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New Membership
Your Questions

Do you have a question?
Tell us, and we’ll answer it here.

What does it mean to vow poverty?
There are many ways to view poverty. Everything is a gift from God so we reverence all of creation. We do not individually own anything but everything in common in the material realm. We practice the spirit of poverty in which our needs are met and we live simply.

With the vow of obedience, whom do I obey?Sisters Barbara Goertz and Maureen McCarthy
Basically we obey God and follow Christ who came to do God’s will. Authority and personal freedom converge in the fulfillment of God's will, discerned together in trusting dialogue in accordance with our Constitutions.

Can I make my own decisions once I become a sister?
Yes. We commit ourselves to listen, pray and dialogue with each other in community to know God’s will. After this discernment we are free to make a decision.

What kinds of opportunities for ministry are there?
Within the Church, sisters work as pastoral associates, directors of religious education, adult education facilitators, principals, educators, and musicians (these are just some examples).

In the broader society, sisters work among those who are poor and in secular organizations and social agencies. Some sisters are lawyers, doctors, and nurses.

Where do sisters live?
Usually the sisters live close to where they work, sometimes in parish convents. Some sisters live individually or in groups of 2-5 and keep in contact with other sisters nearby.

What do I have to do in order to become a sister?
First there is a period of contact in which you get to know the sisters and our community. Education and some work experience that give evidence of ability in a particular ministry are required. After discerning with the Vocation Director, a request may be made to the Provincial Team for affiliation.

The period of affiliation is from six months to a year. During this time you live with the sisters yet remain financially independent. When you are ready in dialog with your director a request may be made for initial membership. At reception you assume the title "Sister" and are a novice for at least two years. At the end of novitiate you may request permission to profess vows. After 3-6 years of temporary vows you may request final vows.

What does it mean to live a celibate life?
Our vow of chastity is rooted in our intimacy with God and in a deepening love and compassion for others. We build mature friendships within community and with others, in order to strengthen one another and broaden our capacity for loving.

How do sisters pray?
We pray individually and in community as well as creative shared prayer. This gives us a sense of community as well as having our own style of prayer.

Do you have to be Catholic in order to become a sister?
Yes, you need to be Catholic in order to become a sister. If you wish to become an associate, it is possible to belong to another Christian denomination.