It is the most important part of a Sisters formation, as here she will build all her basic foundations for the spiritual life that will be the rest of her life. During this time she will be tested and tried and will learn to embrace the cross of Christ. This will strengthen her when she goes out into the apostolate to save souls. The time of the Novitiate last for two years. The community will take council and if they feel the Novice is suited to the community, and they to her, she will be accepted to make temporary profession, taking the vows of obedience, poverty and chastity.
Temporary profession lasts from three to six years.
At the end of her temporary profession, she will seek to make final profession of her vows for life. The Sister Servants of St. Francis wear the full traditional habit of a religious. The full but simple habit is worn so as not to be concerned with the things and vanities of the world and as a reminder of belonging to Christ. As a sign of consecration a simple black veil is worn over the head on top of a soft white wimple completely covering the hair. The black tunic is ankle length, and has a black shoulder cape.