BROTHERS OF CHARITY TANZANIA
SAINT DOMINIC REGION
In preparation for the actual formation (novitiate), and after the introduction, postulancy starts. During this period, which can take up to two years, candidates learn more about the Congregation of the Brothers of Charity. Also in that time, the Congregation decides whether a candidate is up to the apostolic tasks that await him. The final six months of postulancy candidates spend in a continental international novitiate – in Africa, Asia, or America – where they study English and prepare for the novitiate training. After that, candidates may begin the novitiate.
The novitiate, which lasts two years, starts by taking the habit and being received into the Congregation as a novice. Novitiate training consists of three parts: one year in the continental international novitiate (Kenya for Africa), a six-month pastoral internship in a Congregation apostolate, and a final six months back at the novitiate for reflection and preparation for the first profession of vows.
Following the first profession, brothers get acquainted with the realities of their regions. They live in community and engage in apostolates that serve the poor. Training is professionally oriented — brothers become educators, nurses, social workers, or other professionals. After six years of temporary vows, they make their perpetual profession, fully dedicating their lives to God and service through the Brothers of Charity.