The first step in Formation is the preparation for novitiate. After an individual applies and is admitted to formation as a postulant, he moves into the pre-novitiate formation community. This is a community of Redemptorists whose primary purpose is to prepare postulants for novitiate. Some Redemptorists in the community have other full-time work in ministry. Their presence allows the candidates to see Redemptorists active in the apostolate.
Some members make up the formation team.
While these Redemptorists may do other work, their primary responsibility is the formation of the candidates. Since Redemptorists live a community life, the ability to live with others and contribute to the community is a key skill that is developed and monitored during this time. Each postulant will have some responsibility for helping the community be a healthy and happy place to live. We share domestic chores such as dishes and occasional cooking. Postulants share other chores such as preparing the guestrooms or mowing the lawn.