The object of this step is internalization and identification. The Junior continues to strive to understand the teaching of faith and our tradition. Growth is experienced by living life in accordance with this teaching on the levels of identification and internalization, not merely on the level of compliance. When a person's judgment or use of reason can flow into a spiritual thrust (affectus) for and toward God, the junior is seen as ready for solemn vows.

Goal: The final period of discernment and initial formation.
Procedure: Simple vows are taken and renewed annually, the black scapular and leather cincture are received, more formal studies in philosophy, theology, scripture and related disciplines.
Time: Three to nine years. The monk will advanced to solemn, perpetual vows at the end of this period. The abbot may call him later to the priesthood .
  Observer
Postulant
Novice
Junior
   
 

 

  

"If he...is suited to rightly living the community relationships that constitute Cistercian life, in solitude and silence, then at the end of novitiate he is to be admitted by the abbot to temporary profession. This is at his free request and with the consent of the conventual chapter."
-Constitutions and Statutes C.51

 Practices and Observances (which foster the spiritual experience of the junior)
1. Understanding faith and revelation through a more formal program of study
2. Obedience of charity
3. Further purification from vice and nurturing virtue.
   
-[vocations] godseeking@newclairvaux.org -[monastic life retreat] mlr@newclairvaux.org ---[address & phone]
Abbey of New Clairvaux
P.O. Box 80
Vina, CA 96092-0080 ----(530) 839-2434