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Number 143 of the Constitutions counsels that a general directory for initial formation be developed "for formation leading to union with the brothers on the way to God." Taking into account sound pluriformity, there are fundamental elements which are considered essential in the total program of formation in our Order. In any case, it seems necessary to cite the material which should be taught in the course of the first year of the canonical novitiate, so that the juniors before profession may be able to respond in a personal way to the following questions.
1.
What are the roots on which our way of life is grounded?
What does it mean to live the Gospel of Christ?
What does it mean to lead the evangelical life?
What is meant by the canonical life?
The following materials ought to be used to respond to these questions:
The Augustinian tradition
The Rule of St. Augustine
The history of the canonical life
St. Norbert and the history of his Order
The Constitutions
2.
What does it mean to lead the religious life?
Materials:
Religious life in the Church (the documents of Vatican Council II)
The vows
Initiation into the study of the Psalms
Liturgical prayer
Private prayer (prayer, meditation, spiritual reading)
The various schools of spirituality
3.
What is the peculiar or proper character of the various houses?
Why have you chosen this house (or community)?
Materials:
The history of this house
The customs of this house
Where it is the custom, confreres may ask questions.
