k. What else is involved in becoming a Jesuit?
The applicant will be given an application form to fill out on this website or at the vocation director addresses above. He must write an essay on his life and vocation -- why he feels called to be a Jesuit. On the basis of these materials he may be referred to the newest local coordinator who works with the Vocation Director. After that, the applicant may be called for interviews by four Jesuits. Letters of reference may be solicited, and the candidate must undergo a thorough medical examination. The Jesuit Superior in Lagos makes the final decision. We must note that we are highly selective, and admit only a small percent of those who express interest in, or apply to become Jesuits.
l. How do I know if I have a vocation to the Jesuits?
The person must be acquainted with, and attracted to the Jesuits and their apostolates, and feel called by God to be a companion in their mission. He must have a great desire to serve God, and he should experience prolonged and intense sense of peace, joy, and freedom when he imagines himself as a Jesuit. Finally, he must trust the judgment and decision of the Jesuit Superior who, through prayerful reflection, decides either to accept, reject, or postpone the acceptance of the applicant who desires and feels himself called and qualified to be a Jesuit.
m. How many years does it take to become a Jesuit priest?
For most applicants, it will take 12 or more years before he is ordained. This is understandably longer than most other religious orders and diocesan formation in the Roman Catholic Church.
n. That sounds like a long time! Why so many years of training before ordination?
Jesuits are trained to be ready to move into a variety of apostolates, hence the long training. This issue is properly addressed by the link Formation of Jesuits.
o. Is the Jesuit finished with his studies and training after ordination?
The training of a Jesuit does not end there. For further analysis of how a Jesuit is formed, read the Formation of a Jesuit.
