Vocations
We hold Discernment Weekends about three times a year. They are designed to give time and space to the participants to reflect on God's call. Our next weekend will be in London in September : Our Next Discernement Weekend
*****************************
Each one of us is on a journey through life. It is a joy and privilege to share this journey with others who feel called to the same mission within the Church. Some of our province have written their 'stories' - stories of love and fidility, courage and prayer.
*****************************
The Formation Process in Sion
The Formation Process is a life long process. It is a journey of discovery of the fidelity of God in our lives.
Before someone officially joins the congregation, she will spend some time getting to know some of the communities in the province (UK and Ireland). She will be in contact with one sister who will accompany her towards the decision to join us. She will also have a Prayer partner, another sister in the province who will promise to pray specially for her during this journey.
Initial Formation is divided into three stages. Each ones programme is different depending on the person's background.
Stage One lasts for about one year and has an emphasis on community life. The new member may have some paid employment during this time as well as studying the origins of the congregation and getting to know the sisters of the province.
Stage Two is called the Cannonical Year and lasts for one whole year. The main purpose of this year is for the new member to deepen her relationshop with God. There will be some study of Scripture and Spirituality. During this year the new member does not do any paid work.
Stage Three may last up to a year, and the emphasis of this stage is the integration of the spritiual life, community life and apostolic work. During this stage the sister will do some paid or voluntary work, or may begin some study in theology.
After the time of Initial Formation the sister will make Vows for three years. These are renewed once. During these six years, the sister may do study in Theology or some professional training. During this time, there will be a sister appointed to accompany and support the new member as she journeys towards her life long commitment at Final Vows.
At some stage in the early years of life at Sion, many of our 'new members' will spend some time in Jerusalem for study and ministry.
Final Vows are professed about six years after First Vows. We are encouraged to continue our formation throughout our lives.
**************************************
Read the Popes message for Vocations Sunday, 2010 here