What is Initial Monastic Formation?
Listen, O my daughter, to the teachings of your master,
and turn to them with the ear of your heart.
(RULE OF BENEDICT, Prologue)
Initial formation is the process by which an individual prepares herself for perpetual monastic profession, a life commitment, with the Benedictine Sisters of Erie.
The woman lives, works, and prays with the community as she discerns her monastic vocation.
Immersed in the daily life of the community, she moves through all the phases of Initial Monastic Formation in mutual discernment with the community, under the guidance of the Director of Monastic Formation and formation staff.
She participates in the Initial Formation Program of studies as well as in the On-going Formation Program of the community.