Postulants

Postulants are individuals who have expressed a desire to join a religious community and participate in its discernment process. The term is most commonly used in Catholic, Anglican, and Orthodox monastic and religious orders. During the postulancy, the candidate lives with the community, participates in its daily prayers and work, receives instruction in its rules and spiritual practices, and undergoes spiritual and practical assessment. Postulants do not take religious vows; that comes later if the community and the person decide to proceed.

The length of the postulant period varies by community, typically several months to two years. It provides time for the postulant to discern whether the vocation is suitable and for the community to evaluate the fit of character, suitability for stability, and commitment. At the end of the postulancy, a decision is made about moving to the next stage, usually the novitiate. In the novitiate, the candidate may receive training more formally, often wear a habit, and take temporary or solemn vows depending on the order.

During postulancy, rights and duties are generally limited compared with full members. Postulants usually do not participate in the full governance of the community and may be subject to the house rules and obedience to the superior. The exact practices, privileges, and constraints vary widely across communities.

Outside religious contexts, the term postulant can denote a candidate seeking admission to a group, office, or program, but the religious sense is the most common usage.