Becoming an associate of the Congregation of St. Joseph involves discernment and a period of formation, during which you will discover where God is leading you and will grow in the spirit and spirituality of the congregation, and readiness for participation in our life and works.
If you are interested in becoming an associate of the the Congregation of St. Joseph, following are the steps you can expect to take on your journey:
Associate Formation Process
Initial Contact
Contact the associate coordinator closest to you geographically who will talk through the process, answer your questions, and help you discern if this is the right decision for you.
Application
Once accepted as an inquirer, you may be assigned a local mentor or spiritual director who guide you in the application and formation process.
Formation
The formation process includes learning the history, spirituality, mission and charism of the Sisters of St. Joseph, what it means to be an associate, and what you can expect moving forward. At the end of your formation period (usually about 1 year), you will formally request to make your commitment as an associate. This request is submitted to the Congregational Leadership Team (CLT) by the Director of Associate Movement. You will receive a formal letter of acceptance from the CLT.
Commitment
Commitment ceremony takes place, usually at your local center, during which you sign your name in our associate commitment book and receive your lace cross necklace identifying you as an associate of the Congregation of St. Joseph.
