A Preparatory Association of Christ's Faithful is the name given to a group in the Inspiration phase of founding a new charism. During this time, they live their way of life--with a habit worn indoors and distinctive garb outdoors--until they are comfortable with their constitutions.

The experimental habit has to be worn to ensure a stable source of habit parts, which is one of the "Seven Pillars" of New Foundations. (The "Seven Pillars" is an allegorical name given by the CCMM Ministry of Our Lady of the Cloister to the seven things required before a group can approach the bishop for "constitution" as a Private Association).