Postulants are individuals who are in the process of applying to be admitted into a religious order, usually in the Catholic Church, as members preparing to become priests, brothers, or sisters. Postulancy is the initial stage of religious formation, following the aspirancy stage, and serves as a period of discernment and preparation for those considering a vocation to religious life.
During this phase, postulants typically live in a community with other postulants and under the guidance of a formation director or mentor. They undergo a series of spiritual, intellectual, and practical training, which may include daily prayers, meditation, Scripture studies, theological classes, and exposure to the charism and mission of the particular religious order
Postulants are expected to show a genuine desire to deepen their relationship with God and serve others, as well as demonstrate qualities such as humility, obedience, and commitment. They often engage in community service or ministry programs to gain first-hand experience in religious life and to discern their vocation further.
At the end of the postulancy period, postulants may be invited to continue their formation by entering the novitiate, where they take their first vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience, marking their official entrance into the religious order. However, if someone decides that religious life is not their calling, they are free to leave at any point during the postulancy period without any obligation.
Overall, postulants are aspiring religious individuals who are on the path towards embracing a religious vocation within a specific religious order.
