Postulancy
After becoming acquainted with the Congregation, a young woman (generally between the ages of eighteen and forty) is welcomed as a postulant. She is thus introduced to the spiritual, apostolic and community life of a Little Sister of the Poor. The final months of this period of transition are spent with the novices at the novitiate in Queens Village, NY.
Novitiate
A two-year period of prayer, study and spiritual growth, culminating in temporary profession of the vows of chastity, poverty, obedience and hospitality.
Period of Temporary Profession
Several years of apostolic life spent in a community of Little Sisters.
Juniorate
A year of further doctrinal formation during the period of temporary profession.
Second Novitiate
A year spent with Little Sisters from different parts of the world in prayer and study at the motherhouse in France, in preparation for the profession of perpetual vows. This time offers to each Little Sister the grace of living and praying in the places where Jeanne Jugan was born, founded the Congregation and spent her last years.
Continuing Formation
An ongoing, lifelong program of spiritual and apostolic formation, of responding to God’s call with deeper maturity, and greater love.
