Missionaries of the Precious Blood

Companions

Becoming a Companion

The first step toward becoming a Companion is the invitation. Persons are invited to attend an information night about becoming a Companion, then sit in on the Companion gatherings of the local group. Inquirers desire interaction with the Missionaries of the Precious Blood, and are seeking to enrich their spiritual lives.

Basic Requirements

Any Catholic can become a Companion who is

called to participate in the goals, mission and prayer life of the Missionaries of the Precious Blood
called to journey in faith and service responding to the "cry of the blood"
called to live in a bond of charity with the Missionaries and other Companions
seeking holiness in the spirit of St. Gaspar del Bufalo and St. Maria de Mattias
at least 18 years of age
accepted by the Provincial Director after completing at least two years of formation and expressing commitment in a written covenant

Inquiry offers an opportunity for an individual to consider a call to become a Precious Blood Companion. Inquirers go through four Inquiry Deliberation sessions with a sponsor and/or covenanted Companion(s) apart from the rest of the Companion group. With the help of the sponsor and Convener, each inquirer makes a decision about entering Companionship Formation.

Formation begins with a welcome rite. During Formation, candidates examine eight Study Chapters in the Inquiry and Formation Workbook. The sponsor and/or covenanted Companion meets with those in formation, normally monthly, to assist in the study of and sharing in the Study Chapters. At the completion of two years, an inquirer concludes Formation by writing a one-year covenant.

Companionship begins with the covenant rite. Companionship includes ongoing formation, continuing in active ministry, taking part in an annual retreat or day of reflection, and sharing in as many Companion gatherings and provincial events as possible. After completing the first year, covenants are renewed for three year periods.