During this time of experimentation, the founder should keep a journal containing inspirations regarding the life of the future religious community. The following points must be covered:

Rule
Constitutions
Formation Program/establishing the novitiate
Horarium
Remunerative work
Stable source of habit parts
Three or more persevering members

However, before receiving adherents, we suggest that the founder develop their formation program for the community while living as their own third order with those who do not qualify for the vowed observance.

The experimentation phase is usually five years. We recommend following the formation program in order to tweak it. Doing so will take more than five years. The Inspiration Stage will likely last longer than five years because of not only the inspiration being received, but the practical application of the same must be proven.

Religious congregations exist for the salvation of those called to it, and those with whom they work. The congregation also assists the local (arch)bishop with his Pastoral Plan (needs assessment). If not working directly with the (arch)bishop, we recommend an annual project update. This will let the (arch)bishop know what's going on in his (arch)diocese.

Do not approach the chancery for recognition until you can stand back, look at your project, and say, "Yes, my project looks like a religious congregation."

A one year founders' novitiate would follow. Do not do the Founder's Novitiate until the (arch)bishop asks a religious community to host it. The Founder's Novitiate will be invalid if the (arch)bishop was not involved.

The group will not only learn the ropes of religious life, but the established community will teach the founders the formation program. This one year of novitiate is required by canon law, and is known as the "canonical novitiate."

Adherents will come when the Lord deems the founder ready for companions.