consider “formation through experience” to be vital to our formation program. A greater portion of the Novice’s day is set aside for prayer, silence and study. During the Novitiate, and throughout the brother’s life, emphasis is placed on flexibility and a man’s willingness to change and become healed and whole by the power of God.

2. The Profession of Vows—After the successful completion of the Novitiate, a brother is invited to profess Simple Vows, the Evangelical Counsels of poverty, chastity and obedience, for a period of three years. Formation continues with ongoing study, particularly of the Holy Fathers, Catholic and Franciscan mysticism, with increased apostolic experience. Finally, a brother may profess lifetime vows and become a full member of the Franciscan Brothers of Peace. Even after this stage, ongoing formation is essential to a brother’s life, and will continue until the end of his life.