M EN W HO F EEL they may be called to become monks of Valyermo are encouraged to make a retreat at the Abbey in order to experience firsthand something of the life of the community. They may then apply for acceptance as observers, the first stage in the process of monastic formation.
Observers live in the monastery and share fully the community's life of prayer and work.
After about six months of observership the observer petitions the senior council of the monastery for acceptance as a novice. The mercy of God, and membership in your community. May God grant you fellowship with us and with His saints. In the name of the Lord, arise. All the members of formation are expected to have a confessor and spiritual director to aid them in the process of discerning and working through the important stages of monastic growth.