The process of initial formation begins with a period of candidacy, during which a woman discerns her call to this way of life.  This is followed by at least three years of aspirancy.  Guided by a professed Missionary, the aspirant strives to follow and live faithfully the SIM Rule, which involves a prayer life, meditation, Eucharistic celebration, a course of study and a particular mission witnessing to Gospel values.  The aspirants gather for an annual formation retreat in mid-February, in addition to the annual retreat attended by all Missionaries.  At the end of Aspirancy, with the approval of the US Territorial Council, the aspirant makes her first Profession.  After Profession, the Missionary enters a five-year directed period of Temporary Incorporation before making her definitive Profession in the Institute.

Missionaries must strive to be open to the workings of the Spirit of the Lord if they are to discern the will of God in a complex world.  They draw strength and courage to live their vocation fully by nurturing a spirit of prayer:  listening to and meditating on God's Word in the Scriptures, praying daily the Liturgy of the Hours and uniting themselves to Christ through participation in the daily Eucharistic celebration, when possible.  Missionaries are also asked to have a regular spiritual director and to attend monthly Days of Recollection and annual retreats arranged by the Institute.