They took the three vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience.

Those, on the other hand, who showed some aptitude for learning, were classified as Scholastics, and were distributed among the colleges of the order.

They studied languages, sciences, and theology, for a period of five years; after which they taught in schools for another period of five or six years; and when they reached the age of about thirty, they might be ordained priests with the title of Spiritual Coadjutors.

From this body the Society drew the rectors and professors of its colleges, its preachers, confessors, and teachers in schools for the laity.

They were not yet full members, though they had taken the three vows, and were irrevocably devoted to the service of the order.