Consecrated life within the Contemplative Order of Compassion is unique from many other types of Catholic religious orders.
While we welcome all people, regardless of their sexual orientation, gender identity, ethnicity and culture, our consecrated life is reserved for those regarded by many spiritual traditions as “set apart” from the mainstream. As a Queer-Centric spiritual community, only those who identify as being LGBTQ+ are permitted to seek ordination, because it is our belief that being Queer is a unique qualification essential to the esoteric practices of advanced transcultural shamanism, psychedelic spirituality and the mastery of Queer Catholic Esotericism.
Our vocational formation program is three years minimum, including a full seminary curriculum.
Upon completion of the first year of formation, the candidate receives their contemplative habit — a dark brown, gender-neutral robe, fastened by a belt or cord, and (their choice of either) a capuche (hood) or veil.
(We do not impose gender-specific requirements for the habit. Our candidates choose the habit they wear, and may switch off between them.)
Upon the completion of all three years of simple vows, a candidate is consecrated and ordained. At that time, they receive the brown scapular worn over their robe (and a small one worn under their regular, everyday clothing).
Consecrated Members are only required to wear their habits during group liturgical celebrations, when officiating at public sacraments, and during formal occasions, such as interfaith gatherings. Outside of those circumstances, we dress in simple, humble attire, climate appropriate and mindful of those who cannot afford the luxury of fine clothes. Often that means jeans and t-shirts or pullovers.
There are no prescriptions against being sexually active, married or partnered. We affirm sexual expression as being sacred and celebrate its diverse expression in our community. Candidates must be 18 years of age or older, and if they are in a relationship, should have the consent of their partner for them to become ordained.
The only costs associated are the costs of online seminary instruction, which are kept to a minimum as much as possible.
Those interested in further exploring this vocational path should contact us privately.
