of God.
Nourished by God's Word and sacraments, as well as our personal religious experiences, our
relationship with Christ is deepened. Following the teaching and example of the
Lord, we recognize prayer to be a primary value in our life. All members of our
community, therefore, strive to deepen and expand their experience of prayer.
As Servite friars, we are committed to an international brotherhood
founded for the service of God and all his sons and daughters. Faithful to our traditions
and history, we are inspired by Mary, Mother and Servant of the Lord. We Servites
are witnesses to the values represented by the Blessed Virgin. Her compassion at the
cross of her Son challenges us to understand and alleviate the suffering borne by Jesus'
brothers and sisters today.
STAGES OF AFFILIATION
POSTULANCY: Postulancy is a period of introduction to the Order of
Friar Servants of Mary (Servites) and its goal is to assist you in acquiring a familiarity
with Servite life by living with Servites in a community setting. Normally,
postulancy lasts until the end of a regular college program of studies, or, at least,
after two years of community residency.
NOVITIATE: The novitiate offers you a special year of exploring
Servite commitment through spiritual development and community life. The novitiate,
which lasts one year, is the direct preparation for first profession of vows. As a
novice you are a formal member of the Order - you are a friar.
TEMPORARY VOWS: Temporary profession lasts at least three years and
is a time during which you live the Servite community life, either in studies or in an
apostolate, and prepare yourself for the life-long commitment of solemn vows.
SOLEMN VOWS: With profession of solemn vows you become a full member
of the Servite Order. In vowing poverty, chastity, and obedience, the bond between
the friar, God, and all people is consecrated in a life-long commitment.
ACADEMICS
During the formation program you pursue a course of study or career
development which prepares you for ministry. This process will include both
theological study and apostolic experience. If you feel called to priestly ministry,
you will pursue the prescribed theological course of study required for ordination.
For further information, write to:
Servite Vocation Director
3121 W. Jackson Blvd.
CHICAGO IL 60612
Servite
Vocations
