Becoming a Brother of Saint Gabriel is the work of many years — an unhurried journey of formation in which a young man is gradually shaped, and freely shapes himself, into a Religious of the Congregation.
ASPIRANCY
The first stage. A young man drawn toward religious life is invited to live periods of accompaniment with the Brothers, while continuing his studies and ordinary life. The aim is simply to grow in self-knowledge, prayer, and clarity about the call.
POSTULANCY
A more committed time of living with the Brothers, sharing their daily rhythm of prayer and community, learning the foundations of the spiritual life. The Postulant is not yet vowed but is preparing to enter the Novitiate.
NOVITIATE
A canonical year set apart for formation in the Religious life: the meaning of the vows, the spirit of Saint Louis-Marie de Montfort, the Rule of Life, prayer and silence. At the end of the Novitiate, the Brother takes his first vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience — for a limited period, renewable.
SCHOLASTICATE · PERPETUAL PROFESSION
Years of deepening — theological and pastoral studies, apostolic experience, accompaniment by formators. When the Brother and the Congregation together discern that the time is right, he makes his perpetual profession — giving himself to God in the Congregation for life.