On September 1, 1999, these twelve men received the habit of the Dominican Order and began their novitiate.

Br. Flannan McGrath San Jose, CA	Br. Alphonsus Mary von Hazmburg Las Vegas, NV

The novitiate is the first step in Dominican formation, a year-long opportunity to discern one's vocation from within the very culture of the order. Although novices are customarily vested in the habit, they profess no vows.

Br. Carlo Boromeo Varela Los Angeles, CA	Br. Jerome Cudden Tempe, AZ

"The novitiate is a time of probation directed to this purpose, namely, that novices may come to know more deeply their divine and, indeed, Dominican vocation, may experience the Order's way of life, may be formed in the Dominican spirit in mind and heart, and manifest their intention and suitability to the brethren." (Dominican Constitutions, 177)

Br. Dominic Nguyen Calgary, Alberta, Canada	Br. Maximilian Mary Hallenius Kent, WA

Prayer, of course, is a very important part of the novitiate. Novices participate daily in Mass, the full Divine Office, and Eucharistic adoration, and are encouraged to pray in solitude as well.

Br. Anthony Garcias Los Angeles, CA	Br. Thomas Irish Salt Lake City, UT

The novitiate is a non-academic year. However, the novices do receive instruction in liturgy, the history of religious life, the Dominican Constitutions, Dominican spirituality, and the vows. They also serve weekly at inner-city schools and soup kitchens.

Br. Michael Hurley Pacifica, CA	Br. John Thomas Mellein Ventura, CA

One is free to leave the novitiate permanently at any time with no obligation. If the novice stays for the whole novitiate and wishes to continue in formation, he requests permission to profess vows. With the profession of vows his time in the novitiate is brought to completion.

Br. Vincent Mary Kelber Seattle, WA	Br. Aidan Dominic Floyd Seattle, WA

---

Would you like free information on becoming a Dominican Priest or Brother? Contact our Vocation Director.