The call we have received has its source in God who invites us to participate in Jesus’ mission of proclaiming the good news of God’s love. We join the Congregation in order to answer this Call to be Christ’s healing presence in the world. Formation takes place within the context of mission in communities.
Initial formation is an ongoing, integrated process which lasts from entrance into the Congregation until the time of profession of vows for life. This process flows from one phase to the next, each with its specific focus, purpose, and time frame.
During this initial phase the interested woman is introduced to the MMS culture and way of life. This phase provides time for both the Aspirant and the Congregation to get to know each other and to discern the reality of God’s call in her life.
The person in this phase of formation preferably lives in a Medical Mission Sisters community to continue self-discovery, experience the Congregation’s spirit and values in living community and mission, and discern her vocation. The length of time for this phase is determined by the growth, pace, and need of the person.
This phase gives the person and the Congregation an opportunity to determine whether the aspirations, ideals, and gifts of both can be harmonized and developed, so that a commitment to God in the Congregation can be made. It takes place in the context of a community with a specific role for formation. Normally, this phase lasts for two years.
This period is for the sister’s integration into the Congregation’s life in mission. Continuing membership requires the ability to participate in the mission of the Society and a willingness to explore a lifetime commitment to God as a Medical Mission Sister. This period lasts from first profession of vows until profession of vows for life, a minimum of three years, and ordinarily not more than six years.