We certainly do not make it a requirement for the general populace to devote themselves to the life of a Religious, and we feel it important to indicate that, while we are, at times, a very serious community, we also enjoy life and being with others in a more relaxed manner. The Church is, itself, by our Doctrine and nature, open to everyone who wishes to participate in a sincere manner. However, there are individuals who may wish to devote themselves to a more steadfast relationship to the way of the Christos Sother Logos in our particular Tradition.

While the Église Gnostique is a universal church, inviting all who respect our rites to commune with us, we do have an Order associated with our church that is open to both women and men wherein the individual may participate in community (Koinonia) - this may be in the larger sense, as a part of the general movement and egregor of the French Gnostic Tradition, or in varying degrees even to the point of cenobitism as the early 'Desert Fathers' have given us the example. The Order is primarily organized to serve as an initiatory and educational school for men and women interested in the Gnostic path and to meet the special needs for fraternal support while on the spiritual path possibly leading to the pastoral path. Those who were drawn to a 'Religious' life of sincere devotion and work within the French Gnostic Tradition were the impetus for our formation, and those who are sincere in their commitment to the light of Gnosis and are adequately prepared will be considered. The O.'.C.'.M.'. also reserves the right to defer judgement on any applicant for later consideration.

Life in community is generally guided by a 'rule'. Further guidelines are provided by a series of 'constitutions' or 'statutes', which are more administrative in nature. These structural elements, along with the devotion of the individual and an initiation into the religious community are the key elements of any Religious Order.

Religious life and ordination should never be entered into lightly. Basic information about required training through a seminary program, as well as ordination, is outlined in the section about the Seminary. Anyone seriously considering such devition should take time to silently reflect, and then communicate directly with their nearest community, preferring a face-to-face contact before such a decision is made.

Those who may be interested in Holy Orders may contact the International Prior General through email: prieur@gnostique.net.

The Religious Order is called the Ordre des Consolés de Montségur. This aspect of the O.'.C.'.M.'. begins with a self-dedication, or Oblate status, where the individual becomes part of the Congregation, not yet Consoled. If the candidate desires to pursue a life dedicated to the pursuit of gnosis within religious orders, s/he will become a Postulant. After a period of discernment, the Postulant may be received as a Novitiate within the Order. The period of time spent as a Novitiate will vary greatly from individual to individual, but will normally be six months to one year in duration. If the desire is present, a candidate may pursue Simple Profession, thus making a one-year commitment to live a consecrated life within Religious Orders and to live by the Rule and Constitutions of the Order. After a suitable time in Simple Profession, the decision having been made and the candidate approved, Solemn Profession as a Consolé(e)s may be made, thereby living the rest of one's life dedicated and consecrated to the Gnosis.

For some, the desire may be present to pursue traditional Holy Orders within the Church. If, after making Solemn Profession, a Sister or Brother discerns to pursue this path, the Minor Orders directly following may be conferred. The orders of Exorcist (Healer) and Acolyte may be granted separately or together depending on the preparation of the candidate, needs of the church, and current practices of the presiding bishop. The Major Orders (Sub-deacon, Deacon, and Priest) are granted publicly by the presiding bishop and are not conferred by the O.'.C.'.M.'., but by another body.

The Chivalric Order is called the Ordre des Compagnons de Montségur. While the Chivalric Order is an additional component of the Religious Order, this is also an option for the lay member. It is structured in the traditional fashion with three steps: the Wayfarer, the Ecuyer (or Squire), and the Chevalier (or Knight).

Additionally, and particularly for those who may be at a distance from one of our sanctuaries or chapels, yet still desire to devote themselves to a Gnostic & Apostolic life. For them, we have an 'associate' membership - wherein one may self-dedicate and participate in the sense of this larger community. Anyone interested may contact the their nearest community, or contact us directly.

Steps for Application:

1. An applicant should first indicate interest in the Order through local clergy, a current member, or to the International Prior General of the O.'.C.'.M.'.. This can be done verbally or in writing.

2. The applicant must schedule an interview with the Director of the O.'.C.'.M.'. or appointed delegate(s). This can be done in person or via telephone. No decisions can be made until this happens.

3. Candidates will be requested to fill out an application for Orders from the Eglise du Plérôme. This application includes a statement agreeing to the principles outlined in the Church's, and should be submitted to the International Prior General of the O.'.C.'.M.'..

4. Upon completion of the interview and receipt of the application, the International Prior General and delegate(s) will allow themselves at least one week's time for prayer and meditation on the candidate's readiness and fitness for initiation into the Order. This is to ensure that all decisions are in accord with the harmonious flow and growth of all the Sisters and Brothers involved.

5. The Director will inform the candidate and any local clergy of the decision on the application. Dates for induction into the order will be set at that time for accepted candidates.

6. If the O.'.C.'.M.'. clergy (with consultation of other local clergy) feel that the candidate should not be brought into the Order at that time, constructive instruction will be given the candidate as to how to prepare so that acceptance may be gained at a later date. Applications and questions can be directed to the International Prior General of the O.'.C.'.M.'. via email: prieur@gnostique.net.