It is a time of an introductory acquaintance with the Congregation and its charism in order to discover whether God is calling me to this religious family. During this period the young woman discerns her vocation to the Congregation through prayer and participation in days of recollection and retreats organized by the Congregation, as well as through conversations with the sisters and/or correspondence. She keeps a more frequent contact with the Congregation, even though at this time she can still be finishing school or her studies, working or fulfilling other tasks. As a sign of spiritual union with the Congregation, the candidate receives a medal or cross. The period of candidacy is dependent on the needs of the given person and her concrete situation.