St. Therese of Avila Catechetical Formation Center (STACFC)


             The St. Therese of Avila Catechetical Formation Center (STACFC), founded in 2007, is in Bukoba, Tanzania. The Center provides education and spiritual formation for young women discerning a vocation with the Sisters of St. Therese of the Child Jesus. Spiritual formation is a vital period of prayerful reflection and discernment before making a lifetime commitment to religious life. The Center offers boarding, a high school education, spiritual formation, pilgrimages, and retreats, creating an environment that nurtures faith, discipline, and vocational clarity.
 
             In recent years, the number of young women entering the program has grown significantly, reflecting a strong and vibrant call to religious life. Catholic Sisters dedicate their lives to spiritual growth and service to others, playing essential roles in education, healthcare, social services, and community development. As role models of faith and dedication, they continue to inspire others to live out their Christian faith and make a positive difference in the world.
 
            We are proud to announce that STACFC was ranked third among the top ten schools on the National Exam for 2024. Nineteen of our Postulants received national awards.

    ​Please consider a donation to help support the formation and development of future St. Thérèse Sisters at the STACFC.     

​The Stages of Religious Formation:
Candidate/Postulant
Young women who aspire to become Sisters of St. Thérèse of the Child Jesus formally enter the Order as Candidates. Upon successful completion of the initial year, Candidates become Postulants for one year. This stage is a time of learning a new way of life and prayer, studying the history and charism of the Order, and participating in the apostolic works of the community.

Novitiate
Following a successful postulancy, Postulants enter the Novitiate, a two-year period of intensive preparation for vowed religious life. This stage focuses on deepening one’s understanding of the Order’s spirituality and charism, as well as the evangelical counsels of poverty, chastity, and obedience.

Temporary Vows
At the conclusion of the novitiate, Sisters make temporary vows, beginning an eight-year period of continued formation and mutual discernment. During this time, Sisters deepen their spiritual life, develop the skills needed for ministry, and participate more fully in the life and mission of the community. This stage is marked by a growing relationship with God and increased clarity of vocation.

Perpetual Vows/ Solemn Profession
Solemn Profession is a public and lifelong commitment to God, in which the Sister consecrates herself fully to serve others through the specific charism of the Order. This sacred milestone signifies a complete and enduring gift of self to Christ and His Church.

2025-2026 School Year