Lay Cistercian Formation Program

The Sessions Cover the Following Topics:

• The Roots of Cîteaux: An exploration into its founding and the lives of its founders: Robert, Alberic, and Stephen.
• Masters of Cistercian Spirituality: A study of the teachings of prominent figures like Bernard of Clairvaux, William of St. Thierry, Guerric of Igny, and Aelred of Rievaulx.
• The Rule of St. Benedict: An introduction to the foundational text for Western monasticism.
• Core Cistercian Values: An examination of essential practices such as Lectio Divina and the Liturgy, as outlined in the Constitutions, Guidelines, and Rule of St. Benedict.
• History of the Lay Cistercians: An overview of the movement’s origins and evolution.

Observer classes provide foundational knowledge of Cistercian spirituality and help foster a contemplative life. Working with an observer coordinator, individuals can discern their calling to this spiritual path. They are also encouraged to have private meetings with Council members during this process.

After the Council grants approval, the observer moves into the Formation Program. This transition includes a simple ceremony in which the new novice receives the “Life of Saint Benedict” and the “Rule of Saint Benedict.”

1. Year I/Year II Formation – A two-year program requiring monthly attendance.

a. First Year Novice: André Louf’s The Cistercian Way

b. Second Year Novice: The Rule of St. Benedict

Regular attendance is a key component of formation, signifying dedication to the Cistercian charism and the community’s stability. If a novice misses a meeting, the novice is expected to contact the Formation Director for a make-up task.

2. Juniorate – A three-year, non-sequential program.

a. Junior 1: Monastic Practices by Fr. Charles Cummings

b. Junior 2: Foundational texts of the Order, including The Charter of Charity, Exordium Parvum, and Exordium Cistercii

c. Junior 3: The Cistercian Fathers and Mothers

After completing the two-year Novice Formation Program, a Lay Cistercian makes a one-year Promise, which can be renewed annually. After three consecutive renewals, the member may ask the Council for permission to make a Lifetime Promise. This final Promise, made at the Monastery, marks the end of the formal formation journey.

3. Seniors

Those who have made their Lifetime Promise are considered Senior members. To foster ongoing spiritual and intellectual development, they participate in educational study groups where the Professed community provides selected reading materials and guides discussions.

4. Inactive members

Members who have finished the Observership Program but cannot attend formation meetings regularly are considered inactive. Although they are still valued members of the community and can attend morning meetings, they lose their voting rights and cannot hold leadership roles. To make Promises, inactive members must first resume regular attendance at formation meetings.

5. Auxiliary members

Members who have made at least three annual Promises or a Lifetime Promise but can no longer attend monthly meetings due to circumstances like illness or relocation are known as Auxiliary members. The community prioritizes keeping them connected through newsletters, meeting minutes, the website, and Facebook. Auxiliary members are encouraged and always welcome to attend meetings whenever their situation allows.

From South Florida Lay Cistercian Statutes, 2018