Jesuit Formation

“Formation” of a Doctor What training does a Doctor need?

A Priest What training does a Jesuit Priest need?

Stages of Formation Novitiate First Studies Regency Theology Tertianship

Novitiate 1 st stage of formation A person is a Jesuit the day he begins Novitiate and is called a Novice. Novitiate lasts 2 years Novices: Take classes on the history of the Jesuits Study Spirituality, Ignatian Spirituality in particular Work in the local community in Apostolates Make the Spiritual Exercises in its 30 Day format Novitiate ends with the taking of vows: Poverty, Chastity, Obedience

First Studies This second stage of formation lasts up to 3 years. Jesuits in this stage are known as Scholastics. First Studies is also known as Philosophy and the Jesuit earns an M.A. in Philosophy. Jesuits study one year of Theology at this time as well. Scholastics work in the local community. The Goal of Philosophy Studies is…

Stages of Formation Novitiate First Studies Regency Theology Tertianship

Regency This third stage of formation lasts up to 3 years. In Regency a Jesuit is known as a Regent (or Scholastic). During Regency a Jesuit lives in a regular Jesuit community and works full-time in a Jesuit Apostolate. The purpose of Regency is to give the Jesuit ‘real-life’ experience as a person in ministry.

Theology The fourth stage of formation lasts 3 years. In Theology a Jesuit is known as a Theologian. It is the formal studies for Priesthood and a Jesuit earns an M.Div. (Master of Divinity). They work in the local community. Many Jesuits start a professional degree at this time. It ends with ordination to the Priesthood.

Stages of Formation Novitiate First Studies Regency Theology Tertianship

Tertiary means third. Tertianship is a third year of Novitiate. A ‘Tertian’ makes the 30 day retreat again. He studies the founding documents again. Tertianship ends with the making of Final Vows (including, perhaps, the 4 th vow). Tertianship completes formation.

Stages of Formation Novitiate First Studies Regency Theology Tertianship