The Novitiate

ovices were the women seeking to enter the religious life, undergoing a probationary period before they entered the order as Professed Sisters. They first spent six months as a Postulant, "one who is asking", before taking their initial vows.The Novitiate period generally lasted for two years, the first year being devoted to canonical study of theology, scriptures and the basis of the vows. The second year was directed towards training. In the case of the Sisters of St. Ann, this period would have been for education in teaching and nursing skills. Some women entered the Juniorate, an extended period of practical training.

Novices taking vows in the Chapel, c. 1955 (click for larger view)

The Motherhouse in Lachine, Quebec acted as the sole Novitiate for the Sisters of Saint Ann until a Papal Decree in 1889 authorized the establishment of the Western Novitiate at St. Ann's Academy, in Victoria. Sister Mary Leocadia was sent from Lachine to act as the first Mistress of Novices. Ultimately 523 women took their Novitiate vows in Victoria and over 200 of those individuals came from British Columbia.

The women who entered as Postulants had a "vocation", or a personal calling to the Church. They would set off, travelling far from their families, who were often reluctant to see them go. Others were more uncertain. They immersed themselves in preparation, but if their goals were not compatible with the life of a Sister, their two years as Novices were intended to help them understand. It was common, during the 19th century, for orphans to fall under the care of Convents and for single fathers to send their girls to a religious order. These girls would grow up in the Convent environment and naturally make the transition from student to Postulant and Novice.

For investiture, the Novices would descend the Novitiate staircase in solemn assembly, and, after receiving a new "religious name" would receive a white veil and a silver cross. For their first vows (temporary commitment), the Novices received a black veil. A few years later, at final (perpetual) vows, the Sisters received a silver ring.

Click here for more on the Novitiate