Aspirant questions

[Sandy]

 

Hello, 

I'm interested in becoming a Aspirant but have a few questions.

I'm currently a atheist but curious to discover if there's more.

1. Is me being a atheist going to prevent me from becoming a Aspirant?

 

2. How do I find the right place for me? (globally) Is there a recommended search bank?

 

Sounds silly but if i'm going to try I want to try completely, in other words not in my own clothes.

I understand and agree that I will be treated more like a visitor. But what the clothes represent is important to me. 

3. I've seen all kinds of Aspirant clothing, is there no dress code? Or is it individually?

 

Many thanks!

 

[Papist]

I'm confused. I would think aspirant is something you do, not something you are or become?  

[beatitude]

I'm also confused. What do you mean by aspirant? I've only ever heard this term used for people who are hoping to become a religious sister or brother (monk or nun). Generally the aspirants visit the community they're hoping to join and may stay with them for a while to try out the life, but they wear their own clothes, and receive the religious habit when they enter formally.

If you're hoping to join a convent or monastery, you do need to believe in God.  What would be the point if you didn't? If you mean that you'd like to stay with a religious community for a while, as part of a search for God, then I'm sure many would be happy to welcome you. Most monasteries and convents have guesthouses. If you let us know where you're based we could help you to find one. The sisters/brothers wouldn't give you their habit, though - those clothes have meaning and receiving them is a very special occasion. Asking to wear one would be a bit like asking to have someone else's wedding ring when you aren't even married. You don't need special clothes to try and find God, what is important is a sincere willingness to listen and explore, and if you have that the time you spend searching should be fruitful no matter what you wear.

[WhiteLily]

Sandy. I understand what you are saying. However, you do not want to waste the communities time or your time. Is your intention to become Catholic? Were you baptized Catholic, but fallen away? 

Before you come for any visit, some communities do interview you before you come for a visit.

I had a weekend stay with a religious community while I was discerning my vocation. They interviewed me before I came to visit. I was on  their schedule, though I didn't eat with them or sleep in their corridors. There was time for chores, Mass, Spiritual Direction/time to ask questions.

Maybe before you think about ask a community, think about your motivations. Are you just curious on what a religious community does or are you seriously drawn to the Catholic Church and want to be received in the Church?

It may be helpful to read some books about community life. Mother Mary Francis as written several books about cloistered community life/religious life. 

Please don't go for the sake of going. However, if you truly feel drawn to visit a community, explain your situation and they will decide if it is right for you to come and visit.

I will be praying for you. 

Edited March 14, 2017 by WhiteLily

[MiserereMeiDeus]

I'm praying for you Sandy. I hope you continue seeking and asking God to let you see Him in your life. He is with you and loves you very much. I entered the Catholic Church back in 2009 and went through the RCIA (you would contact the Catholic Church and ask them about the classes.) The word aspirant to me sounds like one entering or already entered the religious life. If that's the case you do have to be a practicing Catholic and a lot of communities want one to be a practicing Catholic for at least 2-3 years before entering. God bless you in your search!