I can’t resist saying facetiously that it takes a lifetime to become an IHM. No IHM is a finished product. Each of us is constantly being called anew to deeper and more genuine living of IHM life. But what about persons just thinking of religious life as an IHM sister?
Although there are some standard steps for all persons pursuing vowed religious life as an IHM, each person’s process is particular to her. Here are the broad strokes:
- You begin your exploration by talking with the Vocation Director about your journey. She will listen with you to how God is calling you. Then you will need to get to know us (to hang out with us) to see if our values, our spirit are a fit for you, so the Vocation director will invite you to IHM events and provide opportunities to meet small groups of sisters informally. Throughout your time of exploration she will walk with you and help you listen to what God is saying through your life.
- After your inquiry you submit a written application and then interview with the Admissions Board. Board members prayerfully discern your readiness and aptitude for membership and approve you for candidacy.
- After you have been accepted as a candidate you spend the first year of formation continuing to support yourself, but meeting regularly with the Candidate Director, getting to know more sisters, coming to community activities, and continuing vocation discernment through prayer and spiritual direction. As the year progresses you will move into an IHM house and begin living in community.
- Two years of novitiate follow. The first year is more contemplative, with emphasis on prayer, personal growth, theological studies, learning the history and culture of the community, and getting to know the elder members through volunteer service. The second year, the ministerial year, is a time to explore and prepare for future ministry as a vowed member.
- The novitiate ends with the first profession of vows. For three years, you live as a vowed religious with full accountability as a member. This time of preparation and insight culminates in final vows. And then, like all of us, you continue each day to become a fuller, more genuine IHM.
