Amy Hereford, CSJ, J.D., JCD

Attorney for Religious Communities

Residence: Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet, St. Louis, Missouri

Sister Amy has been in religious life for more than 30 years. Currently she assists numerous religious institutions with their legal needs. She previously served as attorney at law for the Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet and is a former member of the Canon Law Society of America.

Get to Know Sister Amy:

What is your most treasured gift? Kindness What living person do you most admire? Michelle Obama Who is your favorite musical group? My family What is your most treasured possession? My guitar. I love playing and singing. What is your favorite pastime? Gardening with native plants, and fruits and veggies

GIVE AN OVERVIEW OF YOUR WORK AS AN ATTORNEY FOR RELIGIOUS COMMUNITIES.

I love working with sisters in various communities. I share in their commitment to community, spirituality and justice. In my role, I bring expertise to their planning and help them help others.

WHAT MOTIVATED YOU TO ENTER RELIGIOUS LIFE AND EVENTUALLY LAW?

After college I began to contemplate entering religious life. In addition to living a life of dedication and commitment among women who shared my hopes and dreams, there was certainly a call from God. After about 10 years I discerned, along with my community, to enter the profession. We had a need for someone with legal expertise, and it’s been a good fit for me.

WHAT’S THE GREATEST CHALLENGE IN YOUR ROLE?

It’s always challenging to work through differences. I’ve found women are uniquely equipped to deal with complexity and nuance, and that’s a tremendous gift. It’s also important to work on relationships, to be kind, respectful and caring, which gives us added “political capital” in working through problems.

WHAT PREPARED YOU FOR WORK IN RELIGIOUS LIFE AND LAW? HOW DO YOU BALANCE THE TWO?

A combination of study, work experience, prayer, reflection and daily life with women committed to spirituality and justice was the best preparation I could have asked for. Balance is an ongoing challenge. I listen to my heart and body to know when something is out of kilter.

TELL US ABOUT YOUR GREATEST SUCCESS.

Helping religious communities make tough decisions is my greatest achievement. I offer expertise and compassion to help them come to conclusions they can feel good about. Prayer and spirituality are essential guiding forces.

WHAT ADVICE DO YOU HAVE FOR WOMEN WHO ASPIRE TO A RELIGIOUS VOCATION?

Blessings on your journey! I can't imagine a way of life in which you can see more, do more and be more for yourself, for God and for the dear neighbor.

WHAT QUALITY DO YOU MOST ADMIRE IN A WOMAN LEADER?

Confidence

WHAT IS YOUR LEADERSHIP STYLE?