Process of Formation
INQUIRY
Interested individuals who are responding to a call to the Providence Associate process are expected to:
- Meet with the Director and a member of the Providence Associate Committee (PAC)
- Participate in monthly meetings of a local PA group
- Meet regularly with a mentor to develop knowledge of and formation in the Providence legacy
- Attend gatherings (e.g. AGM/AGEM, retreat) that will further support and enrich the development of the mission, vision and values of the Associate process
- Be open to sharing and spiritual transformation
- Honour personal and communal discernment regarding this process
After a period of one year, an inquirer interested in proceeding to the candidacy stage will discuss this process with the mentor. The inquirer may then be invited to meet again with the Director and a member of PAC to discern next steps. An application for candidacy will be completed and two references provided.
CANDIDACY
Individuals who have proceeded to the candidacy stage are expected to:
- Participate in monthly meetings of a local PA group
- Continue to grow in knowledge of the Providence legacy
- Participate in the AGM/AGEM and retreat
- Welcome the support and guidance of Providence Associates
- Seek opportunities to deepen spiritual transformation
- Continue to honour personal and communal discernment regarding this process
The final decision with respect to acceptance as a Providence Associate rests with the Director. If the Candidate is accepted, they will meet with the Director to discuss the Commitment Ceremony.