You ask. We answer.
We are always here for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Taking that first step.
How do I start the process?
The first step is simple: reach out.
You don’t need to have everything figured out—just the willingness to explore. You can:
- Contact our vocations team
- Join a Come and See Retreat
- Begin a conversation about your journey
Do I need to be sure about my vocation?
No. Many men begin this journey with questions, doubts, and uncertainty. Formation is not about already having all the answers—it’s about discovering them through prayer, community, and accompaniment. Contact us today and begin the conversation.
Can I join the Claretians if I live outside the United States?
Yes.
The Claretians are an international congregation present in more than 70 countries, and formation often includes international experiences. If you’re living outside the United States and Canada, you can connect with the Claretian province in your country or continent.
The mission is global and so is the call. You can find your local Claretian community following this link https://www.claret.org/where-we-are/
Do I need a bachelor’s degree to become a Claretian?
Not necessarily. You can start formation without a degree, but you will need to complete undergraduate studies before entering the novitiate. Academic preparation is a part of becoming a Claretian Missionary. The process is flexible and adapted to your situation.
What kind of support will I receive?
You will never walk alone. Throughout your journey, you will be supported by:
- A spiritual director
- Claretian formators and mentors
- A community of brothers
This accompaniment helps guide your discernment and personal growth.
Do I need to be involved in my parish while discerning?
Yes, it is strongly encouraged. Being active in your parish helps you:
- Grow in your faith
- Serve others
- Understand the life of the Church
It’s one of the best ways to see how God might be calling you.
What happens after I attend a Come and See Retreat?
After a Come and See Retreat, you keep exploring. You’re not expected to have everything figured out. Nor do you need to commit. Usually, the next step is:
- Staying in contact with our vocations team
- Beginning regular conversations or spiritual direction
- Continuing to discern through prayer and reflection
- Exploring other opportunities such as Summer Mission and Claretian community visits
It’s simply the beginning of a deeper conversation.
Understanding formation.
What is Claretian formation?
The Claretian formation process is a structured journey that helps a man grow spiritually, emotionally, intellectually, and pastorally as he discerns his vocation. It includes three main stages: pre-novitiate, novitiate, and post-novitiate. Each is designed to deepen your relationship with God and prepare you for missionary life.
What makes Claretian formation unique?
Claretian formation is rooted in five key pillars:
- Adoration: prayer and the Eucharist
- Mission: service to others
- Community: discernment and conversation
- Marian Spirituality: Mary’s example
- Lectio: servants of the Word
This journey is your path to becoming a missionary with a heart on fire for the Gospel, just like our founder, St Anthony Mary Claret.
How long does Claretian formation take?
The full formation process can take between five and eleven years, depending on your educational background and personal journey. It is not a one-size-fits-all path—formation is personalized to help you grow according to your needs and calling.
Where does formation happen? Where is the Claretian formation house located?
Formation happens primarily in Chicago, Illinois. We have a formation house located in Hyde Park, in the same Chicago neighborhood where President Obama lived! Our students typically study at DePaul University for undergraduate work in philosophy and at Catholic Theological Union, which is within walking distance, for graduate studies in theology.
Can I study while in formation?
Yes. Academic formation is an important part of the process. Depending on your path, you may:
- Complete undergraduate studies
- Study philosophy (undergraduate) or theology (graduate)
- Pursue a master’s degree for ministry
When do I have to choose between becoming a brother or a priest?
Our primary vocation is to be missionaries in community, living a life of service. This is true for our priests and our brothers. The decision usually becomes more clear during the post-novitiate stage, when you:
- Begin theological studies
- Engage in real ministry
- Grow in self-awareness and spiritual maturity
At that point, you discern—together with your formators—whether you are called to:
- Ordained ministry as a priest
- Specialized apostolic ministry as a brother
Exploring the Claretian way.
Is Claretian life right for me?
You might feel drawn to this path if you:
- Desire a deeper relationship with God
- Want to serve others and make a difference
- Feel called to community life
- Are open to mission and transformation
Even if you’re unsure, that’s often where the journey begins.
What happens if I start but later realize that I’m not called to be a priest or brother?
That’s okay—and it happens.
Formation is a process of discernment. It is not a contract. If at any point you realize this is not your path, you are free to step away. Our Claretian community will support you in making that decision with honesty and peace.
Are there other religious communities that are part of the Claretians?
Yes, our Claretian family includes the Claretian Missionary Sisters and other communities founded by St. Claret. Our family is formed by the Institutes of Consecrated Life, the Societies of Apostolic Life, and the Associations of the Faithful, which live in the Church and share our charism. You can learn more here: http://www.familiaclaretiana.…en/claretian-family/
