Purpose of the Candidacy Period

Candidates of the Institute of Saint Joseph seek, above all, total consecration of their lives to God through the imitation of Jesus, Mary and Joseph. The apostolate and mission of the entire Institute is holiness of life. This is not an extraordinary call, but one which is sorely lacking in our world today.

The candidate program builds the foundation for the spiritual life necessary for holiness. Candidates concentrate on doctrinal and spiritual formation, having a good knowledge of Catholic tradition and basic principles of the spiritual life at the conclusion of the candidacy period.

Doctrinal Formation

Candidates are expected to master the course on Catholic teaching by carefully reading the text given and successfully completing the worksheets included with the text. A period of time during the formation days will be set aside to answer questions and make clarifications on the material in the text.

Spiritual Formation

Candidates are expected to attend monthly formation days on a regular basis. Consideration is given to the particular demands and circumstances of the candidate’s life regarding the regularity of his or her attendance.

Candidates are also expected to attend the yearly Institute retreat (usually on a Sunday evening thru Tuesday noon in the month of June).

A simple rule of life is given all candidates to establish a consistent prayer life. Candidates are to make the rule of life a priority in their day. Other spiritual practices and devotions should not hinder candidates from carrying out their rule of life, but may be incorporated into the rule of life with permission of the Moderator.

Length of the Candidacy Period

At least five years of formation is required for all candidates. If the required formation is successfully completed, candidates may then petition for membership in the Institute of Saint Joseph, and thus begin a five-year program (minimum) of further formation in preparation for full and final incorporation into the Institute, at which time vows or promises of consecration are made for life.