Formation In Detail

Initial Formation - Preparing a Man For Life As a Friar

Initial formation is intended to prepare a man for his life as Dominican friar.  A young Dominican in formation is prepared in academics, ministry, and spiritually in the tradition of the Order of Preachers.  Initial formation begins with the first year, which is called the novitiate year, and ends when the friar is sent out to minister as a priest or cooperator brother.  The men entering the novitiate of the Order receive the Dominican habit, live the life, and learn the Dominican traditions that will be the foundation for their entire lives as friars.  At the end of the novitiate they will make their first vows.  In vows, they are now student brothers and continue their formation to become clerical brothers (who become priests), or permanent brothers (who are not ordained).  Their vows will be renewed along the way and in the sixth year they will make solemn vows.  Solemn vows are final for one's life, and renewal is no longer necessary.  Upon completion of academic, ministerial and religious studies at St. Albert and the Dominican School of Philosophy and Theology, the friar is ready for his first assignment.

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