← [[ocds-fh-02|Introduction]] | [[formation-handbook-toc|Table of Contents]] | [[ocds-fh-04|The Principles and Purpose of Formation]] → # The Periods of Formation There are three periods of initial formation. (See Const. 36, the respective Provincial Statutes, and the OCDS Syllabus.) These are: • Aspirancy — 12 sessions (1 year) • Formation I (preparation for the First Promise) — 24 sessions (2 years) • Formation II (preparation for the Definitive Promise) — 36 sessions (3 years) Note: Ongoing and community formation will be addressed in a separate handbook. (Const. 18, 24c and 34, Ratio 87 and 93 apply) Aspirancy is an introduction to the community and the style of life proper to Carmelite Seculars. This period is one year with 12 sessions. Formation I prepares the candidate for the First Promise. This period is divided into two one-year cycles, Years A and B, with 12 sessions each (see the OCDS syllabus). Formation II prepares the candidate for the Definitive Promise, which is a life-long commitment. This period is divided into three one-year cycles, Years A, B, and C, with 12 sessions each (see the OCDS Syllabus). Note: If a community meeting schedule does not accommodate having 12 sessions in 12 months, additional formation sessions may be added outside the regular meetings or two sessions may be combined, at the discretion of the local Council. Ongoing Formation: Formation does not end with the profession of the Definitive Promise. The Promise commits one to a life-long pursuit of perfection. Ongoing formation ideally goes ever deeper into the mystery of union with God, growth in the virtues, and a genuine striving for holiness in imitation of Jesus Christ. Concerning vows in the Secular Order: “With the consent of the Council of the community and the permission of the Provincial, a member of the Secular Order may make vows of obedience and chastity in the presence of the community. These Vows are strictly personal and do not create a separate category of membership. … Those who make vows in the Secular Order continue to be lay persons in all juridical effects” (Const. 39). --- **Source:** [[maps/bibliography#^biblio-ocds-fh|OCDS Formation Handbook]]