The process of becoming an Augustinian friar takes place through a series of four programs, which together are known as the Augustinian Formation Program.

In the introductory, non-residential Associate Program, an eligible candidate – who is a practicing Catholic and a high-school graduate or older – meets regularly with an Augustinian advisor to discern if he is being called to the Augustinian way of life. Associates continue working in their present job or are attending college. One who becomes an Associate makes a yearly retreat with other Associates and becomes involved in a service-oriented project. Opportunities are provided for Associates to visit Augustinian communities and ministries and to attend Augustinian gatherings, such as celebrations of First and Solemn Profession of Vows and Ordinations.

If the individual feels called to examine the Augustinian life more closely, he may apply for entrance into the residential Pre-Novitiate Program (normally open to those 22 and older) and spend a year living among us at St. Augustine Friary in Chicago, IL. He will study either philosophy or theology, receive spiritual direction and experience communal prayer and living. Because of our ministries among peoples of various ethnic backgrounds, our formation program is designed to provide language and cultural support for students from other countries, especially those of Latino background.

Next comes a year at the Novitiate in Racine, Wisconsin, where the individual continues his exploration of Augustinian spirituality and his development of a life of prayer. This is an intensive year of reflection and growth in self-knowledge. During the second half of the year, the novice spends several hours a week in apostolic work. At the end of the year, the novice makes First Profession of the vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience, which may be renewed annually.

Following the novitiate year, the newly professed friar returns to St. Augustine Friary to continue his theological and professional education in the Professed Program. If a friar is interested in serving the Church in ordained ministry, he earns a Master of Divinity degree or a Master of Arts degree in theology at the Catholic Theological Union in Chicago or at our International House of Studies in Rome.

Those friars called to serve the community and the Church as brothers follow a program designed to assist their spiritual growth while pursuing endeavors to improve skills related to their ministerial call. In addition to any studies or work experiences desired to enhance their ministerial skills, these friars are required to take some courses in theology. A basic knowledge of the Church’s teaching as well as studies in spirituality and prayer are essential for a well-rounded development of the whole person who seeks to make a final commitment to live Augustinian community life and to work in Augustinian apostolates.

Two years after one's First Profession, a friar does a pastoral year of service in one of our parishes or schools. The purpose of this year is to assist the friar's discernment towards making Solemn Profession of Vows in the Order.

Three years after First Profession, one is eligible to request profession of Solemn Vows, which marks the beginning of one’s lifelong commitment to the Order and the Church.