How to Become an Associate

Get Acquainted Period
The first stage of the journey is getting to know the CSJP Community by spending time with sisters and associates and attending CSJP Community functions and events. These might include liturgies, community prayers, retreats, celebrations, programs at the Peace and Spirituality Center, or joining the sisters and associates at peace and justice events.

For those who know a sister or associate, ask for an invitation to be part of a community function. For those who do not know a sister or associate, contact the Associate Co-Director closest to where you live through our form.

Application
The next step is for the person to meet with the Associate Co-Directors to discuss becoming an associate and ask any questions which they have. After mutual discernment with the Associate Co-Directors, the interested person states in writing their desire to become an associate.

Pre-Associate Program
Once the applicant is accepted as a pre-associate, they are paired with a mentor (either an associate or sister) and begin an extensive orientation program. This is a series of educational sessions in which they learn about the history, charism, spirituality, and ministries of the Congregation as well as how the CSJP’s relate canonically within the Catholic Church.

Discernment
Once orientation is complete, each pre-associate meets with their mentor and the Associate Co-Directors to discern whether they are ready to make a formal Covenant as an Associate. The first Covenant is for two years and is renewable.

Covenant

A covenant is a commitment between the associate and the Sisters of St. Joseph of Peace to live the charism of peace through justice, to commit to a life of prayer, and to support each other as we participate in the life, spirit and mission of the Congregation. Association with the Congregation does not establish any canonical bond; that is, it precludes the right to vote on canonical issues or the assumption of any legal or financial obligations by the associate or the vowed members.