Admission and Formation
If you would like more information about becoming an Ignatian Associate, please Contact Us.
Each community receives new members for formation according to their own schedule, often yearly or every two years. After applications are received and reviewed, accepted applicants begin a two-year formation period which usually begins in September.
At the conclusion of the formation period, each person discerns if she/he wishes to make the Promises of Simplicity of Life, Apostolic Availability and Fidelity to the gospel and to her/his Associate and Jesuit companions . Initially Promises are made for one year with renewal being made for one or three years.
Becoming an Ignatian Associate does not require a financial commitment. Promised members discern how they wish to support the work of the Ignatian Associates with time, talent and financial contributions.
The first year of formation consists of
- Participating in the Spiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius (19th Annotation)
- Meeting weekly with a Spiritual Director trained in Ignatian Spirituality who guides the experience of the Spiritual Exercises
- Meeting two to three times a month with one’s formation group under the guidance of a team of Promised Members
- Sharing with others the process of deepening spiritual life and Ignatian spirituality; sessions focus on the Spiritual Exercises and faith sharing
During the second year of formation, the emphasis is on
- Learning more about Ignatian Spirituality and St. Ignatius
- Growing in understanding of what it means to be a Promised Ignatian Associate, especially the significance of the three promises, community life, ministry, as well as Ignatian Associate and Jesuit history
- Meeting with Promised Members for liturgy, celebrations and learning