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A Divine Word Missionary goes through a preparation process we call "formation." It takes many years of study, preparation and formation before a young man professes Final Vows with the SVD and enters full-time ministry. Here in the United States, the Society of the Divine Word has five different formation programs that help a candidate discern his vocation to the missionary priesthood or brotherhood. These formation programs are designed to help our students understand God's call in their lives, to assist with personal and spiritual growth, and educate them as professional and effective ministers in the service of the Church.
What is Formation?
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Divine Word College in Epworth, Iowa, is the only Roman Catholic College seminary in the United States whose primary mission is the education of men for the missionary service.
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The Brother Formation Program allows Brother candidates to live in a religious community, participate in ministry, and attend a college or university to complete their education.
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The Associate Program is a residency program for college graduates who are considering a missionary vocation. Interested men live in a Divine Word community, continue with their education and participate in ministry first-hand.
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Divine Word Novitiate in Techny, Illinois (20 miles North of Chicago), is where our students spend a year in prayer, reflection, and study of our religious community to answer the question, "Is this what God is asking of me?"
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Divine Word Theologate in Chicago, Illinois, is the residence for seminarians completing the graduate program in theological education and ministry formation at Catholic Theological Union.
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