← [[f2a-foreword|Foreword]] | [[f2a-formation-2a-handbook|Table of Contents]] | [[f2a-guidelines|The Specific Guidelines for Formation]] → # Introduction to Formation II Formation II is in preparation for the Definitive Promise and takes a minimum of three years, and in some instances, due to discernment by the candidate or the council, may take longer. The purpose of this period of formation is to prepare the candidate to maturely make a lifetime commitment to living the Discalced Carmelite charism as expressed in the OCDS Constitutions. Deepening union with God in interior prayer should lead the candidate to grow in virtue, in the desire to serve others, and in faithfulness to the Evangelical Counsels and Beatitudes. Growth in community life continues to be an important aspect of formation. Because this period leads to the Definitive Promise, serious ongoing discernment of the vocation by the Council and the candidate is crucial during this time. Candidate responsibilities: The candidate will strive to be consistent in the practices begun in earlier stages of formation and be faithful to the Promise made at the end of Formation I. (The noted references are not exhaustive; there are many others throughout the Constitutions, local statutes, and Ratio.) • Attend and participate in monthly community meetings and formation sessions (see [[05-03-constitutions#^ocds-c-24|Const. 24.b,c]]). • Be conscientious in the study and internalization of assigned material and topics (see [[05-03-constitutions#^ocds-c-24|Const. 24.d]] and 32-34). • Continue to study and strive to live the OCDS Constitutions and Statutes (see Const. Preface). • Develop the habit of reading Church documents, especially those addressed to the laity (see [[05-03-constitutions#^ocds-c-19|Const. 19]] and [[05-05-ratio#^ocds-ratio-80|Ratio 80]]). • Read and reflect on Sacred Scripture regularly. (see [[05-03-constitutions#^ocds-c-19|Const. 19]] and [[05-05-ratio#^ocds-ratio-15|Ratio 15]]) • Practice silent prayer (remain in God’s presence with loving attention) daily for at least half an hour (see Ratio 20-21, [[05-05-ratio#^ocds-ratio-90|Ratio 90]]). • Pray Morning Prayer and Evening Prayer of the Liturgy of the Hours. Pray Night Prayer if possible (see [[05-03-constitutions#^ocds-c-6|Const. 6.d]] and 23-24). • Participate in daily Mass as far as possible (see [[05-03-constitutions#^ocds-c-6|Const. 6.d]] and 23-24). • Continue the habit of daily examination of conscience (commonly included as part of Night Prayer). • Fast on the vigils of the Carmelite feasts listed in the Provincial Statutes. • Participate in the community apostolate (see [[05-03-constitutions#^ocds-c-26|Const. 26]]). • Share in the duties and responsibilities of the community as assigned by the local council (see [[05-03-constitutions#^ocds-c-15|Const. 15]]). • Participate in community retreats and days of recollection (see [[05-03-constitutions#^ocds-c-24|Const. 24.d]]). • Most importantly, continue to strive for Christ-like charity toward all in the community, in the family, and in daily life (1 Cor. 13). 3 --- **Source:** Secular Order of Discalced Carmelites, *Formation II Year A: The Ascent of Mount Carmel* (US National Formation Program, 2024).