If you’d asked me eight years ago about my relationship with the School Sisters of St. Francis, I’d have told you, “In eight years, I’ll be getting ready to make final vows!”

I came into contact with the School Sisters of St. Francis eight years ago, when I was a freshman in college, and I spent the rest of my undergrad life discerning vowed membership.   However, after many long talks with many people, I knew I couldn’t continue on the path to vowed membership. It was the hardest choice I’ve ever made, because I felt so at home with the School Sisters and I identified deeply with their charism, history and mission, and the spirit of the community as a whole and as individuals. How could that be, if I wasn’t called to Religious Life?

It took a long time for me to be open to the idea of Associate relationship as an option, because it meant coming to terms with the changed nature of my relationship to the School Sisters. Now I see that Associate relationship is the perfect way for me to formalize my commitment to this community while at the same time living the life I was meant to live. I get the best of both worlds!

During my Associate process, I have deepened my understanding and appreciation of the prophetic witness of Religious Life — a role that extends to Associates because of their commitment to religious communities — and the unique and creative ways in which the School Sisters respond to the needs of the times. I’ve strengthened my desire to use my gifts in collaboration with the School Sisters to bring about positive change in the world. I’m excited to be able to commit myself to the School Sisters in this way, and to open myself to all of the possibilities and experiences that come with this commitment.

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