Do you want to know how to become a Pauline? You are in the right place! Here you will find answers to the most important questions about the requirements, formation process, and life in the Pauline Order. Learn step by step what this unique path looks like and discover if this is the calling for you.
Who are the Paulines?
The Paulines are a Catholic religious order dedicated to serving God and Mary. They are known for their deep spirituality, devotion to prayer, and helping pilgrims at Jasna Góra and other places around the world. The Order was founded in the 13th century in Hungary by Blessed Eusebius of Esztergom. Their most important sanctuary today is Jasna Góra in Częstochowa, where the Miraculous Image of Our Lady is kept. The full name of the order is the Order of Saint Paul the First Hermit, who is their patron and model of ascetic life and prayer.
"Where two or three are gathered in my name, there am I among them" (Mt 18:20).
What does religious life in the Pauline Order mean?
Religious life in the Pauline Order means complete dedication to God through prayer, work, and service to others. Paulines live in communities where they participate together in daily prayers, the Eucharist, and pastoral work in sanctuaries and parishes.
"If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me" (Mt 16:24).
What are the main duties of the Paulines?
The main duties of the Paulines include daily prayer, administering sacraments, leading retreats and missions, and helping pilgrims at Jasna Góra and other sanctuaries. They also engage in various forms of spiritual and material support for those in need.
"I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me" (Mt 25:35).
What is the charism of the Pauline Order?
The Paulines are a Marian order, which means they hold the Mother of God in special reverence. Their charism includes living in a deep relationship with God through prayer and contemplation, as well as pastoral activity and helping pilgrims. Mary is their model of obedience and dedication to God. The Paulines strive to imitate her virtues and pray for others.
"Behold, I am the servant of the Lord; let it be to me according to your word" (Lk 1:38).
What is the difference between a priest and a brother in the Pauline Order?
A priest in the Pauline Order (father) administers sacraments, leads liturgies, and performs pastoral duties. A brother (non-priest) dedicates himself to community life, prayer, and various forms of work for the community and the needy, without administering sacraments.
Do Paulines work only at Jasna Góra?
No, Paulines work not only at Jasna Góra but also in various places in Poland and around the world, leading parishes, missions, retreats, and other forms of pastoral and charitable activities.
How do Paulines help pilgrims at Jasna Góra and other places?
Paulines help pilgrims at Jasna Góra and other sanctuaries and parishes worldwide by administering sacraments, leading devotions, providing spiritual guidance, and organizing retreats. These are places where pilgrims can experience spiritual support and closeness to God.
"Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest" (Mt 11:28).
Who can become a Pauline? Is there an age limit?
A candidate to become a Pauline can be any baptized, deeply believing man ready for religious life and service to others. Age is not strictly defined and is considered individually, though candidates must be adults.
Is a high school diploma required to become a Pauline?
For candidates aspiring to become priests (fathers), a high school diploma is required. For those aiming to be brothers, a high school diploma is not mandatory.
What should I do if I have doubts about my vocation?
If you have doubts about your vocation, it is advisable to contact a vocation director who can help you discern your calling. You can also participate in vocation retreats to gain a deeper understanding of your life path.
"Follow me, and leaving everything, he rose and followed him" (Lk 5:27-28).
What does the process of joining the Pauline Order look like?
The process of joining the Pauline Order begins with contacting a vocation director who helps discern the calling. Then the candidate goes through periods of postulancy, novitiate, and theological studies, preparing for full religious life.
What qualities should a candidate for the Pauline Order possess?
A candidate for the Pauline Order should be deeply believing, open to community life, ready for sacrifices, and dedicated to serving others. Important qualities include humility, the ability for reflection and prayer, and a readiness for continuous spiritual growth.
"Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven" (Mt 5:3).
What does religious life in the Pauline Order offer?
Religious life in the Pauline Order offers a deep sense of purpose, unity with God and the community. It allows for continuous spiritual growth, service to others, and participation in building the Kingdom of God on earth. It is also a life full of challenges and satisfaction from dedicating oneself to a higher mission.
"Seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you" (Mt 6:33).
What vows do Paulines take?
Pauline monks take three vows: chastity, poverty, and obedience. To learn more, click HERE.
What is the formation process in the Pauline Order?
Formation in the Pauline Order is a long and complex process. Click HERE to learn more about it.
Is religious life in the Pauline Order easy?
Religious life in the Pauline Order is not easy. It is a path for those who want to set high standards for themselves and strive for spiritual perfection. It is a life full of challenges but also deep satisfaction from dedicating oneself to God and serving others.
"Enter by the narrow gate. For the gate is wide and the way is easy that leads to destruction, and those who enter by it are many. For the gate is narrow and the way is hard that leads to life, and those who find it are few" (Mt 7:13-14).
Why is it worth becoming a Pauline in today's times?
It is worth becoming a Pauline in today's times because it is a path that allows a deep experience of closeness to God and Mary. Paulines combine contemplative life with active service, providing a full realization of their vocation. The modern world needs people dedicated to prayer and helping others, and Paulines respond to these needs through their pastoral, charitable, and missionary services. Religious life in the Pauline Order is also an opportunity to develop one's talents and skills in the service of God and others, building the Kingdom of God on earth.
"And everyone who has left houses or brothers or sisters or father or mother or children or lands, for my name's sake, will receive a hundredfold and will inherit eternal life" (Mt 19:29).
How to contact the Pauline vocation director?
To contact the Pauline vocation director, you can use the following contact details:
Vocation Director in Poland
ul. Kordeckiego 2
42-225 Częstochowa
tel.: +48 501 360 143
email: powolania.paulini@gmail.com
Vocation Director in the USA
Vocation Director in Australia
For specific questions regarding your vocation or to get more information, contacting them via phone or email will be the most effective way. You can also visit the Pauline Order's websites where you will find additional information about vocation retreats and other events organized by the Pauline Order.
Pauline Order in Poland