Q&A

The idea of being a sister keeps coming to me. What should I do?

If the idea of a being a sister keeps tugging at your heart, then it’s very important to check out if this life is right for you! Ask for God’s guidance.

Spend time with sisters. Join them for meals and prayer. See how they live and how they serve. You might want to talk with a vocation director about what you are feeling and experiencing.

Remember that talking with our vocation director does not mean you have to be thinking about being an SSND. She will be glad to answer any of your questions and to journey with you as you discern God’s call.

What do you mean by God's call?

God calls each of us to a way of life that is best suited for us, that will lead to our happiness. However, our cell phone doesn’t ring to inform us what choices we should make.

We come to understand God’s call through prayer, reflection and attentive listening to ourselves. We need to be in touch with what it is we want and we need to listen to the advice and suggestions of others.

Will I have a choice as to which area of ministry I'd like to serve?

A sister who is looking for a ministry will be in touch with the community leadership and begin a dialog with them. She then looks for a ministry that fits her abilities and educational background. She dialogs with the congregation's leadership about the ministry openings she has found. They help her discern her choice and give the consent of the community before she accepts a position. At other times the congregation may be aware of a specific need in a ministry and ask a sister to consider accepting the assignment.

Do SSNDs get time off or take vacations?

Sisters try to live a balanced lifestyle. Having time for leisure and vacation is very important to that balance. Sometimes sisters do things with their community members such as going out to dinner or to the movies. Some sisters enjoy painting, pottery, hiking and other activities.

How much eduation do I need?

The answer to this question depends a lot on the age and experience of the woman who is inquiring about SSND. Sometimes a woman is in college and will continue her education while an affiliate and postulant. Or she may be finished with college and already working before entering the community. Sometimes a woman has wonderful work experience and has not gone to college.

That does not necessarily mean she cannot become an SSND. We talk with each woman personally to understand how she sees herself involved in ministry. Having the skills for ministry is important because our lives are given in service to others. That might mean a woman will want to further her education.

What questions do you have?
Email them to Vocation Team and you will receive a personal answer

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