The goals of the Novitiate are: verification of one's vocation; a more intimate relationship with the Lord; growth in authentic self knowledge; and an increasing love for the Society of Jesus.

Meet of the Novices - Class of 2009 (pictured above)
Meet the nine men who entered the tri-province Jesuit Novitiate of St. Andrew Hall, Syracuse, New York in August of 2008.

Meet the novice class of 2009 from across North America.
Newcomers 2009 - Part 1
Newcomers 2009 - Part 2

Prior to profession First Vows, second-year novices reflect upon their long experiments:

• John Peck taught at Gonzaga College High School in Washington, DC.
• A.J. Rizzo worked in Campus Ministry at Georgetown University.
• Henry Shea taught high school theology at Scranton Prep.

The most prominent discipline of the First Studies program is philosophy. The typical plan lasts for three years, which also includes the equivalent of one year of theology.

Meet the Men who professed First Vows on Aug. 16, 2009 (pictured above)

Men in First Studies reflect on their Jesuit experience:

A.J. Rizzo, SJ (MAR) - In Love With the Work Jesuits Do

Tom Olson, SJ (NEN) - The Wom(e)n at the Well

Travis Stoops, SJ (MAR) - He Found What He Was Looking For

Sean Toole, SJ (MAR): - How does someone with an admitted aversion to Academia end up with the Jesuits?

Regency is a time for men to be fully involved in the apostolic work and community life of the Province. Men are assigned to regency based on the apostolic needs of the province and individual apostolic desires.

Reflections on Regency:

Peter Folan, SJ (MAR) - Halfway to Ordination

Stephen Surovick, SJ (MAR) - Growing in Grace and
                                                          Understanding of God's Call