2012 VISION Vocation Guide

A Publication of the National Religious Vocation Conference Sponsors of VocationMatch.com and EncuentroVocacional.org

2012 CATHOLIC RELIGIOUS VOCATION DISCERNMENT GUIDE

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CATHOLIC Religious Vocation Discernment Guide Executive Director of the National Religious Vocation Conference Brother Paul Bednarczyk, C.S.C. Publisher TrueQuest Communications, L.L.C. Patrice J. Tuohy (pjtuohy@truequest.biz) Daniel Grippo (writingdan@yahoo.com) Editorial Executive Editor Patrice J. Tuohy Managing Editor/Production

Anne Marie O’Kelley (amokelley@truequest.biz)

Managing Editor/Editorial Joel Schorn (jschorn@truequest.biz) Content Editor Carol Schuck Scheiber (contenteditor@VocationGuide.org) Art Direction

T & J Studios

Advertising Production Manager Dianne Potter (dpotter@truequest.biz) Sales Patrice J. Tuohy Dianne Potter 800-942-2811

Customer Service mail@VocationGuide.org VocationGuide.org Online Services ideaPort, LLC

Vision is the annual publication of the National Religious Vocation Conference, 5401 South Cornell Avenue, Ste. 207 Chicago, Illinois 60615; nrvc@nrvc.net; www.nrvc.net ©2011, National Religious Vocation Conference Published by TrueQuest Communications 53 West Jackson Blvd., Suite 520, Chicago, IL 60604-3433 phone: 312-356-9900; fax: 312-356-9903 e-mail: mail@truequest.biz; www.truequest.biz Printed in the United States. ISBN 1083-0804. No part of this publication may be reproduced without permission from TrueQuest Communications.

Manuscripts are welcome. For writer’s guidelines and other editorial inquiries, contact Carol Schuck Scheiber at contenteditor@VocationGuide.org Request additional copies online at VocationGuide.org; e-mail mail@VocationGuide.org; or call 800-942-2811.

For information on advertising, please call Dianne Potter at 800-942-2811.

Vision reserves the right to reject any advertising. All ads must be in line with the guide’s mission to promote Catholic religious vocations.

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Contents

Created

in community

56

VISION 2012 CATHOLIC Religious Vocation Discernment Guide

Ten

things to know about discerning a vocation

18

Sisters

form a colorful bouquet

86

Religious sightings 6

Vision spotlight

Brothers

Nuns and priests in the news

Created in community

Why I love being a brother!

Compiled by Joel Schorn

Prayer & discernment Be a saint in your own way Father James Martin, S.J.

10

Father Christian Raab, O.S.B.

18

Brother to the rescue

Blessed are we who comfort the mourners

Brother Jason Ford, C.F.C.

66

Religious communities offer help in Haiti

72

Text by Carol Schuck Scheiber

How to nurture inner silence abbot Christopher Jamison, O.S.B.

26

Generosity required

Religious life Transit plans: What to expect when entering a religious community Father Kevin Nadolski, O.S.F.S. and Sister Renée Daigle, M.S.C.

32

Monastics find a new desert Robert Mcclory

40

Letter to my daughter—the sister Laurie Mandelkow

50

138

106

Sister Julia Shideler, M.M.

Being Catholic

Sisters

A user’s guide on the ways to pray

Sister Sena’s up-close Maya ministry James D. DAvis

100

A missionary’s call: Wait in hope

Father Heherson Balabbo, C.M.F.

144

Missionaries

Clothes shape the man Cliff doerksen

94

Brother Raymond Dwyer, F.P.M..

Priests Matthew Kuczora, C.S.C.

Ten things to know about discerning a vocation

56

Linus Mundy

78

Pilgrimage: The adventure of walking with God

Sisters form a colorful bouquet MOther Shaun Vergauwen, F.S.E.

86

It only took a moment Sister Angela Gertsema, A.S.C.J.

114

154

Pat Morrison

118

What Catholics believe about Jesus Father Paul Boudreau

126

Publishers’ Note

S

t. Bernard of Clairvaux, medieval doctor of the church, cautioned Christians: “Merely to shine is futile; merely to burn is not enough; to burn and to shine is perfect.”

In other words, said Bernard, God wants us Be the to love both new face of religious life passionately and • wisely, and the only way to do that is for us to be ourselves and use our personal gifts to further God’s purposes.

Every article in VISION is designed to help you gain insights into how you may be your best self and wisely and passionately serve God in your own unique way. Yes, you are imperfect—even at your best—but so is everyone, including every saint who has gone before you or who will follow after you.

You could be the new face of religious life. Read, pray, contemplate the wide and colorful array of options open to you as you discover just where you will burn and shine most perfectly.

—Patrice J. Tuohy VISION Executive Editor A Publication of the National Religious Vocation Conference Sponsors of VocationMatch.com and EncuentroVocacional.org

2012 CATHOLIC RELIGIOUS VOCATION DISCERNMENT GUIDE

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Blessed

are we who comfort the mourners

66

Religious

communities offer hope in Haiti

100

The art of discernment

Online at VocationNetwork.org

Truth in stenciling

Vocation Match Service

Patrice J. Tuohy

Fill out an online profile and find the vocation/community that might best suit you.

136

Men’s Communities Search

137

Women’s Communities Search

Community Advertiser Index

148 169

Cover design and photo T & J Studios

Community Search Events Calendar Videos Vocation FAQs Sister Julie Vieira, I.H.M. on Vocations Alice Camille on Catholicism SpiritCitings Blog Spanish/French resources DigitalVocationGuide.org Mobile apps Social Networking

DigitalVocationGuide.org

Update from the National Religious Vocation Conference

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he National Religious Vocation Conference (NRVC) continues to address the needs of our church in vocation ministry.

Brother Paul Bednarczyk, C.S.C.

• In response to our landmark study on recent vocations to religious life, NRVC developed a

national plan to promote vocations in the United States. This document, titled Moving Forward in Hope, may be accessed at www. nrvc.net.

• NRVC is leading a national study on educational debt and its impact on religious vocations.

• Bringing the good news about religious life to young Catholics, NRVC will be represented at World

Youth Day in Madrid, Spain, and at the National Catholic Youth Conference (NCYC) in Indianapolis, Indiana.

We are encouraged by your exploration of a religious vocation and assure you of our continued support in your discernment.

—Brother Paul Bednarczyk, C.S.C. NRVC Executive Director

religious sightings Sister opens up possibilities for kids

T “Monastic life is impossible for most people to understand. People think that it is a life that is shut off, or you’re gone from the world, but it’s exactly opposite. You are more embedded into the world. It’s a way of love that includes everyone that you’ve ever loved.”

–Mother Dolores Hart, O.S.B., prioress of the Abbey of Regina Laudis, a Benedictine monastic community in Bethlehem, Connecticut, www.ew.com/ motherdolores

hanks to Sister Ginny Welsh, O.S.F. of the Franciscan Sisters of St. Francis of Tiffin, Ohio dozens of troubled children in Toledo are receiving the sort of individual attention that can keep them on track in school. Welsh is the guiding spirit behind Padua Possibilities, a program that provides an alternative to school suspensions. Instead of spending an idle day at home or on the street, suspended elementary students get individual tutoring, learn conflictresolution skills, and perform community service work.

Welsh got the idea for an alternative to suspensions when a student who often came to the Padua Center for after-school tutoring showed up one weekday morning to ask if he could play on the computer. No, she told him, but you can stay and do some homework, and thus she began to help him with schoolwork on days he got suspended for fighting or other infractions.

The encounter inspired Welsh to find resources to systematically aid kids who are suspended. Padua Possibilities relies on a network of community volunteers and staff.

A University of Toledo education professor conducts interactive personalized “peace

Sister Ginny helps a Padua Possibilities student with a math lesson.

education” classes. Interns from area colleges provide tutoring. Other staffers offer administration and transportation.

Since the program’s inception in 2008, some 40 to 50 kids each year receive individualized attention during days when, because of their suspensions, they would normally have received no instruction at all. Welsh also points out that by creating a refuge for disruptive children teachers are better able to give their attention to other students.

Asked how Padua Possibilities is tied to her own vocation as a Franciscan, Welsh said: “Saint Francis [of Assisi] taught us to see Christ in everything and everyone. Each of these children is a precious child of God. . . . Today, we can help these four children feel loved and cared for and see that they have options in life. And that can make a difference.”

Vocation ministry moves forward

I

n September 2010 the National Religious Vocation Conference (NRVC), which publishes VISION magazine and the VISION Vocation Network website (VocationNetwork.org), convened a diverse group of church professionals in Chicago to analyze data about vocations—including results of the NRVC/Center for Applied Research in the Apostolate study on recent vocations to consecrated life—and brainstorm ways to move vocation ministry forward. Educators, leaders of religious communities, communicators, and others are now putting into action various pieces of the vocation strategy de“Moving Forward in Hope” veloped at the “Moving Forward in Hope” symposium. participants at a symposium liturgy.

“This is very hopeful moment in the church,” said Holy Cross Brother Paul Bednarczyk, C.S.C., executive director of NRVC. “For several years vocation ministers have been collaborating with church leaders—bishops, laity, clergy, and religious—to create a ‘vocation culture.’ Thanks to the Moving Forward in Hope Project, we’re now seeing increased strategic activity and focused, positive energy on promoting the discernment of God’s call.”

In a “vocation culture” everyone from parents to schools to parish leaders recognizes and values the fact that different vocations exist and also actively encourages Catholics to consider God’s call in their lives, whether to religious life, marriage, priesthood, or single life.

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religious sightings Living in the presence of God is the center of our Marian life Long Live Christ the King!

¡Viva Cristo Rey !

. Cloistered life following

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Teresian ideals of Silence, Solitude, and Community (English and Spanish spoken)

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Dedicated to Contemplative Prayer, Sacrifice, and Penance

Holy Sacrifice of the Mass daily; Ordinary and Extraordinary forms Divine Office (Complete Liturgy of the Hours)

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Gregorian Chant

Traditional Carmel; Full Habit worn

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Spiritual Reading (Lectio Divina)

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Papal Enclosure

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Eucharistic Adoration

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Loyalty to the Magisterium

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Rosary daily in Community

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Carmel of Cristo Rey

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Monk’s children’s book wins Christopher Award

K

nown for his cookbooks and public-television cooking shows, Benedictine Father Dominic Garramone, O.S.B. is now an awardwinning children’s author. His Brother Jerome and the Angels in the Bakery, which tells the story of a monk who struggles to make a success out of a new bakery and relies on faith in God to see him through, won a Christopher Award in the “Books for Young People” category.

The Christopher Awards recognize television programming, feature films, and books for adults and children that “affirm the highest values of the human spirit.”

Father Garramone is a priest and monk of St. Bede Abbey in Peru, Illinois and also chaplain and drama director for Saint Bede Academy, a coed college prep high school. Garramone hosted the popular Breaking Bread with Father Dominic series on public TV and is the author of two cookbooks, Thursday Night Pizza: Father Dominic’s Favorite Pizza Recipes and ’Tis the Season to Be Baking: Father Dominic Christmas Reflections and Bread Recipes, both from Reedy Press.

Garramone, O.S.B.

“The call we receive to priesthood, the religious life, or to the single life is not static.

It is dynamic. We are called to a vocation, and then circumstances and events give that call specific direction.

The call is still there, but life shapes it. . . . If we are faithful to that initial call, we will find God doing more through us and in us than we ever imagined.”

–From Captured Fire

by Father S. Joseph Krempa (St. Paul/ Alba House)

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religious sightings Films look at faith’s hard choices

F

Share your sightings

If you spot a member of a religious community in the news, please e-mail the details to us at mail@vocationguide.org.

ew Hollywood movies serve as platforms for examining faith. But that’s what happened with the release of two films, Of Gods and Men and The Way. Of Gods and Men deals with a real-life community of Trappists who were called to examine their commitment and mission when they had to choose between leaving Algeria to escape the danger from insurgents or remain in their monastery and live in solidarity with the Algerians they had served for years. The monks opted to stay—and in 1996 were taken hostage and eventually murdered.

The film’s director, Xavier Beauvois, got help in depicting an authentic monastic environment from Henry Quinson, who lived for six years at a Cistercian monastery in France and knew two of the monks portrayed in the film.

“The murder of the monks was a turning point in Algeria,” Quinson told Catholic News Service. “I think that [the] Algerian people started to come to terms with the idea that violence is not going to beget any bright future.”

In The Way, directed by Emilio Estevez and starring his father Martin Sheen, Sheen plays a 70-year-old American doctor who

travels to Spain to claim the body of his son who had died in a storm in the Pyrenees Mountains on the first day of making the famous pilgrimage to the shrine of St. James the Greater.

El Camino de Santiago de Compostela—the Way of St. James of Compostela—is a centuries-old route of hundreds of miles that pilgrims walk for weeks or months from France or Portugal.

Sheen’s character decides to cremate his son’s body and finish the pilgrimage himself, carrying his son’s remains with him.

Along the way he falls in with three companions: a carefree Dutchman who says he’s making the pilgrimage to lose a few pounds but eats at nearly every opportunity; a bitter Canadian who says she’ll quit smoking once she’s completed the journey; and an Irish author with writer’s block.

“None of these characters is in any way perfect. In fact they’re all flawed, broken, and not particularly attractive,” Estevez said. “Ultimately what they discover is that it is a community, a global community, and they are emblematic of that. And we can’t do it alone. We can’t walk this earth by ourselves. We need community. We need faith.

We ultimately need each other.”

Sisters, brothers, priests

A positive influence in my life . . .

“Father Walter Ciszek, S.J. became my spiritual director when I was in my early 20s. He is responsible for making me aware of the living presence of Jesus in my life through the Spiritual Exercises of Saint Ignatius.

He [was] my friend and advocate in my ongoing experience of the mystical body of Our Lord.”

—Actor Michael J. Harney

Father Walter Ciszek, S.J. after his return to the U.S. from Soviet captivity.

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Actor Michael [Editor’s note: Father Walter Ciszek, S.J. was a Jesuit missionary in the J. Harney Soviet Union. Arrested as a spy in 1941, he spent 23 years in Soviet prisons and gulags and was presumed dead. He was released in 1963 in exchange for two Soviet spies held in the U.S. He later became a spiritual advisor at Fordham University and is now being considered for beatification by the Roman Catholic Church.]

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Celebrating Mass for migrant farm workers

Preaching plentiful redemption since 1732 The RedempToRisTs redemptoristvocations.com | 718-321-1394 Enter #135 at VocationMatch.com

prayer & discernment At some point in their lives each saint realized that God was calling them to be faithful in a particular way.

Lea este articulo en español en linea.

Lisez cet article en français en ligne.

Read this article in Spanish or French online.

Be a saint in your own way Everyone is a unique creation of God, and the way to sanctity is to be your unique self.

by

Father James Martin, S.J.

T

he most important spiritual insight I’ve learned since entering the Jesuits is that God calls each of us to be who we are. “For me to be a saint means for me to be myself,”

Father James Martin, S.J. is a Jesuit priest and culture editor of America magazine. He is the author of several books, including Becoming Who You Are and My Life with the Saints, which won a 2007 Christopher Award. His latest book is The Jesuit Guide to (Almost) Everything: A Spirituality for Real Life, which was a New York Times bestseller. Excerpts from Becoming Who You Are by James Martin, S.J. Copyright © 2006

by James Martin, S.J. Paulist Press, Inc., New York/ Mahwah, N.J. Reprinted by permission of Paulist Press, Inc., www.paulistpress.com.

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said Thomas Merton. As a result, holiness consists of being true to the person God created. In other words, being holy means being your true self. And besides the life of Jesus of Nazareth, the best illustration of that can be found in the lives of the saints.

I know many readers might groan (inwardly or outwardly) when they hear that. Because, unfortunately, for many people the lives of the saints are considered overly pious and largely irrelevant legends. It can seem almost impossible to relate to people known primarily as marble statues or stained-glass windows.

You look at a statue of, say, Saint Thérèse of Lisieux, the “Little Flower,” in her Carmelite habit, holding a bouquet of

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For 800 years, the POOR CLARES have prayed in the heart of the Church for the whole world GREAT FALLS, MT maryalicep@poorclaresmt.org www.poorclaresmt.org

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In the 21st century, we continue:

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Contemplative prayer lived in enclosure Liturgy of the Hours Gospel living in the spirit of Francis and Clare of Assisi Poverty, simplicity, sisterly love Joy of living in community in total consecration

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roses and looking heavenward, and it’s not hard to think, “What does that have to do with my life?”

But it’s important to remember that the saints were human beings, which means that they sinned (frequently), doubted (sometimes), and wondered whether they were doing the right thing (more often than you would think). As anyone does, the saints struggled with casting off the vestiges of their false selves and becoming who God wanted them to be.

As an aside, I’m using the term saints in its broadest possible meaning: not simply for those who have been “canonized” by the church (that is, officially declared saints and worthy of public veneration) but also for those holy men and women

who may not yet be officially recognized as such. But the use of the term in that way has a distinguished background. Saint Paul, for example, employed the same word to refer to his early Christian companions.

“To the saints who are in Ephesus,” begins one letter (Eph. 1:1). “To the church of God that is in Corinth,” he writes in another, “including all the saints throughout Achaia . . . .” (2 Cor. 1:1).

Live the call to holiness At some point in their lives, each saint realized that God was calling him or her to be faithful in a particular way. Each saint was placed in a different situation and time. Each

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had a different personality and dealt with life differently. And each related to God a little differently. Just think of the astonishing variety of saints.

And I don’t mean simply when they lived, what they did, where they were from, or what languages they spoke.

I mean something more basic: who they were and how they lived out their call to holiness.

Some examples: Though both of their lives were rooted and grounded in God, Thomas Merton’s approach to life resembled very little that of Saint Aloysius Gonzaga, a young Jesuit who lived in 16th-century Rome.

Merton was forever questioning his vow of stability, his place in the monastery, and his vocation as a Trappist, until the end of his life. Aloysius

“

Being holy means being your true self.

Gonzaga, on the other hand, the scion of a noble family, seemed always to have known precisely what he wanted to do—that is, become a Jesuit—from childhood. At a young age Aloysius had to battle both his father and his brother to convince them to allow him to enter the Jesuit novitiate. Merton only had to battle himself. Merton’s vocation seemed always to waver. Aloysius’ never did.

Or consider Saint Thérèse of Lisieux, the French Carmelite, and Dorothy Day, the American apostle of social justice and founder of the Catholic Worker movement. Thérèse

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realized that God had called her to spend life cloistered behind the walls of the convent, while Dorothy Day understood that her invitation was to spend a life on the “outside,” working among the poor in big cities.

Each grasped that. But both appreciated ways of sanctity that diverged from their own. Thérèse, for instance, admired the Catholic missionaries working in Vietnam. And Dorothy Day admired Thérèse.

Blessed Pope John XXIII meditates on this idea in his book Journal of a Soul, the compendium of autobiographical writings that he kept from seminary until almost the time of his death. In January 1907 he wrote that we must incorporate the “substance” of the saints’ lives into our own. “I am not Saint Aloysius, nor must I seek holiness in his particular way.”

None of us, he continued, are meant to be a “dry, bloodless representation of a model, however perfect.” Rather, wrote John, we are meant to follow the examples of the saints and apply them to our own lives.

“If Saint Aloysius had been as I am,” he concluded, “he would have been holy in a different way.”

Fr. David Kaczmarek, TOR, Vocation Director email: davidktor@yahoo.com

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Holy in a different way Everyone’s true self is a unique creation of God’s, and the way to sanctity is to become the unique self that God wishes us to be.

Why would Jesus call a tax collector and a religious zealot, and, among his wider circle of disciples, notorious sinners? One reason may have been that Jesus saw each dis-

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of t h e Vocation Director

ciple’s ability to contribute something unique to the community. The unity of the church, both then and now, encompasses diversity. As Saint Paul wrote: “Now there are a variety of gifts, but the same Spirit . . . . To each is given a manifestation of the Spirit for the common good. . . .

For just as the body is one and has many members, and all the members of the body, though many, are one body, so it is with Christ” (1 Cor. 12:4, 7, 12).

All of us bring something

“

Through our own gifts we each manifest a personal way of holiness that enlivens the larger community.

ow Come gr

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ROOTED IN

PRAYER NURTURED IN

COMMUNITY UNFOLDING IN

MINISTRY

unique to the table, and, through our own gifts, we each manifest a personal way of holiness that enlivens the larger community. We help to build up the “Kingdom of God” in ways that others may not.

Mother Teresa catches this insight in her most famous saying: ‘You can do something I cannot do. I can do something you cannot do. Together let us do something beautiful for God.” This diversity is a natural outgrowth of the role of simple human desire, whose place in the spiritual life is often overlooked. Put simply, the saints had different desires, and those desires led them to serve God in different ways. Such desires Sisters, Servants of the Immaculate Heart of Mary www.ihmsisters.org 734.240.9820

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“Always more Always better Always with love” In the spirit of Venerable Servant of God Maria Kaupas, our Foundress

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affected not only what they did but who they became—their true selves.

These natural inclinations are ways in which God accomplishes his work in various places and in a variety of modes. When I was studying theology, our Jesuit community had a small poster hanging in our living room that

16

offered this little saying about four great founders of religious orders: Benardus valles, Colles Benedictus amavit, Oppida Franciscus, Magnas Ignatius urbes.

That is: “Bernard loved the valleys, Benedict the hills, Francis the small towns, and Ignatius the great cities.”

Each of these four saints found his home in a place suited to his likes and desires and so was moved to accomplish his own particular task. Their individual desires shaped their vocations. Ignatius Loyola, for example, the founder of the Jesuits, would probably have felt his ambitious plans stymied in a small town. And Francis of Assisi, the apostle of the poor, would certainly have gone crazy trying to run a large religious order from a busy office in Rome!

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Desire can lead to God God awakens our vocations primarily through our desires. A man and a woman, for example, come together in love out of desire and so discover their vocation as a married couple. Out of desire a husband and wife create a child and discover their vocation as parents in this way.

Desire works in a similar way in the lives of the saints, drawing them to certain types of works, giving rise to special vocations and leading to particular styles of holiness. Henri Nouwen became a priest because he desired it. Thérèse of Lisieux entered the convent because she desired it.

Dorothy Day entered the Catholic Church because she desired it.

Ultimately, one’s deepest desires lead to God and the fulfillment of God’s desires for the world.

That insight lies behind one of my favorite passages in The Seven Storey Mountain. Shortly after his baptism, Thomas Merton is speaking with his good friend Bob Lax. Merton tells his friend he wants to be a good Catholic. “What you should say,” says his friend in reply, “is that you want to be a saint.” Merton tells the rest of the story: “A saint? The thought struck me as a little weird. I said: ‘How do you expect me to become a saint?’ ‘By wanting to,’ said Lax, simply. . . . ‘All that is necessary to be a saint is to want to be one. Don’t you believe God will make you what He created you to be, if you consent to let Him do it? All you have to do is desire it.’ ” Following these individual desires and inclinations led each

of the saints to a distinctive type of holiness. As Thomas Aquinas, the great 13th-century theologian, said, grace builds on nature. Ignatius Loyola ended a military career in 16th-century Spain to follow God, while Joan of Arc began one in 15th-century France. Dorothy Day founded a newspaper to spread the gospel, while Bernadette Soubirous, the famous visionary of Lourdes, shrank in horror from the idea of her story being publicized in the press.

Thomas Aquinas spent his life sur-

“

One’s deepest desires lead to God and the fulfillment of God’s desires for the world.

rounded by books, while Francis of Assisi told his friars not to own even one lest they become too proud.

The multiplicity of desires leads to a multiplicity of paths to God. =

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prayer & discernment Lea este articulo en español en linea.

Ten things to know about discerning a vocation

Lisez cet article en français en ligne.

Courtesy of Saint Meinrad Archabbey

Read this article in Spanish or French online.

“Before we can be an apostle, ‘one who is sent,’ we must first be a disciple, ‘one who follows.’ ”

Out of a long and sometimes challenging journey to religious life come these ten suggestions for others still in discernment.

by

Father Christian Raab, O.S.B.

O

N January 25, 2008 I made solemn vows as a Benedictine monk of Saint Meinrad Archabbey. Eighteen months later, on June 7, 2009, I was ordained a priest by Archbishop Daniel Buechlein, O.S.B. of the Archdiocese of Indianapolis. These

Father Christian Raab, O.S.B. is a monk and priest of St. Meinrad Archabbey in St. Meinrad, Indiana. Before entering the monastery he was a high school teacher.

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two events were, for me, not only the celebrated beginning of a new level of committed service to God and church; they marked the end of a long and sometimes difficult path of discernment.

Joyfully and gratefully I reflect upon the fact that the many hard years of going back and forth over whether I should give priesthood and religious life a try, or make a commitment to them, are over. Nonetheless, my heart goes out to those who are still in the throes of vocation discernment.

I know that it can be one of the hardest tasks someone undertakes in life.

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Are you on re with God’s love?

Wherever I nd myself, I will imagine that I am in the Cenacle, receivng the gift of the Holy Spirit with Mary and the Apostles.

-ST. VINCENT PALLOTI

I have come to cast re upon the earth and O how I wish it were already ablaze!-LUKE 12:49

Explore the Pallottine Way of being Church SISTERS OF THE CATHOLIC APOSTOLATEPALLOTTINES

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The Society of the Catholic Apostolate

PALLOTTINE PRIESTS AND BROTHERS

The following are 10 pieces of wisdom I picked up during my own discernment journey. Most of these were communicated to me, in some way, by mentors, teachers, friends, and family members. They do not constitute a formula for discernment.

Nonetheless, they did help me get from point A to point B.

1. God calls At the heart of the “American Dream” is the idea that one can be anything one wants to be. The glory of living in a free nation is that we have the opportunity to make of

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“

Involve God in the decision-making process through prayer and actively listen for God’s will.

ourselves what we will. Alas, we are taught from a young age that it is important to be true to our dreams and, accordingly, plot a course for our lives. All that isn’t unimportant.

The problem though, for a person of faith, is that it can potentially leave God out of the decision-making process.

Vocation comes from the Latin word, vocare, “to call.” It is a calling, a calling from God, who made us, loves us, and has a plan for us.

Discernment, then, is different from simply making a decision about a career path or lifestyle. Discernment starts in faith, where we acknowl-

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Courtesy of Saint Meinrad Archabbey

“As one progresses along the path of discernment, a spiritual director is often necessary, especially if one is discerning priesthood or religious life.” Father Subprior Guerric DeBona, O.S.B. of the Benedictine Archabbey of Saint Meinrad speaks with a visitor.

edge God as the source of vocation, involve God in the decision-making process through prayer, and actively listen for God’s will.

2. Vocation is a two-way gift God really does want us to be happy.

When it comes to a vocation we sometimes struggle to believe that.

Perhaps we fear that God will ask us to do something we will hate. Maybe we think God’s will is a sentence to a dreadful life. On the contrary, in John’s gospel Christ says: “I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly” (John 10:10).

But what will make us really happy? The Second Vatican Council teaches that it is through self-giving

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that we are fulfilled as human beings.

So vocation is not only something given to us, something we receive, it is also something we freely give to God and others.

3. God preserves our freedom Because vocation is something we give to God, it is important that we have the freedom to make this offering. God gives us real choices. We have the freedom to marry or enter religious life or remain single. We have the freedom to pursue this or that line of work. If we are not in a place in life where we are free to commit to a vocation (perhaps due to an immaturity, an undue fear, or an addiction), then we must increase

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in our freedom before we can make a vocational choice. God, rest assured, helps us in this process.

Furthermore, as long as we are not choosing something evil, God respects the choices we make. We must not believe, as so many in discernment do, that God will reject us if we make the “wrong” choice. On the one hand God really does call us to vocations. On the other God respects our freedom and does not abandon us.

4. Know thyself

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A key insight shared by many saints is that spiritual growth begins in selfknowledge.

God, who will sanctify us through our vocation, has already endowed us with a certain nature. Ordinarily the grace of our vocation will build upon this nature. An awareness of our personal gifts and weaknesses can help us considerably in gaining a sense of which vocations are possible for us and which are probably not wise paths for us to take.

Along these lines it is also important to listen to our hearts, to be attentive to those relationships and activities that give us the most peace and joy. In addition, our dreams and desires are significant. These may even be the promptings of the Holy Spirit showing us ways to creatively respond to God’s call.

5. Christ is the way, the truth, and the life An authentic Christian vocation is always rooted first of all in being a disciple of Jesus Christ. To better

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know God’s will for our lives and follow it is imperative that we first come to know Jesus Christ and begin to model our lives after his. By encountering the Word of God in scripture, we receive the light that “enlightens everyone” (John 1:9). His life inspires, motivates, and directs ours.

“

An authentic Christian vocation is always rooted first of all in being a disciple of Jesus Christ.

By receiving Christ in the sacraments we receive the grace that will empower us to pursue our vocation.

By living according to his precepts, we develop the strength to follow him in bigger things later. By surrounding ourselves with God’s people, the body of Christ, we discover the necessary support to initially try out a vocation and later to commit to it and live it out. Before we can be an apostle, “one who is sent,” we must first be a disciple, “one who follows.”

6. Find your place in the symphony The church is like a symphony. It is one group playing one score but it’s also full of uniqueness. There are lots of different instruments and parts. Personally I think of that score as love, and I think of the different instruments and parts as being the different vocations in the church.

Finding our vocation, then, is like finding our instrument in the sym-

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phony, our unique way of “playing” God’s love in the world.

It helps in discernment, then, to get as involved with the faith community as you can. It is by taking part in the life of the church and trying out different instruments—at the parish, on mission trips, in Bible studies, in lay apostolate groups— that you will most naturally find your place in the symphony.

7. Ask for help No one can discern a vocation alone.

One’s friends, ministers, family members, and fellow parishioners can be helpful sources of support and insight. These folks can often see things in us that we don’t readily perceive. As one progresses a little bit along the path of discernment, a

What do you desire?

. A deep prayer life? . A life dedicated to others for God? . Joy in doing your thing . . . HIS way?

As Dominicans we emphasize the pondering of divine truths. To witness to God’s primacy, to our ow of poerty and to express our identity as a community, we wear a contemporary religious habit. In the Dominican Traditon, we communicate the truth through the apostalate of teaching. Because we are totally committed to the Lord, we identify fully with the mind, the teaching and the dicipline of the Church He established.

Sister Maria Michele Armato, O.P. 908-782-1504 smtolp@yahoo.com

Dominican Sisters of Divine Providence VISION 2012

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The Sisters of the Third Order of St. Francis ...striving to follow Christ in the loving simplicity of our holy father St. Francis

www.franciscansisterspeoria.org

Courtesy of Saint Meinrad Archabbey

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“Awareness of our personal gifts and weaknesses can help us considerably in gaining a sense of which vocations are possible for us.” Father Subprior Guerric DeBona, O.S.B. talks to a visitor outside the abbey church of the Benedictine Archabbey of Saint Meinrad.

spiritual director is often necessary, especially if one is discerning priesthood or religious life.

Another source of help is the saints. They are also our brothers and sisters in the church and they are wonderful intercessors on

“ WHAT ARE WE DOING HERE? . Living in community according to the Rule of St. Benedict.

Whatever we have done or whoever we have been in the past, God can still use us.

.

Following a daily schedule that balances prayer and work. . Ministering to God’s people . Serving as a sign of hope and Good News.

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our behalf. A number of saints are designated patrons of particular vocations, so if one is considering that vocation it is a good idea to

ask that saint for help. For example, the famous 20th-century monk Thomas Merton explains that he had reached an impasse in his discernment and felt unable to move forward. He turned to the help of Saint Thérèse of Lisieux, who had promised to help young priests, and very quickly after that he obtained the grace to know which religious community he should enter.

8. Expect some “blindness” I have yet to meet anyone whom God has struck with a lightning bolt and told exactly what to do with his or her life, nor can I say that ever happened to me. But I have learned to appreciate that “blindness” must in some sense

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be there. That is true because our vocation must be a gift made in faith.

If we knew exactly what God wanted or what would make us most happy, there would be no risk, no cost, and, in effect, no love.

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9. God writes straight with crooked lines One man I know told me that as he approached his wedding he was overcome by a sense of unworthiness to marry his wife, much less to be entrusted with the children they hoped to have one day. As I approached my own ordination I felt a similar sense of dread as I became acutely aware of my own sinfulness.

Scripture reminds us, though, that God writes straight with crooked lines. Whatever we have done or whoever we have been in the past, God can still use us. We have only to recall Saints Peter, Paul, and Mary Magdalene to be reminded what God can do with weak human beings!

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10. Discernment is not your vocation Perhaps the most helpful bit of wisdom I received in discernment was the nudging of my spiritual director when he said, “Discernment is not

your vocation.” There comes a time in the process of exploring who we are and what we want to do with our lives that we must take a risk and try something. God rewards our efforts, and God can do much more with a mistake than with inertia. =

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prayer & discernment Abbot Christopher takes part in an assembly of Catholic school students at St. Mary’s College in Twickenham, near London, in September 2010

How to nurture inner silence A Benedictine monk whose abbey hosted members of the public in a British reality television program talks about the place of silence in everyday life.

by

Abbot Christopher Jamison, O.S.B.

S

ilence is often considered awkward: Witness the embarrassed silence of people at a party not sure what to say next, or of a group of strangers stuck in an elevator.

These awkward silences disturb us. On the other hand there is a silence that consoles us: the silence of a sleeping

Abbot Christopher Jamison, O.S.B. was abbot of Worth Abbey in England during the filming of two British reality TV programs The Monastery and The Big Silence.

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child, the stillness of mountains, or the tranquility of a church.

Stop the noises in your head The challenge for people today is to find positive silence in the city, the setting in which most people now live. Perhaps the biggest challenge, however, is to help people find positive silence inside themselves. In the quest for sanctuary people often find the biggest obstacles are inside themselves. These obstacles are of different kinds and at different levels, but the first one that people most commonly encounter is what we can

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Drawn to outside ministry and contemplation?

We call that a balanced life. nourished by our life of prayer in community, we serve as teachers and parish ministers, social workers and food pantry volunteers. our life is one of balance and peace... centered in the monastery... suffused with prayer, meaning and joy.

SiSterS of St. Benedict St. Mary Monastery rock island, iL www.smmsisters.org

to learn more contact Sr. Bobbi Bussan at 309-283-2300 or rbussan@smmsisters.org.

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up with trivial thoughts: “I wonder what’s for supper.” “I need to book an appointment with the dentist.” “I need to write to my cousin.” People discover, to their shame and embarrassment, that the busyness of life has got right inside their heads and they can’t get it out. To empty our

“

The biggest challenge is to help people find positive silence inside themselves.

heads of all thoughts, words, and images is almost impossible; yet somehow these distressing internal noises need to become gentle internal sounds.

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Build a background of silence PRAY EDUCATE SERVE THE POOR PROMOTE THE GOSPEL Join us on Facebook.

Find out why we’re called the Grey Nuns-you’ll be surprised by the answer!

CREATING A COMPASSIONATE WORLD

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call “noises inside my head.” That is not the “voices inside my head” of a delirious or insane person; it is the simpler phenomenon of thoughts racing in all directions at once.

At Worth [Abbey, in West Sussex, south of London] we have many people who come on retreat for the

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first time, and we invite them to spend some time in silence. At one level that is what they crave and why they have come. So they are often shocked to discover that no sooner have they removed the daily routine, set aside the television, and found a place of silence than their head fills

To help us address the challenge of the “noises in my head,” I want to look at how we try to avoid silence and then at how we can choose to build times of silence into our lives.

The five men in [the BBC TV program] The Monastery found silence the hardest aspect of the monastic life to handle and, in some ways, they never really came to grips with it. In the monastic tradition there is a basic background of silence: Where people today commonly have background music, monks have background silence.

In some monasteries (Trappist ones, for example) the norm is that the silence is broken only in order to communicate during work or receive

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guests. In Benedictine monasteries we have special times of recreation and conversation while our work often involves pastoral activity such as teaching, running retreats, or parish work. All monasteries promote background silence: . . . the “Greater Silence” from about 9 p.m. until about 8 a.m. so that the nighttime silence is especially profound. The monastic routine involves not only this general background silence but also two periods of half an hour, morning and evening, set aside for meditation This degree of physical silence is a great help in fostering inner silence; Saint Benedict knew this and it motivated his desire to create exterior silence. But this silence is not an end in itself; it is there to let inner silence grow in the monk so that the inner life might flourish. A gardening analogy may help here: If you have not been used to silence, the first things you notice when you enter into it are the distractions inside yourself—the weeds.

Even when you pull them up and throw them away, they grow back again quickly and you wonder why you bothered. But you need to keep weeding in order to let the flowers grow. The flowers in this case are the words from God that can grow if you have cleared a space for them.

The trouble is that the flowers grow more slowly than the weeds, and so we give up.

The five men in The Monastery found that being truly silent was something that took time to achieve. Their first instinct was to fill the silence with something:

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We strive to bring this union to our world.

LEARN MORE ABOUT

HOLY UNION SISTERS CONTACT :

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VISIT OUR WEBISTE :

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conversation or music were the common ways of drowning out the silence. After 10 days, however, they achieved a breakthrough in their understanding: They started to see that the silence was offering them something they now wanted to receive. So in a moment of

drama combined with comedy, they spontaneously handed over their mobile phones and their Walkmans.

I had purposely not confiscated these items when they had arrived because I wanted them to be free adults who could learn to make new choices. I wanted them to gain

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Franciscan Sisters

of the Sacred Heart

Are you sensing a call to serve and seek a deeper relationship with God as a Religious?

Do you need someone to help you discern your vocation?

Let us be your companion on the journey!

Franciscan Sisters of the Sacred Heart Email Sister Nancy at fsshvocations@aol.com or call 815-464-3848 V I S I T U S AT W W W. F S S H . N E T

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a new perspective and to learn for themselves how to use the silence.

Frame your day in silence There are two classic moments for enjoying silence: the early morning and nighttime. You can build a time of silence into your morning or night routine. A real help here is to have a physical sanctuary area somewhere in your living space. That need not be elaborate and can be as simple as a candle, a picture, and a favorite text.

Or it can be expanded to include a corner of a room with a cushion or a corner of a room with space for all the family. The discipline of going to a place is a real help in finding sanctuary, as is the presence of beautiful objects, either natural or artistic. For a single person or a couple without

LIVE RADICALLY Further steps toward silence

children, going to this space can be built into a routine relatively easily.

It simply requires a deep obedience to the choices you are making about your rhythm of life. . . .

Perhaps the surest way to help you build silence into your life is to go on retreat for a day or more to

“

Silence is not an end in itself; it is there to let inner silence grow so that the inner life might flourish.

experience the possibility of silence in depth. That motivates people to go home and adjust their lifestyle. People today need a strong motivation to break the grip of busyness. Experiencing a retreat can provide the impetus needed to begin the process of escaping from that stranglehold.

Online www.sacredspace.ie. This popular site offers a new meditation every day, which always includes a “Prayer Guide” with advice on how to be still in mind and body.

Book Silence and Honey Cakes: The Wisdom of the Desert by Archbishop Rowan Williams is a

become a FRANCISCAN FRANCISCAN VOCATION OFFICE (800) 521.5442 www.LiveRadically.org

VOCATION DIRECTOR: Fr. Tom Washburn, OFM

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short introduction to monastic prayer, drawing heavily on the tradition of the desert fathers.

By now you may be asking yourself how long you have to spend in silence for it to “count” as building silence into your life. . . . There is a custom in many religious groups to advise half-hour periods of meditation every morning, and again in the evening if at all possible. That is, in my view, a good place to arrive at, but for most people it is not a good place to start.

I suggest beginning with five minutes in the morning and five minutes in the evening; the second period is important, however brief, to set up a rhythm across the day, holding the day framed in silence.

You may think that five minutes is not long at all. But if you are going VISION 2012

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to spend five minutes in real interior silence it may well take you a further five minutes to reach the place of quiet, to get comfortable, and to clear your mind. In other words, five minutes of real silence needs 10 minutes in all. Once five minutes of silence is not difficult, you can expand it.

During those five minutes you will need some way of remaining focused. So the final question is: What do I do in the silence? . . . What do I do with the noises in my head? How can I be silent internally as well as externally?

For Benedict, distractions inside my head are actually noises inside my heart: They are the result of the natural human condition—the condition of not having a pure heart. Purity of heart is the goal toward which he is leading his monks, and he is wholly realistic about the difficulty of attaining this. To work toward purity of heart, silence is needed. =

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This article is reprinted from Finding Sanctuary: Monastic Steps for Everyday Life (Liturgical Press). Copyright Christopher Jamison, 2006. Published by Liturgical Press, Collegeville, Minnesota. Reprinted with permission. Permission for electronic and Canadian use granted by Orion Publishing Group, London.

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G

o looking for some Roman Catholic sisters in your neighborhood, at your school, or in your church. Take some time to talk with them. You might be surprised by what you learn about their lives. . . . Did you know that sisters talk all the time about their call by God to be of service? . . .

We talk and read and reflect. We

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dig far enough and hard enough to learn the truth that sometimes hides under politics, or racism and sexism. We talk about what we have learned. Then, most important, we go do something about it.”

—Connect with Mercy, blog of the Sisters of Mercy of Americas

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religious life Sister Renée Daigle, M.S.C. (left) visits with postulant Whitney Craig and friend Danielle “Rosie” Vutera.

A postulant is someone in the first stage of entrance into a religious community.

Transit plans: What to expect when entering a religious community Tips for making the move to religious life from two seasoned vocation directors.

by

Father Kevin Nadolski, O.S.F.S. and Sister Renée Daigle, M.S.C.

T

he journey of discerning a vocation to religious life involves a transition from one way of life to another. An important moment in that process happens when the time comes to actually move from your old home to your new one. Father Kevin Nadolski offers

Father Kevin Nadolski, O.S.F.S., worked as director of vocations for the Oblates of St. Francis de Sales for seven years. Now serving his community as director of development and communications, he has ministered as a Catholic high school teacher, campus minister, and principal. He lives and works with his local religious community in Wilmington, Delaware.

32

tips on preparing for the move and Sister Renée Daigle shares insights on what to expect after the move.

Getting ready to move in Along with public speaking, dying, and Sister Renée Daigle, M.S.C. belongs to the Marianites of Holy Cross. She is the congregation’s director of vocation ministry as well as a campus minister at Southeastern Louisiana University.

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1-718-827-6990 brotimjonesofmcap@gmail.com

SOLVANG, CA 1-805-686-4127 peterbanksofmcap@yahoo.com WEB: www.beafriar.com

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Be a Dwelling Place, a home for God — St. Francis of Assisi

As women in the Catholic Church, we are committed to a life of peace, non-violence and the care of creation. Inspired by the spirits of Saints Francis and Clare of Assisi, we live a communal life of prayer, simple living and service with all God’s people.

We are called to strengthen communities of love and justice wherever we are.

“And let them be happy to live among the outcast and despised, among the poor, the weak, the sick, the lepers and those who beg on the streets.” — Rule and Life of St. Francis

Join us in living this common mission.

Contact:

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climbing mountains, moving from one house to another ranks high among anxiety-prompting experiences. If the move involves entrance into a religious community, the challenge may increase, though this transition can be eased with planning and preparation.

Having served in vocation and formation ministry, I have had the opportunity to work with men entering religious life for the first time.

Their experiences provide some practical recommendations for those making the move into a religious community.

Tip 1: Shed possessions All candidates to religious life report surprise at how many things they

34

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have accumulated throughout their lives up to their time of entrance.

From clothes and computer equipment to memorabilia and books, seemingly countless items fill rooms, closets, and boxes for which no space is available in a house of formation.

While new religious superiors want candidates to feel at home in their new environment, the community space that is shared with others limits what can be brought into the formation house. In addition to expressing surprise at what they have collected, future religious recount a gratitude for the process of sorting what is essential and extraneous to beginning strong, healthy, and holy lives.

Tip 2: Pay off debt Most religious communities require candidates to have cleared their debts prior to entering. Many, though, will assume debt payment plans from student loans because the church—through the person’s ministry—will eventually benefit from the education itself. With most communities, if not all, consumer debt must be fully resolved prior to entrance. That requires a disciplined approach to finances sometimes well in advance of entering the formation program.

Focusing on how to best use income clarifies values and helps to define relationships—for example, spending money on meals and vacations with others. Together with shedding possessions, resolving issues related to money help simplify the lifestyle of the candidate. That serves as necessary preparation for

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Are you exercising your Spirit?

an essential element of the religious personality.

Gym memberships...home workouts...Wii Fit. TM

Tip 3: Explain the transition Another element of the move to religious life that comes as a surprise is telling others about the religious vocation itself. Whether a friend, employer, romance partner, or ex-

­

“

Healthy relationships are essential to a holy and healthy religious personality.

tended family member, people hear the news of a move to be a Catholic sister, brother, or priest with different levels of support or excitement.

Responses range from the incredulous “you’re going to do what?” to the omniscient “I knew it all along; I saw this coming.”

Candidates report that there is no one way to tell all people in their relational orbits, for people’s knowledge of vocation varies with their own backgrounds. It is best to prepare well for communicating the news, anticipating what level of detail will help the person understand both what is involved in a religious vocation and why someone chooses it. Very simply, summary statements such as “this is where I see myself fully alive” are most helpful to either begin or conclude efforts to explain the transition.

Tip 4: Maintain contact While the transition to a formation

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<

School Sisters of St. Francis of Christ the King

<

Build the Kingdom of God through lives of: ♦ Gospel Community in Franciscan simplicity ♦ Living Prayer that animates their spirits ♦ Active Compassion expressed in a variety of ministries Contact Sr. Mary Terese Mount Assisi Convent 13900 Main St. Lemont, IL 60439

<

630.257.7524 ♦ vocareosf@yahoo.com ♦ lemontfranciscans.org

<

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community, cloistered communities notwithstanding, requires an obvious separation from friends and family, it does not mean that all relationships are to be severed. In fact, the opposite is true. Healthy relationships are essential to a holy and healthy religious personality.

Each formation program may have different practices about connecting with friends and families; candidates, however, are encouraged to continue to develop their relationships. It is helpful to inquire ahead of entrance as to what works best for maintaining these connections,

35

Society of Mary

Called by Mary To live, pray, and serve the Church and the world In the community which bears her name

societyofmaryusa.org The MarisTs For more information, contact: The VocaTion DirecTor MarisT FaThers anD BroThers 2335 Warring sT., Berkeley, ca 94704 Toll Free: 866-298-3715, or 510-486-1232 eMail: maristvocations@sbcglobal.net

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WITH MARY, SAY “YES”: To serve the poor To transform violence into peace To give compassionate care to the sick and dying To teach adults, adolescents and children of all ages SISTERS OF THE SORROWFUL MOTHER Third Order Regular of St. Francis of Assisi FOR INFORMATION CONTACT: Sister Dorothy Ann Dirkx, SSM ssmvoc@gmail.com or 973-627-0424 VISIT US AT OUR WEBSITES: www.becomingasister.org www.ssmfranciscans.org www.motherfrances.streitel.org

including having people important to candidates visit their new home when appropriate, which also helps to debunk misconceptions about religious life.

One new member’s reluctantly supportive mother remarked with an exhaling relief after a visit: “I am so glad to see that you live in a house that is so normal!” To which the young man responded: “Yeah, Mom, we even have indoor plumbing.” Directors of formation find it helpful to see candidates interact with people they care for and love. Additionally, it is a natural way for the new community to grow its relationship with the candidate.

Tip 5: Clarify expectations Anticipating what life will be like after joining the formation program, candidates work hard to prevent their imaginations from running wild. Here, the vocation director can be especially helpful to explain what the early days, weeks, and months will be like, what to expect from the orientation program, daily schedule, free time on the weekends, or the first holiday.

An important aspect of clarifying expectations is not to provide unnecessary drama about the formation program. If a candidate paints a picture of religious life that is challenging or even unrealistic, people may never come to an understanding or an ability to conceive of a healthy motive for such a choice.

To adapt a line from the nowclassic movie Field of Dreams, “If you build it wrong, they will never

come to understand.” Be accurate about what religious life will be. It might be helpful to ask the vocation minister for the contact information of a trusted member already in the formation program to be available for questions and conversations prior to entering. There should be no hesitation to ask any questions whatsoever!

Tip 6: Prepare for take off Saying good-bye to friends and family, especially if the location of the formation program is some distance from where the candidate has been living, can be difficult. Loved ones may want to be deliberate in celebrating this transition, offering to gather for going-away parties or scheduling lunches and dinners.

While delighted that people are supportive and desirous to applaud them, candidates report near-fatigue from parties, lunches, and dinners in their honor. Free time evaporates as the day approaches, so planning how to schedule the final days and weeks before the reporting date for the formation program is important.

Tip 7: Practice prayer Certainly prayer has aided a candidate throughout the application process, and that will continue during the entrance into the formation program. Continuing to follow the lead of a trusted spiritual director, the candidate will attend closely to feelings, especially surges of anxiety that may accompany entrance into

Bringing fuller life to others!

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Action

See God in

the formation program.

It is important to remember that a religious community already accepted the candidate, stating publicly that the person is suitable to live among them for discernment. While it is understandable that some nervousness would accompany the move into a religious house, recalling the approval of the congregation itself could help to ease feelings of anxiety, unworthiness, or fear of failure. One candidate said it best: “I remember my vocation director telling me, ‘Who you are is enough; now just live with us.’ I liked that simple reassurance.”

Like most transitions, the one to religious life will provide some delight and challenge. Both, however, can spur and stir new insight and deepen discernment, which is at the heart of the vocation of a new candidate for religious life. Deft preparation can aid and ease the challenge and enhance the delight.

What to expect after you move in OK: You decided to look seriously into discerning your life calling. You met some vocation directors, got a spiritual director, researched various communities, done the come-andsee thing, got to know members of congregations, prayed long and hard, and finally settled on the congregation you felt God was calling you to join. You completed all the steps to application, and lo and behold you have been accepted to join the community of your dreams!

Wow! So begins the adventure of your life as a religious sister, brother, or priest. After getting your life in order (as much as any life can really be in order), you arrive at the designated house for postulants, candidates, pre-novices, or whatever your congregation calls people

“

The rhythm of prayer, ministry, and community life will either feel right to you or not.

who are just moving in to try on this lifestyle. You’re probably feeling excited, nervous, scared, hopefilled, and a range of other emotions. Hopefully you’re also feeling welcomed by the group with whom you will be living and sharing community.

You are shown to your room and unpack the things you brought with you to make this room feel like home. It doesn’t take long because it’s only a few personal things that all fit in your one room, but it’s yours and it’s home for now.

You’ve probably spent time getting to know the congregation you’ve just moved in with, and you feel comfortable with them and can “just be yourself”—after all, that’s why you’ve chosen this group, right? But you can only learn so much about religious life from the outside looking in. Now you’re not only visiting: You actually live here! What should you expect during this first year of living

God

Discover the life

is offering you.

www.shcj.org/american 610.626.1400 VISION 2012

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God Is Calling…

Are You Listening?

St Joseph Monastery

vocations@stjosephmonastery.org

2200 South Lewis Ave

www.stjosephmonastery.org

Tulsa, OK 74114

(918)746-4205

Ordinary Women…

Extraordinary Lives Enter #293 at VocationMatch.com

the beginning will become second nature.

The rhythm of prayer, ministry, and community life will either feel right to you or not—important pieces for discernment. You may also be overwhelmed, in a good way, by the attention and interest in your life from the people in your community. Enter into the dialogue of everyday community living. Members in formation communities are usually handpicked for the ways they are able to model

“

Make the adjustment into religious life and learn to balance prayer, ministry or study, community, leisure, and your relationships outside of community.

the skills necessary for authentic community life. Learn from them and don’t be afraid to ask questions when something doesn’t make sense or doesn’t seem right to you—religious life is indeed a culture unto itself, and it takes some getting used to.

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in community—this first official step toward becoming a religious?

Expect to be overwhelmed You will be asked to be accountable in a way that is different from family

38

life or living with roommates and vastly different from living alone.

At first you may feel smothered by “rules,” “traditions,” and “the way we do things here,” but if this life fits you will soon settle into a routine, and what was overwhelming in

Expect to be indulged Adjustment issues in first-year community living vary from person to person of course, but there seem to be some common threads.

You may feel sort of like the youngest child of a very large family.

Most people are older, and some a good deal older, and at times it may

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seem as if they’re all either coddling or correcting you. They may be overly willing to share their experiences of formation or “the way it used to be,” and you think, “If I hear one more story, I’m going to scream!” Try to keep a positive and humorous attitude and remember that it’s because they’re excited to have you be part of the community and want you to feel included.

As you make the adjustment into religious life and learn to balance prayer, ministry or study, community, leisure, and your relationships outside of community, you will make some mistakes. There are times you will need to ask permission and other times when it will be appropriate for you to decide on your own. It is a delicate balance, and one that is learned. Be patient with yourself and your formation director, as they will practice patience with you as well.

Most congregations consider eating meals together a valuable priority in community life—Jesus sure did!

Expect to have your turn to cook and maybe experience some of your not-so-favorite meals. There may be some interesting traditions to be experienced in this area, too—again, be open to your new reality.

Another thing you can probably expect is that you’ll be the instant technology expert in the house.

A postulant told me recently that someone in her community asked, “What are a-p-p-s” [spelled out]? At first she thought they were kidding but then she saw all eyes turn toward her and realized they all wanted to know. She explained what apps are and how they work. Now, they often

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ask her to look up an answer to a group debate on her phone. Community life at work!

Expect to find joy Above all I believe you can expect a huge amount of support during your first year in community.

Whether you enter alone or with a group, you are a sign of hope for your congregation, and they are the same for you. Trust in the God who has led you to this place and stay open to the ways you will be challenged and stretched. And don’t miss the numerous ways you will also be nourished and nurtured—the many opportunities for life, laughter, and rejoicing in the goodness of God you will certainly encounter daily. =

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religious life At the 2010 Christmas party at the Visitation Monastery of Minneapolis, visiting families prayed in the chapel while the Christmas story was told

by Sister Mary Virginia, V.H.M. Later, visitors went to the dining room to see Santa and receive a personalized stocking.

Monastics find a new desert Contemplative men and women bring presence and compassion to inner city neighborhoods. by

Robert McClory

Today a new world is emerging, yesterday mainly rural, today almost wholly urban.

Your life therefore corresponds to a particularly real and urgent appeal from the world, the church, and God himself. . . .

The desert is now inside the city. . . . Be a city-dweller with the city-dwellers of today.

T

hat was the advice Father Pierre-Marie Delfieux gave to the men and women who were entering the monastic community he founded

Robert McClory is professor emeritus at Northwestern University’s Medill School of Journalism and author of As It Was in the Beginning: The Coming Democratization of the Catholic Church (Crossroad, 2007) and most recently Radical Disciple: Father Pfleger, St. Sabina Church, and the Fight for Social Justice (Chicago Review Press), among other books.

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36 years ago. It was to be a new form of religious life, combining the disciplined prayer and reflection of a much older Catholic monastic tradition with a commitment and presence to the secular city. Delfieux is recognized as one of the founders of the “New Monasticism,” a term that embraces scores of communities around the world today. Their rules and membership differ radically, but many seek a spiritually grounded, integrated lifestyle within busy, loud, often fragmented urban settings. Along with these groups, some more traditional monastic communities have also chosen to live in city environments.

Mission in reverse More than 20 years ago some members of the Sisters of the Visitation began VISION 2012

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pondering a new leap of faith. The 400-year-old community of women is dedicated to monastic contemplation, but each of its houses in the U.S. has also traditionally operated a school.

“At the time we were teaching students the meaning of the preferential option for the poor [which the Latin American Roman Catholic bishops had called for] and discussing the U.S. bishops’ letter on economic justice,” says Sister Karen Mohan, V.H.M. “And we wondered what it would mean for some of us to live in the midst of the marginalized. What would it mean to have a contemplative presence right in the city, right in the ’hood?”

The talk about taking that leap continued off and on for years and then climaxed in 1989 when the order purchased a large, old, threestory house (and a few years later a second house) in North Minneapolis, one of the poorest sections of the city. Four sisters moved in, among them Mohan who is now 63 and still there. The neighborhood, a diverse population of African Americans and Latinos with some Hmong Asians, Native Americans, and Anglos, was rife with low rates of employment and high rates of crime, drugs, shootings, and abandoned buildings.

Twelve years later the neighborhood reality is much the same, and the Visitation Monastery of Minneapolis is still there as well.

The Visitation sisters went there to live monastic lives and, in addition, to interact with the community.

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have and those who have nothing, to practice ‘reverse mission,’ ” Mohan says. This last goal, she explains, is to “meet Jesus in those who come to the door,” realizing that God is already here in these people and learning to receive and not only give.

Today the two houses, about a block apart and indistinguishable from other homes in the neighborhood, have no identifying signage, with only peace symbols on the door and wellcultivated gardens in the backyards.

They are now the residences of six Visitation sisters.

“Nothing sets us apart from the people,” Mohan says, “We do no evangelizing work. We try to be a presence.” The sisters sing or recite the liturgical Divine Office four times during the day and have Mass three

42

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times a week, thanks to friendly, neighboring priests who are supportive of this “reverse ministry.” Otherwise, says Sister Katherine Mullin, V.H.M., the doorbell at each house is ringing constantly.

“People come for bus tokens, they come for food, they come for clothing though we don’t have that much. The children come, too—all the time.” Individuals come for advice, students come for help with assignments, small groups come for discussion, and a great many in this troubled community come, the sisters say, just for conversation. The sisters join with the people in their own holiday celebrations and hold dinners and parties on numerous occasions.

The Visitation sisters, however, are not only nice ladies. They are plugged into every social service agency, local school, police district, and clergy alliance in the area; they make connections and get things done. They can talk back when necessary. Recently, says Mullin,

“

“Nothing sets us apart from the people.

We do no evangelizing work. We try to be a presence.”

when a Native American neighbor accused them of preferring African Americans and Hmong over his race, “we told him in no uncertain terms he was wrong. We do not favor any group! We treat everyone alike.”

He cooled down after a while, says

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Sister Mary Virginia Schmidt, V.H.M. with a neighbor who came to the Visitation Monastery of Minneapolis for an ice cream social.

Mullin, who joined the Minneapolis ministry 11 years ago after a career in school teaching and administration. Usually the sisters take one day off a week for recovery, putting signs on the front door that they are not available.

Mohan says the fire for their effort comes from the Visitation spirituality taught by Saint Francis de Sales and Saint Jane Frances de Chantal in the 17th century. The image of Mary’s visit to her cousin Elizabeth—“these two pregnant women of faith reaching out to help each other and marveling at what God was doing in their lives”—inspires their work, she says. Recently, when one sister looked out the door and saw a particularly troublesome

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person approaching, she exclaimed, “Oh my gosh, I don’t know what to say!” One of the others responded, “Just say, ‘Good morning, Jesus.’ ” That served to break up the whole group and set the tone for another day.

Volunteers, who come from all

over the area to help in the work of the monastery are often amazed by what they experience. One says the outreach here is exactly like what occurred in the early church. Another comments on the sisters’ impact on the inevitable tension between racial groups in the community. Without

43

maybe your place —

in

God’s Plan is with the

Franciscan Sisters of Chicago You’re unique and so are we. We’re an exceptional congregation of women that share the joys and sorrows of life in the community.

We live the Gospel of Jesus Christ in the spirit of St. Francis by proclaiming God’s love among all people serving them generously.

Our life manifests the Franciscan spirit of prayer, poverty, simplicity, joy and ongoing conversion.

We encourage you to call us today.

Franciscan Sisters of Chicago

Sister Lois Marie Rossi, Vocation Minister (773) 328-5566 vocations@chicagofranciscans.com Carol Lackie, Vocation Coordinator (630) 243-3555 clackie@chicagofranciscans.com www.chicagofranciscans.com Enter #166 at VocationMatch.com

Sister Karen Mohan, V.H.M. welcomes two teens who came to a reunion of people who used to play during “Windsock Time,” a children’s play period at the Visitation Monastery of Minneapolis that is announced by the sisters hanging out a windsock.

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ever mentioning the word reconciliation, he says, the sisters’ presence just makes it happen. The sisters have set up a Visitation internship program, and other volunteers are helping create opportunities for those willing to make a temporary commitment to the work. Thanks largely to younger volunteers, the monastery has a web

44

page, and the sisters are on Facebook and Twitter.

A praying presence Another Midwestern city, Chicago, is the home of the Monastery of the Holy Cross. The monastery was established in 1991 by three monks

searching for a more stable community life. The setting they found was a closed Chicago parish complex that Cardinal Joseph Bernardin, who wanted to encourage a contemplative presence in the city, donated to them in the South Side Bridgeport neighborhood, an older, lower-middle-class area a mile and a half from the home field of the Chicago White Sox. In many ways the eight Holy Cross monks there now follow traditional Benedictine practices. “Of course,” says Father Peter Funk, O.S.B., prior since 2004, “prayer is above everything and is our first obligation.”

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In fact prayer consumes about five hours a day, most occurring in the gathering of the whole community for Mass in the early morning and the singing of the Divine Office at various times of the day. Funk, 40, a lead singer in a Chicago rock band in his youth who later earned a degree in music from the University of Chicago, leaves no stone unturned to make these rites as meaningful as possible. Under his direction the monks sing a modified version of Gregorian chant. “I want us to sing with comprehension, not just to feel good,” he says.

“

“Our prayer and liturgy are committed to the city.”

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Photo courtesy of the Monastery of the Holy Cross, Chicago

The presence of Holy Cross in the neighborhood involves considerable contact with the outside world.

“Our prayer and liturgy are committed to the city,” says Funk. “We are constantly aware of the city noises outside. We know our neighbors, and we know the issues they’re concerned about, especially violence. We often get requests for prayer from people around here.” The Sunday Mass at Holy Cross draws up to 50 people from the Chicago area. To help earn their keep the brothers bought two residences near the monastery, some units of which now house individuals or groups making retreats. Another unit is set up as a bed-and-breakfast, which tends to be booked solid from spring through fall.

In Funk’s view this Benedictine monastery, planted in the unlikely

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Cloister of the Monastery of the Holy Cross.

45

Photo courtesy of the Monastery of the Holy Cross, Chicago

Father Peter Funk, O.S.B., prior of the Monastery of the Holy Cross in Chicago, prepares strawberries harvested from the community garden.

environs of a nondescript Chicago neighborhood, serves both for its inhabitants and for those who have only passing contact with it as a “presence, a touchstone, a beacon pointing toward God’s kingdom to be finally fulfilled at the end of time.”

Double the work Seven hundred and forty-five miles away, Susannah Kelly is practicing a different kind of monastic life. She is a member of the Jerusalem Commu-

46

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nity of Montreal, Canada, the only presence in the Western hemisphere

“

“What we do here is bring our prayer to the city, and the city to our prayer.”

(so far) of the order founded in Paris

by Father Delfieux. It now has 10 foundations in Europe and overall some 200 vowed members, repre-

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Love God in Complete

Sister Susannah Kelly, F.M.J. helps prepare a community meal.

Surrender —St.

senting 30 different nationalities.

Twenty hours a week Kelly serves as a campus minister at McGill, the largest university in Canada. The rest of the time she lives a demanding monastic life at Montreal’s Sanctuary of the Blessed Sacrament.

The sanctuary is a large, wellpreserved T-shaped building, with the church forming the base and two residential wings at the rear, one with living quarters for the brothers (10 at present) and the other for the sisters (14). It is near the city’s downtown in a neighborhood of clubs, restaurants, art galleries, and looming skyscrapers. Though the men and women eat meals separately (except on high feast days), they gather daily for morning Mass and the singing of the Divine Office throughout the day in four-part polyphony. The beauty of the carefully planned prayers usually draws in 100 or more visitors and lay worshipers, especially for daily Mass, and up to 250 on Sunday.

It was Delfieux’s idea that “the monastic life is not incompatible with the urban phenomenon.” Your

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Clare

Poor Clares are

Our call is to

a contemplative

intimacy with God

branch of the

and prayerful

Franciscan Order

support of all people

Requirements: An attraction to the life 18 to 45 years of age emotional and physical health Monastery of St. Clare 1271 Langhorne-Newtown Road Langhorne PA 19047-1297 www.poorclarepa.org vocation@poorclarepa.org Enter #048 at VocationMatch.com

calling, he told his followers “makes you and your brothers and sisters the living and humble witnesses . . . to the hidden God—hence your welcoming of every man or woman of good will who cares to join you, morning, noon, or night.” Kelly, 40, says she is happier now than at any other time in her life. “What we do here is bring

our prayer to the city,” she says, “and the city to our prayer.”

Kelly came to this way of life by a long and winding road. She grew up in New England in a sizeable family of 10 boys and one girl. It was a loving family, she says, though there was no religious practice or presence. In college she became curious

47

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The sisters and brothers (not shown) of the Jerusalem Community in Montreal worship regularly together.

Three Jerusalem Community sisters go for a bike ride near downtown Montreal.

48

about God and concerned about the immensity of suffering and injustice in the world. She joined the Quakers, later the Adventists, then an evangelical church, and on to an Episcopal community.

Almost by accident one day she attended a Catholic Mass. At the moment of consecration she had a sudden realization that Christ was really there. “The experience just blew away my mind,” Kelly says.

She became a Catholic in 1994 and after searching for a community where she could combine deep prayer with service to neighbor she stumbled upon the Jerusalem Community on a trip to Florence, Italy. “It was love at first sight,” she says. Kelly entered the community and was transferred to the Montreal foundation in 2006.

As she rides to McGill University on the Montreal metro subway in her long blue habit and white cap-like head veil, Kelly is occasionally mistaken for a Muslim woman, which sometimes gives her an opportunity to explain herself and her work. At the school she hurls herself into a full range of activity including spiritual direction, teaching classes on apologetics and Pope John Paul II’s theology of the body, and organizing Bible studies, days of reflection, and travel opportunities. Because she and a lone priest are the only Catholic campus ministers, Kelly says, she is not above washing the dishes or cleaning the floor.

Like her, all community members work in some outside craft, trade, or profession such as information technologist, leather artisan, office secretary, nurse, even house-cleaner. Their job schedules

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inevitably make the sisters and brothers miss some prayer time or other activity at the sanctuary. “But that is all right,” says Kelly. “This is part of the double-work we are called to.”

Her most difficult challenge, she acknowledges, is counseling troubled students. “McGill is a typical college,” she says. “When you are a contemplative, your soul is open, and it’s so difficult to see human souls damaged through drugs,

pornography, abortion, abuse. It is painful to see the suffering.”

But deal with it Kelly does, then returns to the sanctuary to participate in the singing of hymns and canticles, bringing with her some of the concerns she has encountered—something that could be says for Visitation Sisters in Minneapolis, Benedictine monks in Chicago, and other contemplative communities that bring a spirit of prayerful service to the city. =

Sisters, brothers, priests

A positive influence in my life . . .

“To a very large extent, if I had perhaps not gone to school in a Catholic school, in a school that was run by sisters, by nuns . . . missionaries [who] were really very serious about values—they were very concerned about values and especially the value of service—I think I would probably have turned out to be a different kind of a person. . . . When people ask me, who inspired you? These are some of the people who actually inspired me—these nuns . . . .”

—Wangari Maathai, founder of the Green Belt Movement and winner of the 2004 Nobel Peace Prize, speaking in a 2011 radio interview about the Consolata Missionary Sisters who taught her in Kenya.

Before receiving her master’s and Ph.D. degrees—Maathai was the first woman in East and Central Africa to earn a doctorate—she also earned a degree from Mount St.

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Wangari Maathai

Scholastica College (now Benedictine College) in Atchison, Kansas.

Sister Mary Collins, O.S.B. and Sister Thomasita Homan, O.S.B. of Mount St. Scholastica traveled to Oslo for Maathai’s Nobel Prize ceremony.

—From “Planting the future: An interview with Wangari Maathai” by Krista Tippet, On Being radio program

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49

religious life Sister Kim Mandelkow, O.S.B. professing her vows.

Letter to my daughter— the sister Though her daughter’s desire to enter religious life didn’t come as a total surprise, a mother still had questions.

by Laurie Mandelkow

D

ear Kim, I have something I should have said to you a long time ago but never have, so now I find it time to do so. Before I go on I want to tell you how very proud I am of you and of Laurie Mandelkow is the mother of four children and one grandchild, with two on the way.

She lives with her husband, Bob, on a farm near Red Wing, Minnesota and works for Bic in Red Wing. She and her husband are active at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Red Wing.

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the life you have chosen. I also want you to know that I love you. You are a very strong woman who has set goals and strives to achieve those goals.

When you finished high school and decided to go to college nearly five hours from home, I was sad to see you go, but I also knew you had to spread your wings.

At your commencement ceremony your dad and I were so proud of you—the first of our family to graduate from college and with a double major in music and religion and a minor in German! We weren’t sure where this path would take

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Preferring Christ Jesus above all else

Trappists Visit trappists.org to learn more The Story of our Trappist Brothers in Algeria, "Of Gods and Men" was the winner of the Grand Prize at the Cannes Film Festival and is now available on DVD. Enter #415 at VocationMatch.com

Living a hidden life of silence, prayer and work at the heart of the Church Twelve monasteries of monks Five monasteries of nuns

Vision 2011-blue-final2:Vision Ad 2011

4/15/2011

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Today, I ...

Tutored Latina women eager to learn the English language.

Counseled children suffering from AIDS. Prayed in union with my sisters in 35 countries around the globe.

I am a

S CHOOL S ISTER OF N OTRE DAME Sister Barbara Bacak, vocation director 210-834-3271 sisters@ssnd.org www.ssnd.org facebook.com/ssnd.northamerica

you, but we were willing to wait and see.

Mom, I’m going to be a nun Then one day you called and said you were entering the Sisters of St. Benedict. You said you would be flying home with another sister who would help us answer any questions we might have concerning religious life, the Benedictines, and what this would mean for you and for us.

Kim, I wasn’t incredibly surprised when you called because you had been leaving signs along the way directing us to religious life.

You had studied religion, spent time with sisters, and you worked for the church. Still, I never thought the day would actually come when you

Transforming the world through education 52

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Victory Noll Sisters would join a religious community.

But come it did. You were here with Sister Anita. She seemed very nice; we were, however, a little leery.

We called a family meeting and all of us sat down around our dining room

“

The love the sisters showed for one another and for you was so strong that I knew I had nothing to worry about.

I could see you were very happy.

table to ask a few questions: Will we ever see you again? Can you come home? Can we come there to visit?

Are you sure you want to be a nun?

(Yes to all of these.)

What does a Benedictine sister do, we wondered? Do they pray all day? Do they wear a habit? Do they change their name? Do they lose their identity? Do you really want to live with other sisters and share all your belongings? Do you have your own room? Are you sure you don’t want to wait for “Mr. Right” to come along, get married, and have children? Will you have a job? Are you sure (again) you want to be a nun?

It all seemed so different. What about when we die—will your share of the estate go to the sisters or can you keep it? What about when you die? Will you be buried there? So many questions, so many questions.

You and Sister Anita answered them all, and we felt better know-

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• Proclaim the Word of God • Stand in solidarity with the poor • Foster justice • Promote the development of leaders

Share Our Spirit Our Lady of Victory Missionary Sisters 1900 W. Park Drive • P.O. Box 109 • Huntington, IN 46750 (260) 356-0628 • voc@olvm.org • www.olvm.org Enter #201 at VocationMatch.com

ing more about religious life, but we were still worried. It was such a big step. From the first time you played piano for Mass when you were in grade school we knew we were blessed with a very special daughter who had a light to shine. I knew that God had given you the gift of music for a reason. He had a special plan for you. He wanted you to share your talents. Of course we wanted that for you, too, but did you really want to be a nun? You have always had so much love to share—surely there was another way for you to share that love.

I now know you’re in the right place Then the day came for you to enter

the monastery. Your dad, growing up in the Lutheran faith, was not sure about everything and chose not to go to the ceremony, so your aunt and I went. The sisters were so wonderful and welcoming. I knew right then that you would be OK. The love the sisters showed for one another and for you was so strong that I knew I had nothing to worry about. I could see you were very happy. When I came home, I told your dad that he had to visit. Men are welcome there, too. He would love the sisters and the beautiful monastery. He would understand why you wanted to be there. He would understand why you are so happy.

Six years later I see that the monastery is where you can share your gifts and your love. I know now

53

Monastery Immaculate Conception, Ferdinand, Indiana, Sister Kim Mandelkow, O.S.B.’s new home

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God had planned that for you, and I am happy to be able to be a part of God’s plan—to have you, take care of you, and then let you go to move on to where you can share God’s love.

Since that day we have been to

call or e-mail. You can still come home, and we can still do motherdaughter things. You’re still a part of our family. We didn’t lose you to the sisters: We share you with them.

Kim, remember we love you very much and we are so happy for you, for what you are doing and what you have become. We are very, very proud parents.

With all my love, Mom =

You’re still a part of our family. We didn’t lose you to the sisters: We share you with them. the monastery several times to see you. We always leave knowing you are happy and in a good place. We know you haven’t changed. You’re still our daughter. We can still call you Kim if we want to—it doesn’t have to be “Sister Kim.” I can still

54

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Meet the Class of ’11

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A

ccording to The Class of 2011: Survey of Ordinands to the Priesthood, an annual national survey of men being ordained priests for U.S. dioceses and religious communities, the average age of ordained men in 2011 was 34, with more than half between the ages of 25 and 34. Those figures follow a trend over the past five years of younger newly ordained priests. The class of 2011, though, includes men from a variety of ages and backgrounds, from the deaf to refugees from Vietnam, grandfathers, military veterans, and clergy from other Christian churches.

The survey, conducted by the Center for Applied Research in the Apostolate at Georgetown University, also found that many of the newly ordained were influenced by parish priests, Catholic education, service as altar boys, and church environments.

—VocationNetwork.org SpiritCitings blog

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Vision spotlight Redwoods Monastery sisters package their Monastery Creamed Honey.

Created in community From mustard to candles to picture frames, religious communities make products that support their way of life and extend their mission.

Compiled

by Joel Schorn

W

hether you’re hungry— and you probably will be after reading this article— or thirsty; whether looking for a gift or a piece of fine art; want to keep warm, have a picture framed, say the Rosary, or just take a bath, you’ve come to the right place. Here, in their own words, religious men and women talk about the

Joel Schorn is managing editor of VISION.

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work of their hands created in community.

Ancilla Beef and Grain Farm Ancilla Beef and Grain Farm in Donaldson, Indiana operates in a way that respects the soil. Care is given to raising crops and animals without the use of potentially harmful additives. The meat and grain produced on the farm provide consumers with safe, nourishing food.

As one of the many ministries at the Poor Handmaids of Jesus Christ Ministry Center, Ancilla Beef and Grain Farm flourishes on about 800 acres of land

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Benedictine Sisters

Seeking god TogeTher

in community, prayer ministry.

&

For more monastic wisdom, visit the communities of Benedictine Sisters listed at www.abfconline.org/sisters.

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Sister Marlene Ann Lama, P.H.J.C. at the Ancilla Farm booth.

Outside the greenhouse on Michaela’s Farm in Oldenburg, Indiana.

where a combination of row crops, hay production, and beef cattle are raised. The all-natural beef is raised in a caring environment without the use of potentially harmful additives.

Ancilla Beef and Grain Farm sells custom cut-to-order beef. All cuts are graded at prime or choice.

—Ancilla Beef & Grain Farm, ancillabeef.com

Sprout Creek Farm In 1982 two teacher members of the 58

Society of the Sacred Heart were looking for a way to incorporate subject matter learned in school into a new and engaging format so that students would experience their education differently and in turn experience themselves and their world differently.

They got an opportunity when the society received a property in Dutchess County, New York with the stipulation that it remain in agricultural use and be utilized for education and humanitarian purposes. As the farm slowly gained momentum and

grew to educate more children, the need arose for a way to supplement income from tuition and fund-raising to support the agricultural dimension as “classroom.”

Encompassing 200 acres, Sprout Creek Farm is really three different entities. It is a working farm, with pasture-raised cows, sheep, goats, turkeys, chickens, and pigs. It is a market, selling award-winning cheeses and farm-produced meats as well as local milk, eggs, vegetables, crafts, and gifts. And it is an educational center, offering day, weekend, and summer programs that help connect young people to the land, the seasons, and the plants and animals

Some of Sprout Creek Farm’s cheeses.

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that coexist in harmonious rhythm.

—Sprout Creek Farm, www.sproutcreekfarm.org

Earthworks breads for sale.

Michaela Farm The Sisters of St. Francis, Oldenburg, Indiana, operate their “family farm” using natural methods of production.

They raise grass-fed beefalo cattle and pastured chickens for eggs and grow a variety of seasonal vegetables and herbs. Michaela Farm’s store sells frozen meat cuts, eggs, honey, fresh produce, potting plants, jams, jellies, and dried herbs.

For more than 155 years the land across the road from their motherhouse has provided the Oldenburg Franciscan Sisters with food. In 1854 the farm was named Michaela Farm after one of the first members of the community and became a supported ministry to continue food production and also to offer educational and spiritual programs and a place for communing with nature.

—Sister Claire Whalen, O.S.F., oldenburgfranciscans.org/farm.asp

New Clairvaux Vineyard The Abbey of New Clairvaux is the first Cistercian monastery in the Americas to grow, vinify, and bottle its own wine. It started its viticultural endeavors in 2000 in the monastic tradition of operating renowned vineyards of the world reaching back as far as the 12th century. The abbey’s property is also home to what was the world’s largest wine-making facility during the 1890s.

Today wines are made in a 120-year-old wine cellar. Our focus is on high-quality wines and grapes suited for this Northern California valley.

—New Clairvaux Vineyard, newclairvauxvineyard.com

Earthworks environmental center Another ministry sponsored by the Poor Handmaids of Jesus Christ, Earthworks is an environmental education center that helps people learn to think and act responsibly in an interconnected universe.

Earthworks, located in Plymouth, Indiana, makes artisan bread— handmade from start to finish. We use healthy, natural (organic where possible) flours, grains, and fruits to make bread that tastes good, is good for the earth, and good for the people who eat it, too. We use no artificial additives or preservatives.

Earthworks also makes a variety of jellies from locally grown fruits.

In the production of jelly, as in our bread-making, our emphasis is on ingredients that are cultivated in a way that is good for the land as well as healthy for people.

During the winter months Earthworks makes nutritious soups that are

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Stirring up some Monastery Mustard.

Brothers Rafael and Placid in the New Clairvaux Abbey vineyard.

sold frozen by the quart. The soups are made from whole food ingredients, with no additives or preservatives.

—Earthworks, earthworksonline.org

Assumption Abbey Fruitcakes Assumption Abbey is a secluded Trappist monastery in the foothills of the Missouri Ozarks established in 1950 by a group of monks from New Melleray Abbey near Dubuque, Iowa. Through 60

the years the brothers of Assumption Abbey have continued to live by the centuries-old Trappist tradition of contemplation and study, private prayer and common worship, and living by the work of their own hands.

When Assumption Abbey was first developing its bakery, the monks sought the help of world-class chef Jean-Pierre Augé, who at one time served in the royal employ of the Duke and Duchess of Windsor. Mr.

Augé’s assistance, and his generosity in providing the recipe and ideas for production, gave the monks the impetus to go forward with Assumption Abbey Fruitcakes.

Assumption Abbey Fruitcakes are a dark, rich, traditional style of fruitcake. They are baked slowly and aged under the careful supervision of the monks. Everything from marinating the fruit to mixing, baking, packaging, aging, and mailing is done right at the monastery by the monks. Assumption Abbey is a way of life that, combined with the careful work of the bakers, ensures a dedication to high quality.

—Assumption Abbey Fruitcakes, www.trappistmonks.com

Monastery Mustard A few years ago the Benedictine Sisters of Mt. Angel, Oregon were searching for ways to balance their budget. Sister Dorothy Jean Beyer, VISION 2012

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O.S.B., who was prioress at the time, decided the sisters could generate some income by selling something they produced, and she asked me to research product ideas.

One of the sisters in the community, Sister Terry Hall, O.S.B., was making mustard as a hobby and to raise funds for St. Joseph Shelter, a ministry to the homeless she had cofounded in 1988. I knew that the mustard was delicious and sold well at the local Oktoberfest. Sister Terry and I began a months-long process of research and learning about the food industry. Within a year we were ready, and Monastery Mustard was launched.

Initially there were four flavors: Divinely Original, Glorious Garlic, Heavenly Honey, and Angelic Honey Garlic. Within a short time Hallelujah Jalapeño was also added. The following winter Sister Terry entered several flavors in the Worldwide Mustard Competition and won a silver medal for Glorious Garlic. Sister Terry now has developed 14 mustard flavors and is working on more.

“Many of our older sisters help me bottle,” Sister Terry said. “There is a core group that is always there, including Sister Alberta [90 years of age], Sister Agatha [90], Sister Josephine [88], Sister Joseph [76], and the three Rausch sisters [80, 79, and 75].”

—Steven Ritchie, Director, Benedictine Foundation of Oregon, monasterymustard.com

have been making beeswax candles for 87 years. In 1923 Sister Isabel McDonnell, O.S.B. opened the candle shop, and a line of apprentices followed her. Currently Sister Benet Frandrup, O.S.B. runs the candlemaking operation.

The sisters use wax from their own hives, when available, and supplement it with wax purchased from local farmers. Wax also comes from recycled parish and monastery

candle stubs. The wax is melted and strained to remove imperfections, including an occasional bee.

For their own chapel and that of Saint Scholastica Convent, the sisters’ retirement facility, the sisters make Easter candles, tapers, altar candles, benediction candles, and dedication candles. They also make candles for sale in Whitby Gift Shop and online.

Candle-making often provides space to think. Sister Margaret

Beeswax candles The Sisters of the Order of Saint Benedict in St. Joseph, Minnesota

Beeswax candles in Sacred Heart Chapel at Candlemas before they are blessed.

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would be healthy and nourishing for our customers. It had to be a highquality product that was environmentally friendly. In our search we discovered that other monSister Benet Frandrup, O.S.B. dips candles in her workshop. asteries successfully Each candle is hand-dipped more than 100 times before it produced creamed is finished. honey and so we thought we would give it a try.

Wurm, O.S.B., who learned the proThe result is Monastery Creamed cess as a novice, remembers cleanHoney, a rich and creamy spread ing wax late at night: “It’s kind of a made with 100 percent U.S. Grade A peaceful thing to do.” Sister Benet natural honey and organic essences. marvels at how a little string grows It is used on breads and cereals and and grows to become something in recipes. Creamed honey is availbeautiful, and where it all begins. able in six flavors.

“Candles are kind of a meditation,” —Monastery Creamed Honey, she says. “I think of the bees and www.honeycooks.com how they work together as a community. It reflects our own community.”

—www.sbm.osb.org/store More honey

and other sweet things

the gift shop of the Sisters of Saint Francis, Rochester, Minnesota is organic honey, produced under the direction of our beekeeper, Sister Alice Thraen, O.S.F. Other products are also made with the beeswax, including organic lip balm and candles.

The colorful, unique greeting cards designed by Sister Therese Jilk, O.S.F. are also big sellers. These cards often accompany other items found in our shop, including stuffed toy horses, chickens, dolls, and even a hippo. Sister Lillian Silvers, O.S.F. is a seamstress and puts in many additional hours stuffing her creations. Sister Cecelia Rolling is our resident weaver.

—Assisi Heights Gift Shop, rochesterfranciscan.org/whoweare/about-us.htm

Monastery Scents In 2000 I received a bar of homemade soap as a gift. I was intrigued by it and thought, “I can do this.” So I looked up a recipe on the internet,

Monastery Creamed Honey

One of the most requested items in

Since our foundation in 1962 by Our Lady of Nazareth monastery in Belgium, the Cistercian sisters of Redwoods Monastery in Northern California have been engaged in various industries and crafts. In the early days we wove vestments. It soon became impractical to continue weaving as a business, and the sisters began making altar breads. Although that business was almost an instant success, it was extremely labor intensive and the equipment too expensive to modernize.

So in 2000 we looked for a new industry. It needed to fit into our monastic rhythm of prayer, work, and lectio divina (meditative reading of scripture; see page 117). We wanted a business that

Sister Therese Jilk, O.S.F. and a display of the greeting cards she designs.

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Cookies from the Ferdinand, Indiana Benedictine sisters.

Simply Divine cookies One of the Monastery Scents soaps from the Benedictine Sisters of Perpetual Adoration, Clyde, Missouri.

procured my ingredients, found a small broom closet for my use, and began making soap!

Initially I made soap only for our sisters’ use. Gradually I refined my techniques. The sisters appreciated the soap, so I decided to sew some simple muslin bags and gave a few as gifts. They were well-received and that encouraged me to expand. What began as a hobby slowly became a small hand-crafted soap business called Monastery Scents.

I would pray as I made the soap.

I prayed for the people who would use it—that it might bring them hope, joy, healing—whatever graces they most needed.

I have been humbled by the words of gratitude I’ve received. I have heard from soldiers in Iraq who were touched by the prayers that accompany each bar of soap, from a family who used my soap to wash the body of a dying loved one, and from a new mom who insisted my lotions be with her in the hospital as she gave birth.

—Sister Cathleen Marie, O.S.B., clydemonastery.org/monasteryscents

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At the monastery of the Sisters of St. Benedict, Ferdinand, Indiana, baking cookies is a hands-on process with a personal touch and a divine dimension. Chief baker Sister Barbara Jean Luebbehusen, O.S.B. considers working with the dough a “sacred experience. I feel closer to God when I’m preparing the cookies,” she says.

Our bakery has five Indiana Artisan-designated cookies: Springerle, Almerle, Hildegard, Buttermint, and Buttermint with chocolate.

—Simply Divine Bakery, thedome.org/bakery

them in meaningful and productive activities that will not only enhance their lives but also enable them to contribute in a productive way to the financial well-being of the community.

In our tenth year of ministry, NunBetter Chocolates and Custom Gift Baskets provides customers with quality homemade novelty chocolates, packaged for individual sale or

NunBetter Chocolates and Gift Baskets The mission of NunBetter, a ministry of the Sisters of St. Francis of the Neumann Communities, is to celebrate the lives of our senior sisters by engaging

Sister Bernice Eib, O.S.F. packages chocolates at NunBetter Chocolates and Custom Gift Baskets.

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in custom-made gift baskets created around a variety of unique themes.

At present we have two “chocolatiers,” Sister Jean Marie Teixeira, O.S.F. and Sister Jane Bourne, O.S.F., the manager, as well as nine sistervolunteers who make the candy.

—NunBetter Chocolates and Custom Gift Baskets, nunbetter.org

Second to Nun Framery The Second to Nun Framery, located at the provincialate of the Sisters of the Holy Redeemer in Huntingdon Valley, Pennsylvania, provides expert framing using new and recycled framing materials, refurbishes old frames, mounts posters, and laminates images, among many other custom services such as framing sports jerseys and clay tiles.

The framery was begun by Sister

Jacqueline Long, C.S.R. She enjoyed working with tools and tinkering on projects, so in her retirement years she had the vision to begin a frame shop. Equipment for the shop was donated and purchased as needed and volunteers helped build the necessary furnishings. The original purpose was framing the sisters’ inhouse art as well as meeting framing needs throughout the Holy Redeemer Health System, the sponsored ministry of the congregation.

Sister Linda Arico, C.S.R. continues the tradition, bringing her gifts of technology and organization and learning the necessary framing skills

through a mentorship. Under her inspiration and guidance the framery was officially open to the public in October 2009.

Twenty percent of all proceeds go toward supporting the congregation’s mission in Tanzania, East Africa, specifically a new Montessori school for children. In 2010 the Sisters hosted the first show to feature the works of local artists. The website includes an online gallery that continues to showcase local artists.

Besides “bringing pictures to life,” Sister Linda said that her greatest accomplishment is building new relationships throughout

Sister Linda Arico, C.S.R. in the Second to Nun Framery.

Sister Catherine Muehlbauer, S.S.M.N. in the Minsart Studio pouring pewter pendants into molds from original designs. The pewter is then strung and beaded and sold online, in gift shops, and at art and craft shows.

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Sister Joyce Diltz, P.H.J.C., director of Bethany Retreat House in East Chicago, Indiana, with some of her textile products.

the surrounding community who never knew the Sisters of the Holy Redeemer. “I love seeing new faces around!” she said —Second to Nun Framery, secondtonunframery.org

Minsart Studio The Eastern Province of the Sisters of St. Mary of Namur, through their own Minsart Studio, make and sell sacred art. The artistic focus is the search for and sharing of beauty as a way of communicating the sacred.

Among their products are sculpture, stained-glass, painting, photographic notecards, and pewter casts.

—Minsart Studio, www.minsartstudio.com

while watching the news or visiting with friends and family, so each piece literally has the world and its stories stitched into it, making it all the more sacred and connected to the larger world.

In my more recent venture into quilting, I love playing with colors and textures until they come together in a magnificent way. My quilting projects include: Gift-wrap and tote bags. I make scraps into small bags with a ribbon to use as an ecological alternative to paper gift-wrap. The bags have traveled around the world to at least the nine countries in which our sisters serve, carried there by our international P.H.J.C. guests.

Quilted sweatshirts are a way to display and make wearable some of the quilt blocks I make. I’ve made close to 200 sweatshirts.

Wall hangings and table toppers.

Some small-to-medium blocks are stretched over frames as wall hangings. Larger quilt pieces are done

with extensive all-over stitching as wall hangings or table toppers.

—Sister Joyce Diltz, P.H.J.C. bethanyretreathouse.org

MissionFish rosaries Valerie Pronger of Boca Raton, Florida purchased one of Sister Adella Blonigen, O.S.F.’s rosaries made from lily pad seeds for her grandson Tommy’s First Communion. Valerie ordered the rosary through MissionFish and personalized it with special charms.

A hammer seemed appropriate because Jesus was a carpenter. He also fed the hungry with fish. The tortoise/turtle symbolizes Mother Earth, which Tommy cares for in his own small way. And the rat (Tommy’s first pet) is another of God’s creations.

She included the dolphin to remind Tommy of his grandmother and the lily pad story she wrote for him.

—Franciscan Sisters of Little Falls, Minnesota, fslf.org/pages/Rosaries =

Sewing and quilting I find sewing to be a wonderful creative outlet, a hands-on balance to the listening that I do as a spiritual director and dream-group facilitator.

If I can stitch at least a little bit every day, I am much more grounded.

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Sister Adella Blonigen, O.S.F. makes rosaries.

Tommy poses with his special rosary in honor of his First Communion.

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priests Matthew Kuczora, C.S.C. at the blessing of his friend Brandon’s casket.

Lea este articulo en español en linea.

Lisez cet article en français en ligne.

Read this article in Spanish or French online.

Blessed are we who comfort the mourners The experience of a friend’s death affirms a young seminarian in his vocation.

by

Matthew Kuczora, C.S.C.

M

y friend Brandon was killed in Afghanistan in the spring of 2010. It was finals week when another friend called and told me that Brandon had been shot by a sniper. His commanding officer said Brandon was singled out because he was

Matthew Kuczora, C.S.C. joined the Congregation of Holy Cross in 2006 and is currently studying at Moreau Seminary in South Bend, Indiana in preparation for ordination to the priesthood.

Matt is expected to profess his final vows in August 2011. He is originally from Marion, Indiana.

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making improvements in the village and building connections with local tribal leaders. He chose the U.S. Marine Corps to be on the ground with his men and to make the world a better place. He died doing just that.

Despite all the pain around Brandon’s death, in a way it helped confirm my new life as a member of a religious community.

How to make a life of service?

Brandon and I had grown up together, and after high school he went to the U.S. Naval Academy and I went to the

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kept coming back to times where I had done service work.

In my house growing up we might not have prayed the rosary together, but we were encouraged to develop a healthy concern for the poor.

That stuck with me when I was on my own in college, and I made it a goal to do some sort of service work each semester. I volunteered tutoring and coaching during the year. One summer I taught kids from underfunded

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When I stopped to think about what was important and what gave me real, deep joy, I kept coming back to times where I had done service work.

University of Notre Dame. We visited each other in college, mostly for Notre Dame-Navy football games (that was back in the days when N.D. used to beat Navy).

At that time religious life and priesthood were about the furthest things from my mind. Sure, faith was important to me. I grew up going to Mass every Sunday, but I was never an altar server and to this day I still can’t pray a rosary without help from a prayer book.

I went to college to study business, meet a gorgeous girl, and make a ton of money, and I ended up graduating in accounting. But even though my grades were good, it didn’t take me long to figure out that it just wasn’t for me. When I stopped to think about what was important and what gave me real, deep joy, I

schools with the Jesuits in Manhattan.

Another summer I worked in microlending with a nonprofit group in San Antonio. Looking back, that work in San Antonio was probably a last effort at trying to meld the call to serve with my business education, and even that wasn’t enough.

The best advice I ever got: “Look at what books you keep at the end of the semester, and which you sell back.” I couldn’t wait to get rid of the accounting textbooks, but I held onto the books about saints, sexual ethics, and economic justice from the theology classes I was taking.

That’s where my heart was—but how could I make a life of serving? How could I combine my love for work with the poor and faith with teaching, cross-cultural ministry, history, even business? It took me a long

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time to realize that the answer lived down the hall from me.

These guys I’d want as friends The religious priests in the Congregation of Holy Cross at Notre Dame and the Jesuits I met in New York were different from priests I had known in the pretty average smalltown parish in the Midwest where I

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Matthew Kuczora, C.S.C. (above, center) at a friend’s first Mass and with friends (far left) outside Moreau Seminary in Notre Dame, Indiana.

had grown up. There was a joy you could taste in the way they lived their priesthood and the community life that supported it.

By the end of junior year I was still pretty confused about what to do. Luckily for me I had good friends and family to help me, but I was also blessed to have Holy Cross priests in the dorm, one as my rector and another who was a political science professor living in residence.

I learned that Holy Cross was doing all kinds of things as priests: working in Hispanic ministry, art, medicine, parishes, homeless shelters, overseas mission—you name it. Best of all these were guys I’d want to be friends with if I met them at an office or in the dorm. The joy with which they lived their lives and the diversity of ministry they were engaged in,

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Fr. Mike Cronogue, SSE, Vocation Director

mcronogue@smcvt.edu

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all supported by a real community of brothers, was something very attractive to me.

I ended up doing a year of volunteer service after graduation to keep discerning, but after that I figured I’d give it a try, at least for a year.

As I start my last semester of seminary five years later, I can look back and say it’s been good. I have to admit that there has been a long process of “grieving” celibacy for me.

I honestly feel called to it, especially in the availability that it enables for God and neighbor through prayer

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St. Joseph Eastern Province www.dominicanfriars.org St. Martin DePorres Southern Province www.opsouth.org St. Albert the Great Central Province www.domcentral.org Most Holy Name of Jesus Western Province www.opwest.org

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and ministry, but there is certainly mourning that goes along with the road not taken.

Despite that, though, there have been many more joys. I’m getting

“

Walking with people through Brandon’s funeral was the first time I really experienced what religious life and priesthood were all about.

to take the classes that I always secretly drooled over. I have time for prayer and reflection. I’ve been able to work at a parish in Mexico, an orphanage in Honduras, and teach a

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college-level course that traveled to India.

All those experiences were great—but it was a totally different feeling when Brandon’s mom asked if I would lead his funeral service. Brandon was Catholic, but his family didn’t want the funeral in a church and wondered if I could help.

It’s now or never Prayer in a quiet chapel and the warm feeling of helping people in need are fine discernment tools, but this was an intense confrontation with the reality facing me: Do I embrace this offer and the bigger question of this vocation, or is it not really right for me?

I had never “done” a funeral

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10 Xaverian Vision Ad:Layout 1 1/29/10 5:21 PM

The Congregation of the Brothers of Saint Francis Xavier A community in mission, inviting other men to consider joining them to “fall in love with the service of God.”

Educators Social Workers Counselors Missionaries Men of Faith

Matthew Kuczora, C.S.C. (above) renews his vows and (left) with a young friend in Honduras.

For more information, please contract: Brother James Connolly, CFX Xaverian Brothers 4409 Frederick Avenue Baltimore, MD 21229 On the web at: www.XaverianBrothers.org or email: jconnolly@xaverianbrothers.org Enter #198 at VocationMatch.com

before, let alone a friend’s funeral.

Of course I told Brandon’s mom I would do it, and I poured myself into preparing for it. Somehow I held it together long enough for us to celebrate Brandon’s life, thank God for the days we had with him, and ask God to welcome him home and

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comfort our broken hearts.

At the graveside service, as Marines fired a final salute and gave a flag to Brandon’s mom, it was an awful, sickening time, but I was never so glad to be in religious life. I didn’t try to offer any answers but by just being there as a religious it was different than my role as a friend. People looked to me to lead them in prayer and to talk to them about death and suffering, resurrection and God’s love. I was humbled by how people came to me, grasping to find God in this sadness and how important

it was for them to find some sign of hope in me. I was amazed at how God gave me the strength to find words when I could and to mourn silently with people when there were no words.

All the years of discernment and all the classes helped me to know about loving service, and in my heart I could feel that priesthood in Holy Cross was right for me, but walking with people through Brandon’s funeral was the first time I really experienced what religious life and priesthood were all about. That gives me strength and joy to take final vows in August 2011, knowing that is what God is calling me to and what a wonderful and needed life it is. =

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priests

Clothes shape the man

Elizabeth Sisson

Father Jason Welle, O.F.M. waits for a train in his Franciscan habit

A reporter has some tough questions for a Franciscan friar: Where do you get those robes? And can you exercise in them?

by

Cliff Doerksen

W

aiting for the train the other day I crossed paths with a vigorous-looking young man clad in sandals, a brown, hooded, ankle-length robe, and a Cliff Doerksen died shortly before this article appeared in the December 2010 edition of the Chicago Reader. The article is reprinted with permission.

Doerksen held a Ph.D. in history from Princeton University, wrote extensively for the Chicago Reader and TimeOut Magazine, and published the historical blog Bad News from the Past. He taught at Princeton University, the University of Illinois-Chicago, and Northwestern University.

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simple belt fashioned of rope.

“You’d be a monk,” I said to him, flaunting my enormous erudition. Close, but no ciborium: He was rather a friar, of the Franciscan order specifically. “Monk implies stability of place,” the man explained. “They answer to one particular monastery. Friar implies itinerancy, though I do answer to ‘monk’ because it’s a term most people know.”

My fellow commuter, it transpired, was 32-year-old Father Jason Welle, O.F.M., who in March 2010 was appointed associate pastor of the parish of Saint Mary of Celle in Berwyn, Illinois.

Always on the lookout for potentially

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See the needs? Meet them.

Got the gifts? Use them.

Want to lead? Serve them.

Joining the Salvatorian community as a Priest or Brother means you are a part of local and global outreach that makes a real difference in the lives of those served. Together with Sisters and Lay Salvatorians, we create a dynamic, prayerful family united in the Savior.

Learn more at www.sdsvocations.com.

SALVATORIANS Apostles for our times.

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monetizable conversations, I asked Welle if I might record an interview with him on my iPhone as we rode downtown together.

What’s with the outfit?

Granted this indulgence, I started out at ground level and asked him if the open-toed sandals were de rigueur in his line of work.

“I can wear whatever I like,” he said. “But I was wearing sandals year-round long before I joined the Franciscans. I wear the habit most of the time, but I’m a runner—I’m running the Chicago Marathon with my brother Scott—and I don’t wear it when I run.” (Wearing bib number 5542, Welle completed the race in 4:04:05, which he told me by e-mail

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was his slowest time in the seven marathons he’s run.)

A native of Albany, Minnesota, Welle has lived in Chicago for the past four years while completing his seminary training and was ordained last January. His assignment to Saint Mary of Celle is the equivalent of postgraduate training: “Our provincial minister wanted me to go there so I could learn about parish life,” he said.

As a Franciscan Welle is a “religious,” belonging to the “regular” clergy of the Catholic Church as opposed to the secular clergy—priests and deacons who do not belong to one of the [Church’s] 125 religious orders. Religious and secular clergy are both bound by church law to celibacy and obedience to the church

hierarchy, but religious take further vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience and bind themselves to the rules [“regula”] of their respective orders.

I wasn’t done asking about his outfit yet. Where, I persisted, did one shop to get a getup like his? “You join the order and they give it to you when you’re a novice,” he said. “Fifty years ago the friars sewed all their own habits, but now we often hire others to do it. This one was made by the Poor Clare sisters in Minooka, Illinois. They’re a Franciscan order of women and that’s a big part of their livelihood.”

“What’s the fabric?” I asked, hoping for his sake it wasn’t some flesh-mortifying synthetic. “It’s wool, but it’s very thin,” Welle said.

“It looks heavier and hotter than it is. I told them, ‘I want the thinnest, coolest material you can come up with that will not be see-through.’

Because if you’re out walking on a day like this, there are times of day when you can see the silhouette.

With this one you can’t—it’s just thick enough.”

Gathering “Other” ideas I leaned away from the obvious follow-up question and instead asked what awaited him after his parish assignment. “Long-term, I hope to go on and earn a Ph.D. in Islamic studies and teach in a university,” he said. “Actually that’s why I’m going downtown right now: to get a visa to go to Turkey next month.”

Welle is taking Arabic at the University of Chicago, where he also eventually hopes to do his

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Vocation Ministry 1212 East Euclid Avenue Arlington Heights, IL 60004 vocations@viatorians.com 847.637.2129

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doctorate. “I’m studying Arabic to strengthen my application when the time comes,” he says. “I’m interested in the way religious communities construct their own identity and their notions of the religious ‘Other.’ I’d like to look at Muslim thinkers of the late Middle Ages, post-Crusades, and how they thought about Christians and Jews in the period after the Crusades and what that meant for their selfunderstanding.”

Was this to be in the service of ecumenical understanding? “Yes, in the long-term my interests are in contemporary Muslim-Christian dialogue,” said Welle. “But the reason I’d like to write on the medieval period is that I’m fairly convinced that most of our foundational as-

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sumptions about how we construe the religious Other were solidified in the Middle Ages and the period following.”

How the habit helps Speaking of construing the religious Other, how did people generally react to him in his habit? “People will often ask me, ‘Are you some kind of monk or something?’ ” said Welle.

“They don’t know, upon seeing me, what it is that I am, but they assume that whatever this brown thing is, it’s a representation of who I am.”

Do they ever think he’s kidding?

“Yes, at the University of Chicago.

It’s the only place in the city where people assume it’s a costume. . . . At the bus stop one day someone came up and said to me, ‘Are you, like, a

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member of the Society for Creative Anachronism?’ ” To be fair, the society, a sort of medievalist reenactment group, does have a healthy chapter at the U. of C. “I laughed and said, ‘No, our anachronisms are tired and stale.

They’re eight centuries old; there’s nothing creative about it.’ ” “Actually, I can tell you a funnier story than that,” Welle went on. “I used to volunteer at a place called the Port Ministries in [the Chicago neighborhood of] Back of the Yards—they run a soup kitchen, a homeless shelter, a wide range of social services stuff. One day I was walking in my habit at 51st and Ashland—kind of a rougher neighborhood, you know? And a woman with a very small son came up to me and stopped me, saying, ‘Hey brother, brother, brother! I just want to thank

you for wearing your habit today, because I know that you don’t have to, and our neighborhood is starved for signs of hope. I want my 5-yearold son to meet a man who’s living his life for God.’ “And I was just shocked! I stopped and prayed with them for a second, and blessed her son, and it was the sweetest thing that anyone has ever said to me. So they leave and I’ve got the warm fuzzy butterflies. I keep walking down the street.

I don’t take more than 10 steps before I run into a teenager who looks at me and goes, ‘Who the **** are you, Harry Potter?’ ” Many members of religious communities no longer wear a habit, I observed, and asked Welle whether, as others have suggested, that wasn’t perhaps a huge branding mistake, one that might help account for the drop-off in enrollment in Catholic orders.

“The reasons for the decline in religious life for both men and women are very complex,” he said. “Some

“

Coming to religious life was about relinquishing power and identifying with those who are less fortunate.

people are very quick to boil it down to something like that, though I’m reluctant to do so. The main reason that so many religious women were so quick to abandon the habit is that before the rules about it were relaxed, they tended to be much stricter about when the habit should

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be worn—they really had to wear it 24/7. And also their clothing tended to be a lot tougher to wear—you had those massive wimples.

“The rules for men tended to be a lot more flexible—if you were out working in the fields, you didn’t necessarily wear your habit, or if you were a jogger. Whereas the women were on their hands and knees scrubbing floors in the full regalia, so when the opportunity came to chuck it, they generally chucked it completely, which is understandable considering what they had been through.”

Which uniform packed more mojo, I wondered: the priestly collar and black suit or the brown robes?

“This is very personal,” said Welle.

“I am a priest and I own a black suit and collar so I can wear that if I

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want to, and I do on occasion if I’m going to a place where the meaning of the habit is unclear and the symbol of the collar is clear—say if I’m going to a hospital to anoint someone, the staff might not know what this robe is.

“Having said that, the collar strikes me as a power suit, and for me coming to religious life was about relinquishing power and identifying with those who are less fortunate.

The habit is usually not threatening to people . . . . So I really prefer the habit of my order—it speaks to a different set of values.

“It’s really a conglomeration of reasons,” Welle said. “But for me it ultimately comes down to the fact that I just don’t like black. I like brown: I can slop coffee all over myself and no one knows.” =

By our example, our work, our service to others . . . for the honor and glory of the Sacred Hearts of Jesus and Mary.

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sisters

Sister Rachel Sena, O.P. outside the family literacy program she operates in South Florida.

Sister Sena’s up-close Maya ministry Ministering to the people of South Florida is a continuous genesis of new beginnings and new chapters for a Dominican dedicated to the peace of Christ.

by

James D. Davis

A

“typical” day for Sister Rachel Sena, O.P.? She smiles at the idea. It may include a chat with a mother who came by with a stroller. Or a late-night call from a family who suffered a death. Or a visit to a classroom where 20 mothers are learning to read in Spanish and English. Or a brainstorming session

with her board on fundraising.

The Dominican sister takes it all in stride with a curious mix of analytical intellect, casual humor, and spiritual intensity. “Our ministry is a place of genesis,” says Sena, 57, sitting at the Maya Ministry office in Lake Worth, Florida.

“Every day is a new day, a new chapter.”

Multi-tasking ministry James D. Davis is the religion editor of the South Florida Sun Sentinel, based in Fort Lauderdale

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Her “parish” is the 20 mothers and 75 children who attend her Family Literacy Program four hours a day, four days

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a week. Through them the Maya Ministry, sponsored by the Diocese of Palm Beach, also serves spouses and other relatives, totaling perhaps 100 people.

Other services of her office include prison and hospital chaplain work, after-school tutoring, and nutrition education for parents. The ministry also makes social services referrals, gives away food, clothing, and school backpacks, and coordinates efforts with other community leaders. Joining Sena are many volunteers—she forgets how many— working in an office and classroom

“

“To be close to the church and to the face of Christ, we have to be close to the poor.

This is not the theory part.

This is the living part.”

at Our Savior Lutheran Church.

The building sits in the heart of the Maya-Guatemalan immigrant community of Palm Beach County, she explains. “To be close to the church and to the face of Christ, we have to be close to the poor,” she says. “This is not the theory part. This is the living part.”

Sena easily adapts to the role of Indian maven. Along with her white suit jacket she wears the handwoven, multicolored Maya skirt called a corte’. Her 17-year-old ministry runs on a $150,000 budget, most of it from the diocese. It would take

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Sister Rachel with Maya women in the Family Literacy Program classroom.

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another $100,000 to do a “really good family literacy program,” Sena estimates. The ministry tries to raise more through fundraisers like a flea market. Unfortunately, in February she had to lay off her three paid staffers for lack of funds. “We struggle on a monthly basis,” she acknowledges.

“This is a tough time in the country for every organization. And usually the ones who are forgotten are the poor.”

Literacy is the key to opening doors The poor are a prime concern of the Dominican Sisters of Peace to which she belongs. Comprising more than 600 sisters and 500 associates in 39 states and six countries, the order focuses on twin specialties: spiritu-

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ality through prayer, contemplation, and study as well as activism on behalf of disadvantaged communities. That makes Maya Ministry a natural.

A visit to the center, on the second floor of the Lutheran church school, reveals a cheery space resembling an elementary school classroom: maps, charts with alphabets and vocabulary words, books with big, colorful pictures. On one side a table of women learns Spanish; on the other, English. When they learn one language—often becoming conversant within a year—they shift to the other side of the room.

In a corner of the room their children play amid brightly colored toys under a kindly woman’s supervision.

This is more than babysitting, Sena says. “In a family literacy program, the family is one unit. They all move up together.”

She chose literacy as a pivotal focus because it can open many

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other doors: to employment, computer skills, making emergency calls, even shopping at a supermarket and counting one’s change.

Despite the old-money opu-

“

“Our vocation is to keep alive the posture of faith and breathe into the sparks of the coals.”

lence of Palm Beach County, official “guesstimates” place 30,000 Mayas there. Because some are illegal immigrants, and some are mistaken for Hispanics, there may well be many more. “We’re not even scratching

the surface,” Sena acknowledges.

“It’s a challenge to extend hospitality to people who want to be free from ignorance.”

The need is acute among Maya women, she says, citing several stats: 90 percent have not graduated high school; they cannot read or write; and many have not even held a pencil. “The poorest group in the world are women and children,” Sena says. “And the same is here, in every community. [The Maya mothers] ask us to help so they can help their children.”

Desert hospitality in the city Several things seemed to steer Sena to her ministry. She was born in Yuma, Arizona to Mexican-Indian

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Who are the Maya people?

A

n indigenous group native to Central America and Southern Mexico, the Mayas have a glorious past. Centuries before the Spanish arrived in America, the Maya civilization was a dominant force in the region, with a sophisticated culture that included mathematics, spirituality, science, arts, and a complex writing system. In the U.S., modern Maya—like other immigrants—frequently face social and economic challenges while also offering their gifts to the church and society.

Dominican Sisters of Peace.

Why the Dominicans? Sena gives several reasons: the emphases on preaching and missions; their “joy and simplicity of life”; the way they lived among the people they served; and especially their egalitarian way of working together. “I loved the understanding that our Christian vocation is open to all,” Sena says. “And that lay missionaries and religious can work together. I wanted to say ‘thank you’ to God by giving my life to the church.”

She worked in several states, including Idaho, Washington, and back home in Arizona. There she found many Guatemalans fleeing across the border from Mexico seeking asylum. In the mid-1980s she joined Dominican associate Yvette Gioannetti in Guatemala City. They helped with baptisms, confirmations, Sunday Mass, and bringing the Eucharist to the sick and dying.

They even ministered at a cardboard chapel that a priest had built at the city dump. Yet she remembers it as a sacred time. “When you’re on the edge of life and death, the face of Christ is very clear. We were the sacramental presence for those people.”

At least until 1992, when she and Gioannetti received a death threat. Following recommended practice for religious and missionaries, they left Guatemala. Their next mission was Palm Beach County and its large Maya community.

Renewed by active contemplation They began in 1993 with the bless-

James Baca, Denver Catholic Register

parents who were respected elders in the community and always involved in church—and in serving food and drink to strangers passing through.

“It’s desert hospitality, the belief that everyone who comes is a messenger of God,” Sena says.

At Arizona State University she found herself interested in the spirituality of the Dominican priests and the students they worked with.

On a friend’s recommendation she did summer volunteer work in 1974 with the Eucharistic Missionaries of St. Dominic in New Orleans. She then made temporary vows in 1976 and final profession in 1981 as a Dominican sister. On Easter Sunday in 2009 her community was one of seven congregations—the others were in Ohio, Kansas, Kentucky, and Michigan—that united as the

Old Age is a gift

for which we are called to give thanks.

Blessed John Paul II

n Living the joy of the Beatitudes, serving the needy elderly in 32 countries around the world, in the footsteps of Saint Jeanne Jugan.

Little Sisters of the Poor Sr. Constance Carolyn 601 Maiden Choice Lane Baltimore, MD 21228 Tel: 410.744.9367 serenity@littlesistersofthepoor.org www.littlesistersofthepoor.org

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ing of the local bishop. They first taught at a bus stop under a tree and sometimes in fast-food restaurants, using cars as offices. Gioannetti retired in 2008, and Sena continued as director. To Sena’s amazement the Maya mothers have followed the ministry in its many moves. “We’re obviously identified as a place where people feel welcome.”

Her favorite parts of the job resemble things a priest might say.

“You see newborns. You see them grow as women and as adults. And their faith inspires mine. We’re all walking together. We celebrate life.

That’s what our faith is about.”

She even celebrates the crises, big and small. She’s given tips on helping an HIV-positive person. She once tracked down a boy to a jail in Arizona to reassure his family in Guatemala that he was still alive.

When making house visits she keeps an eye out for signs of human trafficking, a particular plague in South Florida.

Her ministry has even extended

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Franciscan Sisters of Our Lady of Perpetual Help www.franciscansisters-olph.org

No Place too Far No Service too Humble No Person to Lowly 84

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Sisters of the Good Shepherd One Congregation ~ Two Lifestyles her reach overseas. In November she traveled to Utrecht, in the Netherlands, for a conference on migrant churches sponsored by the World Council of Churches (WCC). The two dozen conferees—Sena was one of only two Americans there—discussed how to address multicultural

APOSTOLIC A lifestyle that is committed to listening to the weary, often muted voices of the poor and the disadvantaged–especially women and children, and then doing something about what is heard.

CONTEMPLATIVE A lifestyle that seeks to bring Jesus' love to all God’s people through contemplative prayer, community life, silence, solitude, faithfulness to the Gospel, and meditation on the Word of God.

“

“When you walk in faith, it’s a grace to be renewed every day.”

“One Person Is Of More Value Than A World”

CONTACT: USA ~ Christine Alvarez ~ (732) 946-0515 ~ gsvocny@optonline.net diversity within local churches and www.goodshepherdsisters.org religious congregations. Their findCANADA ~ Sr. Barbara Wells ~ (204) 336-5282 ~ barbarargs@yahoo.ca ings will help inform a statement on www.goodshepherdsisterscanada.org mission to be considered at the next WCC assembly in South Korea in Enter #077 at VocationMatch.com Good Shepherd Sisters 2013. aretoan international congregation with over 4,000 vowed members both apostolic and Such work oftenWe leads burnWe have communities in 71 countries throughout the world. Our mission is out: weariness of thecontemplative. constant dereconciliation. that, "One Person is ofas More Value a World."

Through our mands, the needs that always outrun We believe We are living lives in such a way to spread God's than Wisdom and love to all ministry we strive to model our lives after the heart of Jesus, the Good Shepherd, who left t the resources. How does Sena avoid people, ever��here. We live in different states, in different count�ies. to the one in special need. Our apostolic work includes a variety of human services it? One way: prayer.respond The Dominican Come be a par� of something Special! You’re invited to ex�lore our communit�! social contemwork and social justice advocacy with a particular focus on women and children. Ou Sisters of Peace are “active contemplative love of Jesus, Good Shepherd platives,” she says. “Burnout hap- prayer strives to bring the liberating Contact Sisterthe Lucy Clynes, DW to all o people.

Vocation Directors: Christine Alvarez, (732) 946-0515; email: gsvocny@optonline.n pens when you’re an activist only,” Vocations Director Sr. Liz Mary Ann Giordano, she says. “Our vocation is toSchille, keep (314) 381-3400; email: lschille@gspmna.org; (631)Sr. 277-2660, Ext. 11 (215) 782-8627; email: sunset@catholic.org; US Website: www.goodshepherdsisters.org; alive the posture of faith and breathe vocation@daughtersofwisdom.org Sr.coals.

Barbara into the sparks of the WhenWells, Winnipeg. MB; (204) 336-5282; email: barbarargs@yahoo.ca; www.daughtersofwisdom.org Website: www.goodshepherdsisterscanada.org you walk in faith, it’sCanada a grace to be renewed every day.”

Enter #275 at VocationMatch.com Hermanas Another way: the Mayas them-del Buen Pastor sobre 4,000 miembras hechos voto apostólicas selves. To them, she Somos and heruna workcongregación brothers and sisters.

Welcome the Thusinternacional runs Sena’s life:con huge Tenemos comunidades en 71 países del mundo. atNuestra misión es de reco are their experience contemplativas. of God. “They stranger. Sit the table. Share your needs, tight money, frequent emerque “Una persona es de más valor que un mundo”.

Por medio de nuestra oración ask us for a blessing.Creemos They expect gifts. gencies. Who would be attracted to ministerio, por modelar el corazón derelationships.

Jesús, el Buen Past us to pray. Even when there is nos esforzamos is a call to it? What could she say tonuestras a young vidas en“This a las 99 ovejas para responder a la necesidad especial de una.

Nuestro trabajo apostólico in no flame, there is a lot of passion Be challenged to become your betperson considering a vocation? “I variedad de servicios humanos, primordialmente social defensa de la justicia socia and heat in what we’re doing. The ter self.

Andytap the abundance of would say, ‘Come and see.’ Come trabajo especial énfasis en mujeres y niños.

Nuestra oración contemplativa se esfuerza por llevar el families themselves call forth the life within you. It’s going to be the and break bread with us. Come liberador de Jesús, el Buen Pastor a todo el pueblo de Dios.

Contacta a: Christine Alvarez, flames.” adventure of a lifetime.” = and see the life of Christ in your

Together We Can Make a Difference

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(732) 946-0515; email: gsvocny@optonline.net. Sr. Liz Schille, (314) 381-3400 ; email: lschille@gspmna.org; Sr. Mary Ann Giordano, (215) 782-8627; email: sunset@catholic.org; US Website: www.goodshepherdsisters.org; Sr. Barbara Wells, Winnipeg, MB; (204) 336-52 barbarargs@yahoo.ca; Canada Website: www.goodshepherdsisterscanada.org.

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sisters Enjoying the blooms in the community greenhouse are members of the Franciscan Sisters of the Eucharist (from left): Sister Grace Marie Horan, F.S.E., Sister Frances Zajac, F.S.E., Sister Rosario Ongayo, F.S.E., and Sister Patricia Glass, F.S.E.

Lea este articulo en español en linea.

Lisez cet article en français en ligne.

Read this article in Spanish or French online.

Sisters form a colorful bouquet The unique call to sisterhood draws a wide array of followers.

by

Mother Shaun Vergauwen, F.S.E.

W

e usually think of a sister as someone who shares a common bond through family or a social group. Being a sister is a forever-relationship in family but can also be a lifelong commitment to a group with a common vision. In this light, who and what is a religious sister?

Who are these women living in commu-

Mother Shaun Vergauwen, F.S.E. is the superior general of the Franciscan Sisters of the Eucharist, whose motherhouse is in Meriden, Connecticut.

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nity and bonded by a mutuality of call?

What is this life illuminated by the vows of chastity, poverty, and obedience?

Sisters come in many varieties As a Franciscan Sister of the Eucharist I respond to these questions from the perspective of my own Franciscan “family.” The deep mystery of religious life is difficult to address briefly, and I would like to deal with it through an analogy taken from what I most love to do in my free time: working in flower gardens.

When I look at a garden, I am aware of its size, its boundaries, its colors, and

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Enter #037 at VocationMatch.com MORE LIFE THAN YOU EVER IMAGINED

Sister Raffaella Petrini, F.S.E. talks with a young friend about gardening.

Come ride with us!

I

magine a life as a CARMELITE SISTER OF ST. THERESE-a life abundant in the joy of service to our Lord.

We invite you to learn more about our Community by contacting contactin the VOCATION MINISTER: VILLA TERESA 1300 CLASSEN DRIVE OKLAHOMA CITY, OK 73103-2447 srbj@stjohn-catholic.org 405-232-7926

the overall arrangement. One can also focus on the type of soil, the relationship to the sun, the frequency of rain or other sources of water, or on the weeds (a topic best left to another discussion).

As I roam about in the “garden” that is my community, I wonder at the beauty of the overall relationships, the uniqueness of each of our “flowers,” and above all the diversity of types and colors. Sisters come in so many different individual varieties: Some have brilliant color and some are more delicate; some have very strong stems and some are more pliable. Some flowers are perennials (come up every year on their own) and some are annuals (are planted

each year and bloom for one season).

We need all kinds to fulfill the call of any individual community.

Sisters flourish when properly nurtured The members of a community are also like a single flower that is a combination of many petals with a center. Each petal has a beauty and contributes to the total flower.

In community our center is Jesus Christ in the Eucharist. As we come together for liturgy and prayer, each heart is centered by personal and intimate union with Christ, and yet the whole community as one body worships Christ at Mass, in adora-

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tion of the Blessed Sacrament, and in meditation. This centering enhances the beauty of each “flower” as well as the whole community and feeds its very existence.

Sisters also devote their energy and time to apostolic work, meeting the needs of others. In my own community they serve others through counseling families and individuals and through home care and hospice care that enters into the pain and suffering of the sick and the dying and their families. Other sisters answer the call to education in

“

As one views the union of gifts in each religious community, appreciation grows for the diversity of unique women who can lovingly be part of a greater whole.

preschools and elementary and high schools or teach in colleges, universities, and seminaries. These are all different flower gardens, and each situation calls for a unique answer and, above all, preparation for the service needed.

Yet in this great diversity our sisters deeply appreciate the gifts of others. As one views the union of these gifts in each religious community, appreciation grows for the diversity of unique women who can lovingly be part of a greater whole.

Religious women serve the multi-

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Join us as a Vowed Sister, Lay Associate, or Volunteer in Mission.

S. Shaun Kathleen Wilson, OSF Director of Vocations . 1.610.777.2967 FollowFrancis@bfranciscan.org S. Lynn Pascoe, OSF - Director Lay Associates . Volunteers in Mission 610.796.8972 LPascoe@bfranciscan.org

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Living Our Faith through Ministries of Service…

Sharing Our Lives through Community…Following a Call to Serve God

Has Your Searching Led You Here?

With The Courage of Joseph, The Faithfulness of Mary, and The Compassion of Jesus, Sisters of the Holy Family are Committed to Promoting Justice and Ecological Sustainability through The Earth Charter and The Millennium Development Goals.

"…to seek out and advocate for the poor and needy, especially families, for the Kingdom of God…"

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tudinous needs of people around the world in a great variety of ways.

Some communities are “perennial gardens” that work persistently year after year, while many move about in “annual” gardens and diversify according to the needs of a particular

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area and group in crisis. Sisters fulfill the charism and mission of their own community but more important, they remember the needs of all of the people of the world through their prayer.

Individuals and families a sister

Sister Mary Elizabeth Endee, F.S.E. speaks with a young woman at the Franciscan Life Center, Meriden, Connecticut, one of the Franciscan Sisters of the Eucharist’s counseling centers.

serves know that they are also served and loved by an entire community.

A religious sister is so much more than an individual; she is part of a whole that desires to fulfill the particular mission of her community and share their lives, energy, and talent. Although the rose or petunia or pansy may have the attention of the moment, our wider vision sees the greater reality. Often as a home-care worker leaves a home, the patient’s parting words are “tell the sisters to pray for me.” These requests come home to community prayer and liturgy and are usually written in a special book in our chapel to be remembered in future prayer.

Sisters transform and blossom While being a sister involves the harmony of individual and community, often the reality of a sister has

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other aspects that seem to be paradoxical or contradictory to the name sister. According to the dictionary, a paradox is a statement contrary to common belief or having inconsistent qualities For instance, most religious women are known as “sisters” and yet they fulfill the role of mother and spouse. The gift to nurture and bring forth life is often seen in the relationship of a sister to the people she serves. Many a child, suffering person, and troubled individual have known the warmth and total sacrifice of a motherly sister who gave them what they needed at the time.

How many schools, social work organizations, nursing care facilities, and foreign missions have been brought into existence through a

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Sisters of the Resurrection Called to be vibrant witnesses of the RISEN LORD!

Dedicate your life to God in the spirit of the Paschal Mystery.

Embrace a life of prayer, community living, and service through ministries in education and health care.

Please contact the Vocation Director at:

Cleaning horseradish from their community’s vegetable garden are (from left) Sister Anna Rose Kalinowski, F.S.E, Sister Suzanne Gross, F.S.E., Sister Monica Navalta, F.S.E., and Sister Mary Richards, F.S.E.

7432 W TalcoTT ave chicago, il 60631 773-792-6363 callres@yahoo.com WWW.crsisTerschicago.org

or 35 BolTWood ave casTleTon, ny 12033 518-732-2226 vocaTion@resurrecTionsisTers.org

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Mother Shaun Vergauwen, F.S.E. in the community’s new rose garden in Meriden, Connecticut.

sister who gave her life to the paradox of sacrificing her own desire to have children to be the mother of the many? This sacrifice moves beyond the one-to-one to the one-to-themany.

Likewise sisters know the fulfillment of the call to be spousal through their commitment to fidelity and faithfulness to community, the church, and Christ. This gift of fidelity meets a great need in being a countercultural influence in a world that struggles with infidelity.

Another paradox in the life of a sister: A sister gives her individual fulfillment over to the discretion of the community and as a result has an opportunity for a deep personal

92

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fulfillment and development of her human wholeness. Likewise each sister is called both to her own individual vocation to holiness as well as to a community of persons striving together to attain this unique call to holiness. In other words, a sister gives all and in that freedom also receives an abundance of gifts in return. Each Christian is called to a life of holiness individually, and yet to live in a community striving for holiness is a great blessing. Not only prayer and apostolic work are abundant in the life of a sister but also the community life of sharing meals and relaxation overflows with grace and goodness.

Religious women live these par-

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adoxes as well as a daily life founded on vows of chastity, poverty, and obedience. In the “garden” perhaps we can say that chastity defines the boundaries of life, poverty helps one

“

A sister gives her individual fulfillment over to the discretion of the community and as a result has an opportunity for a deep personal fulfillment and development of her human wholeness.

to use only what is needed for the growth of the individual flower, and obedience helps each sister to be in relationship to her own freedom, to the charism of her community, and to the life of the universal church. =

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Brother Raymond Dwyer, F.P.M. (left) and Andrew O’Connell, communications director for the Presentation Brothers, in Hyde Park, London during Pope Benedict XVI’s visit to Great Britain.

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Why I love being a brother!

Religious brotherhood can be way of life that will bring you deep peace, real fulfillment, and great satisfaction in knowing that you are closely following Christ.

by

Brother Raymond Dwyer, F.P.M.

I

t was a sunny Tuesday morning. I was in my final year of high school in Cork, a city in the south of Ireland. It was that time of year when we had to apply for college, and I had a problem: I had absolutely no idea what I wanted to do when I left school.

Brother Raymond Dwyer, F.P.M. is the vocations director for the Presentation Brothers in Glasthule, near Dublin, Ireland.

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I had a vague sense I wanted to do something to help people and thought I might like to be a social worker. But even that didn’t excite me very much. Yes, I had considered priesthood as an option.

I went to Mass every Sunday and prayed every day but somehow I knew that priesthood wasn’t for me.

An intriguing possibility One morning as we sat waiting for math class to begin, our careers teacher arrived

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and asked us to assemble in the school hall. We had a guest speaker.

He was a Presentation Brother, Brother McCarthy. Like everyone else in the class, I welcomed a break from math, but I wasn’t expecting much from it.

Brother McCarthy started by telling us he wanted to talk about our futures. As he spoke I started to sit up and listen. The way he spoke intrigued me. For a start, even though he was a man in his 50s, he seemed to be on fire with a passion for his way of life, brotherhood. I certainly couldn’t think of many 50-year-olds I knew who were so enthusiastic about their careers! My dad certainly wasn’t!

Then he went on to say that brothers didn’t have careers—they followed a vocation. “Guys,” he said, “this is more than a 9-to-5 job. Our vocation is about service—serving God and serving God’s people. We need a few good men to help us.”

That was beginning to sound like what I was looking for.

He said that brothers were not priests but took vows of dedication to Jesus Christ. Now I was really listening! I knew I wasn’t going to be a priest. This guy wasn’t a priest and yet Christ was the focus of his life. Then he said that if anyone liked what they heard, to give him a call (these were the days before e-mail) and he’d be happy to tell us more.

I went back to class with the other guys. But I was hooked. And

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I’m a Brother to Others Helping kids help themselves inspired Hank Hammer, F.M.S. to join the The Marist Brothers.

Community and spirituality are the reasons he stays. To explore your religious vocation as a Brother, visit maristbr.com Real brothers. Real stories. A real difference.

1241 Kennedy Blvd., Bayonne, NJ 07002 • (201) 823-1115 • www.maristbr.com

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Brother Ray Dwyer, F.P.M. puts up a vocation display for the Presentation Brothers.

I’ll be honest: I’ve been hooked ever since.

We follow Christ each day

vocations@osb.org abbeyvocations.com

A lot has changed since that Tuesday morning in Cork. Today I am the vocation director for the Presentation Brothers. Now it’s my job to visit schools and talk to young men about becoming a religious brother.

When I took this position last year I didn’t know what to expect. I had just finished a term as a school chaplain. The school day was pretty predictable. We started at 9 a.m. and finished at 4 p.m. This job is very, very different!

I spend most of my time traveling to meet young men who want advice about their vocation. It’s really encouraging to meet men who want

to put Jesus Christ at the heart of their lives.

The biggest challenge of this work is that it has made me ask hard questions about my own call. It can be pretty easy to explain why I joined the Brothers, as I’ve just done, but it can be a lot harder to explain why I’ve stayed and why I get so much happiness and fulfillment from this way of life.

And I suspect that’s what you’re looking for too: a way of life that will bring you deep peace, real fulfillment, and great satisfaction in knowing that you are following Christ closely. That’s what religious brotherhood does for me. This way of living allows me to focus my life on Jesus Christ in a very practical way, helped along by the support of my brothers.

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Are You a Spiritual Seeker?

Carmelite Vocations Office Phone: 202-526-1221 frgreg@carmelites.net www.carmelites.net

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So, practically speaking, how do I, as a brother, follow Christ closely each day?

No day is complete without prayer, brotherhood, work I’m up at 7 in the morning, and before I pray the Divine Office with the other brothers I have 30 minutes of silent reflection and meditation.

Then we attend Mass together. That is a powerful start to the day, and that morning experience can sustain me for the tough parts of the day ahead.

After Mass we have breakfast together, and that’s also an important part of this life. As brothers we don’t live on our own. We live together in groups known as communities. At the moment there are seven brothers in our house, so breakfast is always a

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lively meal with everyone chipping in.

It’s now 9 a.m. and I go down the hall to my office and start checking e-mails, responding to telephone calls, and going out to meet discerners. By 10 a.m. I’ve experienced a microcosm of this life: prayer, brotherhood, and work.

When I decided to become a

“

There is no hierarchy of vocations. All are legitimate ways of answering God’s call to witness, love, and service.

brother, a lot of my friends asked me why I didn’t become a priest. Even today some people ask me, “Why don’t you go the whole hog to priest-

hood if you’re going to bother at all?”

It sounds like a reasonable question, but it’s based on some bad theology.

For a start it assumes that being a religious brother is not a full expression of service to God and God’s people. Yes, it is different than priesthood, but it is every bit as authentic. Just as it would be unfair (and plain wrong) to suggest that marriage is inferior to religious life, it is also wrong to think that in some way brotherhood is inferior to priesthood. There is no hierarchy of vocations. All are legitimate ways of answering God’s call to witness, love, and service.

Anyway, I don’t feel called to priesthood, to sacramental ministry or leadership of a parish community.

It’s just not my vocation. It’s not what I feel God has called me to do. Sadly,

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Presentation Brothers

Could this be you?

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I think that a lot of men abandon discernment once they’ve discovered that priesthood is not for them. But my message is that there is another exciting and equally fulfilling path available. It’s called brotherhood.

Brothers do a lot

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Maybe the best answer to this question is to take a look at my own life. I’ve been a missionary in the West Indies, a school chaplain and a social worker in Ireland, and now a vocation director. I’ve studied theology, education, and spirituality. I’ve coached football teams and directed parish youth choirs. So, what does a brother do? “A lot” is probably a good answer!

The work that a brother does is

largely dependent on his own talents, gifts, and interests. So, for example, I will never be asked to teach math in a school. I hate math. But I could well be invited to work with teenagers in a drug rehabilitation program.

One area of work for the future will be social communications. We are living through a communications revolution. Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, which were unknown only a few years ago, are now everyday ways to communicate. People talk about a digital continent. We are going to need missionaries to go to this virtual continent, and I wouldn’t be

“

After two decades as a brother I can honestly say that this is a life of potential and promise, of excitement and adventure.

surprised if Presentation Brothers in the future will be working to present the church’s message using new media. I’ve being doing my part, and I blog at thebloggingbrother.blogspot. com. My hope is that it will help folks to understand my lifestyle as a brother a little better.

Sometimes people say that the work of religious brothers can be done just as competently by laypeople. For example, the Presentation Brothers were founded to provide Catholic education at a time of great poverty in Ireland. Now the state fills that role, they say, so there is no need for brothers.

The flaw in this analysis is that

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it defines brothers by what we do instead of who we are. Yes, a layperson can do the work of a brother just as well, but being a brother is not about doing a particular job. It’s about total dedication to the mystery of God’s love revealed by Jesus Christ. That dedication is expressed in the three vows: poverty, chastity, and obedience.

What our vows mean Poverty is not a vow to live in cheerless destitution but rather a promise of solidarity and simple living. I don’t have a 42-inch plasma TV screen in my bedroom, but we do have a regular-sized TV set in the community room that all the brothers use.

We don’t marry because we place Christ at the heart of our lives. It can be tough, but that’s one of the reasons we live in community—for support, friendship, prayer, and brotherhood.

I’ve also got some great friends, women and men, who help me along.

The vow of obedience does not mean that one can be assigned to the North Pole in the morning. Instead it’s more to do with cooperating with the other brothers for the good of the mission of our religious congregation.

Pray for wisdom I’ve been a brother now for a little more than 20 years, and that experience has helped me to answer the question that I know most discerners carry with them: How do I know for sure it is the right way of life for me?

When I’m asked I tell people that my life as a brother has taught me that you will know by praying, by talking to others, and, crucially, by

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trying it out. So many people today are hesitant about making a decision.

It’s good to be careful and prudent, but sometimes hesitation can turn into paralysis. Pray for the gift of courage. Pray for guidance and pray for wisdom.

Occasionally I get calls from men in their 60s who tell me they have been thinking about religious life.

I ask them how long they had been thinking about it, and very often they say “all my life.” My advice to you is not to spend all your life thinking about it. Start praying, start talking to some vocations directors, and start trying it out. There’s nothing to lose and everything to gain.

After two decades as a brother I can honestly say that this is a life of potential and promise, of excite-

ment and adventure. What would you expect? It’s a life following Jesus Christ! And ultimately that’s what my life is all about. Is it any wonder that I love being a brother? =

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Courtesy of the Daughters of Charity

missionaries The Daughters of Charity minister in Cité Soleil, a desperately poor neighborhood in a large slum near Port-auPrince. Here the sisters who work there regularly stand with five sisters of the Daughters of Charity, who came from other regions to help after the earthquake.

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Religious communities offer help in Haiti After the devastating earthquake in Haiti, religious communities have been responding to people’s needs with faith, dedication, and service.

Text by Carol Schuck Scheiber

O

n January 12, 2010 a massive earthquake struck the Caribbean nation of Haiti—already the poorest country in the Western Hemisphere. About 220,000 people died and hundreds of thousands more were injured. The disaster also created a humanitarian crisis: More than 180,000 homes were ruined or Carol Schuck Scheiber is content editor of VISION.

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destroyed, leaving 1.5 million people homeless and 100,000 at critical risk from storms and flooding. Nearly 5,000 schools suffered damage or destruction.

The earthquake affected religious communities as well, with many sisters, brothers, and priests suffering injury or death and community facilities damaged.

Yet, many religious men and women were also in the forefront of relief efforts.

On the following pages are a few of the many stories of the ways religious communities are helping Haitians to recover.

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Courtesy of the Sisters of St. Joseph, Toronto

Sister Lorraine Malo, C.S.J. has worked as a physical therapist in Haiti for many years.

She rode out the earthquake and its aftermath and today continues to provide service. Above she works with Mylove and her mother in a therapy session.

Father Tom Hagan, O.S.F.S. (left) celebrates Mass in Haiti. Founder of the community development organization Hands Together located in the Cité Soleil area, Hagan left his post as Catholic chaplain at Princeton University and moved to Haiti in 1997.

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Courtesy of the Oblates of St. Francis de Sales

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Courtesy of the Daughters of Charity

The Daughters of Charity continue their work of delivering healthcare to those in greatest need. Sister Monica Juan (left) cares for a leg injury.

Two members of the Little Sisters of St. Thérèse (below) outside the destroyed national major seminary, Notre Dame d’Haiti, near Port au Prince. Twenty-six of the more than 200 seminarians there died in the earthquake. Surviving seminarians have been studying in temporary facilities, and plans for constructing a new facility are underway.

Courtesy of the I.H.M. Sisters, Scranton

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Courtesy of the I.H.M. Sisters, Scranton

The Little Sisters of Saint Thérèse (right) are a Haitian religious order devoted to teaching and healthcare.

The Xaverian Brothers, who run an orphanage in Hinche, Haiti, welcomed 500 displaced people after the earthquake, including these three boys (below) who the Brothers say adjusted well and love playing with puzzles from the game room.

Courtesy of the Xaverian Brothers

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Ed Langlois, Catholic Sentinel

Sister Denise Desil, a nurse and midwife and a member of the Little Sisters of Saint Thérèse, on a U.S. fundraising tour. = VISION 2012

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missionaries Sister Julia Shideler, M.M. stands with her godchild, Maria, and Maria’s mother.

A missionary’s call: Wait in hope A bedside visit to a dying man helps a missionary discern her ministry.

by

Sister Julia Shideler, M.M.

W

hen the old man lifted his head, raising his eyes until they met mine, I felt an instant connection. He could barely speak and hardly hear, but something in his eyes said everything I hoped for, showing no fear at my foreignness. I smiled gently as I met his gaze, relieved that he’d accepted my presSister Julia Shideler, M.M. is a Maryknoll missionary serving in East Timor.

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ence. At once I knew I was meant to meet this dying man.

When the well meet the sick Just before Christmas I had made a pastoral trip to a remote mission station in our parish. Arriving late in the afternoon I was disappointed to see only a few men hanging around the chapel. The villagers had come earlier and waited, hoping to make a Christmas retreat with us.

But because we had arrived late, all the people had gone home. Typical. My heart

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sank as I looked around the chapel, lonely and barren. “I knew this would happen”—I muttered to my friend—“we really should have come up here this morning.” As often occurs in mission, others change our best-laid plans and we must be open to something different.

So I asked one of the catechists if there were any sick people we could visit. “Oh, yes,” he replied, “I can take you to visit the old man.”

“Great,” I said, “let’s go!” So the guys I had come with, together with the village catechist, made our way down a steep hill to his house. They led us into a dark room where the old man was lying, curled up like a child on a bamboo bed. His son was sitting calmly at his feet, attending to his every need. The dank room Enter #177 at VocationMatch.com

Sister Julia Shideler, M.M. with students whom she helped prepare for a local science reading contest.

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smelled of sickness, but I could feel the warmth of his family’s care. If Jesus had been brought into that room—I thought—what would he do? And then I realized that Jesus was in that room, inspiring me to reach out and show I cared.

As soon as I began speaking, the son explained that his father couldn’t hear. “He’s deaf! He sometimes speaks, but we can’t understand him anymore. When Father came, we hoped he would make his last confession, but he was silent.”

Silent. Knowing that presence is more powerful than words, I slowly reached out my hand. Suddenly the old man tried sitting up. Supported

“

I really believe that it’s God who brings us together and works through us.

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by his son he pulled his hand out from the blanket. It was half-paralyzed but he had enough strength to grasp my hand. I felt the Spirit hovering in the silence and firmness of his fingers. In that moment he lifted his eyes and saw my face. As if he wanted to say something, he cleared his throat—but to my surprise, he spat on my hand! His strength spent, yet without letting go of my hand, he flopped back down on his side.

After three years of living as a missionary in East Timor I really believe that it’s God who brings us together and works through us. For me the meaning of mission is not only in being “sent” but in being re-

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contact: Marie Schmids, MMS . marie.schmids@yahoo.com 8400 Pine Road, Philadelphia, PA 19111 . 215-742-6100 Enter #042 at VocationMatch.com

Missionaries of the

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We invite you to a life dedicated to the pastoral care of the family, fostering vocations, and advancing the gospel.

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ceived by others as a gift. When the dying man sat up to look me in the eyes, I knew he’d not only embraced my presence but also received the One who sent me. In that moment he blessed me, sharing what he could at the end of his life. That spittle was all he had left!

I sat on the edge of his bed, praying inwardly and focusing on the man. The bedroom grew dark and quiet. As we were awaiting the birth of Jesus, this family was clearly awaiting death. “Perhaps the best gift is going quickly and peacefully to God,” I suggested. Looking out the small window, the pink horizon turned grey as raindrops began tapping on the tin roof. We all sat in silence amidst the pitter-pattering of

rain. I felt a new experience of Advent, of waiting in hope and praying for new life.

Learning to empower and comfort As a missioner I hear of many people getting sick and dying. In our district, especially in rural villages, many people die of diseases or break out with terrible sores, boils, and malarial fevers. Our Maryknoll sisters at the clinic face cases of leprosy, tuberculosis, tumors, and more. I don’t usually get so close.

Three years ago I chose to minister among youth, to teach in the public high school and make pastoral visits to remote areas. Yet only the able-

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Missionaries among the poor and abandoned. . .

Sister Julia Shideler, M.M. celebrates birthdays with members of a youth group with which she is involved.

Is G od calling you?

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bodied come to school, accompany me on trips, and participate in our activities.

I get so used to encouraging, “empowering,” or looking for people’s potential that I forget about being with those who are powerless, whose potential is spent yet need something to hope for.

It’s a rare occasion, and gift, to be brought to the bedside of a dying person. It reminds me that we’re also called to reach out and seek out those who are shut in, tied down, or too weak to come to us.

   

 



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ized that I’m called to serve youth through education.

As I face challenging conditions in the school, culture, and homes of my students, I’m constantly discerning what’s essential about education.

How would Jesus handle a class of 80 students with no textbooks? There are no easy answers. Yet in this new nation, still recovering from centuries of colonization, I found my place in God’s vineyard. Helping my students learn, discover, and develop their talents is my way of “giving back” and sharing the blessings I’ve received.

Despite my weekly schedule of classes and the rhythm of community life, each day is different.

Waking up early and going to church, I never know whom I’ll meet after Mass. Every time I go for

“

The journey of mission is about being there for others and learning how to be nourished by them.

Following in the footsteps of Jesus we are nourished by contemplative prayer, community and our devotion to Mary, a woman of simplicity and faith.

Our prophetic call as Carmelites moves us to be in active ministries that help bring about a more peaceful, just and loving world. (Mission Statement)

Share our vision. Become a contemplative in action.

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For me this experience revealed a need for balancing my energy as I minister to God’s people.

Education is essential I spend most days focused on my students, teaching classes in religion,

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English, and Portuguese. Like most teachers anywhere, my daily experiences revolve around the latest happenings in school, preparing lessons and exams, and being available to my students. After one year of discerning what my ministry in East Timor should really be, I gradually real-

a walk, head out for the market, or visit a friend, I meet people in the road. Part of the beauty of living in a small town is that I meet people everywhere I go.

Even when I stay home people often come to the door. At 6:30 in the morning an elderly woman might arrive offering vegetables. Or when I think I’ll have a quiet afternoon to work, a student will show up. And just as my community and I are about to have dinner, someone

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will ring the bell. Even at 8:30 p.m., in the middle of night prayers, a student may come needing to share his latest crisis. We have no gate, fence, or wall around our home— intentionally. Whatever the situation or story may be, I feel called to listen. These random visits to the house, especially the most “inconvenient” ones, are ways God uses to speak with me. It can be demanding, though, as I face my limitations and decide how or when to help. No one can do it all.

Wrapped in care The journey of mission, as any other serious commitment, is about being there for others and learning how to be nourished by them. Jesus is here

for us through one another. The simplest things become signs of God’s love and care.

On Christmas Eve, during Mass at the mission station, I met one of my students. She approached me afterward, concerned that I was cold. “These mountains are colder than town,” she said, “it’s very windy here.” I gave her a hug and assured her I would be fine. Two hours later, in the pitch darkness, she showed up with a plastic bag. “I brought you one of my sweaters . . . I didn’t want you to be cold. You can keep it until January.” I was so touched that I put in on immediately. The scout at my side smiled and said, “You see, God always takes care of us!” =

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being Catholic The ways to pray are endless, but no matter which prayers or prayer forms you make your own, remember to “ground” your prayer in desire and surrender.

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A user’s guide on the ways to pray From formal to informal to spoken to silent, the Catholic faith offers a wealth of prayers and ways to pray.

by

Linus Mundy

W

e need to pray; we want to pray. The Catechism of the Catholic Church emphasizes this need by saying that “prayer and Christian life are inseparable” and that “prayer is a vital necessity.”

But how shall we pray? Fortunately Catholic tradition as well as contemporary sources are rich in forms of prayer to make our own. You will see many

Linus Mundy is director of publications at Abbey Press and the founder of two of their popular booklets series, CareNotes and PrayerNotes.

He has also written numerous articles for the religious press as well as books on the Desert Elders, Saint Benedict, and the art of slowing down and keeping life simple.

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of these prayer forms presented on the next pages. They range from the five basic forms of prayer to the classic prayer traditions and practices given to us by illustrious teachers of the faith such as Saint Benedict, Saint Francis of Assisi, Saint Ignatius Loyola, the Carmelites, and the Dominicans. There are prayers both communal and private. Spoken and silent. Spontaneous and memorized.

Formal and informal. Word-filled and wordless.

The ways to pray are endless. But no matter which prayers or prayer forms you make your own, remember to “ground” your prayer in desire and surrender. These are the real essentials for genuine prayer, says writer and Trappist monk Father Thomas Merton. Here now is a user’s guide on some ways to pray.

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a user’s guide on Five basic types of prayer Blessing and adoration, like the Gloria at Mass. We acknowledge God’s greatness and power—and mercy—in saving us from evil.

Prayers of petition.

Prayer for any need we have (especially forgiveness) but also praying that God’s kingdom come and God’s will (not necessarily ours) be done.

Intercession. Asking on behalf of another or oneself that God will show mercy and favor.

Thanksgiving. Words/thoughts of gratitude for all things or anything— in the spirit of joy that Christ has set creation free.

Praise. Giving glory to God, recognizing God is God, testifying we are God’s children.

Formal, familiar, and often memorized Sign of the Cross. A mini-prayer acknowledging the Triune God; often an introduction or conclusion to prayer.

The Rosary. Using a string of beads, a form of devotion to Mary consisting of Hail Marys, Our Fathers, and a doxology, all repeated as a meditation.

Our Father. The Lord’s Prayer—“the prayer Jesus taught us.”

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Act of contrition. Formal or sponta-

Benediction. Dating to the 13th cen-

neous prayer seeking forgiveness of sins.

tury, the practice of singing hymns and praises before the Blessed Sacrament.

Meal prayers. “Grace” before and after meals. Giving thanks. May be formal or informal.

Aspirations. Words/phrases used spontaneously throughout the day to invoke God’s help or proclaim God’s glory: “Lord, help me”; “God be praised”; “My Jesus, mercy”; and others.

Liturgical, “official” prayers and practices Liturgy of the Hours. “The official prayer of the church” consists of five parts and is prayed throughout the day: Morning Prayer and Evening Prayer, made up of psalms, canticles, readings; Midday Prayer; Night Prayer; and the Office of Readings complete the Liturgy of the Hours.

The Mass. The “source and summit” of Catholic faith and practice. Also known as the Eucharist; the sacrament commemorating the Last Supper. The Liturgy of the Word is rich in prayers and readily promotes meditation.

Prayers at/from the Mass. Occasions and moments during worship at Mass when formal and informal prayer may rise from the heart; also the common recitation of the Gloria, the Our Father, and other prayers at Mass.

Prayers

of

Adoration. Somewhat of a

more private and less formalized devotion; kneeling in meditation and worship before the Body of Christ exposed in the form of a consecrated host.

Hymns. Any of an innumerable list of religious songs, usually sung in communion with others, giving glory to God.

Classic, monastic approaches Benedictine. Daily prayer based on liturgical prayer: psalms, hymns, scripture, and short readings.

A specific Benedictine prayer model is lectio divina: a practical and sometimes mystical way of praying scripture that moves from reading to studying to listening and finally to praying.

Francis of Assisi. It is said that Saint Francis “became prayer.” He lived his prayer. His Canticle of the Sun is an example of prayer drawing on nature: All the wonders of creation are our brothers and sisters in God. Saint Ignatius Loyola. “Intellectual” prayer, assists us in knowing God. Ignatius, founder of the Jesuits, developed his Spiritual Exercises where one names a desire and meditates for discernment.

Carmelite. Primary prayer forms are solitude and meditation leading to an interior journey of transformation.

Dominican. Spirituality rooted in the VISION 2012

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the ways to pray Good News of our salvation. Principles include study of scriptural truth and using the whole body in prayer.

Popular, much-loved devotions Novenas. A nine-day private or public devotion to obtain special graces. Frequently a devotion to a particular saint for a particular need.

Litanies. A sequence or list of petitions followed by responses praying for God’s aid. Its repetitive nature emphasizes one’s earnestness.

The Angelus. Name taken from the words Angelus Domini (the “Angel of the Lord”). A short practice of devotion (notably the Hail Mary) repeated three times each day—morning, noon, and evening—at the sound of a bell.

Morning offering. A prayer for personal holiness, meant to be said upon rising. One offers up everything— one’s “prayers, works, joys, and sufferings” of the day ahead for the glory of God.

Stations of the Cross. A series of prayers or meditations at 14 pictures or sculptures depicting the chief scenes of Christ’s suffering and death. An ideal Lenten devotion.

Scripture-based prayer God’s Word and your prayer. Selecting specific readings that speak to individual needs, e.g., healing, wisdom, or VISION 2012

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peace. Read aloud or in silence, listening and meditating on what is read (see also “Lectio Divina”).

The Old Testament. Hebrew scripture, the “prayer book” Jesus and most New Testament writers used, is filled with citations remembering God’s covenant with God’s people. A wealth of inspiring prayer topics as well as actual prayers.

The Psalms. The complete range of human emotion and need are found in the 150 Psalms of Hebrew scripture. A rich source of “conversation” with God.

Lectio divina (see also the “Benedictine” method). A sequence of: 1. Bible reading; 2.

Silence; 3. Meditation on a word or image; 4.

Prayer or song rejoicing in God’s Word.

Canticles. Songs of prayer. The Magnificat of Mary, in Luke 1; the Benedictus, also in Luke 1; and the Nunc Dimittis, in Luke 2 are inspiring examples.

Contemplative prayer Meditation. Taking time to be alone with the One who loves us. An inner prayer that focuses us on the Lord. A “gaze of faith, fixed on Jesus,” a “silent love” (Catechism of the Catholic Church).

Centering prayer. With emphasis on

The Jesus Prayer (Prayer of the Heart). From the Eastern Orthodox Church tradition but widely adopted elsewhere. One repeats: “Lord Jesus, Son of God, have mercy on me, a sinner.”

Christian meditation. Using a “mantra” (usually ma-ra-na-tha—a New Testament word for “Come, Lord Jesus”) spoken not only to be attentive but to empty oneself to let in God’s Spirit. =

Prayer resources Books The Tradition of Catholic Prayer by the Monks of Saint Meinrad Archabbey (Liturgical Press, 2007) Foundations for Centering Prayer and the Christian Contemplative Life by Father Thomas Keating, O.C.S.O. (Continuum, 2002) Paths to Prayer: A Field Guide to Ten Catholic Traditions by Patricia D. Fosarelli (Ave Maria, 2010) Catholic Household Blessings & Prayers (United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, 2007) Christian Prayer: The Liturgy of the Hours (Catholic Book Publishing Company, 1976) The Doubleday Prayer Collection by Mary Batchelor (Doubleday, 1997) Prayer-Walking by Linus Mundy (Abbey Press, 1994)

interior silence, one chooses a sacred word to sustain one’s intention to be in God’s presence, returning to it as the mind wanders.

Booklets PrayerNotes series published

by Abbey Press, St. Meinrad, IN 47577, abbeypress.com

Walking meditation. “Prayer-walking”

Online www.ourcatholicprayers.com www.catholicdoors.com

as one consciously, mindfully repeats a word or phrase, putting footsteps and breathing into the same rhythm.

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being Catholic In central Ohio the Sisters and Missionaries of the Precious Blood and the Archdiocese of Cincinnati organize an annual eightmile vocation pilgrimage that involves stops at several churches and holy places.

Pilgrimage: The adventure of walking with God Wherever they may be heading, pilgrims go on a journey of solitude and companionship, silence and prayer, which leads them more deeply into their relationship with God.

by

Pat Morrison

F

ather Jack Podsiadlo was already second-guessing his decision big time. Only a few days into what would become his 38-day trek, his feet were blistered, his nose was sunburned, his calf muscles ached—and

Pat Morrison writes from Ohio.

In conjunction with her travels as a journalist, she has made pilgrimages in Italy, the Holy Land, and early Christian martyrdom sites in Tunisia. A vowed laywoman in the Carmelite tradition, she is a member of the Association of Contemplative Sisters.

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his “quick-dry” shirt was still wet, so he pinned it to his backpack where it flapped in the breeze like an inelegant flag.

“Walk 500 miles? No way!” was the first reaction of this American Jesuit priest when someone suggested that he walk El Camino de Santiago de Compostela—the Way of St. James of Compostela to the shrine to St. James the Greater in Spain’s northwest region of Galicia. The historic Camino, the challenging trek of hundreds of miles that pilgrims walk (or sometimes bike-ride) for weeks or months, depending on

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“Take in the most abandoned of all, have him sit at table with you and make him one of your own, because this is Jesus Christ.”

Blessed Louis Guanella Founder

Father Dennis M. Weber, SdC 1799 S. Sproul Rd. Springfield, PA 19064 484-475-2467 fr.dweber@chs-adphila.org

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their starting point, usually begins in France or Portugal and ends at the saint’s shrine.

Make discoveries along the way Like thousands of pilgrims before him, Podsiadlo made many discoveries along the way—about himself, about God, about needs real and perceived, and about the values of community and hospitality.

“My inclination to be in charge was [constantly] challenged . . . and the I-am-not-in-control lesson was repeated many times on my way to Compostela,” he writes in a story about his pilgrimage in Company magazine (www.Companymagazine. org; Fall 2008). “I couldn’t always satisfy my e-mail addiction,” he

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writes—nor always get the lower bunk in the pilgrim hostels or albergues where travelers spent the night.

Pilgrimage also means traveling lightly—and more lightly as time goes on. Podsiadlo had to fit into his backpack everything needed, trying not to exceed one-tenth of his body weight. “Mine was overweight because of the books I thought I couldn’t do without. After a few days I mailed them home . . . .”

Pilgrimage involves only the essentials. For Podsiadlo that was two sets of underwear, two pairs of pants, two shirts, four pairs of socks, good walking boots, rain gear, and flipflops.

He also discovered the value of a lightweight sleeping bag because the albergues offer bunks or cots but no bedding. “The sleeping bag also served as my sacred space, my only escape from weary, snoring fellow pilgrims.”

The camino pilgrims had to rely on the kindness of those they met along the way for meals and a kitchen, a hot shower, a place to wash clothes, and toilet facilities. They also learned the value of companionship as they met other pilgrims and walked together for part of the journey, and they got to know their fellow-pilgrims in conversation over simple meals and in shared prayer.

Take only the bare essentials Although his destination was exotic by some standards—not everyone can take a month off to walk across the Spanish Pyrenees—Podsiadlo’s camino is a typical template for a pilgrimage. Pilgrimage is not jet-set,

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Water. The Poor. Immigration. luxury travel (even though accommodations may sometimes be quite nice and comfortable). There’s an inbuilt spiritual discipline that lets spirit connect with the rhythm of walking, hunger, and thirst on the journey to feed one’s soul and with a healthy mix of solitude and companionship along the way.

Pilgrimage includes sweat and heat and cold and wind and rain and limited food and food choices. But most pilgrims will tell you those are essential elements to the richness of the experience and the grace of the journey.

Sister Jennifer Mechtild Horner, a Benedictine sister from Beech Grove, Indiana, has frequently led

“

Spirit connects with the rhythm of walking, hunger, and thirst on the journey to feed one’s soul.

college students on pilgrimages. A recent one was to the ecumenical community in Taizé, France (see her “Pilgrimage pointers” on page 124).

In her online book Keep Walking: An Invitation to Pilgrimage she describes the student pilgrims’ experience, similar to Podsiadlo’s, of lugging too much “stuff” and consequently getting weighed down by it—a physical reminder of a deeper spiritual reality.

She also shares her own realization about her relationship with food as she stood in a long line waiting for what looked like a way-too-small

Let’s talk about it.

October 14-15 • 2011 April 13-14 • 2012 June 15-17 • 2012 Come & See weekends start at 6 p.m. on Friday and end at 11 a.m. on Sunday

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Are you hungry to serve God? Are you willing to respond to today’s challenges with prayer, community, love, justice and peace?

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Some popular pilgrimage destinations

T

hough almost anywhere a person desires to spend time with God can be a place of pilgrimage, over the centuries particular locations have become popular destinations for pilgrims’ faith journeys.

Rome and Italy. In the “Eternal City” pilgrims can visit the tombs of the apostles Peter and Paul, who planted the Christian faith in the heart of the Roman Empire. Saint Peter’s Basilica and Vatican City are considered by many the heart of the Roman Catholic faith because of their connection to the apostles and martyrs as well as the presence of the pope. Only a day trip from Rome, Assisi—made famous by its most notable son, Saint Francis—is a frequent destination as is Siena, home to Saint Catherine and Saint Bernardine. In the south is San Giovanni Rotondo and the friary of the 20-century saint, Padre Pio of Pietrelcina.

Shrines dedicated to Mary, the mother of Jesus, make up other European pilgrimage sites: Lourdes in France, Fatima in Portugal, Montserrat in Spain, Einsiedeln in Switzerland, Knock in Ireland, and Aylesford and Walsingham in England, among others.

If limits on your time and wallet put a pilgrimage to Europe out of range, there are plenty of holy sites in the Americas. In Mexico City the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe recalls the

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apparitions of Mary in 1531 to the indigenous peasant Juan Diego.

Here pilgrims can view and venerate the portrait of the Blessed Virgin that miraculously appeared on Juan Diego’s rough tilma, or cloak.

Canada is home to, among others, the Oratory of St. Joseph in Montreal and the tomb of the recently canonized Holy Cross Brother André Bessette, and the Shrine of St. Anne de Beaupré, also in Quebec.

United States. In upstate Auriesville, New York pilgrims can walk in the largely untouched natural setting where early Jesuits first preached the gospel to native peoples in the 1600s.

The National Shrine of the North American Martyrs is built on the Native American village where several of these heroic missionaries gave their lives. The large round church that is the centerpiece of the shrine contains relics of all these martyrs. The site is also the birthplace of the first Native American recognized for her holiness, the young Mohawk woman Blessed Kateri Tekakwitha.

In the American Southwest thousands of pilgrims visit El Santuario de Chimayo in the Archdiocese of Santa Fe, New Mexico, which, because it has been associated with physical and spiritual healings, has been called the “Lourdes of America.”

—Pat Morrison

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portion to be doled out. “As I got to the front of the line [filled with a couple thousand people] and had my supper portioned out for me . . . it all hit me full force. . . . Looking at the roll and rice dish on my plate and the sweet tea in my bowl, I went into frightened mode. How would I handle this? There was the temptation to try to get more and save it for later. . . . But as I allowed myself to receive what I was given, I realized that I had enough. . . . One of the things I learned at Taizé was that there is abundance in having enough and nothing more. I will carry this insight with me for the rest of my life as a gift.”

“See God, Seek God, Love God in ALL!” Guido Maria Conforti

Founder, Xaverian Missionaries

Proclaimed a Saint October 23, 2011

A way to pray with body and soul According to Webster’s a pilgrimage is: 1. a journey to a shrine or sacred place, or 2. a long journey or search, especially one of an exalted purpose or moral significance.

For all religious travelers, pilgrimage is an outer journey that mirrors, even in some unconscious way, a quest for interior development

“

Pilgrimage is an outer journey that mirrors a quest for interior development.

or transformation. This innate desire to connect with the holy in specific geographical spaces is more than mere tourism.

Pilgrimage is part of devotional practice, whether suggested or required, for most of the world’s great

Picture yourself with us! contact: Fr. Joe Matteucig, sx 101 Summer St. Holliston, MA 01746 Phone: 508-429-2144 Email: holliston@xaviermissionaries.org

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Pilgrimage pointers 1. All of life is a pilgrimage—a journey home to the heart of God. 2. When one makes a pilgrimage one stands on a spiritual threshold—“in-betweenness”—a place where one can see the world and God anew.

3. A special pilgrimage is a call to return changed in some way. You have to open yourself to transformation: You can miss the pilgrimage even though you make the journey.

.

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Feel the Joy!

Live Franciscan.

Live Joyfully... as a servant among God’s people; in harmony with the gift of all creation; in spirit with the poor and marginalized. That’s how St. Francis of Assisi lived 800 years ago and how Sylvania Franciscans live today.

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religions. For Jews the pilgrimage to Jerusalem and its Temple has been a treasured part of their faith from biblical times. A once-in-a-lifetime pilgrimage to Mecca for every Muslim who can undertake it is one of the Five Pillars of Islam, together with the profession of faith, daily prayer, fasting, and almsgiving. Buddhism and Hinduism also encourage pilgrimages to holy sites.

For the three Abrahamic faiths—Judaism, Christianity, and Islam—the lands of the Bible and Qur’an, especially Jerusalem, are indeed the “Holy Land.” For Christians the places associated with the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus hold special prominence. Besides Jerusalem these include Bethlehem, Nazareth, the sites linked to John’s (and Jesus’ own) baptism, and the many towns and villages where the gospels say Jesus ministered, healed, and taught.

Pilgrims everywhere As we’ve seen, pilgrimage is not limited to the Holy Land. Especially

4. A pilgrim must pack light and continue unpacking along the way. All the baggage we hold within us will rise to the surface, and the pilgrim’s duty is to keep sifting through it until what is necessary remains.

5. Each pilgrim makes his or her own way, supported by the community—both the community present and the community beyond. Each person can be there for the other but each makes his or her own pilgrimage: Each person chooses how to respond to the time and grace given.

6. As a pilgrim one has to be

in the Roman Catholic tradition, the global landscape is rich in places frequented for centuries by God-seekers (see sidebar, p. 122).

And a pilgrimage can be as simple as a good, long hike coupled with prayer.

For the past eight years on the Saturday before Mother’s Day, rain or shine, a pilgrimage has taken place in central Ohio to pray for church vocations. Organized by the Sisters and Missionaries of the Precious Blood and the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, pilgrims of all ages take the approximately eight-mile “Stepping Up the Call: Lifting Soles and Souls for Vocations” walk or ride to an average of six churches and holy places in Mercer and Auglaize counties. There’s time for prayer, song, fellowship, and healthy snacks, and the pilgrimage always includes the rosary and eucharistic adoration “Stepping Up the Call” has become a popular annual event that’s grown each year—in 2011 more than 200 people participated from across Ohio and Indiana. Young families VISION 2012

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open to surprise. If one comes with too many expectations, one can easily block out the still voice within.

Women of prayer

7. A pilgrimage will not answer all one’s questions in life—indeed, it might awaken even more.

making God’s love visible in the heart of the world

—Sister Jennifer Mechtild Horner, O.S.B. From Keep Walking: An Invitation to Pilgrimage (vocations.uindy. edu/Taize_Pilgrimage_book). Sister Jennifer Mechtild Horner, O.S.B. is the director of the Lantz Center for Christian Vocations and Formation at the University of Indianapolis.

with babies in strollers, adult children pushing a praying parent in a wheelchair, and song and prayer along the way make it a microcosm of the church.

Whether it’s on the road to Compostela, under a tent in Taizé, praying in the grotto of Lourdes, or walking the highways of central Ohio, a pilgrimage can be a transforming, graced time like no other— a walk with the God who always calls us more deeply into the mystery of God’s love. =

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striving to follow Jesus, the Good Shepherd, by ministering to society’s most abandoned and disadvantaged.

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being Catholic

bill wittman

When we gather for Mass Christ is made present in the assembly of the people.

What Catholics believe about Jesus Son of God, a human being, a healer, one who gave his life for the world and is present with us today—all these and more answer the question: Who is Jesus?

by

Father Paul Boudreau

I

n the name of the Father, and of the Son . . . .” Wait! Hold it right there. What do you mean, the “Son”?

Who is the Son? Who is this Jesus, whose name we use so freely, whose image shows up on bumper stickers, hangs on our walls, and even dangles from our

Father Paul Boudreau is a priest of the Diocese of Norwich, Connecticut currently serving as parochial administrator of St. Joseph Parish in Mammoth Lakes, California. He is coauthor with Alice Camille of The Forgiveness Book, available from ACTA Publications.

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ears? What do Catholics believe about this Jesus?

Truly God, truly human He’s the Son of God of course. And in that designation “Son” is wrapped up a world of meaning.

First, Jesus is the full and complete revelation of God. Jesus makes the invisible God visible to us and real in a way we can access and engage. To be truly the Son of God, Jesus was conceived by the Holy Spirit, the only begotten of the Father. That is important so we can un-

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How many loaves have

you?

www.glenmary.org/vocations

derstand that Jesus wasn’t our idea; he was God’s. God, out of love for us, made it happen.

Jesus is also the “Son of Man.” God is a mystery beyond our understanding but Jesus is one of us, born of a woman, like us in flesh and blood. Jesus knew what it was like to be a human being, to suffer weakness and temptation, to hunger, to laugh and to cry, to love and to be afraid, to be frustrated, angry, happy, and hopeful. He knew wealth and poverty. He knew what it was like to grow up in a human family, to upset his parents, and to leave home and set out on his own. He knew acceptance and rejection. He even knew what it was like to suffer and die.

Though he did not commit sins, he carried the burden of our sins and suffered the consequences of them.

Jesus did it all for us.

The Nicene Creed wraps all this up by saying that Jesus is true God and true man. In other words, Jesus is God, through and through. There is no factor of divinity missing in Jesus. He always existed and always will exist. All things exist through him, with him, and in him. He is the source of all that is, the beginning and the end of everything.

At the same time, Jesus is truly human. That means that even though he was, is, and always will be God, in a moment of time he entered history as a human being. Like all of us he was conceived, born, lived, loved, laughed, suffered, and died.

The Lamb of God There is a kind of cosmic principle

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that governs life in this world that is expressed in various ways. For instance, we say, “What goes around, comes around” or “you reap what you sow.” People sometimes use the term karma, common to Hinduism and Buddhism, a word that represents the natural, impersonal law of moral cause and effect found in the

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We are dedicated to promoting justice and building community throughout the U.S. and Latin America.

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“

Jesus knew what it was like to suffer weakness and temptation, to hunger, to laugh and to cry, to love and to be afraid, to be frustrated, angry, happy, and hopeful.

universe. Simply put, we say that you pay for your sins.

Well, Jesus picked up the tab.

Whatever you did, said, or even thought that was wrong, Jesus took the hit for you. At Mass we call Jesus the “Lamb of God who takes away the sins of the world.” Jesus was accused, arrested, brought to trial, judged, condemned, and put to death. That about covers it for all of us who are guilty of sin.

To ancient people who made their living off their flocks, lambs were considered the most valuable possession of the tribe, their hope for the future. In an annual ritual, one of the lambs, supposedly the best one, was offered to God as a sacrifice to pay the price, the cosmic debt owed by the people. The lamb was offered

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for the forgiveness of sins.

Jesus is the Lamb of God offered for the forgiveness of our sins.

Because it is God’s offering, it is infinite. That means that the forgiveness won for us by the sacrifice of Jesus atones not only for our sins but the sins of all the world. That’s everybody. No exceptions. It is also eternal. That’s why in the Apostles’ Creed we say Jesus “descended into hell” to spring all those who died in sin before the event of Jesus and were paying off their debt. The eternal redemption of Jesus reaches back in time to Adam and forward in time to the end of the world. That’s awesome.

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RELIGIOUS of JESUS and MARY AN INTERNATIONAL CONGREGATION

Serving God’s People in United States, Haiti, Gabon, Nigeria, Cameroon, Mexico, Colombia, Ecuador, India, Pakistan, Germany, Ireland, Lebanon, Philippines,

Canada, Peru, Equatorial Guinea, Cuba, Bolivia, Argentina, Uruguay, France, Italy, Spain, England, Syria, Thailand, Morocco

In the forgiveness of sins we also have healing, and Jesus is the healer.

The gospel stories of Jesus link his many miracles of healing with forgiveness. Our sins, and the sins of all the world, bring about conflict and discord. When we sin, we set ourselves against the purpose for which we were created: to know, love, and serve God and to be happy with God forever. Sin, in other words, takes away our peace, our ease. Forgiveness restores peace to the soul, reconciles the person with the purpose, and sets the person once again on the path to fulfillment. Jesus is the Prince of Peace, the healer who reconciles humanity with God.

A sign of contradiction

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When Mary and Joseph brought the infant Jesus to the Temple, the prophet Simeon referred to him as a “sign that will be contradicted.”

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You figure anyone whose mother is a virgin would have to be somewhat of a contradiction! This contradiction is also seen in the proclamation of the kingdom of God. In it, Jesus says, the last shall be first and the first shall be last; the blind see, the lame walk, the deaf hear. Jesus is the dead man who lives, the source of life for all who die. He is the sinless Son of God who is judged by the world and condemned to death. He is the sign the world contradicts.

That is why Jesus calls his followers to “repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” The word repent simply means “to turn around”; to change—good advice considering that the world and all that is in it is passing away, but the kingdom is

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coming and it will endure forever.

Take your pick: “What profit do you show,” Jesus says, “if you gain the whole world and lose your own self?”

“

Jesus is the total and complete revelation of God contained in the Word of God, not only written on a page or spoken by a reader but embodied and lived by Jesus.

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All of these aspects of who Jesus is are embodied in the Eucharist, the source and summit of sacramental life in the church. When we gather for Mass, Christ is made present in mystical ways.

He is made present in the assembly of the people. The Body of Christ is made up of its members, those who live through, with, and in Christ.

Christ is made present in the Word of God proclaimed and received by the assembly, for Jesus is the Word made flesh, the revelation of God. When God created the world, each day of creation brought forth a part of the world with a word: be. Let there be light; let there be a heaven and earth; let there be life.

In the fullness of time, when the angel called upon the Virgin Mary to conceive and bear the Son of God, her response was, “Let it be done.”

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And Jesus cured others with a word: “Be healed.” On the cross, as he surrendered himself to death, Jesus proclaimed: “It is finished.” Jesus is the total and complete revelation of God contained in all of the Bible, the Word of God, not only written on a page or spoken by a reader but embodied and lived by Jesus.

Jesus is also made present in the person of the priest who presides at the altar, the table of the Lord’s sacrifice. The eternal reality of the Lord’s Supper breaks into time at the Mass. As Jesus reclined at table with his disciples, so the priest stands at the table of the Lord’s Supper with the faithful.

Jesus is the Bread of Life. He is present in the Eucharist; his Body and Blood are manifested under the appearance of bread and wine. In the celebration, the bread is offered and becomes his Body; the wine is offered and becomes his Blood. He is Emmanuel, “God with us.” The mystery of faith is revealed: Christ has died, Christ is risen, Christ will come again.

The “come again” part is experienced in two ways. One is that Jesus will come again at the end of time. When that day comes, when our lives in this world end, Jesus will appear. “I will come back again,” he said, “and take you to myself.”

He joins us in suffering and death so that we might join him in resurrection and glory. Halleluiah! Come Lord Jesus!

The other way is that Jesus comes all the time. As he comes in baptism to unite us with himself in dying and rising, and to wash us

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Oblate Sisters of the Sacred Heart of Jesus The Oblate Sisters strive to attain union with God by offering their lives for the diocesan priesthood.

Their special charism is both spiritual and ministerial: to pray for priestly holiness and offer their joys and sorrows for the good of priests. Ministerially the sisters care for retired and convalescent priests and collaborate with them in parish ministry.

Please contact: SR. TERESINA ROSA, OSHJ OBLATE SISTERS OF THE SACRED HEART OF JESUS 50 Warner Road Hubbard, OH 44425 PHONE: 330.759.9329 E-MAIL: VMTOBLATE@aol.com

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clean of our sins, so he comes to us again and again in the sacraments of the church. He is present in the power of the Holy Spirit that comes to us in the Sacrament of Confirmation. The union of husband and wife is a sign of the

union of Christ and the church.

In the Sacrament of Reconciliation we encounter Jesus who is the forgiveness of our sins. The person of the ordained minister becomes the person of Christ at the table of the Word of God and the sacrament of his

More questions about Catholicism and religious life?

Check out these online resources at VocationNetwork.org: • Sixteen questions about church

vocations:

Offers honest answers to your questions about priests, sisters, brothers, vows, sexuality, community life, and more (http:// www.vocationnetwork.org/articles/ show/131).

• Sister Julie Vieira answers your vocation questions

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(vocationnetwork.org/q-a)

• Ask Alice Camille about Catholicism (vocationnetwork.org/ask)

• The Religious Life Timeline is a brief, illustrated, and downloadable look at religious life through the centuries (http://www.vocationnetwork.org/ articles/show/209).

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DOMINICAN Order of Preachers

Sisters

If

Body and Blood. The Eucharist is itself the Real Presence of Christ among us and within us. In the end we are anointed and are joined with Christ, the anointed one, in suffering and death. In both these experiences, Jesus is Christ and Messiah, the hope and expectation of all people for all time.

you are what you are meant to be, you will set the world on fire!

In union with Christ

~St. Catherine of Siena, Dominican Saint

All of the above is communion with Jesus. Everything we believe about Jesus is realized in the meal of his Body and Blood. We become what we eat. In that he has taken the form of our human existence, bearing the cross of our sins, suffering with us, even dying with us, so too we are invited to join him in the reality of his divinity. To the degree that we conform our thoughts, words, and actions to that of Jesus, then to that degree we are one with him. Jesus has done his part. It remains for us to do ours. =

Adrian, MI www.adriandominicans.org Amityville, NY www.amityvilleop.org Blauvelt, NY www.opblauvelt.org Caldwell, NJ www.caldwellop.org Dominican Sisters of Peace www.oppeace.org Grand Rapids, MI www.grdominicans.org Houston, TX www.houstonop.org Mission San Jose, CA www.msjdominicans.org Oakford, CA www.oakforddominicans.org Racine, WI www.racinedominicans.org San Rafael, CA www.sanrafaelop.org Sinsinawa, WI www.sinsinawa.org Sparkill, NY www.sparkill.org Springfield, IL www.springfieldop.org Tacoma, WA www.tacomaop.org Taos, NM 575-751-1237 Upper Darby, PA www.catherinedericciop.org

J oin us in. . .

Creating community, sharing prayer, serving those who are most vulnerable, and studying issues impacting those we serve.

Enter #018 at VocationMatch.com

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the art of discernment Lea este articulo en español en linea.

Lisez cet article en français en ligne.

Curtis Long

Read this article in Spanish or French online.

by

Patrice J. Tuohy

V

Truth in stenciling

ision’s webmaster, who is also a painter and musician, happened upon this spray-painted image on a walk along a Mexican road.

He said it looked like something that belonged in VISION, and the editors agreed. We were struck by two things: 1.) The power of the image; and 2.) The eye of the photographer.

First, the man with the camera: Curtis Long was simply out on a hike, but he has the discerning eye of an artist, so he sees things others might not. It is a talent cultivated over years of practice and a reminder to all of us to pay attention—for even the stones cry out the glory of God (cf. Luke: 19-40).

Now the image: It is haunting, rough, wild, somewhat desolate, but ultimately hopeful. Like some Christian “Kilroy was here” graffiti, it reminds us that God can be found in the unlikeliest places. What possessed the artist to create that image right at that spot is uncertain. Perhaps it marks a place of death—could the red on the rock suggest a violent encounter? Yet it is also undoubtedly a sign of the sacred. Something holy happened here worthy of the stamp of the cross.

It is modern hieroglyphics that could take a lifetime to decipher. But that is the beauty of art, faith, love, and all that taps into eternal truth: It is forever a mystery but not without its revelations. Insights and sparks of enlightenment will come to us particularly through spiritual practice and prayer, and in those moments we will know above all else who we are and where we are being called.

Patrice J. Tuohy is executive editor of VISION Vocation Guide and co-publisher of TrueQuest Communications.

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A

­ Alexian Brothers (C.F.A.) “The love of Christ compels us” to dedicate our lives to care for sick, poor, dying, and marginalized people in our society in collaboration with others. Daily Eucharist, communal prayer and private prayer support us in our way of life. The foundation in the religious life of prayer and life in community sustains us in Christ’s healing mission.

“Whatever you do for one of these least brothers of mine, you do for me.” (Mt 25:40) We provide health care services in a hospital network. We provide health care and housing services for older adults in a variety of settings: adult day care, P.A.C.E., assisted living facilities, nursing homes, and retirement communities. We provide transitional housing for people with AIDS. We have medical missions in the Philippines and Hungary. Director of Vocations: Br. Dan McCormick, C.F.A., 3040 W. Salt Creek Lane, Arlington Heights, IL 60005; 1-800-556-0332; e-mail: dmccormick@alexianbrothers.net; website: http://www.alexianbrothers.org. See our web ad at www.VocationGuide.org.

See ad on page 2. Code #141.

Augustinian Friars (O.S.A.)—Province of St. Joseph, Canada Augustinians in Canada minister to pilgrims and retreatants at the Shrine of Our Lady of Grace near Toronto.

We also serve in four parishes in the Toronto and Vancouver archdioceses. Our province has traditionally fostered theological study and pastoral service in a setting of common life, liturgical celebration, and fraternal support. Vocation Director: Fr. Francis Galvan, O.S.A., Augustinian Monastery, P.O. Box 550, King City, Ontario, Canada; (905) 833-5368; e-mail: galvanfg@gmail.com.

See ad on page 128. Code #207.

Augustinian Friars (O.S.A.)—Province of St. Thomas of Villanova The Villanova Province consists of over 200 friars living in communities in Massachusetts, New York, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, North Carolina, and Florida, with missions in Japan, Peru, and South Africa. With two institutions of higher learning, three high schools, a retreat house, and a number of parishes along the East Coast, we friars are found in various types of ministries and settings, working with the People of God and striving to be united in mind and heart intent upon God, as St. Augustine challenges us. Vocation Director: Fr. Kevin DePrinzio, O.S.A., St. Thomas Monastery, 800 Lancaster Ave., Villanova University, Villanova, PA 19085; (610) 519-7548; e-mail: vocations@augustinian.org; website: http://www.augustinian.org. Latino inquirers please contact: Fr. Jorge Cleto, O.S.A., Casa Agustin, 16401 N.W. 37th Ave., Miami Gardens, FL 33054; (305) 404-0591; e-mail: vocaciones@losagustinos.org.

See ad on page 128. Code #207.

Augustinian Friars (O.S.A.)—Western Province The Augustinians in the West are a small fraternity who work with and minister to both Anglo and Hispanic. No human being is a stranger to an Augustinian. We minister to youth at St. Augustine High in San Diego and Villanova Prep School in Ojai. We minister in seven parishes in Oregon and California.

We serve the poor in Tijuana, Mexico, where we conduct an orphanage. We enjoy pioneering efforts and in the past two decades have established a high school in California’s Central Valley, a retreat center in Oregon, and low income housing for families in south San Diego. Vocation Director: Fr. Tom Whelan, O.S.A., 108 Cole St., San Francisco, CA 94117-1116; (415) 387-3626; e-mail: osacole@pacbell.net.

See ad on page 128. Code #207.

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Benedictine Monks (O.S.B.)—Conception Abbey The simple existence of the monks of Conception Abbey is defined in the order’s motto: Ora et Labora (“Pray and Work”). Conception monks gather six times a day for common prayer. Individual prayer, or Lectio Divina, is also an essential part of daily life. As members of the faculty of Conception Seminary College, the monks provide formation for young men pursuing a priestly vocation. The monks welcome guests to the abbey and offer a wide array of retreats, tours, and youth programs. They provide pastoral care in hospitals, convents, and parishes in four states, and spread the Gospel of the written word through their Printery House. The monks tend the abbey grounds and care for farmland and orchards. They are carpenters, historians, writers, scholars, teachers, musicians, and artisans. Fr. Benedict Neenan, O.S.B., P.O. Box 501, Conception, MO 64433; (660) 944-2859; fax: (660) 944-2800; e-mail: monks@conception. edu; website: http://www.conceptionabbey.org.

Code #247.

Augustinians of the Assumption (A.A.)—The Assumptionists are an international Augustinian congregation in the spirit of Popes John Paul II and Benedict XVI. Since our foundation over 150 years ago, we have lived in “apostolic community,” balancing a common life where we strive to be brothers of one mind and one heart intent upon God and an active engagement in the world where we try, in the footsteps of our founder, Fr. Emmanuel d’Alzon (see Wikipedia article), to address the modern ills of indifference, ignorance of the faith, and unbelief. We are a world-wide congregation of 800 religious located in 30 countries. We have acquired experience in, and a reputation for, education in all its forms: university and high school education, journalism, ecumenism, pilgrimages, foreign missions and popular evangelization, to name a few. Contact: Fr. John L. Franck, A.A., Emmanuel House, 512 Salisbury St., Worcester, MA 01609; (508) 767-7517; e-mail: jlfranck@aol. com; website: http://www.assumption.us.

Code #328.

Benedictine Monks (O.S.B.)—Marmion Abbey We are Benedictine monks, priests and brothers in Christ, brought together by the Divine Call, sharing our lives and seeking God under the guidance of the Holy Rule of Saint Benedict and the inspiration of the Gospels. Our prayer, both personal and liturgical, is the most important aspect in our monastic life. The monks of Marmion Abbey have always been closely identified with education. The monks conduct an all-boys, college-prep, Catholic high school known as Marmion Academy. The monks continue to serve as administrators, teachers, chaplains, coaches, librarians, and support staff. Since 1965, Marmion Abbey has had a monastic foundation in Guatemala.

Marmion’s priest-monks also provide pastoral assistance to the Catholic parishes of the local Church in Aurora. The monks of Marmion Abbey have been engaged in the work of farming, at our Abbey Farms. We invite you to enter into our school for the Lord’s Service. Fr. Vincent Bataille, O.S.B., 850 Butterfield Rd., Aurora, IL 60502; (630) 897-7215 ext. 350; e-mail: vbataille@ marmion.org; website: http://marmionvocations.org Code #355

B

Barnabite Fathers and Brothers (C.R.S.P.) [Clerics Regular of St. Paul] The Barnabite Fathers, the Clerics Regular of St. Paul, inspired to follow the spirit of St. Paul by their founder, St. Anthony M. Zaccaria, profess solemnly the vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience and live in communities that, from our beginnings in 1530, have been characterized by an intense life of interior renewal, centered on Christ Crucified and on the Eucharist, by a remarkable communal spirit, and dedication to spiritual renewal whose true purpose is the genuine honor of Christ, genuine availability to one’s neighbor and profound humility. We serve in the United States, Canada, Asia, Europe, and South America in a variety of ministries including Spiritual Centers, parishes, Our Lady of Fatima Shrine, NY, education, and the missions. For information see our website: http://www. catholic-church.org/barnabites or contact Rev. Peter M. Calabrese, C.R.S.P., P.O. Box 167, Youngstown, NY 14174-0167; (716) 754-7489; e-mail: BarnabitesUSA@fatimashrine.com.

See our web ad at www.VocationGuide.org.

See ad on page 42. Code #254.

Basilian Monks (O.S.B.M.)—Exarchic Greek Abbey of St. Mary of Grottaferrata We constitute one Catholic Order of Byzantine-Greek Rite, established in 1004, fifty years before the separation between the Catholic and Orthodox Churches.

Our ascetic life is based on the integral observance of the Holy Gospel according to the spirituality of the Holy Greek Fathers, transmitted to us especially by our Holy Founders Nilus and Bartholomew. Our days are organized around the Liturgy, personal prayer, and work: spiritual direction, maintenance of our monastic library open to the public, publication of periodicals and books, restoration of ancient books, teaching at our Monastery high school, monastic museum, and cultivating the earth. We are committed to service for the unity of Christians, particularly between Catholics and Orthodox, and we contribute to the dialogue with daily efforts in conversion, penance, asceticism and prayer. Our lives are animated by the desire to live and accomplish the prayer of Jesus to the Father “so that they may all be one.” God calls you. The Church needs you. Come join us! Fr. Luca De Oliveira, O.S.B.M., Corso del Popolo, 128, I-00046 Grottaferrata (Rome) Italy; 0039.06.9459309; fax: 0039.06.9456734; e-mail: vocazione@ abbaziagreca.it; website: http://www.abbaziagreca.it/en. See our web ad at www.VocationGuide.org.

Code #308.

Benedictine Monks (O.S.B.)—Mount Angel Abbey Mount Angel Abbey in Saint Benedict, Oregon, is a community of 53 priests and brothers, living and working together according to the Rule of St. Benedict. We are pastors, scholars, teachers, artists, artisans, and skilled and unskilled laborers. We range in age from 25 to 95 years old. Our primary apostolate is the monastic life of prayer and work. Since 1889 we have operated Mount Angel Seminary; the largest College and Graduate Seminary in the Western United States training men for the diocesan and religious priesthood. Our Abbey Library is a world-class architectural structure with an outstanding collection available to our monks, students and the general public. Our guest house hosts and sponsors retreats for groups and individuals.

Monastic Discernment Retreats are held quarterly. Contact Fr. Odo Recker, O.S.B., Mount Angel Abbey, One Abbey Drive, Saint Benedict, OR 97373; (503) 845-3123; e-mail: abbeyvocation@mountangelabbey.org; website: www.mountangelabbey. org. See our web ad at www.VocationGuide.org.

See ad on page 139. Code #365.

Benedictine Monks (O.S.B.)—Mount Saviour Monastery Mount Saviour is a small contemplative community of men seeking God together through an ever more complete availability to God. That “in all things God may be glorified” we strive to witness to God’s presence in the world by living a simple, genuine and full monastic life through a harmonious balance of prayer, study, work, hospitality and leisure. We support ourselves by work within the enclosure of the monastery.

Our location is rural and picturesque and provides a peaceful environment that encourages us to listen for the voice of God. To men who believe seeking God to be primary in their lives— come join our family. For more information, to arrange a visit, or for a free copy of our documentary “The Everyday” contact: Vocation Director, Mount Saviour Monastery, 231 Monastery Rd., Pine City, NY 14871; (607) 734-1688; e-mail: vocations@ msaviour.org; website: http://www.msaviour.org.

Code #217.

Benedictine Monks (O.S.B.)—Newark Abbey What are Monks doing in the City? The Benedictine Monks of Newark Abbey have been in the center of Newark, New Jersey since 1857. Living in community according to the Rule of St. Benedict.

We follow a daily schedule that balances prayer and work.

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Augustinian Friars (O.S.A.)—Midwest Province of Our Mother of Good Counsel The Augustinians are called to deepen their interior life through prayer and respond in service to the needs of the church. Our service to the church is nurtured by a commitment to individual and communal prayer and a dedication to build community among our members, as well as within our apostolates. Like Augustine, we believe God is at the very core of the human heart, and we strive to be “one mind, one heart” in God. The Midwest Province of Our Mother of Good Counsel has 100 priests and brothers involved in a variety of work. Our apostolates include (and are not limited to) work in parishes, high schools, universities, hospitals, retreats, and foreign missions. Vocation Office, 7740 S. Western Avenue, Chicago, IL 60620; (773) 776-3044; e-mail: vocations@midwestaugustinians.org.

See ad on page 128. Code #207.

Augustinian Monks of the Primitive Observance (O.S.A.Prim.)—Why tomorrow, why not today? Stop hesitating, be not afraid, have courage, be a pioneer in our foundation!

For those the Lord is calling to the Augustinian Monks our prayer is the prayer of Blessed Pope John Paul II on the 1650th anniversary of St. Augustine’s birth, November 14, 2004: “Give them the courage to undertake the path toward that ‘interior man’ where the One awaits who alone can give peace to our restless hearts.” We are a Roman Catholic monastic contemplative community of men, captivated by the love and mercy of the Lord, who revere His Church, its teachings and liturgy, following the footsteps of St. Augustine in finding the awesome friendship of God, the eternal Truth, through living a life in community with our brothers. Augustinian Monks of the Primitive Observance, 2075 Mercers Fernery Rd., DeLand, FL 32720; (386) 736-4321; e-mail: monks@augustinianmonks. com; website: http://www.augustinianmonks.com.

Code #020.

priests

Generosity required Father Heherson Balabbo, C.M.F. Father Heherson Balabbo, C.M.F. met his community, the Claretian Fathers and Brothers, when he was a high school senior in the Philippines. A Claretian priest gave a vocation talk at the school, inspiring Balabbo and a few others to become missionaries. Balabbo soon found himself preparing to enter seminary. Twelve years into Claretian life, Balabbo feels grateful to have served in many types of ministry and in many places—from the Philippines to Chicago to migrant camps outside Fresno, California.

What is your current ministry?

Associate pastor at Our Lady of Fatima Parish in Perth Amboy, New Jersey.

What is your favorite way to pray?

I like meditation, just enjoying that long, quiet moment of praying, being in the presence of God. Sometimes my meditation includes praying with scripture.

Do you have any nicknames?

I am known to many as “Niño.”

What do you do for fun?

I enjoy karaoke and singing while playing guitar—especially when friends join in. I was born in the ’80s but I know a lot of songs from the ’50s, ’60s, and ’70s.

What is the best part of community life?

Knowing I have my brothers behind and beside me who love and care for me.

Do you have any words

for those considering religious life?

As my postulant master used to tell us (when I was still a postulant, preparing to enter the community permanently), “Everything boils down to generosity.” Those who have been called to religious life need to respond to the call of God, not with halfheartedness but with a response that is generous and totally self-giving.

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Search these Men’s Communities online at VocationNetwork.org We serve the people of God through our ministries in Saint Benedict’s Preparatory School, Saint Mary’s School, and Saint Mary’s Parish. We offer assistance to local parishes, chaplaincies in hospitals and colleges/universities. So why don’t you come live the Rule of St. Benedict with us! Men ages 21-35 may contact the Vocation Director, Br. Patrick Winbush, O.S.B., Newark Abbey, 528 Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Blvd., Newark, NJ 07102; (973) 792-5772; e-mail: vocations@sbp.org; website: http://www.newarkabbey.org.

See ad on page 24. Code #182.

Benedictine Monks (O.S.B.)—Portsmouth Abbey Portsmouth Abbey is a Benedictine monastery on the shores of Narragansett Bay in Portsmouth, RI. Our community of monks seeks God through a balanced life of prayer and work. We are teachers and administrators at Portsmouth Abbey School, founded in 1926, and serve as chaplains to our students and faculty. Some of us are artists and scholars and authors. We offer retreats and have an active oblate program for laypeople wishing to apply the Rule of St. Benedict’s wisdom in their own lives. We invite men (age18-50) interested in exploring a lifelong monastic vocation to visit our website for more information and to request a visit: www.portsmouthabbeymonastery.org. Or Contact: Abbot Caedmon Holmes, O.S.B., Vocations Director, Portsmouth Abbey, 285 Cory’s Lane, Portsmouth, RI 02871.

See ad on page 141. Code #417.

Benedictine Monks (O.S.B.)—Saint Gregory’s Abbey St. Gregory’s Abbey, in Shawnee, Oklahoma, is a community of 28 priests and brothers, living and working and praying together according to the Rule of St. Benedict. Our French founders established the Catholic Church in what eventually became Oklahoma. Over the years we have responded to the still-missionary Church of Oklahoma and continue to serve as a spiritual resource in the state. Today our main apostolates are St. Gregory’s University, a liberal arts college educating students in the Catholic and Benedictine tradition, and the Mabee-Gerrer Museum of Art. Monks help to carry out the activities of the monastery, from retreats and management and formation to groundskeeping and health care for our own members. Community members also serve in parishes and in programs for the handicapped. Contact: Fr. Charles Buckley, O.S.B., St. Gregory’s Abbey, 1900 W. MacArthur St., Shawnee, OK 74804; (405) 878-5462; e-mail: vocations@stgregorys.edu; website: http://www.monksok.org.

Code #349.

Benedictine Monks (O.S.B.)—Saint John’s Abbey Saint John’s Abbey is a Catholic Benedictine monastery of 150 monks living, praying, and working together amid 2700 acres of woods, lakes and prairies in central Minnesota. Our Apostolates include: parish ministry, chaplaincies, guesthouse, spiritual retreats, woodworking, Saint John’s Preparatory School, Saint John’s University, the graduate School of Theology, the Liturgical Press, the Hill Museum and Manuscript Library, the Saint John’s Bible and the Arboretum. A Saint John’s Abbey Monk lives a life steeped in the rhythm of prayer and work. In addition to private prayer, lectio divina and daily Mass, we gather four times a day for the liturgy of the hours.

Our work varies depending upon the interests and talents of each monk, so as to meet the spiritual need of each monk.

Through a balance of work and prayer, living in community

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Benedictine Monks (O.S.B.)—Saint Joseph Abbey St. Joseph Abbey is a Benedictine Monastery located in St. Benedict, LA, just north of New Orleans. Presently the community has 39 members—23 priests and 10 brothers in Solemn vows, 3 monks in temporary profession, 2 novices and 1 postulant. The community has as its ministry the administration of St. Joseph Seminary College, 3 parishes, a retreat center, a woodworks industry, and a bakery in which the abbey provides bread for various social service agencies in the area. St. Joseph Abbey lives the Rule of St. Benedict by its daily commitment to the twofold aspect of Benedictine life: ora et labora—prayer and work. Contact Fr. Jude Israel, O.S.B.; 75376 River Road, St. Benedict, LA 70457; (985) 867-2249 or e-mail: frjude@sjasc. edu. The abbey website is www.saintjosephabbey.com.

Code #408.

Benedictine Monks (O.S.B.)—Saint Louis Abbey The monks of Saint Louis Abbey continue the English Benedictine Congregation’s centuries-long tradition of blending monastic prayer with apostolic work. This tradition came to Saint Louis, MO in 1955, when the first three English monks founded a monastery and soon thereafter a school for very talented young men. This year the community of about thirty includes some of those founders, some additional English monks, and many Americans of various ages. As for the prayer life, the monks offer God praise daily through the offering of the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass, five communal offices (including Latin Vespers for Saturdays, Sundays, and solemnities), private lectio divina, and private meditation. As for the work, about 15 monks work in the abbey’s 400-student high school, two monks run its 1000-family parish, and one monk serves as the Rector for a small but growing Latin oratory. All of these apostolates occur on the Abbey’s 150-acre suburban campus. Vocation Director, Father Ralph Wright, 500 S. Mason, Creve Couer, MO 63141; (800) 638-1527; e-mail: frralph@priory.org; website: http:// www.stlouisabbey.org.

Code #332.

Benedictine Monks (O.S.B.)—Saint Mary’s Abbey Maybe your place in God’s plan is our place, Saint Mary’s Abbey at Delbarton. Located in the hills of Morris County, NJ, our community of 45 monks seeks God by personal and communal prayer, and a variety of ministries. We are teachers and administrators at a preparatory school for boys and preachers and counselors at our retreat center. We serve as chaplains at local colleges and pastors in area parishes. We invite men (ages 20-45, college graduate or equivalent in life experience) to share our vision. Click on our website for up-to-date vocation and discernment retreat information. Vocation Director, 230 Mendham Road, Morristown, New Jersey 07960-4899; (973) 538-3231, ext. 2111; e-mail: vocations@delbarton.org; website: http://www.osbmonks.org. See our web ad at www.

VocationGuide.org.

See ad on page 76. Code #088.

Benedictine Monks (O.S.B.)—Saint Meinrad Archabbey Saint Meinrad Archabbey is a Roman Catholic monastery located in rural southern Indiana, where the 1,500-year Benedictine tradition continues on American soil. Monks live a common life of shared work and prayer, according to the Rule of St. Benedict. They live lives set apart, seeking God in word and sacrament; and lives for others, serving the Church through prayer and mission. As their founding apostolate, the monks operate a seminary for the formation of priests, permanent deacons and lay ministers, and offer pastoral assistance to local parishes. Other works include a retreat center, an oblate program, Abbey Press and Abbey Caskets. Saint Meinrad is a spiritual center for many people of faith. It is a place where prayer shapes life and nurtures outreach. Perhaps you would like to become a part of us and what we do! A formal comeand-see experience, “A Monastic Observance,” is scheduled each year, December 26-Jan. 1. Visits can also be arranged at other times, with accommodations in the Guest House and Retreat Center. Office of Monastery Vocations, 100 Hill Drive, St. Meinrad, IN 47577; (812) 357-6611; e-mail: vocations@

Mount Angel BenedictineAbbey St. Benedict, Oregon

School of the Lord’s Service.

Rule – Prologue

www.mountangelabbey.org abbeyvocation@mountangelabbey.org Enter #365 at VocationMatch.com

saintmeinrad.edu; website: http://www.saintmeinrad.edu. See our web ad at www.VocationGuide.org.

See ad on page 171. Code #014.

Benedictine Monks (O.S.B.)—Saint Vincent Archabbey Saint Vincent Archabbey is a vital community of more than 160 monks, living, praying, and working together in southwestern Pennsylvania under the ancient Rule of Saint Benedict. Founded from a Benedictine monastery in Bavaria in 1846 by Fr. Boniface Wimmer and his small group of humble followers, this 1st Benedictine monastery in North America is now the largest Benedictine monastery in the world.

Today our traditional apostolates are stronger than ever and include a liberal arts college, major seminary, high school, and grade schools. Our priestly ministries involve parishes from Baltimore to Savannah, and from Pennsylvania to Virginia. We staff campus ministries, serve as nurses, as well as military, hospital and prison chaplains, and provide numerous other important services to the Church. We conduct missions in China and Brazil. Contact: Vocation Director, Saint Vincent Archabbey, Latrobe, PA 15650-2690. Telephone (724) 5326655. E-mail: vocations@stvincent.edu. Website: http://www. stvincentmonks.com.

See ad on page 75. Code #243.

Benedictine Monks (O.S.B.)—Subiaco Abbey, responding to a divine call to monastic life in Subiaco, Arkansas. Brothers and priests of this abbey form a community of committed men who never let a day go by without celebrating Mass and Liturgy of the Hours together. From their prayer life, everything else revolves and evolves. The abbey sponsors an academic academy for young men pursuing secondary education on the abbey’s 1,200 acre campus. Some monks serve as teachers and mentors. Others live out the Benedictine motto “pray and work” in parish ministry or as chaplains, conducting retreats and providing welcoming Benedictine hospitality. Still others fill a myriad of valuable works in the monastery, including but not limited to—carpentry, maintenance, farming, tending vineyards, laundry, grounds beautification and tailoring. For more information or to arrange an up-close-and-personal look at Subiaco Abbey, contact Brother Francis Kirchner, O.S.B., 405

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Men’s communities

Benedictine Monks (O.S.B.)—Saint Anselm’s Abbey Set in its peaceful 40 acres in northeast Washington, DC, St. Anselm’s is a community of men dedicated to seeking God in prayer, work, and living a communal life under the Rule of St. Benedict and an abbot. Central to the common life are praying the Divine Office in choir and personal prayer, so “that nothing be preferred to Christ”; and manual and scholarly work, so “that in all things God may be glorified.” The monks share their life with others primarily by teaching in the Abbey school (with about 250 male students in grades six through twelve) and at college and university level institutions. Some also assist with hospitality, give spiritual direction and retreats, serve as chaplains and assist in parishes . St. Benedict insists in his Rule that newcomers be warned of the hardships monastic life entails, and that the beginning is bound to be difficult. But he promises that fidelity to the discipline of the monastic life will lead to “hearts overflowing with the inexpressible delight of love.” Contact: Vocation Director, St. Anselm’s Abbey, 4501 S. Dakota Ave., NE, Washington, DC 20017; (202) 269-2335; e-mail: vocations@stanselms.org; website: http://stanselms.org.

Code #204.

and following the Rule of Saint Benedict a monastic vocation is developed and fostered. See our website for details: http:// www.abbeyvocations.com. Brother Paul-Vincent Niebauer, O.S.B., Vocation Director, Saint John’s Abbey, Box 2015, Collegeville, MN 56321; (320) 363-2548; e-mail: vocations@osb. org. Preferred age for monastic candidates: 23-40. Education: high-school diploma, minimum. See our web ad at www.

VocationGuide.org.

See ad on page 96. Code #132.

Search these Men’s Communities online at VocationNetwork.org N. Subiaco Ave., Subiaco, AR 72865; 479-934-1047; e-mail: brfrancis@subi.org; website: http://www.subi.org.

Code #256.

Men’s communities

Brothers of Christian Instruction (F.I.C.) Our community of Brothers was founded to “make Jesus Christ known” according to Fathers John de La Mennais and Gabriel Deshayes who established the congregation at Saint Brieuc, Brittany, France in 1819.

Today, with nearly 900 members in 24 countries, the Brothers’ educational mission is primarily as teachers, guidance counselors, and administrators in Catholic high schools and colleges.

Brothers may also minister as retreat directors, spiritual directors and counselors, pastoral associates, and in foreign missions especially in East Africa, Japan, and the Philippines. In the United States Brothers are called to live a simple, prayerful, community lifestyle in Alfred, ME, Fall River, MA, Plattsburgh, NY, and at Walsh University, North Canton, OH. Single, Catholic men seeking to become Brothers and those interested in Associate membership should contact: Bro. Guy Roddy, 2020 East Maple St., North Canton, OH 44720; (330) 490-7064; e-mail: ficbros@ yahoo.com; website: http://www.ficbrothers.org.

See ad on page 98. Code #206.

The Brothers of the Christian Schools (F.S.C. Fratres Scholarum Christianarum) also called the De La Salle Christian Brothers. Founded by St. John Baptist de La Salle, the Patron Saint of Teachers, in 17th-century France, the Christian Brothers have more than 5,000 members around the world who live out the Gospel together as elementary, middle, and secondary school teachers, university professors, counselors, missionaries, social workers, youth ministers, campus ministers, administrators, and retreat directors. They are the largest male order of laymen in the Church exclusively devoted to education. In the United States and English-speaking Canada, approximately 700 Brothers minister among 80 institutions.

Energetic, generous, and committed men are invited to live and to share the educational challenges of bringing Christ’s Gospel message to youth of all backgrounds, especially the poor and marginalized. Vocation Director, Christian Brothers Conference, Hecker Center, Suite 300, 3025 4th Street, NE, Washington, D.C. 20017; (202) 529-0047; e-mail: br.george@ dlsi.org; website: http://www.brothersvocation.org.

Code #100.

Brothers of the Sacred Heart (S.C.) “A call to be a Brother is a vocation to be the living, human memory of Jesus.” The Brothers of the Sacred Heart are a religious congregation of men who were founded in Lyon, France in 1821. Their mission is the evangelization of young people who are poor and without hope. Ministries include: teacher, campus minister, social worker, counselor, administrator, parish ministry, nursing, retreat director, youth minister, coach, home and foreign missionary. Today the Brothers of the Sacred Heart in the United States work in Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana, Arizona, New Jersey, New York, Connecticut, Rhode Island, New Hampshire and England. Visit our website at: Brothers of the Sacred Heart, http://www.brothersofthesacredheart.org. Br. Michael Migacz, SC, (732) 718-8559; e-mail: mikemigacz@hotmail.com. See our web ad at www.VocationGuide.org.

See ad on page 113. Code #203.

C

Capuchin Franciscan Friars (O.F.M. Cap.) The Capuchins are a distinctive Order within the Franciscan family. They are an evangelical brotherhood of men who preach, serve the physically and spiritually poor, teach, administer the sacraments, cook, and counsel in various settings in North America. Some friars are also missionaries in Africa, Asia, Central America, and the South Pacific. There are approximately 11,000 Capuchin friars worldwide, with about 800 of those living within nine provinces throughout Canada and the U.S. For more information contact the Capuchin Vocation Office nearest you. California: P.O. Box 618, Solvang, CA 934640618, (805) 686-4127, e-mail: peterbanksofmcap@yahoo. com, website: http://www.beafriar.com. Colorado: (303) 9811111, e-mail: vocations@capuchins.org, website: http://www. capuchins.org. Pennsylvania: (888) 263-6227, e-mail: brtom@ capuchin.com, website: http//www.capuchin.com. Midwest USA: (773) 475-6206, e-mail: vocation@capuchinfranciscans. org, website: http://www. capuchinfranciscans.org. New York/ New England: (718) 827-6990, e-mail: brotimjonesofmcap@ gmail.com, website: http://www.capuchin.org/vocations. New Jersey/Southeast USA: (201) 863-3871, e-mail: capuchinlife@ aol.com, website: http//www.capuchinfriars.org.

See ad on page 33. Code #091.

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Carmelite Friars (O. Carm.)—Most Pure Heart of Mary Province Carmelites strive to live in God’s presence, “in allegiance to Jesus Christ,” through prayer, community, and ministry. We are engaged in various apostolic ministries to serve the Church, including a wide range of educational, parochial, and spiritual opportunities. We are teachers, pastors, campus ministers, chaplains, counselors, retreat directors, authors, missionaries, and spiritual directors. Members of our Carmelite Province of the Most Pure Heart of Mary serve in many dioceses and archdioceses throughout Canada, the United States, Mexico, and Peru. For more information about the Carmelites, please contact Fr. Gregory Houck, O.Carm., Director of Vocations, 1600 Webster St., NE, Washington, DC 20017; (202) 526-1221 ext. 109; e-mail: frgreg@carmelites. net; website: http://www.carmelites.net. See our web ad at www.VocationGuide.org.

See ad on page 97. Code #112.

Carmelite Friars (O. Carm.)—St. Elias Province Carmelite Friars are consecrated religious men who seek the face of God. Following after the great Prophet Elijah, the Carmelite Friars hear God’s voice and respond. Founded as one of the first religious orders to be named after the Blessed Virgin Mary, we carry on the 800 year tradition of prayer, brotherhood, and work.

While the types of work vary, Carmelites are firmly rooted in the presence of God. Our saints give heavenly witness to the many blessings God has bestowed on the Order of Carmelites.

Contact Brother Robert E. Bathe, O.Carm, P.O. Box 3079, Middletown, NY 10940; (845) 344-2225; e-mail: vocation@ carmelitefriars.org; website: http://www.carmelitefriars.org.

Code #307.

Claretian Missionaries (C.M.F.) [Sons of the Immaculate Heart of Mary] The Claretians are a Roman Catholic community of priests and brothers dedicated to spreading the Gospel of Jesus in more than 60 countries. Our ministries are devoted to social concerns and issues of justice and peace in parishes, foreign missions, and publishing. We reach out to young people in the inner city and on college campuses. We also serve as doctors, teachers, parish priests, and in many other roles. The Claretians were founded by St. Anthony Claret, who embodied the special charisms of community, mission, evangelization, and spirituality. Contact: Mario Delgado, Vocation Director, 205 W. Monroe Street, Room 3001, Chicago, IL 60606; (312) 236-7846; e-mail: vocations3001@claretians.org; website: http://www.claretianvocations.org.

Code #092.

Columban Missionaries (SSC) St. Columban Foreign Mission Society, aka, The Columban Fathers, began in 1918, in response to the need for evangelization in China. Since then the Columbans have been called to mission in other countries of the Middle East, Asia, the Pacific Rim, Latin America, Europe and the United States. We are a Society of Apostolic Life and we welcome vocations to the priesthood from the 15 countries where we serve the Gospel. As a diverse and multicultural Society of missionary priests we are engaged with the world, sharing our lives and faith in Jesus Christ with other cultures and religious traditions. We strive to live out the social teaching of the church though our pastoral presence and preaching, as well as through a variety of projects and movements geared toward social justice and stewardship of the environment, especially as these impact the poor. We are people of prayer committed to the mission of Jesus and moving forward the work of God’s Kingdom. Join us on the journey! Fr. Bill Morton, SSC, Vocation Coordinator, PO Box 10, St. Columbans, NE 68056, toll free 877-299-1920, vocations@columban.org; website: www.columbanvocations.org; Facebook: Columban Vocations; Twitter: columbancalling.

Code #224.

Congregation of Christian Brothers (C.F.C.) What is a Religious person supposed to be doing? He is supposed to be saying to the world that the values it upholds are not necessarily the right ones. As Christian Brothers we seek Catholic men to join with us; men who sense a call to live in prayerful community and who wish to minister in the educational apostolates of the Church, especially to youth. We are seeking men with the religious inspiration and dedication necessary to place their gifts, talents, and possessions to meet the needs of God’s people. Brothers serve in elementary and secondary schools, and colleges; are involved in Youth Ministry; conduct missionary work around the world; provide education services for adults; bring their talents and skills to assist parish and diocesan ministries; give material support to and teach

migrant farm workers; minister at hospitals, with the homeless, and offer services to refugees. Are you called to serve others as an Edmund Rice Christian Brother? Br. James R. McDonald, C.F.C., 10001 S. Pulaski Rd., Room 111, Chicago, IL 60655-3356; (815) 272-7742; e-mail: bromaccfc@yahoo. com; website: http://www.edmundricebrothers.org. See our web ad at www.VocationGuide.org.

See ad on page 95. Code #095.

Congregation of Holy Cross (C.S.C.) The Congregation of Holy Cross was founded in France in 1837. Blessed Basil Moreau, a priest of the diocese of LeMans, France, began a community of priests, brothers and sisters, to educate the children of LeMans and to assist in the diocese as auxiliary priests.

In just four years, Blessed Basil sent six brothers and a priest to the United States as missionaries. A year later in 1842 these men began the school in northern Indiana that eventually became the University of Notre Dame. Since then, the priests and brothers have begun five other institutions of higher learning: St. Edward’s University (Austin, TX), the University of Portland (Portland, OR), King’s College (Wilkes-Barre, PA), Stonehill College (North Easton, MA), and Holy Cross College (Notre Dame, IN) as well as many high schools. Today Holy Cross religious serve in parishes, schools, and missions in 15 countries spanning the world. In 2010, the Congregation celebrated its first canonization, when Pope Benedict XVI canonized Brother André Bessette, who was known in is lifetime as “The Miracle Man of Montreal” and oversaw the building of St. Joseph’s Oratory in Montreal. To learn more visit our websites: http:// www.holycrossvocations.org [Priests]; http://www.holycrossbrothers.org [Brothers]; http://www.cscpriestsandbrothers. blogspot.com [Priests]; http://www.holycrosscongregation.org See ad on page 67. Code #097.

Congregation of St. Basil (C.S.B.) Founded in 1822 in France by ten diocesan priests to educate youth and prepare candidates for the priesthood, the Basilian Fathers are inspired by the life, teaching, and example of St. Basil the Great. Our spirituality is best characterized by a blend of values from the diocesan priesthood and religious life. Our primary work is Evangelization and Education in high schools, universities, and parishes. We exist to proclaim and teach in the footsteps of Jesus Christ. Founded in France, we currently serve in Canada, US, Mexico, and Colombia. We are guided by the vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience with lives centered on Jesus Christ.

For more information contact the Vocation Director at 95 St. Joseph St. Toronto, ON M5S 2R9. Phone: (416) 925-4368 x239 Or e-mail: vocation@basilian.org. Website: www.basilian.org.

See ad on page 120. Code #411.

Congregation of the Sacred Stigmata (C.S.S.) Stigmatine Priests and Brothers belong to an international community headquartered in Rome, with houses in the U.S., Italy, England, German, South Africa, Ivory Coast, Tanzania, Botswana, Brazil Paraguay, Chile, India, Georgia (Russia), the Philippines, and Thailand. St. Gaspar Bertoni founded in 1816 and entrusted the Congregation to the protection and patronage of Mary and Joseph, the Holy Spouses, because their marriage prepared, welcomed, and educated the mission of the Son of God. CSS motto, “Euntes Docete” is Latin for “Go Forth and Teach.”

Apostolic work: seminary formation, spiritual direction, counseling, retreats, campus/youth/parish ministry, voluntary foreign missions, parish missions. Stigmatine formation offers a customized academic program based on individual background, but maintains a common character by the quest to unity in life through contemplation and apostolic activity, shared fraternity, dedication to work, quest for excellence, coupled with humility. Men ages 18-45 are invited to contact Fr. Geoff Deeker, N.A. Province, 554 Lexington St., Waltham, MA 02452-3097; e-mail: geoffd@stigmatines.com; website: http://www.stigmatines.com.

See ad on page 20. Code #046.

Crosier Fathers and Brothers (O.S.C.) For 800 years we Crosiers have marked each day celebrating the Liturgy of the Hours and Eucharist as a community of priests and brothers.

We live with the risen crucified Lord transforming us in body, mind, and spirit to be witnesses of His risen life and new creation. Our religious habit, marked with the red and white cross, reminds us daily of our oneness with Christ as cross-bearers.

The Rule of Augustine guides us in fraternal life as we help one another to live the vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience and to serve others. We invite you to consider Crosier religious life. We are an international Order founded in Belgium in 1210 and headquartered in Rome. We have U.S. communities in

VISION 2012

For more features go to VocationNetwork.org

Search these Men’s Communities online at VocationNetwork.org Onamia, Minnesota and Phoenix, Arizona. Contact: Fr. Dave Donnay, O.S.C. or Fr. Charlie Kunkel, O.S.C.; 4332 N. 24th Street, Phoenix, AZ 85016; (800) 407-5875; e-mail: vocations@ crosier.org; website: http://www.crosier.org.

Code #099.

D

Divine Word Missionaries (S.V.D.) As Divine Word Missionary priests and brothers, we are men of prayer and faith, serving where the Gospel has not yet been preached, or where the local church is not yet viable. Each of us is involved in a particular, unique ministry as we spread the Word of God. There are over 6,000 of us ministering in over 70 countries worldwide. As one of the largest international missionary congregations in the Catholic Church, we believe that His Mission is our Mission.

Our steady growth is a result of our response to the changing needs of the Church and the people we serve. Internationalism, education and professional skills are the foundations of our society. We offer five formation programs: Divine Word College in Epworth, Iowa; an Associate Program for college graduates; Brother Formation Program; our Novitiate is in Techny, Illinois; and Divine Word Theologate in Chicago. For more information, contact: Vocation Director, Divine Word Missionaries, P.O. Box 380, Epworth, IA 52045; 800-5533321; e-mail: svdvocations@dwci.edu; website: http://www. svdvocations.org. See our web ad at www.VocationGuide.org.

See ad on page 108. Code #177.

E

Edmundite Fathers and Brothers (S.S.E.) [Society of St. Edmund] The Society of St. Edmund is a clerical religious congregation of pontifical right dedicated to evangelization whose priests and brothers share a common life and profess the public vows of chastity, poverty, and obedience. It was the original purpose of the Society to work for the glory of God and the salvation of neighbor through preaching.

By preaching we understand both the witness of our common and personal pursuit of holiness and the service of the Gospel. Fr. Michael Cronogue, SSE, Vocation Director,, 270 Winooski Park, Colchester, VT 05439; (802) 654-2273; Fax: (802) 654-3409; e-mail: mcronogue@smcvt.edu; website: http://www.sse.org.

See ad on page 69. Code #119.

F

Franciscan Brothers of Brooklyn (O.S.F.) The Religious Brothers of the Third Order Regular of St. Francis, known as the Franciscan Brothers of Brooklyn, were founded in 1858 in Brooklyn, NY, USA. We are a Community of all Brothers living in the vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience. Our evangelical Franciscan life is composed of prayer, community life, and apostolic work meeting the needs of God’s people, mostly through secondary and higher education as well as other service apostolates. The religious habit, worn by the Brothers consists of a simple black tunic and capuche and girded at the waist with a white cord with three knots at the right. From the cord on the left is suspended the Franciscan Crown (seven decade rosary). Initial Formation consists of at least one year of Candidacy, one year of Canonical Novitiate,

VISION 2012

For more features go to VocationNetwork.org

Franciscan Friars (OFM)—Province of Saint Barbara The Franciscan friars of the Province of St. Barbara are members of the Order of Friars Minor (OFM), founded by St. Francis of Assisi in 1209. Like St. Francis and his original followers, present-day friars are called to be brothers to all creation, persons of prayer engaged in active service. Our friars are involved in a broad range of ministries, including outreach to the poor, sacramental and parish ministry, retreat work, hospital and prison chaplaincy, education, social advocacy, foreign and Native American mission work, and more. Friars of the St. Barbara Province currently serve in the states of California, Oregon, Washington, New Mexico, and Arizona, as well as in Mexico, Peru, Russia, and the Holy Land. In their ministry among different peoples, the friars try to bring with them the essence of their traditional greeting: “Peace and All Good!” For more information, contact Father Dan Lackie, OFM, at vocations@sbfranciscans.org or (408) 903-3422; website: http://sbfranciscans.org; Facebook: www.facebook. com/SBFranciscans.Vocations.

Code #418.

Franciscan Friars (O.F.M.)—Province of the Immaculate Conception The Province of the Immaculate Conception began in 1855 when Friar Panfilo da Magliano came from Italy to minister to Catholics in Upstate New York. He founded St. Bonaventure University, two Provinces and three groups of women religious, and his brothers spread throughout New York and New England to spread the Good News. Today, faithful to the spirit of St. Francis of Assisi, we minister in New York, New England, Ohio, Pennsylvania, West Virginia, Florida, Toronto, Canada; and our mission in El Salvador, Honduras and Guatemala administering parishes, schools, retreat centers, reaching out to the poor, and anywhere that God leads us. If you are between the ages of 18-38 and would like to explore the possibility of a life with us contact our Vocation Office at 800-521-5442; or vocations@icprovince.org. Visit our website: www.liveradically.org.

See ad on page 30. Code #370.

Franciscan Friars (O.F.M.)—Province of the Most Holy Name of Jesus Holy Name Province is the largest community of Franciscan friars in the United States. An evangelical and missionary fraternity of more than 350 men, we serve the people of God in a wide variety of ministries—colleges, parishes, urban ministry centers, and social outreach—along the East Coast as well as in foreign countries. Rooted in the Catholic and Franciscan tradition, we seek to bring the Gospel into the everyday experience of all people through teaching, popular preaching and pastoral leadership. We foster Christian discipleship by collaborating with those whom we serve and by standing in solidarity with all people, especially the alienated, the immigrant, and the poor. If you are between the ages of 21 and 40 and would like more information on the Franciscan friars, please contact Fr. Brian Smail, OFM, Vocation Director, at 1-800-677-7788 or vocation@hnp.org, or visit our website at http://www.BeAFranciscan.org. See our web ad at www.

VocationGuide.org.

Code #313.

Franciscan Friars (O.F.M.)—Province of the Sacred Heart Our Province is a community of Franciscan Friars in the mid-west of the United States. We minister at home and in the foreign missions of Brazil, Africa, China, Alaska, and Vietnam.

We seek to bring the Gospel into the everyday experience of all people through teaching, preaching, and a pastoral setting.

We serve in the parishes of twenty dioceses and have a long and proud tradition of providing quality Catholic education at both high school and university levels. We minister to the poor and the outcast, the homeless, the ex-offender, the prostitute, the gay and lesbian community and people with HIV/ AIDS. Our friars are artists, musicians, lawyers, doctors, and spiritual assistants for the Secular Franciscan Order. Following the desire of St. Francis of Assisi, our friars are encouraged to use their many skills and gifts to minister in the Church and to serve the human family in various ways. If you are between the ages of 21 and 40 and would like more information about us, please contact Fr. John Dombrowski, OFM, Vocation Director

Enter #417 at VocationMatch.com at 773-753-1925 or visit our website at www.befranciscan.com.

See our web ad at www.VocationGuide.org.

See our ad on page 68. Code #283.

Franciscan Friars (O.F.M.)—Saint John the Baptist Province We Friars of Saint John the Baptist Province are part of the world-wide Franciscan Order which was founded by Saint Francis of Assisi over 800 years ago. The first members of our Province arrived in Cincinnati, OH in 1844. Since then we have been serving the Catholic Church in a wide variety of ministries. Presently we serve in schools (high schools and universities), parishes, hospitals (as nurses and chaplains), inner city ministries, retreat ministry, publishing (books, catechetical aides, CDs and audio books at Saint Anthony Messenger Press), and foreign missions. In all of our ministries we preach the Good News of Jesus by both word and action with a special emphasis on giving a voice to the marginalized in our society.

See our website (www.franciscan.org) for more information.

Or contact our Vocation Director, Fr. Don Miller, O.F.M. at (513) 542-1082, at sjbvocations@franciscan.org, or at Vocation Office, 5000 Colerain Avenue, Cincinnati, Ohio 45223-1213.

See our web ad at www.VocationGuide.org.

Code #233.

Franciscan Friars, Conventual The Conventual Franciscans are one of the three branches of the First Order of St. Francis.

The word Conventual is derived from the Latin convenire, “to come together”; hence we live together in “convents” or friaries. Our Order is spread throughout the world, and includes about 4500 priests and brothers who are all commonly called Friars. There are five provinces in North America, and a jurisdiction in the UK and Ireland. We wear a black or gray habit with a simple three-knotted cord representing our Vows of Poverty, Chastity, and Obedience. The Spiritual Center of the Order is in Assisi, Italy, where our Friars care for the Basilica of St. Francis, which includes his tomb. In addition, the Conventuals are the Vatican confessors at St. Peter’s Basilica.

In Christ’s name, we continue the ministry of healing so fundamental to the understanding of Saint Francis. For more information go to our website. Friar Paul C. Schloemer, OFM

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Men’s communities

The Dominicans (O.P.) [Order of Preachers] Pope John Paul II, when he received the General Council of the Dominicans in his private library, told them: “Only those who have the experience of God can speak of him convincingly to others. At the school of Saint Dominic and of all the Dominican saints, you are called to be teachers of truth and of holiness.”

Dominic de Guzman (1170-1221) was on fire with the love of God when he found the Order of Preachers (the Dominicans) and gathered around him a group of men dedicated to preaching the truth of God’s endless love. Since that time Dominicans have continued their legacy of preaching in any given time or place, and in the most effective and suitable ways, the gospel message of Jesus Christ. Feel free to contact any of the four geographic Provinces for more information: Central United States, St. Albert the Great Province; e-mail: wisdomop@ yahoo.com; (312) 243-0011 ext. 725; website: http://www. domcentral.org. Eastern United States, St. Joseph Province; e-mail: vocations@dominicanfriars.org; (800) 529-1205; website: http://www.dominicanfriars.org. Western United States, The Most Holy Name of Jesus Province; e-mail: vocations@ opwest.org; (510) 596-1821; website: http://www.opwest.org.

Southern United States, St. Martin de Porres Province, e-mail: frjohn@dominicanvocations.com; (901) 527-8282 ext. 12; website: http://www.dominicanvocations.com.

See ad on page 70. Code #228.

three years of Temporary Vows after which Perpetual Vows are taken. For more information contact the Vocation Director: Brother Louis Miritello, OSF; e-mail: LMiritello@sfponline. org; (631) 418-8522; website: http://www.franciscanbrothers. org. Facebook page: Franciscan Brothers of Brooklyn. See our web ad at www.VocationGuide.org.

See ad on page 70. Code #102.

Search these Men’s Communities online at VocationNetwork.org Conv., Province of Our Lady of Consolation Vocation Office, 6901 Dixie Highway, Louisville, KY 40258; (800) 424-9955 or (502) 933-4439; e-mail: franvoc@aol.com; website: http:// www.franciscans.org.

Code #098.

Men’s communities

Franciscan Friars, Third Order Regular (T.O.R.)—Immaculate Conception Province Mission Statement: “Following Christ in the footsteps of Saint Francis, we are a fraternity of men who freely vow ourselves to living in communion as brothers. We strive to live the Gospel through gentleness, hospitality, and service. We seek to address the changing needs of the Church and the world by calling ourselves and others to prayer and conversion.” Our friars use their gifts to respond to the needs of the Church and world serving as parish priests, retreat directors, educators, chaplains, campus ministers, artists, advocates for ecological and social justice and pastoral ministers. The strength of our formation program is its flexible response to each person’s unique personality and gifts. Our friars serve in Pennsylvania, Washington, D.C., West Virginia, Virginia, Florida, Texas, Ohio and Minnesota. For more information contact: Fr. Davd Kaczmarek, T.O.R., 2400 Dike Rd., Winter Park, FL 32792; 1-800-220-0867; e-mail: davidktor@ yahoo.com; website: http://www.franciscanfriarstor.com. See our web ad at www.VocationGuide.org.

See ad on page 14. Code #295.

Franciscan Friars, Third Order Regular (T.O.R.)—Province of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus We are a religious community of priests and brothers who follow the crucified and risen Christ in the spirit of St. Francis. We are committed to a life transformed by prayer and service; to personal and communal conversion of heart, mind, and soul; and to bearing Christ to a broken world. Our priest and brother Friars serve as educators, parish ministers, promoters of church renewal, advocates of social justice, hospital chaplains, and foreign missionaries. We administer two institutions of higher learning: St. Francis University in Loretto, Pennsylvania and Franciscan University of Steubenville in Steubenville, Ohio. If you are between the ages of 20-35 and would like more information on the Franciscan Friars, T.O.R., please write, call, or visit our website at http:// www.franciscanstor.org. Province of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus, Vocation Office, P.O. Box 104, Loretto, PA 15940; (814) 693-2889; e-mail: vocations@franciscanstor.org.

See ad on page 99. Code #232.

Franciscan Friars of the Atonement (S.A.) The Franciscan Friars of the Atonement have long been leaders in the worldwide ecumenical movement to heal divisions within Christianity. In 1908 we began an annual prayer movement (January 18-25) that developed into the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity. Today, the Friars mission of “at-one-ment” includes dialogue among Christians, Jews, Muslims, and Buddhists; serving the homeless and those suffering from alcoholism, drug addictions, and HIV/AIDS; preaching the gospel in parishes around the world, and offering respite and hope to those in need of spiritual renewal. In the tradition of St. Francis of Assisi, we offer a prayerful communal life with active service to the Church in the United States, Canada, Japan, Italy, England and soon, Kenya, Africa. Inquire about our “Come and See” programs offered each year in March and October.

During Easter Week we offer a Vocation Discernment Retreat Week in Rome and Assisi, Italy for men who have previously attended a “Come and See” at Graymoor. We sponsor a College Age Discernment Program in conjunction with Stonehill College, Massachusetts. Contact Vocation Office, P.O. Box 300-Graymoor, Garrison, NY 10524; (800) 338-2620, ext.

2126; fax: 845-424-2170; e-mail: vocdirector@atonementfriars. org; website: http://www.atonementfriars.org. See our web ad at www.VocationGuide.org.

See ad on page 115. Code #003.

G

Glenmary Home Missioners (G.H.M.) Glenmary Home Missioners is a Catholic society of priests and brothers, who, along with coworkers, serve the spiritual and material needs of communities throughout Appalachia and the South. Glenmary brings a Catholic presence to counties where less than three percent of the population is Catholic, a significant percent of residents are unchurched and the poverty rate is twice the national average. For more information contact Brother David Henley, PO Box 465618, Cincinnati, OH 45246; 800-935-0975; vocation@glenmary.org; or visit our webpage www.glenmary. org. See our web ad at www.VocationGuide.org.

See ad on page 128. Code #103.

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Jesuits (S.J.) [Society of Jesus] United States Jesuit Conference: 1016 16th Street NW, Suite 400, Washington, D.C. 20036; (202) 462-0400; e-mail: usjc@jesuit.org; website: http://www.Jesuit.org. California: P.O. Box 519, Los Gatos, CA 95031-0519; (408) 884-1613; e-mail: formation@calprov.org; website: http://www.jesuitscalifornia.org. Chicago-Detroit: 2050 North Clark Street, Chicago, IL 60614-4788; (773) 9756363; e-mail: vocations@jesuits-chgdet.org; website: http:// www.thinkjesuit.org. Missouri: 4511 West Pine Boulevard, St. Louis, MO 63108-2191; (314) 361-7765; e-mail: vocation@ jesuits-mis.org; website: http://www.jesuitsmissouri.org. New Orleans: 710 Baronne St., Suite B, New Orleans, LA 70113; (504) 571-1055; e-mail: vocations@norprov.org; website: http://www.norprov.org/vocations/. New England/New York/ Maryland: 39 East 83rd Street, New York, NY 10028-0810; (212) 774-5500; e-mail: vocations@nysj.org; website: http:// www.jesuitvocation.org. Oregon: P.O. Box 86010, Portland, OR 97286-0010; (503) 226-6977; website: http://www.nwjesuits. org. Wisconsin: 3400 W. Wisconsin Ave., Milwaukee, WI 53208; (800) 537-3736 ext. 231 or (414) 937-6949 ext. 231; e-mail: vocations@jesuitswisprov.org; website: http://www. thinkjesuit.org. Upper Canada: 43 Queen’s Park Crescent East, Toronto, ON M5S 2C3; (416) 962-4500; e-mail: vocation@jesuits.ca; website: http://www.jesuits.ca.

Code #104.

Josephite Fathers and Brothers (S.S.J.) [The Society of St. Joseph of the Sacred Heart] We are involved in ministry within city and rural settings. Our involvement includes parish ministry, hospital, prison and first responder chaplaincies, campus ministry, and operating one high school, St. Augustine’s in New Orleans. Our Major Seminary in Washington, DC, where our seminarians reside as they pursue their graduate degree in theology, also houses The Josephite Pastoral Center that is dedicated to promoting religious education material that is centered in the African-American Community. Apostolic Work: The Josephite Society is dedicated to spiritual educational and social ministry to the African-American community and has worked exclusively in the African-American community since 1871. The Josephite Society affords its members the mutual support of community life in an active ministry. Currently serving in the Archdioceses of Baltimore, Galveston-Houston, Los Angeles, Mobile, New Orleans, Washington and in the Dioceses of Arlington (VA), Baton Rouge, Beaumont, Biloxi, Jackson (MS), and Lafayette. Rev. Peter C. Weiss, S.S.J. and Brother Louis, S.S.J. serve as Vocation Ministers. Josephite Vocation Department, 1200 Varnum Street, NE, Washington, DC 20017-2796; (202) 832-9100; e-mail: vocations@josephite. com; website: http://www.josephite.com.

See ad on page 52. Code #192.

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Little Brothers of the Good Shepherd (B.G.S.) Little Brothers of the Good Shepherd are ordinary men striving to follow the example of Jesus the Good Shepherd. We are called upon to be risk takers. . . to be ready and willing to risk all for the sake of the man, woman or child who is lost, abused, alone, frightened and bewildered in a world of high-tech productivity and fast paced living. Impelled by conviction and the spirit of “Charity Unlimited. . . Never Stop Loving,” to be available, hospitable, flexible, adaptable and respectful of life, we seek every opportunity to discover the presence of God in the simple movement of the very ordinary, through various forms of direct service to the homeless and the hungry, the elderly and the dying, the battered and the abused. We seek to provide hope to the hopeless, love to the loveless, a sense of dignified purpose to the aimless, and faith to the faithless. Vocation Director, e-mail: info@lbgs.org; website: http://www.lbgs.org. See our web ad at www.VocationGuide.org.

See ad on page 125. Code #344.

M

Marianists, Province of Meribah (S.M.) As Marianists, we dedicate our lives to Mary. We are honored to follow her example of humble service and faithful discipleship in every aspect of our life. We are a religious community of Brothers and Priests committed to living the challenge of the Gospel together in community. At the center of our lives are the two tables: the altar—the table of faith and sacrifice, and the dining table—the table of fraternity and fellowship. We have committed ourselves to the service of Christ and his Church through the apostolate of education. We form a new family, based on the Gospel of the Lord, in which we share in common prayer, friendship, possessions, work, successes, and difficulties. We aim to make family

spirit the distinctive mark of our communities, growing in the characteristics of Mary, particularly her faith, humility, simplicity, and hospitality. Vocation Director, Brother Michael Gillen, S.M., Kellenberg Memorial High School, 1400 Glenn Curtiss Blvd., Uniondale, NY 11553; (516) 292-0200 ext. 287; e-mail: bromichael@kellenberg.org; vocation blog: intothedeepblog. net; website: http://www.provinceofmeribah.org. See our web ad at www.VocationGuide.org.

See ad on page 48. Code #334.

Marianists, Society of Mary (S.M.) An international Roman Catholic religious congregation of priests and brothers. Almost 500 members serve in the Province of the United States, which includes India, Ireland, Mexico, Nepal, Puerto Rico, and the Philippines. In the U.S., the Marianists sponsor three universities—The University of Dayton in Ohio, St. Mary’s University in San Antonio, and Chaminade University in Honolulu—and numerous high schools, parishes, and retreat centers. Blessed William Joseph Chaminade founded the Society of Mary in France in 1817, and the Society has been present in the U.S. since 1849. Marianist brothers and priests live and minister together as equals, modeling their lives after Mary, the Mother of Jesus. As part of a wider Marianist Family that includes Marianist sisters and committed lay people, they are dedicated to forming persons and communities of faith through education, parish work, social service, the arts, and other ministries. Marianist National Vocation Office, 4425 W. Pine Blvd., St. Louis, MO 63108-2301; (314) 533-1207; website: http://www.marianist.com/vocations. See our web ad at www.VocationGuide.org.

Code #105.

Marist Brothers (F.M.S.) Founded in 1817 by St. Marcellin Champagnat, the Marist Brothers work to make Jesus Christ known and loved through the Christian education of young people, with special attention to the most neglected. St. Marcellin gave his community the name of Mary because he wanted them to live according to her spirit. Following the example of St. Marcellin, more than 3,700 Marist Brothers work with their lay colleagues and other members of the Marist family to put into practice their motto: All to Jesus through Mary; All to Mary for Jesus. Present in 78 countries, the Marist Brothers work in all levels of education and a variety of education-related ministries. Br. Michael Sheerin, F.M.S., Br. Dan O’Riordan, F.M.S., Marist Brothers Vocation Co-Directors, 1241 Kennedy Blvd., Bayonne, NJ 07002; (201) 823-1115; e-mail: vocations@ maristbr.com; website: www.maristbr.com.

See ad on page 95. Code #298.

Marist Fathers and Brothers (S.M.) [Society of Mary] Marists believe that they are called by Mary to live in her Society, a religious community of prayer, fellowship and Gospel ministry to the Church and the world. Marists carry out the Gospel ministry in schools, parishes, and chaplaincies in the USA and in other countries throughout the world, including foreign missions. The Marists accept candidates for the priesthood and brotherhood who are between the ages of 21 and 40 and offer discernment programs and Come and See days and weekends. For more information please contact the Vocation Office of the Marists at 2335 Warring St., Berkeley, CA 94704; toll free: (866) 298-3715 or (510) 486-1232 or (617) 262-2271 (the Boston area), or e-mail us at maristvocations@ sbcglobal.net or visit us on line at www.societyofmaryusa. org. See our web ad at www.VocationGuide.org.

See ad on page 36. Code #107.

Maryknoll Congregation and Society (M.M.) To mention Maryknoll is to mention Mission. Maryknoll is the popular name for the Catholic Foreign Mission Society of America, established by the U.S. Bishops in 1911 to represent the Church of the United States in the work of foreign missions. We are from the Church in the United States, but our principal work is overseas. Currently numbering some 480 priests and brothers working in some 28 countries in Africa, Asia, and Latin America, in solidarity with the poor in witnessing to the Kingdom of God. Contact: Fr. Jim Madden, M.M., Vocation Ministries, P.O. Box 305, Maryknoll, NY 10545-0305; (914) 941-7590, ext. 2416; e-mail: vocation@maryknoll.org; website: http://www.maryknollvocations.org. See our web ad at www.VocationGuide.org.

See ad on page 101. Code #199.

Missionaries of the Holy Family (M.S.F.) The Missionaries of the Holy Family were founded as a religious community in 1895 in Holland. Today, we minister throughout the world. We base our community life on the model of the Holy Family who

VISION 2012

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Search these Men’s Communities online at VocationNetwork.org lived simple lives in faithful response, love, and care to the mission of Jesus. Our founder taught us to seek out and encourage vocations. We strive to live a missionary spirit by bringing the Gospel message wherever it is not sufficiently proclaimed. Here in North America, we are involved as priests and brothers in parishes, schools, hospitals, and missions. Our work reflects the care and concern we have for family life. Vocation Director, 104 Cas Hills Dr., San Antonio, TX 78213; (888) 4 THY WILL; (888) 484-9945; e-mail: Vocations@MSF-America.org; website: http://www.MSF-America.org.

See ad on page 110. Code #129.

Missionaries of the Precious Blood (C.PP.S) We are a society of apostolic life, priests, brothers and lay associates sharing a common mission: to renew the Church through the ministry of the Word and the saving power of Christ’s most Precious Blood. Founded in 1815 by St. Gaspar del Bufalo, our congregation carries out a variety of ministries as pastors, teachers, chaplains, youth ministers, retreat directors, mission preachers and campus ministers, both in the U.S. and abroad. We reach out to those on the margins of society—and to each other as we build a community where members find peace and new energy.

Cincinnati Province (Eastern U.S., including Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, California as well as Chile, Peru, Guatemala, Colombia), (937) 228-6224; e-mail: vocation@cpps-preciousblood.org. On the web at www.cpps-preciousblood.org. Kansas City Province (Western U.S., including Missouri, Kansas, Iowa, Colorado, Illinois, Texas, California as well as Vietnam), (816) 781-4344; e-mail: voc.office@yahoo.com. On the web at www.kcprov.org.

See ad on page 109. Code #108.

Missionaries of the Sacred Hearts of Jesus and Mary (M.SS. CC.) We are a religious community of priests and brothers dedicating our lives to God through service to our brothers and sisters in the localities of Italy, Argentina, the United States, India, Slovakia, Nigeria and Indonesia. As missionaries, our outreach is to those in need, whatever those needs may be.

In the United States, we currently serve in parish ministry, schools, nursing homes, hospitals, retreat work, and spiritual direction. Our founder, Saint Gaetano Errico, calls us “to labor selflessly . . . to make known to all people the deep and tender love of the Sacred Hearts of Jesus and Mary and to kindle this love in the hearts of all . . .” Vocation Director, P.O. Box 189, Linwood, NJ 08221; (609) 927-5600; e-mail: mssccusa@aol. com; website: www.missionofsacredhearts.org. See our web ad at www.VocationGuide.org.

See ad on page 77. Code #133.

Missionary Oblates of Mary Immaculate (O.M.I.) Serving the poorest and most abandoned in over 70 countries, the Oblates are a Congregation of priests and brothers sent to preach the Good News. Called “specialists in difficult missions,” we are committed to carrying the Gospel to others in the spirit of St. Eugene de Mazenod. We fulfill our mission through living in community among those whose condition cries out for the salvation and hope which only Jesus Christ can fully bring. In our mission we are dedicated to Mary Immaculate who is our patroness and serves as our example of answering the call to bring Jesus to the world. You are invited to contact the vocation office. Oblate Vocation Office, 327 Oblate Drive, San Antonio, TX 78216-6602; English and en eapañol: 800.358.4394; e-mail: vocations@omiusa.org; website: http://omiusa.org.

See ad on page 112. Code #109.

Missionary Servants of the Most Holy Trinity (S.T.) We are religious priests and brothers dedicated for ministry to poor and forsaken persons in the U.S. and Latin America. We work

VISION 2012

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Saint Norbert was about 40 when he founded the NORBERTINE Community.

We consider men ages 21-50.

N

Norbertine Fathers and Brothers (O. Praem.) [Canons Regular of Premontre]—Daylesford Abbey Daylesford Abbey is a small Norbertine Community of thirty members. We follow the Rule of St. Augustine in trying to be “One mind and one heart” on the way to God. Our Mission is to enrich the Church by our Norbertine communio (community) nourished by contemplation on God’s word, made visible in worship and service within the local church. Our Abbey is a Liturgical and Spiritual Center nestled in a wooded area in Paoli, PA. Our Community gathers with the laity four times a day to celebrate the Eucharist and the Liturgy of the Hours. Our service include Sacramental Ministry in local parishes, Spiritual Direction, Chaplaincies, Outreach to the homeless and migrant workers.

We invite men ages 20-50 to contact us if you wish to discern a Norbertine vocation. For more information contact Fr. John Joseph Novielli, O. Praem., 220 South Valley Road, Paoli, PA 19301; (610)647-2530, ext. 127; fax (610)651-0219, e-mail: jnovielli@daylesford.org; website: http://www.daylesford.org.

See our web ad at www.VocationGuide.org.

See ad on page 143. Code #289.

Norbertine Fathers and Brothers (O. Praem.) [Canons Regular of Premontre]—St. Moses the Black Priory Have you thought that your life might be different, more meaningful and more directed toward God? Wondered how your own particular talents and gifts might be enhanced in service to the Church? Looking for ways to give witness to peace and justice? To reduce conflicts between and among all people?

Come, see the diversity of ministries available including parish ministry, college/university teaching, campus ministry, spiritual direction, and prison ministry. Begin your journey today. Come and see! Men with some college background are invited to the Norbertine Priory of St. Moses the Black, For more information, please contact: Vocation Coordinator, 7100 Midway Road, Raymond, MS 39154; (601) 857-0157 ext. 218; e-mail: norbertines-ms@hotmail.com; website: http://www. stmosestheblackpriory.org.

See ad on page 129. Code #110.

We’re ready when you are.

Contact us.

Fr. John Joseph Novielli, O.Praem.

Vocation Director, Daylesford Abbey 220 S. Valley Rd., Paoli, PA 19301 610-647-2530, ext. 127 jnovielli@daylesford.org

www.daylesford.org Enter #289 at VocationMatch.com is living the common life devoted to the sung choral office, Eucharist, and common table. From this common life flow various ministries including hospitality and retreats, parish ministry, education and administration at St. Norbert College and Notre Dame de la Baie Academy, and numerous other ministries as needed in the local church. Qualified candidates ordinarily have, or are in the process of completing, a college degree and are ready and willing to live unselfishly in a communal lifestyle.

Contact the Vocation Coordinator, 1016 N. Broadway, De Pere, WI 54115; (920) 337-4333; fax: (920) 337-4328; e-mail: vocations@norbertines.org; website: http://www.norbertines.org.

See ad on page 129. Code #110.

Norbertine Fathers and Brothers (O. Praem.) [Canons Regular of Premontre]—Sta. Maria de la Vid Priory The Priory was established in 1985 as a foundation house from St. Norbert Abbey, DePere, WI. Our goal is to become an abbey in New Mexico. Priests, brothers, and seminarians live together, nurtured by the Eucharist, Morning and Evening Prayer, and by our communal interaction. From the community base, we serve in parishes, hospitals, schools, and in a variety of different ways in the Archdiocese of Santa Fe. Our ministry is broadly multicultural particularly to Hispanics, Native Americans, and Anglos. On our 70-acre property we also offer a “place apart” to the spiritual seeker and retreatant in our hermitages and guest house. We invite men discerning a vocation to come as observers and live for a time the rhythm of our life. Vocation Coordinator, 5825 Coors Road, SW, Albuquerque, NM 87121-6700; (505) 873-4399; e-mail: vocations@norbertinecommunity.org; website: http://www.norbertinecommunity.org.

See ad on page 129. Code #110.

Oblates of St. Francis de Sales (O.S.F.S.) The Oblates of St. Francis de Sales are priests and brothers, dedicated to living Jesus’ gentleness and humility in the spirit of St. Francis de Sales. We believe that the Gospel message and teachings of the Catholic Church hold rich meaning and deep hope for all men and women. Living in community, we are parish priests, teachers and professors, campus ministers, missionaries, chaplains, social workers, and counselors. We serve throughout the United States, from California to Washington, D.C., from Canada to Florida. We invite you to join us in growing toward all that God has planned for you. For more information about the Oblates of St. Francis de Sales, please contact: Director of Vocations, 721 Lawrence Street, NE, Washington, DC 20017; (202) 269-9410 ext. 15; e-mail: dheet@oblates.org; website: http://www.oblates.org/vocations.

See ad on page 74. Code #285

Norbertine Fathers and Brothers (O. Praem.) [Canons Regular of Premontre]—St. Norbert Abbey The Norbertines of St. Norbert Abbey are dedicated to living a communal, activecontemplative lifestyle according to the Gospel of Jesus Christ following the Rule of St. Augustine. We profess Solemn Vows, committing ourselves to the apostolic life and a life of conversion. Our membership consists of 67 men living primarily at St. Norbert Abbey, and other houses in De Pere, WI, Albuquerque, NM, and Raymond, MS. As Canons Regular, our first ministry

Oblates of the Virgin Mary (O.M.V.) The Oblates of the Virgin Mary are a religious community of priests and brothers. Living the charism of their Founder, the Venerable Fr. Bruno Lanteri, they cultivate a deep personal relationship with Christ through His Word and in the Eucharist. The Oblates are consecrated to Mary and profess a strong adherence to the Magisterium and the Holy Father. Their apostolic goals include: the formation of the laity and the clergy, combating modern errors in faith and morals, upholding solid doctrine, giving

O

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Men’s communities

Missionaries of the Sacred Heart (M.S.C.) Making an impact in the world by Building a Civilization of Love. “The spirit of our Congregation is made of love and kindness, humility and simplicity; but above all, it is a spirit of love for justice and concern for the welfare of all, specially the poorest one.” (MSC Constitutions #13).

The MSC are active in 54 countries, most of which are poor and developing nations. The MSC USA Province serve parishes, hospitals, schools, prisons, and conduct special retreat programs to find healing, love, and joy. The MSC USA Province also supports activities and missions in Colombia (South America) and in countries in the South Pacific, South Asia, and Africa. May the Sacred Heart of Jesus be Loved Everywhere!

Contact: Fr. Andrew Torma, MSC, Vocation Director, 4821 S. Hermitage Ave., Chicago, IL 60609; (630) 862-0979; e-mail: vocation@misacor-usa.org; website: http://www.misacor-usa. org. See our web ad at www.VocationGuide.org.

Code #130.

hand in hand with other men and women to witness to the love of God. Our chief effort is to develop a missionary spirit in the laity, with the goal that every Catholic be an apostle. In the U.S., we serve in inner-cities and rural areas; we toil in immigrant communities, minister in prisons, and manage lay development centers. In every place we are, we always learn more deeply of God from the people with whom we serve. As Pope John Paul II says: “The Church needs your energies, your ideals, your enthusiasm to make the Gospel of Life penetrate the fabric of society.”

So we dare you to stand with us. . .in the Spirit and in Christ. . .to live in God’s service. For more information please contact: Vocation Office, 9001 New Hampshire Avenue, Silver Spring, MD 20903; (800) 298-5602; e-mail: vocations@trinitymissions. org; website: http://www.MissionaryServantsVocations.org. See our web ad at www.VocationGuide.org.

See ad on page 111. Code #284.

brothers

Brother to the rescue Brother Jason Ford, C.F.C. Growing up the son of a Boston firefighter, Christian Brother Jason Ford, C.F.C. dreamt of putting out fires and saving lives, just like his dad. Today Ford still hopes to save lives—but in a Photo courtesy of Edmund Rice Christian Brothers

different way. He wants to help educate young people and inspire leaders, just like his community’s founder Blessed Edmund Rice.

Why did you want to become ­ a brother?

The happiness of the brothers drew me to religious life. The brothers really seemed to like what they did and more important, they seemed to like living together. I found that very appealing.

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What is your current ministry?

Campus ministry coordinator and theology teacher at Archbishop Curley Notre Dame High School in Miami, Florida.

What do you like best ­ about community life?

I most enjoy our time together sharing meals, prayer, and Eucharist. I also enjoy just sitting around and talking about our day or other events in our lives. I live with a great diversity of men, and it is incredible to hear things from their perspectives.

What’s your favorite food?

Meals that someone else prepares! But if I had to pick one type of food it would

have to be a good, old-fashioned bacon cheeseburger with French fries.

What are some of your most

memorable ministry experiences?

Some of my coaching jobs have led me to great experiences with studentathletes. I also love being involved with a student leadership workshop that my congregation sponsors; it brings together young people from North America and Latin America.

What’s your favorite way to pray?

Praying with the gospel reading of the day. I take some time to read and reflect over the reading; then I see how it speaks to me.

VISION 2012

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Search these Men’s Communities online at VocationNetwork.org the Spiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius and parish missions, the diffusion of Catholic teaching through books and other means of communication, and foreign missionary activity. Preferred age: under 40. Education: college/higher education preferred.

Vocation Director, Fr. Jeremy Paulin, OMV, 1105 Boylston Street, Boston, MA 02215; (617) 869-2429; e-mail: vocations@ omvusa.org; website: http://www.omvusa.org.

Code #111 Order of the Blessed Virgin Mary of Mercy (O.deM.) [Mercedarian Friars] One of the ancient Orders of the Catholic Church, the Mercedarian Friars were founded in 1218. The Friars honor Mary, as the foundress and mother of the work of mercy begun by St Peter Nolasco—the redemption of Christians in danger of losing their faith. This work of mercy is conducted in parishes, where faith is attacked; in schools, where empty values threaten our youths; in institutions of health care or detention, where despair is present; and in foreign missions, where social conditions threaten one’s faith. Men, between the ages of 18-40, who desire to live a life centered in Mary and her Son, to pray the rosary daily in common, live in community with one’s “brothers” based upon the Rule of St. Augustine, have a deep love for the Magisterium and in preserving the Faith by catechesis, are invited to contact the Director of Vocations, Fr. Joseph Eddy, 6398 Drexel Rd, Philadelphia, PA 19151; (215) 879-0594; e-mail: vocations@orderofmercy.org; website: http://www.orderofmercy.org.

Code #216

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Pallottines (S.A.C.) [The Society of the Catholic Apostolate] Founded by St. Vincent Pallotti in 1835, serves as an active apostolic community within the mission of the Church of the United States. We are more than 2,400 priests and brothers engaged in many apostolates, which include parish ministry, education, prison ministry, retreat work, youth ministry, lay ministry formation, and hospital and military chaplaincies. Pope John Paul II spoke of the Pallottines as “...a bridge between the clergy and laity in order to give life again to that apostolate which unites the faithful to the work of evangelization and sanctification....” Consider this a personal invitation to take a serious look at becoming a Pallottine. If you have felt a ‘Yes’ within yourself to get more information, we invite you to contact either of our vocation offices: Immaculate Conception Province (Eastern United States): 1-800-APOSTLE; website: http://www.sacapostles.org; e-mail: Vocation@sacapostles.org; or mail Vocation Director, Pallottine Vocation Office, P.O. Box 5399, West Hyattsville, MD 20782.

Mother of God Province (Midwestern United States): (414) 259-0688 ext. 155; website: http://www.pallottines.org; e-mail: vocationspall@gmail.com; or mail Pallottine Vocation Director, 5424 W. Bluemound Road, Milwaukee, WI 53208.

See ad on page 19. Code #239.

Passionists (C.P.) Passionist priests and brothers take a unique vow to promote the memory of Christ’s passion and God’s redeeming love for us through their life of contemplation, community and ministry to the crucified of today. Founded by St. Paul of the Cross, Passionists reach out with compassion to those who suffer or are marginalized—the disabled, the sick, the dying, the impoverished, those who grieve or are alone—and offer opportunities for all to experience spiritual growth and healing. Prayer and a rich community life support the special Passionist charism. Ministries include preaching, retreat center programs, parish, radio and TV ministry, and chaplaincies. Both Provinces have members serving in other countries. Interested in male candidates, 18-40 years old. Western Province: Fr. Christopher Gibson, C.P.; (773) 266-1942; e-mail: vocationdirector@passionist.org; website: http://www.

VISION 2012

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The Paulist Fathers (C.S.P.) The Missionary Society of St. Paul the Apostle (The Paulists) founded by Servant of God, Isaac Hecker, is the first North American community of priests. Paulists minister through their mission of Reaching Out (Evangelization), Bringing Peace (Reconciliation), and Seeking Unity (Ecumenism and Interreligious Relations).

Paulists are in 18 cities in the United States and Canada. We serve as campus ministers and parish priests. We lead parish missions, and publish through Paulist Press. We proclaim the Good News through the Paulist Evangelization Ministries and work in media-related endeavors through Paulist Productions.

We find young adult seekers through BustedHalo.com. Training includes a year novitiate and graduate theological studies in Washington, DC. Contact: Fr. Dave Farnum, C.S.P., Director of Vocations, 415 West 59th Street, New York, NY 10019-1104; (800) 235-3456 or (212) 757-4260; e-mail: vocations@paulist. org; website: http://www.paulist.org/vocation. See our web ad at www.VocationGuide.org.

See ad on page 119. Code #114.

Piarists (Sch.P.) Founded by St. Joseph Calasanctius in 1617, Piarists profess a special fourth religious vow to educate youth, especially the poor. Our schools are concerned with both the spiritual and academic achievement of our students. Our motto, Pietas et Litterae, expresses both our work and charism. We are an International Order in 32 countries, and in the United States are represented in New York, Philadelphia, Washington, Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Puerto Rico, and Los Angeles, We have schools, parishes, Spanish ministries, foreign missions, a summer mission in Mexico, and a school and Appalachian Mission in eastern Kentucky. Rev. David Powers, Sch.P., Vocation Director, 99 Martha’s Vineyard, Prestonsburg, KY 41653; (610) 564-8893; e-mail: dariff@hotmail.com; website: http://www.piaristusa.org.

Code #195.

PIME Missionaries [The Pontifical Institute for Foreign Missions] PIME is an International Society of Apostolic Life of priests and brothers who dedicate their lives to the mission among non-Christians in foreign countries. We strive to be creative in our missionary presence, proclaiming the Gospel and promoting dialogue among religions and cultures. Working among the poorest people in the world, we are engaged in human development, promotion of peace and justice, and pastoral care of newly founded Catholic communities. The initial formation for candidates takes place in the North American region at our House in Detroit. Our formation and training program is flexible. We are able to adapt our program to meet the needs of each individual as much as possible, according to one’s academic background and life experiences. Check us out at www.pimeusa.org. PIME Missionaries, 17330 Quincy St., Detroit, MI 48221; (313) 342-4066; fax: (313) 342-6816; email: outreach@pimeusa.org; website: http://www.pimeusa.org.

See ad on page 107. Code #134.

Presentation Brothers (F.P.M.) How will I know for sure?

That’s the question we hear the most often from men discerning a vocation to religious life. Our job as Presentation Brothers is to help you figure out what it is that God is calling you to do with your life. We’ve got a bit of experience doing that—we are an international Roman Catholic Congregation of religious brothers working in several countries. We believe that Jesus Christ is calling us to serve Him and His people in a radical way. We live our baptismal promises through sharing all that we earn and by devoting our lives to the service of others. It’s a rewarding life and a challenging one and by living in community we support one another. Traditionally we have been teachers but our work extends further afield. Regardless of the work we do, it is all “Ad Majorem Dei Gloriam”—for the greater glory of God. Today we work in Ghana, Nigeria, West Indies (St. Lucia and Grenada), USA, Canada, Ireland, England, Slovakia, and Geneva. Vocation Director, 1602 Pettis Blvd., Kissimmee, FL 34741; (407) 846-2033; e-mail: sebow@juno. com; website: www.PresentationBrothers.org.

See ad on page 98. Code #115.

Priests of the Sacred Heart (S.C.J.) We are an apostolic international congregation of Brothers, Deacons, and Priests inspired by the mystery of God’s love expressed in the heart of Christ. Fr. Leo John Dehon, our founder, was convinced that the best way to respond to our experience of God’s love is by

Enter #116 at VocationMatch.com reaching out to those around us and helping them to experience that same love in their own lives. This often means addressing unjust situations and circumstances that prevent people from reaching their full potential. Much of our work in the U.S. is with the poor and working class. Foreign missions are available.

We prefer candidates 18-40 (will consider to age 45) with religious and/or social involvement, a solid academic background, and appropriate work history. Vocation Director, P.O. Box 206, Hales Corners, WI 53130-0206; toll free (800) 609-5559; fax: (414) 529-3377; website: http://www.scjvocation.org.

See ad on page 145. Code #116.

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The Redemptorists (C.Ss.R.) [Congregation of the Most Holy Redeemer] The Redemptorists are a community of apostolic men—followers of Jesus Christ the Redeemer and disciples of St. Alphonsus Liguori. As a religious congregation of priests and brothers, our mission is to proclaim the Good News of plentiful redemption to the poor and most abandoned. Our work in parishes, retreat houses, parish missions, and foreign countries, as well as special apostolates, e.g. migrants, prisoners, and young adults, serves as pathways for Christ’s love. Like the apostles we live and work together; we combine our prayers and deliberations, our labors and sufferings, our successes and failures, and our talents and material goods in service to the Gospel. For more information, visit our website: http://www.redemptoristvocations.com or contact the Vocation office: Fr. Richard S. Bennett, C. Ss.R.; e-mail: vocations@redemptorists.net; telephone: (617) 817-9425. See our web ad at www.VocationGuide.org.

See ad on page 9. Code #135.

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The Salesians of Don Bosco (S.D.B.) For over 150 years under the teachings of St. John Bosco, Salesian Brothers and Priests have been inspiring young people to live lives of faith.

We are looking for men who want to dedicate their whole life to Christ, the church, and the young. As a Salesian priest or brother you will evangelize and educate young people, and journey with them toward a deeper relationship with Christ.

Salesians serve in various capacities: youth ministers, teachers,

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Men’s communities

Order of the Sacred and Immaculate Hearts of Jesus and Mary We are a Eucharistic and contemplative community consisting of priests, brothers, and sisters, who wear a full habit, as well as lay “external” members, all of whom are consecrated to the Sacred Heart of Jesus and the Immaculate Heart of Mary.

Our daily schedule, besides Holy Mass, includes: 15 decade Rosary (20 on Thursday), Divine Mercy Chaplet, Liturgy of the Hours, and time for silent adoration, all before Our Lord Jesus, truly present in the Blessed Sacrament. After being filled with the love and mercy of Our Savior, we go forth to be His reflection to others through various corporal works of mercy.

Contact: Vocation Director, 48765 Annapolis Rd., Hopedale, OH 43976; (740) 946-9000; e-mail: twohearts1@mac.com; website: http://www.heartsofjesusandmary.org.

Code #271.

passionist.org. Eastern Province: Fr. William Maguire, C.P.; (860) 760-9756; e-mail: spoc-vocations@cpprov.org; website: http://www.thepassionists.org.

Code #113.

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coaches, technical instructors, guidance counselors, missionaries and friends to the young. We live in community, pray and work together in a common mission. Currently, 16,000 of us are serving young people in 131 countries. In the United States and Canada, the Salesians operate youth oriented parishes, high schools, boys and girls clubs, and retreat houses. Contact information: East of the Mississippi and Canada: Fr. Dominic Tran, S.D.B., Salesian Vocation Office, 315 Self Place, South Orange, NJ 07079; (973) 761-0201; e-mail: info@salesianvocation.com; salvoc@aol.com; Facebook: salesian.vocations; website: http://www.salesianvocation.com; West of the Mississippi: Fr. Chinh Nguyen, S.D.B., Vocation Office, P.O. Box 1639, Rosemead, CA 91770; (626) 688-2939; e-mail: info@ salesianvocation.org; website: http://www.salesianvocation.org.

See ad on page 127. Code #117.

Salvatorians (S.D.S.) [Society of the Divine Savior] The Salvatorians were founded to use “all ways and means which the Love of Christ inspires” to bring the Gospel to the world.

We are multi-cultural and fully embrace the Spirit of Vatican II with compassion for all. Our members collaborate closely with the Salvatorian Sisters, the Lay Salvatorians and the people we serve. We are involved in parishes, foreign missions, education, hospital and prison chaplaincies, youth ministry, counseling, campus ministry, communications and music, and specialized ministries. Our members serve in the Archdioceses of Milwaukee, Portland and Washington, and in the Dioceses of Bismarck, Birmingham, Green Bay, Harrisburg, LaCrosse, Nashville, Oakland, Orlando, Phoenix, St. Cloud, Sacramento, Savannah and Tucson. American Salvatorians are also serving in the Philippines; Rome, Italy; and Tanzania, East Africa. Contact us at vocations@salvatorians.com; (414) 258-1735 ext. 104; 1735 N. Hi-Mount Blvd., Milwaukee, WI 53208-1720; website: http:// www.salvatorians.com. See our web ad at www.VocationGuide. org and check out our FACEBOOK site at www.facebook.com/ salvatorians. See our web ad at www.VocationGuide.org.

See ad on page 73. Code #145.

Servants of Charity (S.C.) Our priests and brothers strive to imitate Jesus, the Good Samaritan, by bringing the Father’s healing love to the suffering in body and spirit. Founded by Blessed Louis Guanella in 1908, we are now represented in 19 countries. Our Province (United States, Philippines, and India) provides “Bread and Lord” especially to people with developmental disabilities as well as serving abandoned children, the elderly, children in need, and parishes. The Servants of Charity also have a ministry known as the Pious Union of St. Joseph, an association of the faithful praying for the suffering and dying. We seek men hungry to live a life of personal love of God expressed in prayer, community life, simplicity, hospitality, compassion toward the suffering, and in communion with the teaching and tradition of the Catholic Church in its entirety. We offer a life of “Prayer and Suffering” lived within a community of sinners who want to be saints. Fr. Dennis M. Weber, S.C., 1795 South Sproul Road, Springfield, PA 19064; (484) 474-2467; e-mail: fr.dweber@chs-adphila.org; website: http://www.servantsofcharity.org.

See ad on page 120. Code #118.

Servants of the Paraclete (s.P.) We are a religious congregation of priests and brothers who dedicate our lives to Christ by assisting fellow priests and brothers who are in need of psychological, spiritual, and vocational support. Founded in 1947 by Fr. Gerald Fitzgerald, s.P. our Congregation has helped more than 5,500 clergy through residential programs based on Eucharistic Adoration, psychological and spiritual counseling, fraternal life in common, and fidelity to the Church. Currently this ministry is being carried out in the USA and the Philippines. If you are interested in finding out more about the Servants of the Paraclete, please contact: Rev. Benedict Livingstone, s.P., e-mail: benedictl@yahoo.com; USA/Europe or Rev. Philip Taylor, s.P., e-mail: philiptsp2003@yahoo.com; S.E. Asia/ Africa; website: http://www.theservants.org. You will receive a warm welcome. Servants of the Paraclete, 6476 Eime Road, Dittmer, MO 63023. See our web ad at www.VocationGuide.org.

See ad on page 55. Code #300.

Society of African Missions (S.M.A.) We are an international community of 1,200 missionaries: priests, brothers, and laity.

Our ministry is among the different peoples of Africa and those of African descent. At this time there is not a program for brothers in the United States. We come from Africa, Argentina, Europe, India, the Philippines, and North America. With over 150 years of missionary service, we strive to witness by word and life to the gospel of Jesus Christ in its totality through a

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variety of ministries. These include parish, health care, education, street children, people with handicaps, refugee relief, and village development ministries. S.M.A. Vocation Director: Deacon Keith McKnight, S.M.A., 23 Bliss Avenue, Tenafly, NJ 07670; toll free, (888) 250-4333 or (201) 567-0277; e-mail: deaconkm@smafathers.org; website: http://www.smafathers. org. See our web ad at www.VocationGuide.org.

See ad on page 54. Code #136.

Society of Mary (S.M.) (See Marist Fathers and Brothers) Society of St. Paul The Society of St. Paul is an international congregation of priests and brothers founded by Blessed James Alberione for the sole purpose of bringing Christ to the world today through the means of communication. The priests and brothers share a common life style and profess the vows of poverty, chastity, obedience and fidelity to the Pope. Fortified by an intense spiritual life consisting of daily meditation, mass, recitation of the liturgy of the hours and one hour adoration before the Blessed Sacrament as well as personal prayer so that by living Christ in their lives they may give Christ to others through their apostolate. Paulines in imitation of St. Paul, who preached and wrote about Jesus Christ, are on fire to spread the good news of Jesus Christ in the most rapid and far reaching ways. Through books, magazines, tapes, videos, CD’s, radio, television and the Internet, Christ is preached to millions of people around the world. For information write or call: Society of St. Paul, Vocation Office, 2187 Victory Blvd., Staten Island, NY 10314; (718) 982-5709; e-mail: Vocation@ stpauls.us; website: http://www.vocationoffice.org.

Code #149.

Somascan Fathers and Brothers (C.R.S.) The Somascan Fathers and Brothers minister at the following facilities: Pine Haven Boys Center, a residential treatment center for disadvantaged boys ages 7-15 in Allenstown, NH; Assumption Catholic Church and Christ the King Catholic Church in Houston, TX. Both parishes have a strong presence of immigrants from Latin America. Also in Houston, Somascan Hall, the House of Formation next to the Christ the King Church. All vocation inquiries should be addressed to Fr. Italo Dell’Oro, CRS, Vocation Director: (713) 880-8243; e-mail: somascans@yahoo.com.

For more information please visit: http://www.somascans.org.

See ad on page 168. Code #120.

Spiritans (C.S.Sp.) [Congregation of the Holy Spirit] For over three centuries Spiritans have crisscrossed the globe— living particularly among people who are suffering, being a pastoral presence and advocate for justice, and teaching the message of the Gospel. In parishes, schools, and missions we go where there is a need, bearing God’s Spirit of joy and hope.

Today Spiritan Priests and Brothers are over 3,000 strong, an international congregation on an adventure of the Spirit. We are committed to the poor, dedicated to justice, and open to all cultures, and grounded in community and prayer. Vocation Office, Fr. Brandon Nguyen, C.S.Sp., 1700 W. Alabama St., Houston, TX 77098; (501) 908-6188; e-mail: vocations@duq. edu or brandon7cssp@aol.com; website: www.spiritans.org.

See our web ad at www.VocationGuide.org.

See ad on page 77. Code #164.

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Trappist Cistercian Monks (O.C.S.O.) Ava, MO—Assumption Abbey The monastery is located in the wooded hills and hollows of southwest Missouri. This location is ideal for prayer but makes it difficult for us to earn our living, so we have a fruitcake industry. Our call is to leave all and follow Christ on a desert journey in a community of brothers. Our guide is the Benedictine monastic way in the contemplative tradition of St. Bernard of Clairvaux and Thomas Merton. Our task is to glorify God and to build up the body of Christ by a life of intercessory prayer and sacrifice. We have room for brothers and priests, and are flexible regarding age and education. Br. Francis Flaherty, O.C.S.O., Assumption Abbey, RR5, Box 1056, Ava, MO 65608; (417) 683-5110; e-mail: avavocations@hughes.net; website: http://www.assumptionabbey.org.

See ad on page 147. Code #121.

Trappist Cistercian Monks (O.C.S.O.) Berryville, VA—Our Lady of the Holy Cross Our community is oriented by St. Benedict’s Rule for Monasteries, living a life of prayer, supported by the work of our hands, serving the community and our natural environment. We seek to know the Lord through hospitality, sacred reading and study, the celebration of the liturgy, and our communal life; we seek to spread the Gospel

through our contemplative life in the Diocese of Arlington.

We cultivate priestly ministry within our Cistercian tradition, in service to our monks and nuns; this formation begins after solemn profession. Catholic men over the age of 24 are invited to join us. A high school education is necessary and further education is welcomed but not required. Candidates may apply through the Vocation Page of our website: www.hcava.org. The Vocation Page connects you to the Vocation Director, Fr. James Orthmann by e-mail. See our web ad at www.VocationGuide.org See ad on page 51 Code #415.

Trappist Cistercian Monks (O.C.S.O.) Conyers, GA—Holy Spirit Monastery In the quiet of the Georgia Piedmont 40 of us share life in a contemplative community. Ages range from 25 to 100. We have joined our neighbors in “going green” by fostering stream restoration, an organic vegetable garden and a green cemetery, with more to come. We value kindness and compassion, the Eucharist, personal and communal prayer, friendship and forgiveness. Commitment, fidelity, and accountability are important to us, as are manual labor, hospitality, solitude and inner silence: a dynamic energy vibrating at the deepest level of soul. We honor the good in our society. But in our own way we challenge its illusions and unrealities, especially the cultural assumption that our identity and value depend on what we do, and on what others think of us. We work with hardships and challenges, knowing that these contribute to spiritual and emotional maturation. Experience reminds us of how good they are at leading or even pushing us beyond resistance to giving ourselves away, at ever deepening levels. Contact: Br. Michael, 2625 Hwy 212 SW, Conyers, GA 30096; (678) 964-2018; e-mail: michael@trappist.net; www.trappist.net/vocation. See our web ad at www.VocationGuide.org See ad on page 51. Code #415.

Trappist Cistercian Monks (O.C.S.O.) Huntsville, UT— Holy Trinity Abbey For 64 years we have upheld a strong Catholic witness in Utah. Through our life of personal prayer and prayer in community, we deepen our relationship with God and with one another. Seven times a day, our community of 15 senior monks chants the hours of the Divine Office. Unpretentious Quonset buildings reflect the simplicity of our lifestyle.

Our monastery is located on 720 acres of fertile farmland in a peaceful mountain valley. We maintain a retreat house and a bookstore that attracts visitors of all faiths. Minimum age of entrance: 25. Good physical and emotional health required, and a desire to seek God alone. Contact: Fr. Charles Cummings, 1250 S 9500 E, Huntsville, UT 84317; phone: (801) 745-3784; e-mail: hta@xmission.com; website: www.holytrinityabbey.org.

See our web ad at www.VocationGuide.org See ad on page 51. Code #415.

Trappist Cistercian Monks (O.C.S.O.) Lafayette, OR—Our Lady of Guadalupe Trappist Abbey We, the monastic community of Our Lady of Guadalupe, are located in Oregon’s lush Willamette Valley. Presently, our community is comprised of 29 monks whose life experience expands over three generations. We are contemplative monks who, following the Rule of St. Benedict, live by the work of our own hands. Because of our contemplative nature, all four of our industries, bookbindery, bakery, wine warehouse, and forestry, lie within the enclosure. It is important to us that we should be self-supporting, but our work does not dominate our life, rather it is our prayer that takes precedence.

Our prayer consists of chanting the Divine Office, daily Eucharist, private prayer, and lectio divina. For young men interested in vocational discernment, we do offer Monastic Life Retreats every other month. Br. Chris Balent, P.O. Box 97, Lafayette, OR 97127; e-mail: Chris@TrappistAbbey.org; website: http://www. trappistabbey.org/. See our web ad at www.VocationGuide.org See ad on page 51. Code #415.

Trappist Cistercian Monks (O.C.S.O.) Moncks Corner, SC—Mepkin Abbey We, the monks of Mepkin Abbey, are responding to God’s call to live in solitude and silence in and for the Church according to an ancient form of radical Christian discipleship focused on seeking and finding God in community where we “are of one heart and soul and everything is held in common” (Acts 4: 32-33). We live the Rule of Saint Benedict embodied in the Cistercian tradition, praising God in our prayer, our meditative reading of Scripture, our work, and our hospitality, obeying the call of the Holy Spirit to ceaseless prayer and sharing the sufferings of the present time until the Lord returns (Rm 8:18-23). All Cistercians of the Strict Observance (Trappists) bear witness to this contemplative monastic tradition in a particular place and time by living our vows of stability, obedience and “conversatio morum” (conversion of life)

VISION 2012

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Search these Men’s Communities online at VocationNetwork.org in the rhythm of praying the liturgy of the hours and our manual labor—striving always for deeper union with God. If you believe God may be calling you to live this way of life with us at Mepkin, kindly contact our vocation director. Fr. Kevin, O.C.S.O., 1098 Mepkin Abbey Rd., Moncks Corner, SC 29461; (843) 761-8509; e-mail: frkevin@mepkinabbey.org: website: www.mepkinabbey. org. See our web ad at www.VocationGuide.org See ad on page 51. Code #415.

Trappist Cistercian Monks (O.C.S.O.) Piffard, NY—Abbey of Genesee We are a Roman Catholic community of contemplative monks belonging to the Cistercian Order of the Strict Observance, commonly known as Trappists. Our community is dedicated to the worship of God in a hidden life within the monastery following the Rule of St. Benedict, leading a life of solitude and silence, prayer and penance, in a joyful spirit of faith. It supports itself by the common work of baking Monks’ Bread. In addition, the brothers help out with cooking, laundry, cleaning, care of the grounds and woods, hospitality, formation of new members, and care of the sick and elderly of the community. Guests are received for quiet, private retreats at the retreat house. The monastic day begins with vigils at 2:25 a.m. and ends with compline at 6:40 p.m. Throughout the day there is a good balance between prayer, reading, and work, all lived in fraternal love and support. Contact: Br. M. Anthony Weber, Vocation Director, Abbey of the Genesee, Piffard, NY 14533; (585) 243-0660 ext. 19; e-mail: AnthonyWeber@ GeneseeAbbey.org; website: www.GeneseeAbbey.org. See our web ad at www.VocationGuide.org See ad on page 51. Code #415.

Trappist Cistercian Monks (O.C.S.O.) Snowmass, CO—St. Benedict’s Monastery St. Benedict’s Monastery, located in a spectacular valley high in the Colorado Rockies near the small town of Snowmass, belongs to the Order of Cistercians of the Strict Observance (OCSO/Trappist). Prayer is our apostolate, and a contemplative approach to both communal and personal prayer and to our daily tasks characterizes our life. Our daily life is grounded in a schedule of liturgy when, five times a day, we come together for prayer, including daily Mass. We support ourselves by work which includes our ranch and a small cookie business. In accord with our Order’s constitution, we live a life that is ordinary, obscure, and laborious. In other words, a hidden life of prayer in and through the Church for all humankind.

We accept applications from men between 22 and 50. For more information visit our website at www.snowmass.org. Contact Fr. Micah, our vocation director at mikamonk@rof.net or (970) 920-5990, ext. 29. See our web ad at www.VocationGuide.org.

See ad on page 51. Code #415.

Trappist Cistercian Monks (O.C.S.O.) Spencer, MA—St. Joseph’s Abbey We are a monastic Order wholly directed to contemplation. We dedicate our lives within the enclosure of the monastery to the praise and worship of God in a hidden way of life. Our day is a balance of liturgical prayer; private, personal prayer; lectio divina (prayerful reading of Scripture) and work. By fidelity to our contemplative monastic way of life with its own hidden mode of apostolic fruitfulness, in silence and solitude, in prayer and penitence, we seek to perform a service for God’s people and the whole human race. The Lord Jesus is our Strength and the Heart of our desire. We are located in central Massachusetts at 167 North Spencer Road, Spencer, MA 01562. Please visit us at www.spencerabbey.org. Vocational inquiries made at: vocation@spencerabbey.org. Typically our candidates are men between the ages of 25 and 45. See our web ad at www.VocationGuide.org.

See ad on page 51. Code #415.

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Trappist Cistercian Monks (O.C.S.O.) Vina, CA—Abbey of New Clairvaux Our Order of the Cistercians of the Strict Observance (Trappist) follows the Rule of Saint Benedict. It is wholly directed to contemplation through Liturgy, Manual Labor and Lectio Divina. As monks, we strive to seek God, according to the nine-hundred year old Cistercian Monastic tradition.

The rhythm of our life helps us to be aware of God throughout the day. By means of obedience, simplicity, solitude and silence, we grow in purity of heart in the School of Charity. Through manual labor we share in God’s creativity, exercising love for each brother, are in solidarity with all people, and cultivate good stewardship of the land. Men between 22 and 40 may apply. For information contact Br. Placid, Vocation Director; Abbey of New Clairvaux, 26240 7th Street, Vina, CA 96092; (530) 839-2161; e-mail: godseeking@newclairvaux.org ; website: http://www. newclairvaux.org. See our web ad at www.VocationGuide.org See ad on page 51. Code #415.

Trinitarians (O.SS.T.) Founded in 1198 through the vision of St. John DeMatha, the Trinitarian priests and brothers bring the redemptive love of Jesus to those they serve. The earliest Trinitarians, through every possible means available, sought freedom for those held captive for their faith. Through their work for the poor, those who suffer religious persecution, and in parishes, schools, missions, prisons, and hospitals, they strive for the freedom of all people. Trinitarians live in small, intimate communities and enjoy common prayer. Their purpose in loving is freedom and dignity. They number 75 members in the United States and more than 700 worldwide. Candidates, ages 18-40, with a minimum of a high school diploma, are considered. Vocation Director, P.O. Box 5719, Baltimore, MD 21282-0719; (800) 525-3554 or (410) 484-2250; e-mail: vocations@trinitarians.org; website: http://www.trinitarians.org. See our web ad at www.VocationGuide.org.

Code #122.

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Viatorians (Clerics of St. Viator) Viatorians are religious priests, brothers, and lay associates sent by the Catholic Church to teach the faith and proclaim Jesus Christ as Gospel. In parishes, schools, and a variety of ministries, Viatorians work with Christian communities to live, deepen, and celebrate faith. A priest of the Archdiocese of Lyons, France, Father Louis Querbes founded the Viatorians in 1831 as an association of lay and religious school teachers to catechize and serve as animators of the liturgy in rural French parishes. As patron saint of the congregation, Father Querbes chose Saint Viator, a young fourth century catechist-lector of the cathedral church of Lyons. Today approximately 600 religious and nearly 300 lay men and women serve the church in 16 countries. Viatorians of the Province of Chicago minister primarily in Illinois and Nevada in the United States, in Colombia, South America and in Belize, Central America. Contact: Vocation Ministry, 1212 East Euclid Avenue, Arlington Heights, IL 60004; e-mail: vocations@viatorians.com; website: http://www.viatorians.com.

See ad on page 75. Code #094.

Vincentian Priests and Brothers [Congregation of the Mission (V.C.)] Confronted by the sickness of France in the 1600’s and their spiritual weariness caused by an uneducated clergy in that same period, St. Vincent de Paul committed his life to championing the needs of the poor. Almost 400 years after founding the Vincentians in 1625, his community of priests and brothers continue to spread God’s message of hope to the poor, and to train priests and laity in service to the poor in 53 international provinces on five continents. If you have a desire to be a missionary at home and/or abroad, we urge you to experience

avavocations@hughes.net Enter #121 at VocationMatch.com the Vincentian challenge! Contact us: 1-800-DePaul-1; website: http://www.vincentian.org. Why not you? Why not now?

See ad on page 113. Code #178.

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Xaverian Brothers (C.F.X.) [Congregation of the Brothers of St. Francis Xavier] The Xaverian Brothers are vowed laymen dedicated to following Jesus through lives of prayer, community, and service. Inspired by the vision of Theodore James Ryken, our Founder, and by the zeal of Francis Xavier, we strive to live lives rooted in the Good News of God’s saving love for all people.

Blending a life of contemplation and action, we are attentive to the call of God’s Spirit to be BROTHERS to the poor and marginalized people in North and South America, Europe, and Africa.

Volunteers also share in the life and works of the Brothers in these regions. Vocation/Volunteer Minister: Br. Jim Connolly, C.F.X., 4409 Frederick Ave., Baltimore, MD 21229; e-mail: jconnolly@ xaverianbrothers.org; website: http://www.xaverianbrothers.org.

See ad on page 71. Code #198.

Xaverian Missionaries (S.X.) Serving in 18 countries around the world, the Xaverian Missionaries are an international, multicultural community of over 1,000 priests, brothers, and sisters. In the spirit of our founder Saint Guido M. Conforti we commit ourselves to live and witness to the Good News of Jesus—the greatest gift we can share with the world—in poverty, chastity, and obedience. We fulfill this mission in and through community. Moved by our passion for Christ and for humanity our mission is directed to non-Christians and among them we choose to work with the poor. It is our desire that our lives and our ministries may always reflect the love of Christ. Through empowerment of local communities, education, inter-religious dialogue, health care, social development, justice and peace, we facilitate the transformation of our world into the “ONE FAMILY” our Founder dreamed. Contact: Fr. Joe Matteucig, sx, 101 Summer Street, Holliston, MA 01746; (508) 429-2144; e-mail: holliston@xaviermissionaries.org; website: http://www. xaviermissionaries.org; blog: http://www.xaverianmissionaries. blogspot.com/. See our web ad at www.VocationGuide.org.

See ad on page 123. Code #137.

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Trappist Cistercian Monks (O.C.S.O.) Peosta, IA—Abbey of New Melleray Founded in 1849 by Mount Melleray in Ireland, our community is located in the heartland of Northeastern Iowa, twelve miles from Dubuque. As a contemplative monastery wholly ordered to a life of prayer according to the Rule of St. Benedict, we are members of the Cistercian Order of the Strict observance founded in 1098 at Citeaux in France.

We support our way of life by carpentry—Trappist Caskets— supplemented by income from our 1,900 acre farm, our 1,300 acre forest, and a Guest House for 22 retreatants or visitors. The entire Liturgy of the Hours and the Eucharist are celebrated in choir every day. For additional information contact Fr. Stephen Verbest, Vocation Director, 6632 Melleray Circle, Peosta, IA 52068; e-mail: frsteve@newmelleray.org or call (563) 588-2319 ext. 138; website: http://www.newmelleray.org/. See our web ad at www.VocationGuide.org.

See ad on page 51. Code #415.

Trappist Cistercian Monks (O.C.S.O.) Trappist, KY—Abbey of Gethsemani Our monastery is a school of the Lord’s service, a training ground for brotherly love. The monk expresses this love by his desire to share life together at the heart of the Church and to grow into Christ through prayer, work, and sacred reading every day. Located in the knob country of central Kentucky, we Trappists have lived, prayed, and worked in this house of the Lord for over 160 years. Our mission is the praise of God’s goodness and the proclamation of the Kingdom’s nearness. The vows of obedience, stability, and conversion of manners provide our structure, support, and encouragement to persevere in the journey, in the work, in the search. Men between the ages of 22 and 55 may apply. For more information contact Bro. Luke, Abbey of Gethsemani, 3642 Monks Rd, Trappist KY 40051; (502) 549-4103; e-mail: abbey@monks.org; website: www.monks.org.

See our web ad at www.VocationGuide.org.

See ad on page 51. Code #415.

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Adorers of the Blood of Christ (A.S.C.) The Adorers of the Blood of Christ are courageous, confident, and committed women and we invite you to join us. As adorerapostles we are called to engage in the ongoing process of transforming the world into “that beautiful order of things which the great Son of God came to establish in His blood,” as our foundress, St. Maria De Mattias, put it. The Adorers of the Blood of Christ are consecrated to Jesus’ redeeming love, and we strive to be His reconciling presence in our wounded world. We are a community of 290 religious women throughout the United States performing the healing ministries of education, environmental work, health care, pastoral work, social justice, and spiritual development. We also have missions in Bolivia, Brazil, Guatemala and Korea. Our international congregation serves in 24 countries on all the inhabited continents. Are you a courageous, confident, committed woman? You can make a difference as an Adorer of the Blood of Christ. For more information, log onto www. adorers.org or contact Sr. Jan Lane at 1-877-236-7377 ext. 1455 (ADORERS) or lanej@adorers.org See our web ad at www.VocationGuide.org.

See ad on page 22. Code #001.

Apostles of the Sacred Heart of Jesus (A.S.C.J.) The Apostles of the Sacred Heart of Jesus were founded in Viareggio, Italy, in 1894 by Clelia Merloni. Clelia propelled the life of the Apostles into the heart of the Church by dedicating the Congregation to the loving Heart of Jesus. The motto of the Apostles of the Sacred Heart of Jesus: The Love of Christ Impels us, summarizes the moving force of their lives. Apostles spread devotion to the Sacred Heart by lives of compassion and holiness. As consecrated women of the Church, they imitate the life of Christ in the world today through education, health care, pastoral ministry, social services, human development, and missionary activity. An international Congregation, they serve in Italy, Albania, Switzerland, Chile, Mexico, Benin, Mozambique, Taiwan, Brazil, Argentina, Uruguay, Paraguay, the Philippines, and the United States.

Sr. Colleen Smith, Mount Sacred Heart Provincialate, 295 Benham Street, Hamden, CT 06514-2801; (203) 988-4742; e-mail: vocations@ascjus.org; Congregation website: http://www.ascjus.org.

See ad on page 130. Code #267.

Augustinian Nuns (O.S.A.) “You have made us for yourself, O Lord, and our hearts are restless, until they rest in you.” These words of Saint Augustine speak to the heart of human experience as profoundly today as they did in the Third century. We are a contemplative monastic community of women who follow the tradition and Rule of Saint Augustine. Through our life in community and our ministry of prayer we give witness to the presence and love of God in our world. Our work is carried out within the monastery and through our prayer we embrace the world and Church universal. A hunger for God, a passion for life, a compassionate love for our sisters and brothers, and the capacity for joy and an appreciation of beauty are all traits of an Augustinian spirituality. If you are a single women drawn to give yourself to God in a life of prayer we invite you to contact us: Sr. Mary Grace, O.S.A., Mother of Good Counsel Monastery, 440 N. Marley Road, New Lenox, IL 60451; (815) 463-9662; e-mail: sr.marygrace@sbcglobal.net; website: http://www. lampsalight.org.

Code #161.

B

Benedictine Sisters/A.B.F.C. (American Benedictine Formation Conference) Each monastic community, though observing the Rule of Benedict, is independent and self-governing. Community is the central ministry of Benedictine monasteries. We share our lives, our prayer, and our work as a way of blessing the world. This com-

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mon life is meant to be a sign that “strangers can live together in love (AIM).” Our monastic profession of obedience, stability, and fidelity to the monastic way of life, binds us to God, to the Church, and to one another.

A balanced, contemplative life, Benedictine spirituality yields meaningful ministry that addresses the needs of the modern world, e.g. education, health care, pastoral ministry, social work, spiritual direction, missionary activity. Each monastery is unique in size, geographic location, and in the distribution of God’s gifts. Common to us all, is the pursuit of peace and the search for God. Website: http://www.abfconline.org/sisters. See our web ad at www.VocationGuide.org.

See ad on page 57. Code #004.

Benedictine Camaldolese Sisters (O.S.B., Cam.), Windsor, NY—Transfiguration Monastery We are a contemplative monastery of the international Camaldolese Benedictine congregation. The Camaldolese charism provides for seeking God in both community and solitude, while allowing more outreach and a less restricted enclosure than is usually possible for contemplative nuns. Our small number (currently four) permits flexibility, creativity, abundant use of individual gifts and the opportunity to help build a monastic foundation. For example, thanks to the gardening skills of our novice, we are enjoying home-grown organic vegetables. Our monastery honors intellectual development and culture, as well as tradition, along with an openness to the contemporary world. We pray the Divine Office four times a day in English Gregorian chant, with some Latin antiphons and responsories. A retired diocesan priest serves as our on-site chaplain and says daily Mass at the monastery.

We accept mature vocations. For more information, or to arrange for a discernment retreat, contact: Sr. Mary Donald Corcoran, Prioress, 701 New York Rte 79, Windsor, NY 13865, (607) 655-2366; e-mail: bendon@tds.net; website: www.transfigurationmonastery.org. See our web ad at www.VocationGuide.org.

See ad on page 57. Code #004.

Benedictine Sisters (O.S.B.), Atchison, KS—Mount St. Scholastica We are a monastic community rooted in the common life, prayer, and ministry to God’s people. Priority is given to times of common prayer throughout the day as we gather for Liturgy of the Hours. Flowing out of our monastic living, our ministries focus on empowering women, particularly the young, the poor, and those most in need. Our ministries include a spirituality center, a music conservatory, and a women’s center in Atchison and Kansas City. Our Sisters also work in the area of counseling, health care, parish ministry, and education at all levels. We invite women, ages 21-50, who wish to visit or inquire for more information to contact: Sr. Barbara Smith, O.S.B., 801 South 8th Street, Atchison, KS 660022778; (913) 360-6219; e-mail: vocation@mountosb.org; website: http://www.mountosb.org. See our web ad at www.VocationGuide.org.

See ad on page 57. Code #004.

Benedictine Sisters (O.S.B.), Beech Grove, IN—Our Lady of Grace Monastery We are monastic women who choose to seek God in community. If you feel you have a religious vocation to serve the people of God in community, call us at (317) 787-3287, ext. 3032. As Sisters of St. Benedict, we follow a monastic way of life.

Prayer and community come first in our lives. We live the Benedictine tradition of seeking God through prayer, work, and hospitality. We are engaged in the work of God through various ministries. We also serve one another by living in a community characterized by warmth, honesty, vitality, and joy. We welcome single, Catholic women, ages 20-45, who are experiencing a call from God; who desire to live the Gospel; and who have a capacity to be generous and compassionate. Find us at www.benedictine.com and Facebook - Sisters of St. Benedict - Our Lady

of Grace Monastery and at www.benedictinesbeechgrove. blogspot.com. Vocation Director: Sr. Jennifer Mechtild Horner, OSB, 1402 Southern Avenue, Beech Grove, IN 46107; e-mail: vocations@benedictine.com. See our web ad at www.VocationGuide.org.

See ad on page 57. Code #362.

Benedictine Sisters (O.S.B.), Bismarck, ND—Annunciation Monastery We are a community of 56 monastic women who seek God and care for God’s people. Our monastery is nestled atop a bluff overlooking the scenic Missouri River. We value common prayer, the Eucharist, and time alone with God. We value community life and care for and support one another. Women of faith, we make a vital impact on the lives of others through our ministries and prayer. As individuals we do whatever work best suits our talents; most of us are involved in our sponsored ministries of St. Alexius Medical Center, University of Mary, and our Benedictine hospitality center. We are vibrant, creative leaders in our area. We invite you to explore joining us in an incredible journey. Sr. Gerard Wald, O.S.B., 7520 University Drive, Bismarck, ND 58504-9653; (701) 255-1520; e-mail: vocations@annunciationmonastery.org; website: http:// www.annunciationmonastery.org. See our web ad at www.

VocationGuide.org.

See ads on pages 57, 122. Code #358.

Benedictine Sisters (O.S.B.), Boerne, TX—St. Scholastica Monastery We are a congregation of 18 Sisters who are called to seek God in prayer and community.

We do so by living and working together and following the Rule of St. Benedict. We gather together three times a day for communal prayer. We sponsor two ministries: Omega Retreat Center and our Health and Wholeness Center which is a senior activity center. We ministry on the border of Texas and Mexico where we are able to serve those in need on both sides of the border and provide hospitality and educational opportunities to various mission groups. Sisters serve in various ministries: spiritual direction, retreat and parish work, pastoral care, education, corporate responsibility, health care, outreach to those in need, and internal ministries. Vocation Director, Sr. Kathleen Higgins, O.S.B., 416 W. Highland Dr., Boerne, TX 78006; (830) 816-8504; e-mail: higginsosb@ gvtc.com; website: http://www.boernebenedictines.com.

See our web ad at www.VocationGuide.org.

See ad on page 57. Code #004.

Benedictine Sisters (O.S.B.), Bristow, VA—St. Benedict Monastery The Benedictine Sisters of Virginia are a community of 31 women living the monastic way of life. Each sister seeks God and in the process finds herself, discovers her gifts, deepens her prayer, forms community, serves God’s people, and makes a lifetime commitment. Benedictine spirituality forms a rich tapestry of community, prayer, and ministry. We have several corporate ministries that address a variety of needs in the local church and community: education, homelessness, retreats and pastoral programs, counseling, adult literacy and hospitality. Individual sisters engage in ministries which are expressive of their gifts. St. Benedict Monastery is located 35 miles west of Washington, D.C., near Manassas, Virginia. We invite women interested in exploring our life to visit us, attend a Monastic Discernment Weekend, or to apply for the Live-In Program. Contact: Sr. Vicki Ix, O.S.B., Saint Benedict Monastery, 9535 Linton Hall Road, Bristow, VA 20136-1217; (703) 298-5337; e-mail: vocations@osbva.org; website: http://www.osbva.org; vocation blog: http://www.monasticsonajourney.blogspot.com. See our web ads at www.VocationGuide.org.

See ad on page 57. Code #321.

Benedictine Sisters (O.S.B.), Canyon, TX—St. Benedict Monastery, We are a small monastic community committed to living the Gospels according to the Rule of

VISION 2012

For more features go to VocationNetwork.org

Search these Women’s Communities online at VocationNetwork.org Benedict. Our primary ministry is the monastic life itself rooted in the common life, the Liturgy of the Hours and Scripture, along with work and hospitality. As Benedictines we are contemplative, but not cloistered; we go out from the monastery as needed. We are located in the Texas Panhandle and support ourselves by hosting retreats and operating a gift shop and candy venture. We welcome women who feel called to the monastic life—regardless of age—to discern their call with us. To learn more about us visit our website: www.osbcanyontx.org; e-mail our vocation director, Sister Marcella Schmalz, at marcellamary@osbcanyontx.org, or call (806) 655-9317 or write St. Benedict Monastery, 17825 S. Western Street, Canyon, TX 79015. See our web ad at www.VocationGuide.org.

See ad on page 57. Code #004.

Benedictine Sisters (O.S.B.), Colorado Springs, CO— Benet Hill We are a monastic community of 40 members committed to Gospel as lived out in the Rule of St. Benedict which emphasizes seeking God. We strive to seek God through community in hospitality, praise of God in liturgy, and daily communal prayer, and serve God’s people in ministry according to each Sister’s giftedness to meet the needs of the church and society in a changing culture, especially the needs of women. Commitment to justice issues, global concerns, peace and nonviolence calls us to work in a variety of ministries such as scripture studies, spiritual direction, retreats, work with the elderly, the young, the sick, the poor and the marginalized. We currently serve in Colorado, New Mexico, and Jamaica. We invite women over the age of 21 to consider exploring our Benedictine way of life as you discern your call from God to follow the gospel. Contact us for more information on criteria for entrance. Sr. Mary Colleen Schwarz, O.S.B.; 3190 Benet Lane, Colorado Springs, CO 80921; (719) 633-0655; e-mail: Vocation@benethillmonastery.org; or Sr. Clare Carr, O.S.B., (303) 756-7349; e-mail: ccarr10@ hotmail.com; website: http://www.benethillmonastery. org. See our web ad at www.VocationGuide.org.

See ads on pages 15, 57. Code #270.

Benedictine Sisters (O.S.B.), Cottonwood, ID—Monastery of St. Gertrude A place to satisfy your longing for God. Come listen with us. Monastic life is about seeking God in prayer, community, and service. We embrace a life that is both contemplative and active, grounded in prayer, going forth in service. We are part of a 1500 year old Benedictine tradition, following Christ in community life, prayer and work. Ours is a way of life that leads to the transformation of ourselves and our world. We are located in the beauty of rural north Idaho. We are a progressive community of 56 members ministering at the monastery and beyond. We have a special connection to the land and ecology, a dedication to sharing our spirituality in a world

VISION 2012

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Benedictine Sisters (O.S.B.), Covington, KY—St. Walburg Monastery We are a Benedictine community of monastic women who seek God together in prayer, common life, and work. The Eucharist, Liturgy of the Hours, personal prayer and study are the foundation of our spirituality. Our common search for God enables us to celebrate the presence of Jesus Christ in all of creation.

In the Benedictine monastic tradition, the needs of God’s people have called us to serve in the areas of education, health care, social service, Diocesan and Parish ministries, ecology, criminal and social justice. We sponsor Villa Madonna Academy and Montessori school and a Spirituality Center. Women who want to strengthen their faith while discerning a call to serve God are welcome to come and experience the Benedictine way of life. Contact: Sr. Cathy Bauer, O.S.B., 2500 Amsterdam Road, Covington, Kentucky 41017; (859) 331-6324; e-mail: vocation@ stwalburg.org; website: http://www.stwalburg.org. See our web ad at www.VocationGuide.org.

See ad on page 57. Code #004.

Benedictine Sisters (O.S.B.), Crookston, MN—Mount St. Benedict Monastery We are monastic women committed to living the Gospel and the Rule of Saint Benedict.

We strive for awareness of God through prayer, service, and reverence for all creation in a spirit of peace and joy.

Our core values are community, hospitality, prayer, and just peace. We discern our works according to the needs of the times and the gifts of the sisters. At present we serve in Minnesota and Texas as educators, spiritual directors, pastoral ministers, health care providers, musicians, and artists. Some sisters work directly with the poor. We invite women, single or single-again, ages 20-50, who desire a monastic lifestyle to contact our Vocation Director, Sr. Anne DeMers, O.S.B., 620 Summit Avenue, Crookston, MN 56716-2799; (218) 281-3441; e-mail: anne.demers@ bhshealth.org; website: http://www.msb.net. See our web ad at www.VocationGuide.org.

See ads on pages 20, 57. Code #221.

Benedictine Sisters (O.S.B.), Cullman, AL—Sacred Heart Monastery The Benedictine Sisters of Cullman, Alabama embody the spiritual wisdom and monastic tradition of St. Benedict through lives of prayer and ministry.

We strive to deepen our relationships with God, with one another, and with all of creation through ageless monastic disciplines such as humility, silence, community living, and obedience. Inspired by the Gospel and the Rule of St. Benedict, each Sister utilizes her God-given talents in roles such as ministers in local parishes, as retreat and spiritual directors, as teachers and administrators in Catholic schools, in legal and medical professions, and in Community administration. Our community of 46 members encourages single women, ages 20-45, who sincerely seek God and a balanced life of prayer and work to learn more about the monastic way of life and our community by exploring the pages of our website or by contacting our Vocation Director: Sr. Magdalena Craig, O.S.B.; 916 Convent Rd., NE, Cullman, AL 35055; (256) 734-2199; e-mail: vocations@shmon.org; website: http://www. shmon.org. See our web ad at www.VocationGuide.org.

See ad on page 57. Code #280.

Benedictine Sisters (O.S.B.), Duluth, MN—St. Scholastica Monastery We are Benedictine monastic women who seek God together in Community. Our lives are centered around the Eucharist and the Liturgy of the Hours, grounded in liturgical and personal prayer, in Lectio Divina

(holy reading), with time for silence and solitude, for ministry, study, and leisure. Our core monastic values of hospitality and stewardship, peace and justice, stability and attentive listening, together with the Gospel and the Rule of St. Benedict, guide our communal life and our ministries. We invite women to join us in permanent vowed membership or to experience monastic life by living with us for six months to a year or longer in our volunteer residential Benedictine Associate program.

We invite you to visit us at a time convenient for you.

For more information, to arrange a visit, or for a copy of our film “Sing a New Song,” contact Sr. Mary Catherine Shambour, O.S.B., 1001 Kenwood Avenue, Duluth, MN 55811-2300; (218) 723-6646; e-mail: mcshambour@ duluthosb.org; website: http://www.duluthbenedictines. org. See our web ad at www.VocationGuide.org.

See ads on pages 57, 87. Code #282.

Benedictine Sisters (O.S.B.), Elizabeth, NJ—St. Walburga Monastery We are monastic women who seek God in community through Gospel values and the Rule of Benedict. We live out our monastic conversion supported

by Eucharist, Liturgy of the Hours, Lectio Divina, and presence to one another. In active lives balanced with contemplation, we witness to Jesus Christ through community, hospitality, and varied ministries such as education, health care, and spirituality. We welcome responses from single women who have some college or work experience and desire to seek God within a community life that overflows into prayer and ministry. Sr. Mariette Therese, O.S.B., Saint Walburga Monastery, 851 North Broad Street, Elizabeth, NJ 07208; (908) 352-4278, x.

274; e-mail: srmariette@aol.com; website: http://www. catholicforum.com/bensisnj. See our web ad at www.

VocationGuide.org.

See ad on page 57. Code #353.

Benedictine Sisters (O.S.B.), Erie, PA—Mount Saint Benedict Visit the monastery where the Benedictine Sisters of Erie, a community of women monastics, choose to follow the Rule of Benedict as a guide in their communal search for God. The community strives to integrate community life, contemplative and liturgical prayer, silence, ministry, simple living and balance. The sisters lift their hands and voices in public witness to the global issues of world peace, nonviolent conflict resolution, sustainability of the earth, and justice, especially for women and children. The community is committed to opening their home and hearts, building community, sharing their resources, and ministering to others. Do you want to be a part of this community? Sr. Marilyn Schauble, O.S.B., Vocation Director invites you to contact her at 6101 East Lake Rd., Erie, PA 16511; (814) 899-0614 ext. 2424; e-mail: vocations@mtstbenedict.org; website: http://www.eriebenedictines.org. See our web ad at www.

VocationGuide.org.

See ad on page 57. Code #004.

Benedictine Sisters (O.S.B.), Ferdinand, IN—Monastery Immaculate Conception We are monastic women seeking God through the Benedictine tradition of community life, prayer, hospitality, and service to others. By our life and work, we commit ourselves to be a presence of peace as we join our sisters and brothers in the common search for God. We serve in education, parish ministry, social services, health care, retreat and spiritual direction, and mission work. We do not identify ourselves with one specific ministry; rather we respect each individual’s gifts as given by God. A college education is helpful but not required. We have 160 members, 6 of whom are in initial formation. We encourage women, ages 18-40, who earnestly seek God and want to live a balanced life of prayer and work to inquire about our monastic lifestyle. Contact us at: 802 East 10th Street, Ferdinand, IN 47532; (800) 738-9999; e-mail: vocation@thedome. org; website: http://www.thedome.org. See our web ad at www.VocationGuide.org.

See ads on pages 57, 109. Code #069.

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woMen’s communities sarch WOMen’s communities

Benedictine Sisters (O.S.B.), Chicago, IL—St. Scholastica Monastery We are Benedictine women called to seek God in prayer and community, serving where there is need. We sponsor an academy for young women and serve the church and society in a variety of ways.

We work in education, social service, pastoral ministry, spiritual development, and health care. We minister to persons who are elderly, homeless, and mentally ill, and participate in efforts to achieve more humane immigration policies. We have taken corporate stands to abolish the death penalty, to oppose torture, and to stop trafficking. Together we pray for peace and justice in our world.

Underlying all we do is the desire to live the Gospel command to love God and neighbor. Women 21-50 who wish to seek God in an active monastic community by living a balanced life of prayer and work are invited to contact us.

Sr. Benita Coffey, O.S.B., Vocation Minister, 7430 N. Ridge Boulevard, Chicago, IL 60645; (773) 764-2413, ext. 327; e-mail: vocation@osbchicago.org. Visit us at our website: http://www.osbchicago.org and our Facebook page http:// wwwfacebook.com/BenedictineSistersofChicago. See our web ad at www.VocationGuide.org.

See ad on page 57. Code #004.

that hungers for God. We welcome women 21-60 who are discerning a call to monastic life. Come and experience our life as a live-in volunteer. Come experience a place to satisfy your longing for God. Vocation Director: Sr. Teresa Jackson, O.S.B., 465 Keuterville Road, Cottonwood, ID 83522; (208) 962-5024; e-mail: vocation@stgertrudes. org; website: http://www.StGertrudes.org. See our web ad at www.VocationGuide.org.

See ad on page 57. Code #407.

Search these Women’s Communities online at VocationNetwork.org

woMen’s communities Search WOMen’s communities

Benedictine Sisters (O.S.B.), Fort Smith, AR—St. Scholastica Monastery We are monastic women living the Benedictine tradition of seeking God in community through prayer, work, hospitality, and leisure. Our community membership is 64. We are engaged in the work of God through education, campus ministry, pastoral care, pastoral ministry in parishes, prison ministry, social services, social awareness, counseling, retreat work, and spiritual direction. We welcome and encourage women ages 18-45 who are seeking to live a balanced life of prayer and personal transformation, who hunger for meaning in life, and who have the desire to become part of our future by sharing the power of the Gospel, to free people for a fully human life, and create a community of love and peace. Vocation Director: Sr. Kimberly Prohaska, O.S.B., P.O. Box 3489, Fort Smith, AR 72913; (479) 783-4147; e-mail: vocationdirector@stscho.org; website: http://www. stscho.org. See our web ad at www.VocationGuide.org.

See ad on page 57. Code #341.

Benedictine Sisters (O.S.B.), Lutherville, MD—Emmanuel Monastery We, the Benedictine Sisters of Emmanuel Monastery, are a community of monastic women who seek God through prayer, community life, and ministry, bringing a 1500 year tradition into the 21st century. Empowered by the Word of God, we claim our gifts as women in the Church, with an international commitment to justice and peace, offering hospitable space in a culture that fosters hostility. We serve persons with material and spiritual needs in a variety of ministerial settings and challenge structures that diminish human dignity. Because we bear the name Emmanuel, God with us, we commit ourselves to be a presence of God in our world. We are a small community of 16 women who minister according to our personal gifts and where there is a need. We minister in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and in the Baltimore area. We are known for our gifts of community and hospitality and our commitment to justice and peace.

Contact: Sr. Patricia Kirk, O.S.B., 2229 W. Joppa Rd., Lutherville, MD 21093-4601; (410) 821-5792; e-mail: pkirk@emmanuelosb.org; website: http://www.emmanuelosb.org. See our web ad at www.VocationGuide.org.

See ad on page 57. Code #004.

Benedictine Sisters (O.S.B.), Mt. Angel, OR—Queen of Angels Monastery We are women responding to the call to live community according to the Gospel and the Rule of Saint Benedict. Together we seek God in a balanced life of prayer and work, simplicity, hospitality, and service. While our vow of stability leads us to special care of the people in our local area, we are deeply conscious of sharing the universal mission of the Church.

Our community ministries include a retreat and renewal center and a homeless shelter. Our 40 members serve in a variety of individual ministries, including teaching, pastoral care, health care, spiritual direction, and parish work. We encourage women who are interested in our monastic way of life to visit and explore the possibilities of Benedictine life. Vocation Director: Sr. Marietta Schindler, O.S.B., 840 South Main Street, Mt. Angel, OR 97362; (503) 845-6141; e-mail: smarietta@juno.com; website: http://www.benedictine-srs.org. See our web ad at www.VocationGuide.org.

See ads on pages 23, 57. Code #202.

Benedictine Sisters (O.S.B.), Nanaimo B.C., Canada— House of Bread Monastery In 1972 Bishop Remi DeRoo of the Diocese of Victoria requested “that the Benedictines return to Vancouver Island so that their spirituality might be shared with the people in the area.” In response, the House of Bread Monastery was established. Personal prayer and sacred reading (lectio) are essential values and are supported by the presence of a small chapel, a library and times of quite. Living the gospel message reflects our Benedictine presence here on the Island. We value a simple life style which includes giving of our time, talents and money to those in need. We express this by having guests within the monastery or retreat centre.

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The corporate and individual ministry of the House of Bread Monastery is hospitality. “All guests who present themselves are to be welcomed as Christ.” We support societies and agencies that assist the poor and those in need. For further information contact: Vocation Director, 2329 Arbot Rd., Nanaimo B.C. V9R 6S8, Canada; (250) 753-1763; e-mail: gchrupalo@shaw.ca; website: http:// www.houseofbreadmonastery.com. See our web ad at www.VocationGuide.org.

See ad on page 57. Code #004.

Benedictine Sisters (O.S.B.), Pittsburgh, PA—St. Benedict Monastery Our monastic life compels us to seek God in Community and Prayer as our chief occupation. Seeking God, we follow the values of the Rule of St. Benedict by our practice of common prayer, lectio divina, generous hospitality and living in common. Nourished by the Word of God and our life together we respond to the needs of our world utilizing the gifts of each individual sister as they are led through education, ministry, parish ministry, Appalachia ministry, social justice, senior services, transitional housing for women with dependent children, visual arts, liturgy and music, counseling, spiritual direction and spirituality programs. We seek to be a sign that peace and peacemaking is possible in an ever-chaotic world. If you seek God and are looking to be encouraged and challenged in your search contact us: Vocation Office, 4530 Perrysville Ave., Pittsburgh, PA 15229-2296; (412) 931-2844 ext. 117; e-mail: listening@ osbpgh.org; website: http://www.osbpgh.org. See our web ad at www.VocationGuide.org.

See ad on page 57. Code #004.

Benedictine Sisters (O.S.B.), Rapid City, SD—St. Martin Monastery St. Martin Monastery is located in the beautiful Black Hills of western South Dakota. We are a community of 27 women who are striving to support one another as we live out our Baptismal call. Our prayer, Lectio Divina, and the Liturgy of the Hours, as well as our community life are sources of strength from which all our ministries flow. Our ministries vary according to the gifts and talents of the individual Sister. As Benedictines we seek God in all things and share our Benedictine values of peace, silence, and prayer. We are small, we are monastic, and we are the only motherhouse in the diocese. If you are seeking God’s will and have a desire to serve, we invite you to come and spend some time with us. Vocation Director: Sr. Mary Wegher, O.S.B., 1851 City Springs Rd., Rapid City, SD 57702-9613; (605) 343-8011; fax: (605) 399-2723; e-mail: srmarywegher@yahoo.com; website: http://www.blackhillsbenedictine.com. See our web ad at www.VocationGuide.org.

See ad on page 57. Code #004.

Benedictine Sisters (O.S.B.), Richardton, ND— Sacred Heart Monastery The Benedictine Sisters of Richardton were founded in 1910 to respond to the needs of the church in rural North Dakota. Our spirituality, community life, and ministry are nourished by daily Eucharist, Liturgy of the Hours, contemplative prayer, and personal devotions such as rosary, stations of the cross, novenas, holy hours, and adoration. We value the common life based on the Rule of Benedict and the monastic promises of obedience, stability, and fidelity to the monastic life. We serve the Church though education, health care, pastoral care, and retreat ministry, using the gifts of each Sister. Our contemplative environment on the prairie surrounds our monastery with the peaceful beauty of God’s creation. Vocation Director, P.O. Box 364, Richardton, ND 58652; (701) 974-2121; e-mail: vocations@sacredheartmonastery.com; website: http:// www.sacredheartmonastery.com. See our web ad at www.

VocationGuide.org.

See ad on page 57. Code #004.

Benedictine Sisters (O.S.B.), Rock Island, IL—St. Mary Monastery Both contemplative and active, we are called to prayer, community, and work using our gifts. We

serve in spiritual direction, retreats, parish work, pastoral care, campus ministry, education, social work, community work, and outreach to the poor. We invite you to take time to stroll through our wooded grounds and reflect on God’s call to you. Watch the ducks paddle around the lake and the deer graze on the hill. Come to prayers and meals.

Talk and laugh with the sisters. “Listen with the ear of your heart.” Join us on your vocation journey. You may feel one step closer to home. Sr. Roberta Bussan, O.S.B., 2200 88th Avenue W, Rock Island, IL 61201; (309) 2832300 or (800) 650-1257 e-mail: rbussan@smmsisters. org; website and blog: http://www.smmsisters.org. See our web ad at www.VocationGuide.org.

See ads on pages 27, 57. Code #152.

Benedictine Sisters (O.S.B.), St. Joseph, MN—St. Benedict’s Monastery We are a community of Benedictine Sisters Seeking God in prayer and community life and serving the Church and the world through our ministries. Our prayer life is centered in daily communal and individual prayer: Liturgy of the Hours, lectio divina, personal prayer, and sacramental celebrations. Our life in community commits us to one another and living out the Gospel and Rule of St. Benedict. Our history is one of extraordinary women whose gifts and talents are encouraged and developed by the community as they are sent out to engage with the world and the larger Church. The Benedictine life offers a freedom to be fulfilled professionally and personally in a context of community living and prayer. At present our monastery numbers about 270. We invite women, ages 18-45, who are interested in exploring our way of life to participate in one of our Benedictine Live-In Experiences. Visit us at our website: http://www.sbm.osb.org. Vocations Director, 104 Chapel Lane, St. Joseph, MN 56374-0220; (320) 363-7180; e-mail: osbvocations@csbsju.edu; website: http://www. sbm.osb.org. See our web ad at www.VocationGuide.org.

See ad on page 12. Code #175.

Benedictine Sisters (O.S.B.), St. Leo, FL—Holy Name Monastery The Benedictine Sisters of Florida, the only Motherhouse of Sisters in the diocese of St. Petersburg, is a monastic community of women seeking God together in a life of prayer and ministry. Our prayer life is centered in Eucharist, Liturgy of the Hours, and Lectio Divina.

Our ministries depend on local needs and the gifts of the Sisters. Our prayer overflows in ministries that express our corporate commitment to respond to the hungers of the people of God: education, retreats, spiritual direction, hospitality, peace/justice and direct service to the poor. Presently there are 16 sisters, 1 novice (1 affiliate and 2 resident volunteers) who seek God together in community, praise God through prayer/ministry, and listen with the ear of the heart to the Spirit’s call into the future. We invite women between the ages of 20-50 who hear a call to prayer and community to “Come and See” the Florida Benedictines! For more information see our web page: http://www.floridabenedictines.com. Sr. Mary David Hydro, O.S.B., Box 2450, St. Leo, FL 33574-2450; (352) 588-8320; e-mail: vocation@saintleo.edu. See our web ad at www.VocationGuide.org.

See ad on page 57. Code #004.

Benedictine Sisters (O.S.B.), St. Marys PA—St. Joseph’s Monastery We, the Benedictine Sisters of Elk County believe that we are called to seek God and witness Jesus Christ through prayer, community life, hospitality, and service. We are dedicated to fostering spirituality, supporting education and being wise stewards of God’s creation. Established in 1852, in St. Marys, Pennsylvania we are the first Benedictine convent in the United States. The founding sisters came to this area to teach the children of German immigrants and bring Benedictine spirituality to this area. In the years since our inception, we have served and continue to serve the people of St. Marys. We are a small community of 19 women who minister according to our gifts and talents. Our mission includes hospital care, teaching, religious education and

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Search these Women’s Communities online at VocationNetwork.org a variety of other works. We invite you to come and see if God is calling you to this way of life. Contact: Sr. John Paul Bauer, OSB, 303 Church St., St. Mary’s PA 15857; (814) 834-2267; e-mail: srjohnpaul@yahoo.com; website: http://www.benedictinesistersofelkcounty.org. See our web ad at www.VocationGuide.org.

See ad on page 57. Code #004.

Benedictine Sisters (O.S.B.), Watertown, SD—Mother of God Monastery We are a community of 60 monastic women (5 women in initial formation) living in the peaceful prairie land of rural South Dakota. We are called to seek God joyfully in community. We respond to the needs of others through our ministries, our prayer, our advocacy and our hospitality. Currently our sisters are involved in teaching, health care, pastoral care, parish work, prison ministry, ministry to Native Americans, Latinos and other cultures, spiritual direction and retreats, ministry to the elderly and environmental stewardship. We invite women who desire to seek God to journey with us. We offer several discernment retreats throughout the year. Visit our website for a description and dates or contact Adrienne Kaufmann, O.S.B., 110 28th Avenue SE, #59, Watertown, SD 57201; (605)886-4159, e-mail: vocations@dailypost. com; www.watertownbenedictines.org. See our web ad at www.VocationGuide.org.

See ads on pages 57,133. Code #157.

Benedictine Sisters (O.S.B.), Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada—St. Benedict’s Monastery Our home is nestled on beautiful property on the banks of the Red River, 60 miles north of the U.S. border which we share with thousands of spiritual seekers each year. We are women called to live the Gospel in community through a balanced life of prayer and work according to the Rule of St. Benedict, an ancient tradition in contemporary form responding to the spiritual hungers of our time. The balance of prayer and work includes the liturgy of the hours, Eucharist, contemplative prayer and service to others according to our gifts and talents. Presently we are engaged in spiritual formation, education, health and hospitality. We do not identify with any specific ministry, but respect each person’s gifts. Come and see. Contact, Sr. Dorothy, 225 Masters Ave., Winnipeg, MB R4A 2A1; (204) 338-4601; e-mail: sister.dorothy@shaw.ca; website: www.stbens.ca.

See our web ad at www.VocationGuide.org.

See ad on page 57. Code #004.

Benedictine Sisters (O.S.B.), Yankton, SD—Sacred Heart Monastery The charism entrusted to Benedictines is, in essence, the gift to seek God in community, to praise God through prayer and ministry, and to listen with eager-

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Benedictine Sisters of Perpetual Adoration (O.S.B.) We are a contemplative monastic community.

Our life is guided by the tradition and the wisdom of the Rule of Saint Benedict. We serve the Church through a ministry of prayer. We support ourselves by work within the enclosure of the monastery. We strive to witness to God’s presence in the world through our prayer and community life and by offering a welcoming and peaceful space to those who visit. Our three monasteries are located in Clyde, MO; Tucson, AZ; and Dayton, WY. If you’re a single woman between the ages of 18 and 47 and drawn to a life of prayer, we invite you to contact us. Sr. Ruth Starman, 31970 State Highway P, Clyde, MO 64432-8100; (660) 944-2221; e-mail: vocation@benedictinesisters.org; website: http://www.benedictinesisters.org.

See ad on page 31. Code #008.

Bernardine Franciscan Sisters (O.S.F.) Founded in the United States in 1894, our mission is to live the Gospel in the spirit of Francis and Clare! Bernardine Franciscan Sisters reach out in the Name of Jesus to God’s people across the continental United States, Puerto Rico, and Brazil. Our missions include the Dominican Republic, Mozambique and Liberia (West Africa). We minister in education at all levels, catechetics, retreat work, health care, and parish ministry as well as with and on behalf of the poor—especially with women and children. The Gospel, Francis and Clare permeate our Formation Programs for Sisters, Lay Associates and Volunteers in Mission! Do you have a Franciscan heart? Are you willing to journey in faith and joy, sister and servant to all? If so, please contact S. Shaun Kathleen, O.S.F., Vocation Director, 450 St. Bernardine Street, Reading, PA 19607-1737; (610) 777-2967; e-mail: FollowFrancis@bfranciscan.org; website: http://www. bfranciscan.org. Visit us on Facebook!

See ad on page 89. Code #214.

C

Carmel of Cristo Rey Living in the presence of God is the center of our Marian life. Called to serve exclusively through prayer, sacrifice, and penance. A hidden apostolate of intercession for all people, the intentions of Holy Church, and especially for priests. A life ever seeking Divine intimacy as guided by the charism of Saints Teresa of Jesus and John of the Cross. Solitude and silence blended in joyful community. Holy Mass daily (Ordinary/Extraordinary Forms) with full Liturgy of the Hours, Spiritual Reading, communal Rosary daily, frequent Benediction service, days of Eucharistic Adoration. A life of simplicity with full traditional habit and Papal Enclosure. Bilingual (English/Spanish) in grateful recognition of our Spanish Teresian heritage, Foundation from Mexico (1927), and American homeland. Required: ability to speak English or Spanish well and willingness to learn the other language; good mental and physical health. Ages: 18-35, some exceptions especially for Externs. Contact: Carmelite Monastery, Vocation Information, 721 Parker Avenue, San Francisco, CA, 94118, (415) 387-2640; vocations@ cmcrnuns.org; www.cmcrnuns.org. See our web ad at www.VocationGuide.org.

See ad on page 7. Code #333.

Car melite Sisters for the Aged and Infir m (O.Carm) Founded by Mother M. Angeline Teresa in New York in 1929, Mother sought to render loving care of the aged with deep respect for their dignity, loving them as children of God. The Carmelite Sisters for the Aged and Infirm together with hundreds of dedicated staff and volunteers care for their beloved elderly in 20 home-like residences, in seven different states within the USA, with one home in Dublin, Ireland. The Carmelite Sisters wear a distinct religious habit, and have a regular prayer schedule including: Liturgy of the Hours, daily Eucharist, Rosary, an hour of daily meditation, and a week of retreat each year at the Motherhouse. Strengthened by community, being of one heart and mind, they continue their mission as loyal daughters of the Church rendering compassionate care to the mystical Body of Christ in the aged and infirm. Sr. Maria Therese Healy, O.Carm., St. Teresa’s Motherhouse, 600 Woods Road, Germantown, NY 12526; (518) 537-5000; fax: (518) 537-4579; e-mail: vocationdirector@gtel.net; website: http://www.carmelitesisters.com. See our web ad at www.VocationGuide.org.

See ad on page 82. Code #153.

Carmelite Sisters of Baltimore (O.C.D.) We are a vibrant contemplative community of 17 women living in intentional fidelity to the tradition of Carmelite prayer, silence, and solitude. Our passion is contemplative presence that longs and yearns for God in ever-deepening intimate relationship.

We chant Lauds, Vespers and the Office of Readings (Vigil) in common, celebrate Eucharist and have two hours of solitary prayer each day, and take one day of complete silence each week. We commit to live our Carmelite tradition with contemporary expression in order to be in profound solidarity with God’s people of this time and place, to share contemplation with all who come, and to burn with the fire of God’s love that can transform our world today. Our monastery is situated on 26 acres of wooded land, and our beautiful chapel is a spiritual home to many, including young adults who come to learn Carmelite prayer. Contact: Sr. Frances Horner, 1318 Dulaney Valley Rd., Baltimore, MD 21286; (410) 823-7415 ext. 355; e-mail: fran@baltimorecarmel.org; website: http://www.baltimorecarmel.org.

Code #364.

Carmelite Sisters of St. Thérèse (C.S.T.) We are a small and lively group of women dedicated to prayer and community life in the Carmelite tradition, while serving the needs of others in any kind of ministry offered to us within our capacity. If you are a female, single, Catholic, 21 or older, consider allowing us to minister to you as you discern your call to follow Christ in a religious vocation.

Vocation Director, 1300 Classen Drive, Oklahoma City, OK 73103; (405) 232-7926; e-mail: srbj@stjohn-catholic. org; website: http://www.oksister.com.

See ad on page 88. Code #010.

Carmelites (O.Carm.), New Orleans, LA—Congregation of Our Lady of Mount Carmel As Carmelites we desire to be a community of contemplative women following “in the footsteps of Jesus” by living and serving in the midst of God’s people. A Pontifical Apostolic congregation, presently we are in Louisiana, Illinois, and the Philippines. Our zeal is rooted in our contemplative prayer and a prophetic call in the tradition of the prophet Elijah and of Mary, our sister and mother. We cherish community life from which we go forth striving to bring about a more peaceful, just, and loving world in a variety of ministries based on the needs of God’s people and on the gifts, talents, and educational preparation of each sister.

Above all we desire that each sister become the woman of God that she is created to be. Vocation Director: Sr. Alice Abate, O.Carm., 420 Robert E. Lee Blvd., New Orleans, LA 70124-2596; (504) 302-9795; e-mail: carmelitesrs@bellsouth.net; website: http://www.sistersofmountcarmel.org.

See ad on page 112. Code #013.

Cenacle Sisters (r.c.) Cenacle Sisters are active women with contemplative hearts, called to live and pray in

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Benedictine Sisters (O.S.B.), Tulsa, OK—St. Joseph Monastery This is our story. . . .God called us to Oklahoma in 1889 even before OK was a state. We were called to work with the Native Americans and African Americans.

We established schools and traveled the territory teaching vacation Bible school. Today, we are a community of 22 women—nurses, educators, administrators, catechists, spiritual directors, liturgists, consultants, and pray-ers.

As Benedictine women we have one special calling—to pray and to build community. The Eucharist and Divine Office are central to our life. We pray, we work, we share meals together, and we play together as we minister to the needs of the people of OK. We’ve been telling our story for 130 years now and OK is still a mission territory, less than 4% Catholic, on the edge of the Bible Belt. We invite you to come and help us continue to write and tell our story as we build up this Benedictine community for the kingdom of God in OK. Vocations, St. Joseph Monastery, 2200 S. Lewis, Tulsa, OK 74114; (918) 746-4205; e-mail: vocations@stjosephmonastery.org; website: http://www. stjosephmonastery.org; facebook: http://facebook.com/ stjosephmonastery; twitter: http://twitter.com/stjosephmon; blog: http://www.blogspot.com.stjosephmonastery. See our web ad at www.VocationGuide.org.

See ads on pages 38, 57. Code #293.

ness to the Spirit’s call into the unknown future. Sacred Heart Monastery in Yankton is home to 126 Sisters, four of whom are in formation. Called first to prayer and community life, we then reach out in service in a variety of ways, depending on the needs of the people and the gifts of the Sisters. We invite women who desire to grow as people of prayer, who desire the support of community life, and who want to serve our church and world to come to meet us at Sacred Heart Monastery. Please contact Sr. Maribeth Wentzlaff; (605) 668-6000; e-mail: mwentzlaff@mtmc. edu; Sr. Eileen O’Connor, 1005 West 8th St., Yankton, SD 57078, (605) 668-6000; e-mail: eoconnor@mtmc.edu; Sr. Barbara McTague; e-mail: barbara.mctague2@mtmc.edu; or website: http://www.yanktonbenedictines.org. See our web ad at www.VocationGuide.org.

See ads on pages 57, 134. Code #143.

Search these Women’s Communities online at VocationNetwork.org

woMen’s communities Search WOMen’s communities

union with each other for the sake of the mission. We do this principally through retreats, religious education, and other forms of pastoral activity whose aim is to awaken and deepen faith. This is done most often in places of retreat, in people’s homes, in centers for spiritual direction and religious development, and in parishes.

In addition to sisters, there are lay members, vowed and non-vowed, who share in the Cenacle mission and charism. Sr. Janice Bemowski, r.c., The Cenacle, 513 W. Fullerton Parkway, Chicago, Illinois 60614; 773-5286300; e-mail: vocations@cenaclesisters.org; website: http://www.cenaclesisters.org.

See ad on page 91. Code #188.

Cistercian Nuns (O.Cist) Founded in 1098, the Order of Citeaux is one of the Church’s ancient monastic orders.

The primary sources of Cistercian monasticism are the Sacred Scriptures, the Rule of St. Benedict, the traditions of the Desert Fathers, and the spirituality of our own 12th century Fathers. Our daily life is a balanced alternation between the Divine Office prayed in Latin with Gregorian Chant, lectio divina, and manual labor. Silence, solitude in community, ascetic practices, the cultivation of continual interior prayer, together with the monastic vows of obedience, stability and unceasing conversion, are the means by which we hope to attain to purity of heart, tranquility of mind and spiritual union with God. Monastic life is a radical participation in the self-emptying of Christ which redeems and transforms humanity and all creation.

Requirements for candidacy: age 20-35 with two years of college or work experience, possession of good physical and psychological health, emotional maturity, and the desire to fulfill God’s will. Valley of Our Lady Monastery, E11096 Yanke Drive, Prairie du Sac, WI 53578-9737; e-mail: vocations@nunocist.org; website: http://www. nunocist.org.

Code #011.

Congregation of Divine Providence (C.D.P.)—Marie de La Roche Province With our God of Providence, our mission is to co-create a world of compassion, justice, and peace. We are a welcoming and diverse group of women who have chosen to live in community, embrace a deepening prayer life, and serve the needs of today’s world through a variety of ministries. We are risk takers, open to new ways of meeting the needs of the times. The Province includes the United States, Puerto Rico, and the Dominican Republic; however, we have Sisters from many parts of the world. If you are a woman between 18 and 50 years old and would like to learn more about becoming a Sister of Divine Providence, contact us at cdpvocations@yahoo.com; 9000 Babcock Blvd., Allison Park, PA 15101. Or visit us at http://www.divineprovidenceweb.org.

Code #325.

Congregation of Notre Dame (C.N.D.) Sisters and Associates of the CND are united by a desire to follow Jesus, a devotion to Mary, and the spirit of St. Marguerite Bourgeoys, their foundress. An international community, its members serve as educators in a variety of Gospel ministries. For information go to www.cnd-m.org. Contacts: USA: Sr. Lucille Cormier, 30 Highfield Rd, Wilton, CT 06897; e-mail: cndsusa@sbcglobal.net or call (203) 7624304 Canada: Sr. Maureen Baldwin, e-mail: mbaldwin@ cnd-m.org or call (416) 469-6756; for Spanish, call Sr. Mary MacIsaac, (708) 333-7595.

See ad on page 93. Code #012.

Congregation of Sisters of Bon Secours (C.B.S.) In 1821, Bon Secours became the first community of sisters to provide continuous nursing within the homes of those who were suffering. Our vision and mission: to defend all life and creation and alleviate suffering; to bring a message of hope and “GOOD HELP” to those in need. Our faith-filled communities draw others to our charism of compassion, healing, and liberation. Community life and shared prayer balance our life of ministry

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as we contribute to a more humane world integral to spreading the Gospel. We minister in health care, retreat ministry, pastoral, social and human services, housing, education, etc. Through continuing founder Josephine Potel’s innovative spirit, we bring healing and wholeness beyond walls of tradition in rural areas and cities in the USA, England, Ireland, Scotland, France, Peru and South Africa. Contact: Sr. Patricia Dowling, C.B.S., Vocation Director, 1525 Marriottsville Road, Marriottsville, MD 21104; 1-877-742-0277; e-mail: CBSVocations@bshsi. org; website: www.BonSecoursVocations.org (or follow us on Facebook or Twitter). See our web ad at www.

VocationGuide.org.

See ad on page 31. Code #058.

Congregation of the Humility of Mary (CHM) CHMs are educated women with a zest for life, sense of joy, passion for justice, and commitment to care for earth.

As women with diverse gifts, personalities and energies, each individual is responsible for developing her unique gifts and abilities. Ministries of CHMs respond to the needs of the time providing shelter for the homeless, feeding the hungry, and assistance to the physically and mentally challenged. They also focus on low-income families, single parents, children and immigrants. CHMs are called to listen to the Spirit and, like Mary, live the Gospel message in simplicity, humility, and joy. Aware that ministry is fruitful only when flowing from prayer, CHMs join in communal and private prayer and strive to live as a community rooted in love—bringing forth the best in one another as they search and serve. Contact: Sr. Ramona Kaalberg, (515) 282-3521; e-mail: ramonak1@ juno.com; website: http://www.chmiowa.org.

Code #363.

D

Daughters of Charity of St. Vincent de Paul (D.C.) The Daughters of Charity of St. Vincent de Paul are a worldwide Society of Apostolic Life called to serve Jesus Christ in the person of the poor and the marginalized. Motivated by the love of Christ and strengthened by a deep prayer life, we live and pray in community, supporting each other in our common mission of service. Like women in other religious communities, we make vows of poverty, chastity and obedience. What distinguishes us, however, is a fourth vow, service of the poor. Another distinction is that Daughters of Charity renew vows every year on the Feast of the Annunciation, which permits us to choose again our commitment to our God and to the poor. Our Ministries include education, spirituality, health care, social ministry, the creative arts, pastoral ministry, advocacy for change and others. We are an international community of over 18,800 women in more than 90 countries throughout the world, including the United States. As needs change, so do our services. Our mission calls us to be innovative and inventive, collaborative and inclusive.

In whatever we do, we strive to perform our service in imitation of Jesus Christ. E-mail: Theresa.Sullivan@docecp.org; website: www.daughters-of-charity.com; Blog at: http://srdenisedc.blogspot.com/ See our web ad at www.

VocationGuide.org.

See ads on pages 41, 43, 45, 47. Code #168.

Daughters of Divine Zeal (F.D.Z.) We are an international community of sisters established by St. Hannibal Marie Di Francia in 1887. We embrace the vows of chastity, obedience, and poverty, and profess a fourth vow: to pray and work for priestly and religious vocations (Rogate). Our charism is founded on the Gospel command of Jesus, “Pray the Lord of the Harvest to send workers into His Harvest. . .” (Mt. 9:37-38). Committed to prayer and ministration, the Daughters of Divine Zeal render service to schools, nursing homes, missions, parishes, and other local church needs. We invite women between 18 and 40 years old to join us. Cabrini Convent, 234 Franklin Street, Reading, PA 19602; Hannibal House Spiritual Center, 1526 Hill Road, Reading, PA 19602, Daughters of Divine Zeal, 379 E. Manning Avenue, Reedley, CA 93654;

e-mail: srdaisydz@yahoo.com; website: http://www.fdz. com.au/order.

Code #236.

Daughters of St. Paul (F.S.P.) An international congregation of Sisters, who live in the spirit of St. Paul the Apostle, proclaiming Christ to the world through the means of communication: music, radio, art, books, media literacy, Internet and social media. Our daily prayer roots us in the Word of God and the Eucharist. Join us for discernment retreats and Come and See programs, and the St. Paul Summer High School Program. Age limit 18-30 years old. Website: http://www.daughtersofstpaul.org.

Contact: Sr. Margaret Michael, F.S.P., Vocation Director, 1025 King St., Alexandria, VA 22314; (703) 549-3806; e-mail: vocations@paulinemedia.com. Canada: Vocation Director, 3022 Dufferin St., Toronto, Ontario M6B 3T5; (416) 781-9131; e-mail: daughters_stpaul@yahoo.ca. See our web ad at www.VocationGuide.org.

Code #015.

Daughters of the Heart of Mary (DHM) Women of Vision and Faith. The Daughters of the Heart of Mary—an international congregation of women who profess vows of Chastity, Poverty, and Obedience and live religious life without a distinctive sign or title. We live contemporary and often hidden lives patterned after that of Mary of Nazareth, with community life through a common spirituality and prayer life. Whether residing in a small community setting with other sisters or with family or alone, community is fostered through regular meetings, days of prayer and spiritual renewal, community celebrations, and province-wide gatherings. Our ministries are broad and diversified. Founded in 18th Century France by a Jesuit and lay woman, our mission Then and Today is to bring the Gospel message of Jesus out in the midst of the world, witnessed through our own lives of service to the Church and God’s people. Vocations Ministry, 1365 Northampton St., Holyoke, MA 01040; (413) 534-4502; e-mail: vocations@dhmna.org; website: http://www. dhmna.org. See our web ad at www.VocationGuide.org.

See ad on page 81. Code #150.

Daughters of the Holy Spirit (D.H.S.) Rooted in a vital Trinitarian spirituality, we are called, like Mary, to reverence in a special way the presence and power of the Holy Spirit within ourselves, in others and in all creation.

Living in the Spirit of Pentecost, we continue the Mission of the risen Christ through our simple presence, humble gestures, and collaborative efforts. Together we are sent forth in Gospel boldness to witness God’s tender love for all, especially for the least favored, “that all may have life and have it to the full.” Sr. Therese Vanasse, 152 Prospect Street, Moosup, CT 06354-1441; (860) 5642243; e-mail: tvanassedhs@att.net; website: http://www. daughtersoftheholyspirit.org.

See ad on page 81. Code #016.

Daughters of Wisdom (D.W.) Founded in France in 1703, the Daughters of Wisdom are called in community to seek and contemplate Divine Wisdom present in a world that hungers for meaning, justice, and compassion.

We seek to bring the message of Jesus, Incarnate Wisdom, to people experiencing injustice, violence, poverty, and oppression, especially women and children. As an international Congregation, we minister in the United States and 21 other countries to those in need of education, health care, basic human and spiritual resources. Sr. Lucy Clynes, D.W., 385 Ocean Avenue, Islip, NY 11751; (631) 277-2660 ext. 11; e-mail: vocation@daughtersofwisdom. org; website: http://www.daughtersofwisdom.org See ad on page 85. Code #275.

Dominican Sisters (O.P.)—Dominican Sisters live in many locations throughout the U.S. We share a common heritage, and are influenced by differences in our geography and history. As Dominicans, we claim preaching as our mission, supported by a life of prayer and study

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Search these Women’s Communities online at VocationNetwork.org in community. In apostolic congregations members often live in the locale where our particular ministries are located. Our preaching may take many forms, such as parish or diocesan ministry, education or health care, advocacy for justice, legal aid, the arts, spirituality or missionary activity. In all our ministries Dominican women strive for integrity in serving God and creation in the 21st century. Women in their 20’s and 30’s are invited to contact a Dominican congregation for specific information about the process for joining this mission as a vowed member. Women are also invited to obtain information about retreat opportunities and volunteer programs at a nearby Dominican community. Locate one by visiting our website: http://www.domlife.org/Vocation.

See ad on page 135. Code #018.

Dominican Sisters (O.P.)—Amityville, NY Our family consists of vowed members, Associates and Volunteers.

Our lives are shaped by prayer, common life, study, and mission. “We Dominican women religious, called to be signs of joy and hope, commit ourselves to incarnating the Gospel, deepening our life of prayer, searching for Truth, discerning the needs of the Church and ministering to the People of God.” We live out our Dominican call to preach the truth in a variety of ministries. We invite you to visit our websites: www. amityop.org; www.catholicdominicansisters.org or to contact Sister Elaine Jahrsdoerfer, OP at (631) 842-6000; e-mail: asstprioress@amityop.org.

See ad on page 135. Code #018.

Dominican Sisters (O.P.)—Blauvelt, NY Our Dominican motto: to praise, to bless, to preach the Word of God frames our lives of prayer, study, common life and ministry. We endeavor to proclaim the good news of the compassionate love of God for each person with a special consciousness of and presence to those who are poor and on the margins of society. In living out this mission, we serve in a variety of ministries including education, social services, health care, pastoral care, peace and justice, and prison ministry. We have committed ourselves to intentionally embrace the future with hope and recognize that God’s design is one that leads us to a greater understanding of the sacredness and oneness of all creation. We invite you to join us. To learn about our life and ministries, visit our website www.opblauvelt.org, our blog: opblauvelt. blogspot.com or contact our vocation minister, Sr. Kathy O’Hanlon, O.P.; e-mail: kohanlonop@netzero.net.

See ad on page 135. Code #018.

Dominican Sisters (O.P.)—Caldwell, NJ We, Sisters of St. Dominic of Caldwell, are a community of vowed women religious responding to God’s call and united in our quest for the unfolding revelation of God. We preach the Word of God through our lives of contemplative prayer, study, and ministry in response to the needs of our time. Together we have chosen three directions: to reclaim our passion for contemplation; to hold the promotion of

VISION 2012

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Dominican Sisters (O.P.)—Grand Rapids, MI Drawn into the love of our God, we are vowed Dominican women preachers of hope: preaching by our very being, preaching the Word, and preaching in diverse forms through our ministries. Through prayer, study, common life, and ministry, we strive to live the gospel, embodying God’s compassion for our needy world. We are contemplative Dominican women who desire to become the prayer that we pray, both individually and communally. We have a passion for justice, a desire to be in right relationship with God, one another, and the earth. Our ministries are as diverse and creative as are the gifts and talents of our members. We serve primarily in Michigan, New Mexico as well as in 17 other states and in Peru and Honduras. Join our Sisters and Associates in preaching the Gospel! Sr. Katheryn Sleziak, O.P., 2025 East Fulton, Grand Rapids, MI 49503-3895; (616) 643-0378; e-mail: ksleziak@grdominicans.org. Visit our website: http://www.grdominicans.org.

See ad on page 135. Code #018.

Dominican Sisters (O.P.)—Mission San Jose, Fremont, CA Is God calling you to a BOLD Awakening? Is there a “God hunger” within you? Does the love of God tug at your heart? Does a “one soul and one heart in God” community resonate with your deepest desires and greatest hopes? Contact the Dominican Sisters of Mission San Jose (Order of Preachers)—joyful Gospel women whose prayer, study, community, and ministry empower them to preach Jesus Christ by varied missions of evangelization and education that promote justice and peace. Inspired by Saint Dominic, Saint Catherine of Siena, and foundress Mother Pia Backes, we center our lives on the Word of God, contemplate God’s Truth, and share it with others. We serve in education, pastoral, health care, social service, peace and justice and media ministries. Preferentially, we serve those who are young, poor or vulnerable in the United States, Mexico, Guatemala, and Germany. Initial contact: Sr. Pauline Bouton, (510)789-7079 or vocations@msjdominicans. org; Vocation Director: Sr. Marcia Krause, (510) 9336333; 43326 Mission Blvd., Fremont, CA 94539-5829.

Visit our website:www.msjdominicans.org.

See ad on page 135. Code #018.

Dominican Sisters (O.P.)—Racine, WI In harmony with our Dominican heritage of study and contemplation, we strive to be listeners and bearers of God’s Word.

We are women “committed to truth and compelled to justice” who serve by our life-giving presence in areas of education, pastoral and retreat ministry, spiritual guidance, health care, and social justice. We stand in solidarity with people who are oppressed and alienated by unjust systems. At this urgent time in the church and global community, Racine Dominicans invite others to join them in community life, prayer, and ministry. Contact: Sister Kathy Slesar, O.P., 5635 Erie Street, Racine, WI 54302-1900; (262) 639-4100; e-mail: vocations@racinedominicans.org; website: http://www.racinedominicans. org. Also visit us on Facebook: facebook.com/RacineOP. See ad on page 135. Code #018.

Dominican Sisters (O.P.)—San Rafael, CA Since 1850 the Dominican Sisters of San Rafael have been a vital part

of the history and development of California, its people, and its church. We have established convents, schools, and hospitals throughout California and Nevada. We are committed to the Mission of Dominic: to proclaim God’s Word in our world. We serve in a broad array of ministries: education, health care, social service, pastoral care, advocacy for justice, and spiritual guidance. With our lives rooted in God’s truth and love, we are dedicated to proclaiming the Gospel in a world full of people who hunger and thirst for God’s love. We celebrate our calling as preachers and we welcome other women to join us in community and ministry. Sr. Patricia Farrell, O.P., 1520 Grand Avenue, San Rafael, CA 94901-2236; (415) 257-4939; fax: (415) 453-8367; e-mail: vocations@ sanrafaelop.org; website: http://www.sanrafaelop.org.

See ad on page 135. Code #018.

Dominican Sisters (O.P.)—Sinsinawa, WI As Dominicans we trace our roots to the 13th century when St. Dominic founded the Order of Preachers (O.P.). That provides us with nearly 800 years of history as members of a worldwide Dominican Family. Our U.S. congregation was founded in Wisconsin by an Italian Dominican missionary, Samuel Mazzuchelli, O.P. in 1847. Fr. Samuel, currently recognized as “Venerable,” is well on his way to being named a saint by the Vatican. Today more than 500 Dominican Sisters from Sinsinawa are “called to proclaim the Gospel through the ministry of preaching and teaching in order to participate in the building of a holy and just society” and minister in dioceses all over the United States and in Bolivia, Italy, Mexico and Trinidad and Tobago. Share in the vitality of Dominican life. Contact: Sr. Jeri Cashman, 585 County Road Z, Sinsinawa, WI 53824; e-mail: jericashman@gmail.com.

Please visit us at: http://www.sinsinawa.org; http://www. facebook.com/sinsinawa; http://www.catherinescafe. blogspot.com.

See ad on page 135. Code #018.

Dominican Sisters (O.P.)—Sparkill, NY We are Women Making a Difference! We are joyful, itinerant preachers who use our individual gifts and interests to empower the poor, oppressed and spiritually deprived. We use our gifts in teaching and nursing, as pastoral ministers, campus ministers, childcare providers, housing administrators and social workers to Proclaim the Good News. Our ministries expand throughout the United States as well as in Pakistan. Listen for your call and respond. Contact: Sr. Kathleen Logan, O.P., 175 Route 340, Sparkill, NY 10976; (845) 359-4136; e-mail: Kathy.logan@sparkill. org; website: http://www.sparkill.org.

See ad on page 135. Code #018.

Dominican Sisters (O.P.)—Springfield, IL We, Dominican Sisters of Springfield, Illinois, are rooted in the mission of Jesus. Filled with the joy of the Gospel we are committed to bringing hope to our world. As St. Dominic did in 13th century Spain, we preach the Gospel in our own time and place, centered in prayer, study, ministry, and community life. We serve in Illinois, Michigan, Mississippi, Missouri, South Dakota, Washington, DC and Peru, South America. If you are a woman 18 to 40 and would like more information please contact: Sr. Teresa Marron, O.P., Vocation Director, 700 Ashland Ave., Chicago Heights, IL 60411; (708) 207-1874; e-mail: srteresa@spdom.org; website: http://www.springfieldop. org. See our web ad at www.VocationGuide.org.

See ads on pages 134, 135. Code #019.

Dominican Sisters (O.P.)—Tacoma, WA Nourished by prayer and study, supported by community, and energized by ministry we, the Dominican Sisters of Tacoma, are committed to preaching the Gospel of Jesus Christ. As a community, we preach Jesus’ love and compassion to the people of God through our diverse ministries in Washington, Oregon, California, Nicaragua, and Central America.

These ministries include education, health care, ministry to the developmentally delayed (L’Arche), social service,

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Dominican Sisters (O.P.)—Adrian, MI We Adrian Dominican Sisters are 800 vowed women. We serve in various parts of the world: California, Alaska, MidAtlantic States, Florida, Michigan, Illinois, Canada, the Dominican Republic, Puerto Rico and Kenya, East Africa.

We minister as lawyers, doctors, nurses, social workers, chaplains, and pastoral ministers in the parish, parish administrators, and educators in elementary, high school, college and university. We have the following institutions; a high school, Regina Dominican, Wilmette, IL two academies, St. Joseph, Adrian, MI and Rosarian Academy, West Palm Beach, FL and two hospitals Santa Cruz, CA and Henderson, NV. We continue the Dominican tradition of preaching through prayer, study, ministry and community. We invite you to learn more about us at http://www.adriandominicans.org. Or better yet, come and get to know us. Vocation Director, 1257 E. Siena Heights Dr. Adrian, MI 49221-1973, (517) 266 3537 or e-mail: vocations@adriandominicans.org.

See ad on page 135. Code #018.

justice as a singular priority; and to study, live, and teach the mysteries of the universe and the sacredness of all creation. We live out these directions as we minister in education at all levels from pre-school to graduate school, child care centers, parish ministry, pastoral care, health care, senior housing facilities, advocacy for government and corporate practices, and earth literacy. We welcome other women to share this life with us. Visit our website www.caldwellop.org. Be in touch with our vocation director, Sister Peggy Ann Clinton, OP, 1 Ryerson Avenue, Caldwell, NJ 07006; (862) 210-8362, ext. 4403; e-mail: paclinton@caldwellop.org.

See ad on page 135. Code #018.

sisters

It only took a moment Sister Angela Gertsema, A.S.C.J. World Youth Day 1999 in St. Louis changed the life of Sister Angela Gertsema, A.S.C.J. forever. Taking part with her parish youth group, Gertsema, now an Apostle of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, recalls the experience: “When Pope John Paul II rode into the Kiel Center, everyone was screaming and crying; cameras were flashing, but it felt like my world froze. Everything was in slow motion. Then the pope said if anyone felt called to religious life, he urged them to respond immediately and not to be afraid! At that moment I knew that God had called me.”

What is your current ministry?

Teaching first grade at Santa Maria School in the Bronx, New York.

What is your favorite way to pray?

I love lectio divina and being in the presence of the Blessed Sacrament, though, in all sincerity, I pretty much talk to God all day.

Most of the times my prayers are pretty short: “Help!” or “what?” or “thanks!”

People would be surprised to learn . . .

I teach religion using rap.

What do you do for fun?

I enjoy reading, writing, sports, art, and music.

What did your family and friends ­ say about your vocation?

My parents had a difficult time with my decision—it was highly unexpected. They knew very little about religious life, and I’d be living far away. By the time I made final vows, they were much happier and much more supportive. Some friends were excited for me; some were confused; and some thought it was the most ridiculous thing they had ever heard!

What has been your ­

most exciting experience as a sister?

I was blessed to spend a year in Rome at our generalate [her congregation’s international headquarters] with other Apostles from Argentina, Brazil, Chile, and Italy. It was amazing!

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For more features go to VocationNetwork.org

Search these Women’s Communities online at VocationNetwork.org housing, ministry to undocumented people, women’s spirituality (Catherine Place), campus ministry, parish ministry, and literacy tutoring. In our Mission Statement we have pledged ourselves “. . . .to collaborate in networks of spiritual, educational, and political commitment to create a just society that addresses basic human needs and ends the violence that erodes our planet.” We invite and welcome women who have come alive in the Word of God and who share our joy and energy for preaching the Good News of Jesus to God’s people everywhere.

Come; create your future with us! Sr. Gretta Woodlock, O.P., 935 Fawcett Ave., S., Tacoma, WA 98402; (253) 579-4060; fax: (253) 272-8790; e-mail: gretta@tacomaop. org; website: http://www.tacomaop.org.

See ad on page 135. Code #018.

Dominican Sisters of Oakford (O.P.) The Dominican Sisters of Oakford are an international missionary congregation affiliated to the Dominican Order. The congregation was founded in 1889 on a small farm in Oakford, Natal (now known as Kwa-Zulu Natal) South Africa. Rooted in the mission of Jesus, Oakford Sisters are formed in the spirit of St. Dominic and are consecrated women of the Church at the service of God’s Kingdom. Oakford Sisters are known for their lives of sacrificial service, readiness, versatility and complete availability to meet the needs of the Church manifested in the circumstances of the times. The Dominican Sisters of Oakford currently serve the Church in the countries of South Africa, Germany, the United States, and England, in the areas of health care, social work, pastoral care and education. Sr. Jodi Min, O.P., 327 Woodland Park, San Leandro, CA 94577; (510) 635-1480; e-mail: oakforddominicans@gmail.com; website: www.oakforddominicans.org.

See ad on page 135. Code #018.

Dominican Sisters of Peace (O.P.) We are Dominican Sisters whose charism of preaching flows from our contemplation, study, and community. We are 600 Sisters and 500 Associates who live and minister in 29 states and in Honduras, Kenya, Mexico, Nigeria, Peru, and Vietnam.

We are committed to greater involvement in the global community, simplicity of life, and itinerancy. Our diverse ministries include education, health care, social work, spiritual direction, and parish-based ministries, among others. We serve in colleges, high schools, elementary schools, literacy centers, ecology and spiritual outreach centers, parishes, prisons, and more. We work to create environments of peace by promoting non-violence, unity in diversity, reconciliation, and justice through solidarity, especially for women and children. For more information, please contact Sr. Cathy Arnold, Sr. Amy McFrederick, or Sr. Pat Twohill at 1220 W. Market St., Akron, OH 44313, toll free 1-855-313-3131 or e-mail: vocations@oppeace.org; website: www.oppeace.org.

See ad on page 135. Code #018.

F

Felician Franciscan Sisters (C.S.S.F.)—Our Lady of Hope Province, North America We, the Felician Sisters are an active contemplative congregation of consecrated women founded by Blessed Mary Angela Truszkowska.

Our charism is to imitate her boundless love of God and surrender to God’s will in compassionate service,

VISION 2012

For more features go to VocationNetwork.org

Franciscan Missionary Sisters of Our Lady of Sorrows (O.S.F.) A Franciscan missionary in China, Bishop Rafael Angelo Palazzi, founded our community in 1939. Our founder entrusted us with a spirit of zeal for Evangelization and Catechesis. As Consecrated Religious we are united to the poor, chaste and obedient Jesus. As Franciscans we witness to the Good News through the joy and hospitality we provide in our apostolates of retreat work, catechesis, teaching in Catholic schools and parish work.

We live a vibrant community life, rooted in the Eucharist with a fervent commitment to prayer. We have a special devotion to Our Lady of Sorrows, as co-redemptrix with Christ at the foot of the Cross, and there we stand together with Jesus and Mary in the Church’s great mission for the salvation of souls. We welcome women, 18–49, to contact the Vocation Directress, 3600 SW 170th Avenue, Beaverton, OR 97006-5099; (503) 649-7127; e-mail: 101bvm@ gmail.com; website: www.olpretreat.org.

See ad on page 165. Code #126.

Franciscan Sisters at Springfield (O.S.F.) [Hospital Sisters of St. Francis - USA, Inc.] We are committed to proclaiming the Gospel in the spirit of St. Francis and our founding Sisters, by prayer and service with others.

We remain dedicated to a wholehearted response to the sick, poor, and needy as we strive to bring Christ’s healing presence to suffering humanity with simplicity and compassionate care. We are an international congregation with community members serving God’s people through healing ministries such as nursing, social service, home health care, occupational therapy, pastoral care, HIV/ AIDS, massage therapy, spiritual direction, and administration. There are thirteen hospitals located in Illinois and Wisconsin as well as mission centers in Tanzania and Haiti. We have community members in Germany, Poland, Japan, Kazakhstan, India, Czech Republic, and Korea.

Membership Invitation: Vocation Director, St. Francis Convent, LaVerna Road, P.O. Box 19431, Springfield, IL 62794-9431; (217) 522-3386; e-mail: discern@hsosf-usa. org; website: http://www.franciscansatspfld.org.

See ad on page 88. Code #037.

following Jesus. We call it Franciscan Evangelical Life.

Our witness is the witness of our lives. As Francis said, “Preach with your example, and if necessary, with your words.” Thus we actively labor in ministries of service and prayer, joyfully sharing the gifts of talents and skills given by the Holy Spirit, for the building up of the kingdom of God in justice, mercy, and peace. Vocation Minister, Sr. Lois Marie Rossi, 3115 N. Karlov Avenue, Chicago, IL 60641; (773) 328-5566; e-mail: vocations@ chicagofranciscans.com; or Vocation Coordinator, Carol Lackie (630) 243-3555; e-mail: clackie@chicagofranciscans.com; website: http://www.chicagofranciscans.org.

See ad on page 44. Code #166.

Franciscan Sisters of Dubuque, Iowa (O.S.F.) Please visit our website www.osfdbq.org to catch a glimpse of our life. We are “Rooted in the Gospel and in the spirit of Saints Francis and Clare. We strive to live in right relationship with all creation by deepening our relationship with Mother Earth and Sister Water, by standing with persons who are poor and by making peace and practicing non-violence. This is who we are; this is what the global community can expect of us.” Our Sister Water projects in Honduras and Tanzania have been meaningful times to work with another diverse group of people as we provide clean drinking water to villagers. We are a group of 300 sisters, 130 associates and numerous volunteers.

We sisters serve in a variety of ministries in 11 states, Honduras, Canada, and St. Lucia. We invite you to e-mail us at: Heldorferv@osfdbq.org or call/text at (952) 4575193. Come visit us in Dubuque, IA or www.osfdbq.org.

See ad on page 44. Code #193.

Franciscan Sisters of John the Baptist (FSJB) We are a new community, established October 2, 2006 in the Diocese of Peoria, Illinois. According to the example of John the Baptist, we dedicate ourselves to a life of limitless humility and self-renunciation. In this way we strive to decrease so Christ can increase. We want our lifestyle to be one of total trust in God. An indispensable part of our charism is to pray daily for priests and seminarians.

We commit ourselves to the service of Christ through His brothers and sisters, according to the needs of the Church and society under the guidance of the local Bishop. We are open to nursing, teaching, catechesis, and more. We are a contemplative-active community faithful to the Holy Father and to the Magisterium of the Catholic Church.

We live a joyful and strong community life, rooted in the Eucharist and a solid prayer life and we wear a religious habit. Contact: Mother M. Vaclava Ballon, FSJB, 1209 E. Lake Ave., Peoria, IL 61616; (309) 688-3500; e-mail: fsjbpeoria@yahoo.com; website: http://www.sistersofjohnthebaptist.org Code #354.

Franciscan Sisters of Allegany (O.S.F.) The Franciscan Sisters of Allegany seek to live the Gospel of Our Lord Jesus Christ. We witness to God’s love in the Franciscan tradition by living as sisters with all creation, and by serving others, especially those who are poor and marginalized. We are committed to a Gospel stance of nonviolence, justice, peace and integrity of creation. We share our Franciscan charism of joy, simplicity and hospitality within varied ministries on the East Coast of the United States, in Jamaica, Brazil, and Bolivia. As Christ-centered women of hope, we support one another in community and prayer, and we welcome women who seek the same spiritual values. Sr. Jo Marie Streva, OSF, Initial Formation Office, 1410-1 Park Shore Circle, Fort Myers, FL 33901, (239) 332-5260; e-mail: fsainquiry@yahoo.com; website: www.alleganyfranciscans.org..

See ad on page 34. Code #189.

Franciscan Sisters of Little Falls, Minnesota (O.S.F.) We are a community of women, who dedicate ourselves to a life of prayer and service with others. In the Spirit of Francis and Clare of Assisi, we accept the Gospel as our highest Rule of life. Our communal life together, our ministries, and our practice of justice support our commitment to constant conversion. Participating in the Church’s mission, we promote community through the works that we do and through our personal presence with those we serve. Our diverse ministries include social work, health care, massage, counseling, administration, education, parish ministry, spiritual direction, justice advocacy, environmental awareness, presence with homeless people, prayer and hospitality. We minister in the United States, Mexico, Ecuador and Nicaragua. Vocation Minister, Sr. Carmen Barsody, OSF, 116 8th Avenue SE, Little Falls, MN 56345-3597; (320) 632-0652; e-mail: vocations@fslf.org; website: http://www.fslf.org.

See ad on page 34. Code #268.

Franciscan Sisters of Chicago (O.S.F.) Modeled after the lives of St. Francis and St. Clare and the early brothers and sisters we take our inspiration from the Gospels,

Franciscan Sisters of Oldenburg, IN (O.S.F.) We are Third Order Franciscan Sisters. We are women of prayer, committed to vibrant Franciscan living of Gospel values.

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Dominican Sisters of Divine Providence A contemplative-active community. Our main purpose as religious is to be deeply immersed in God through a serious prayer life. The specific work of the community is the spreading of the Kingdom of God through the apostolate of teaching. Our apostolic work flows from, alternates with, and is sustained by our prayer life. In a joyful and relaxing atmosphere we work together, share our gifts, and recognize and appreciate one another’s contributions and uniqueness. To contact us: 25 Harmony School Road, Flemington, NJ 08822; (908) 782-1504; fax: (908) 7887394; e-mail: smtolp@yahoo.com.

See ad on page 23. Code #022.

total availability and concern for the salvation of all people. We live and pray together in community, and follow the rule of St. Francis of Assisi. Responding to the needs of God’s people and of the times, we minister in health care, pastoral care, education, social work, spiritual and administrative services and other Church-related ministries. Today, Felician Franciscan Sisters minister to God’s people in the United States, Canada, Brazil, Poland, Italy, England, France, Kenya, Estonia, Russia, Ukraine and the Amazon. Find out more about us at www.feliciansisters.org or contact the Vocation Center at navocations@feliciansisters.org. See our web ad at www.

VocationGuide.org.

See ad on page 13. Code #025.

Search these Women’s Communities online at VocationNetwork.org

woMen’s communities Search WOMen’s communities

We are committed to being prophetic in care of creation: in working for peace through justice and we make right relationships a high priority in our lives. We were founded in 1851 and have 240 sisters, including two in initial formation. Our Associates number 298. Our outreach ministries are Michaela Farm in Oldenburg which incorporates natural farming practices; Prayer Lodge in Busby, Montana, and Nia Kuumba Discernment House in St. Louis, Missouri and Oldenburg Franciscan Center, a Spirituality Center on campus. For further info see http:// www.oldenburgfranciscans.org or call our vocation director, Sr. Joan Miller (812) 933-6417 or e-mail: vocations@ oldenburgosf.com.

Code #167.

Franciscan Sisters of Our Lady of Perpetual Help (O.S.F.) Our mission is to be a transforming presence in society through witnessing Gospel values. Women of faith, prophetic vision and courage, our 98 sisters serve the poor and empower others to live the gospel with hope and joy. Our ministries in 13 states include pastoral care, education, health care, youth ministry and social services. As Franciscan sisters, we relate to creation as sister and have the same mission as St. Francis did to “go and repair.” We strive to foster relationships of interdependence that ensure a just, sustainable and vibrant earth community. We seek to change the framework from which humanity operates, and restore respect for a deep connectedness with earth.

Our foundress, Mother Ernestine Matz, stated, “There is no place too far, no service too humble, and no person too lowly.” For information: www.fsolph.org; e-mail: vocations@fsolph.org; Vocations, 335 South Kirkwood Road, St. Louis, Missouri, 63122; Phone 314-965-3700; Fax: 314-965-3710.

See ad on page 84. Code #170.

Franciscan Sisters of Peace (F.S.P.) The Franciscan Sisters of Peace were founded in 1986 in the Archdiocese of New York. Their charism is to live the Gospel and to follow in the footprints of Jesus Christ in the manner of Francis and Clare of Assisi. They follow the Rule of the Brothers and Sisters of the Third Order of St. Francis and are committed to being peacemakers in word and witness.

Franciscan Spirituality forms the common heart of the congregation. The Associates of the Franciscan Sisters of Peace are lay women who live the Franciscan spirit and charism of peacemaking in their own lives. Franciscan Sisters of Peace minister in New York, New Jersey, Arizona, New Mexico and California in education, religious education, pastoral and social work, and prison ministry.

Women who are practicing Catholics are welcome to contact Sr. Ann Smith, FSP (Vowed Membership) or Mrs. Judith Peterson (Associates), 20 Ridge Street, Haverstraw, NY 10928; (845) 942-2527; e-mail: secretary@fspnet.org; website: http://www.fspnet.org.

Code #017.

Franciscan Sisters of Perpetual Adoration (F.S.P.A.) As Franciscans we commit ourselves to promoting sustainability of the environment, seeking peace and justice for all, and inviting new members to join us on our Franciscan journey. The Franciscan Sisters of Perpetual Adoration have prayed 24/7 since 1878. This Eucharistic Adoration is the essence of who we are and what we do. Today more than 300 Franciscan Sisters of Perpetual Adoration and 220 Affiliates and 125 Prayer Partners live a spirituality of Loving Presence in mission, in community, and in solidarity with the oppressed. We minister throughout the United States as well as Canada, Central America, Mexico and Africa. We offer a wide variety of ministry options including education, health care, parish—just to name a few. Let’s talk. Membership Office, 912 Market Street, La Crosse, WI 54601-8800; (888) 683-FSPA (toll free); e-mail: membership@fspa. org; website: http://www.fspa.org. See our web ad at www.

VocationGuide.org.

See ad on page 121. Code #030.

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Franciscan Sisters of Rochester, MN (O.S.F.) The Franciscan Sisters of Rochester, MN, believe as St. Francis did: that we are all brothers and sisters, one family under God. With a rich spiritual heritage and the strength of prayer and community, we choose ministries guided by societal needs and the call to justice. You will find us across the United States and in Colombia, in inner cities and rural areas, responding to the call to justice and peace; we are teachers, nurses, spiritual directors, artists, writers, administrators, religious educators, counselors, social workers, therapists, and healers of creation. We believe in the empowerment of women and the worth and dignity of every person. We learn as we teach, are healed as we heal others, and are changed as we pray and act with compassion. We hope to join with others in creating with compassion a just and loving global community. For more information, contact: Central Minister, Rochester Franciscan Life Teams, (888) 277-4741; e-mail: sisterann@rochesterfranciscan.org; website: http://www. rochesterfranciscan.org.

See ad on page 22. Code #213.

Franciscan Sisters of Saint Elizabeth (F.S.S.E.) Following in the footsteps of our Founder Blessed Ludovico and living under the Third Order Regular Rule of Saint Francis, we commit ourselves to a Gospel life of poverty, chastity, and obedience. As a multi-cultural community, we minister to God’s people on five continents. Worldwide we daily unite ourselves as community through our common celebration of the Holy Eucharist, Divine Office, Holy Hour, and meditation. We offer our service through education, health care, parish ministry, care of the elderly, and evangelization. We joyfully embrace living in community, sharing a life of prayer while being active in our ministries. Are you called to journey with us? Call, write, or e-mail. Request information; come visit. The first step of the journey is yours to take. Let us assist you along the way. Vocation Office, Franciscan Sisters of Saint Elizabeth, 499 Park Road, Parsippany, NJ 07054; (973) 539-3797; e-mail: sr_cathylynn@yahoo. com; website: http://www.franciscansisters.com.

See ad on page 80. Code #056.

Franciscan Sisters of St. Paul, MN (O.S.F.) Known internationally as the Franciscan Sisters of the Blessed Virgin Mary of the Angels, we serve in the United States, Netherlands, Brazil, and Germany. We are committed to live the Gospel plainly and simply among the people, to serve each other in community, and be open to God’s challenge, whatever the time and place, in actively relieving human suffering. We serve in multiple ministries abroad, and in the U.S. we minister in health care, education, and social services, especially among the poor. Prayer is the substance of our choice of life. We invite any woman between the ages of 21 and 40 who wishes to accompany us on our journey to join us as a member or associate. Minimum education required is high school; college degree preferred.

Visit http://www.askmotherrose.org for more information.

Vocation Director, 1388 Prior Avenue South, St. Paul, MN 55116; (651) 690-1501; e-mail: maryldolezal@yahoo.com.

Code #031.

Franciscan Sisters of the Atonement (S.A.) We are a community of women founded in 1898 who share a vowed life within the context of community. Our spiritual and community life nurture and make possible our ministries that vary according to ones gifts and background. At present our sisters minister in the United States, Canada, Italy, Japan, and Brazil. We are currently involved in faith formation, pastoral ministry, social services, kindergartens, retreat and guest house ministry. Vocation Ministry, 41 Old Highland Turnpike, Garrison, NY 10524; (845) 230-8200; e-mail: VocationMinistry@graymoor.org; website: http://www.graymoor.org.

See ad on page 39. Code 211.

Franciscan Sisters of the Eucharist (F.S.E.) The Franciscan Sisters of the Eucharist continue the call of

St. Francis of Assisi to rebuild the Church. Our mission is to restore a sense of the sacred, especially the sacredness of human life, in a world that knows the rupture between the sacred and the secular. We are dedicated to the teachings of the Holy Father and maintain authentic perennial values while initiating new forms of apostolic service. Our way of life is centered by the Holy Eucharist and strong community bonding. These lay the foundation for our many outreaches into the complexities of today’s world.

Our vowed consecration to Christ and His Church calls us to be a Franciscan Body of Hope personally, professionally, and spiritually prepared to respond creatively “to the questions posed today by the anxieties and the urgent needs of the human heart” (Vita Consecrata, 81). Contact: Sister Mary Elizabeth Endee, F.S.E., 405 Allen Ave., Meriden, CT 06451; (203) 238-2243; e-mail: fsevocations@fsecommunity.org; website: www.fsecommunity.org.

See ad on page 89. Code 410.

Franciscan Sisters of the Sacred Heart (O.S.F.) As Franciscan women in the church today we share our lives in prayer, community, and ministry. Located in Indiana, Illinois, California, and Brazil, South America; our ministries include: health care in hospitals, clinics, home health, support programs for pregnant teens, and social service programs; education as teachers, administrators, librarians, and religious education coordinators; parish ministry as liturgists, pastoral associates, youth ministers, and coordinators of parish programs; retreat ministry and ministry among the base communities of the Amazon area of Brazil, South America. Contact: Vocation Director, 9201 West St. Francis Road, Frankfort, IL 60423; (815) 464-3848; e-mail: fsshvocations@aol.com; website: http:// www.fssh.com/vocations.

See ad on page 30. Code #033.

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Glenmary Home Mission Sisters of America The Glenmary Sisters provide missionary services to all God’s children in the Southeastern United States including Appalachia. Serving in areas where the Catholic population is less than 2 percent, their ministry is guided by the Corporal Works of Mercy to: feed the hungry, give drink to the thirsty, clothe the naked, shelter the homeless, visit the sick, visit those in prison, and bury the dead. Through the Glenmary Sister’s ministry of presence and willingness to share in the daily struggles of the families where they serve, the people of these areas come to understand the love and concern of the Catholic Church and their own dignity as children of God. Contact: Barbara O’Nan, e-mail: barbara@glenmarysisters.org or Sr. Sharon Miller; e-mail: srsharon@glenmarysisters.org; website: http:// www.glenmarysisters.org or call 1-800-301-2689. See our web ad at www.VocationGuide.org.

See ad on page 172. Code #138.

Good Shepherd Sisters (G.S.S.) We are an international congregation with over 4,000 vowed members both apostolic and contemplative. We have communities in 71 countries throughout the world. Our mission is one of reconciliation. We believe that, “One Person is of More Value than a World.” Through our prayer and ministry we strive to model our lives after the heart of Jesus, the Good Shepherd, who left the 99 to respond to the one in special need. Our apostolic work includes a variety of human services, primarily social work and social justice advocacy with a particular focus on women and children.

Our contemplative prayer strives to bring the liberating love of Jesus, the Good Shepherd to all of God’s people.

Vocation Directors: Christine Alvarez, (732) 946-0515; e-mail: gsvocny@optonline.net. Sr. Liz Schille, (314) 3813400; e-mail: lschille@gspmna.org; Sr. Mary Ann Giordano, (215) 782-8627; e-mail: sunset@catholic.org; US Website: www.goodshepherdsisters.org; Sr. Barbara Wells, Winnipeg, MB; (204) 336-5282; e-mail: barbarargs@ yahoo.ca; Canada Website: www.goodshepherdsisterscanada.org. See our web ad at www.VocationGuide.org.

See ad on page 85. Code #077.

VISION 2012

For more features go to VocationNetwork.org

Search these Women’s Communities online at VocationNetwork.org Grey Nuns of the Sacred Heart (G.N.S.H.) Grey Nuns live our vocation in an apostolic religious congregation.

We collaborate with others to create a more compassionate world in the spirit of the gospel and our foundress, St. Marguerite d’Youville, Mother of Universal Charity. Social justice, nonviolence and care of the earth are important values in our living, praying and working. Our Sisters are engaged in ministries which utilize their God-given talents and gifts in response to the emerging needs of our world. We are present in 11 dioceses in the U.S. and Haiti. If you are a woman between the ages of 20-45 with enough love in your heart to serve the poor, and are ready to explore our life and mission, please contact our Vocation Director: 1750 Quarry Road, Yardley, PA 19067; (215) 968-4236; Vocations@greynun.org; www. greynun.org.

See ad on page 28. Code #183.

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Holy Spirit Missionary Sisters (S.Sp.S.) As an international missionary community of about 3,500 women ministering in 47 countries, we are called to share the Good News of Jesus and witness to the presence and power of the Holy Spirit in the world. Called by the Spirit, we are sent to peoples of diverse cultures, religions, and social/ethnic backgrounds. Wherever possible we live in international/intercultural communities. We participate in the mission of Jesus through education, health care, parish ministry, retreat work, spiritual direction, counseling and social services. In our ministry we pay special attention to women who are pushed to the margins of society. For more information please contact: Office for Vocation Ministry, P.O. Box 6026, Techny, IL 60082-6026 or 319 Waukegan Rd., Northfield, IL 60093; (847) 4410126 ext. 700 or 704; e-mail: sspsovm@aol.com; website: http://www.ssps-usa.org; http://www.worldssps.org.

See ad on page 111. Code #127.

Holy Union Sisters (S.U.S.C.) At the heart of who we are is our name: Holy Union. We express this union first by being one with ourselves. We strive to bring this union to our world by working among different cultures, ethnic groups, the deprived and marginalized. Our desire for union impels us to collaborate with others. As members of the NonGovernmental Organization UNANIMA International, we work with other congregations of women religious at the United Nations to bring about systemic change. We strive to respect and care for the earth. Founded in 1826 in northern France, we serve today in educational, pastoral and social ministries. Holy Union Sisters serve as parish ministers, chaplains, teachers, administrators, caregivers to the elderly and in ministries among immigrants. We are present in eleven countries on four continents. Contact us at husvocations@gmail.com. You can learn more about us by visiting our website: www.holyunionsisters.org.

See ad on page 29. Code #368.

VISION 2012

For more features go to VocationNetwork.org

Institute of the Blessed Virgin Mary (I.B.V.M.) [Loretto/Loreto Sisters] IBVM Sisters are an apostolic community of Catholic women present in 26 countries across six continents. We live our Ignatian spirituality— contemplative in action—so cherished by our founder, Mary Ward, who in 1609 believed that “women in time to come would do great things.” We believe that women have great gifts to offer in promoting freedom, justice and integrity within church and society. We discern and embrace God’s desire in today’s changing and challenging times. We serve in educational, pastoral, and social ministries as parish ministers, religious education directors, teachers, spiritual directors, counselors, campus ministers, caregivers to women in need, and ministries among immigrants. With single-hearted love we hold ourselves open and ready to undertake whatever is for the greater glory of God and the good of those we serve. Contact Sr. Claire Vandborg, IBVM; (630) 868-2904; e-mail: vocation@ibvm.us. Visit our website: http://www.ibvm.us.

Code #210.

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Little Company of Mary Sisters (L.C.M.) We, the Little Company of Mary Sisters, are an international congregation named for the little group of faithful followers who remained in the company of Mary, the Mother of Jesus, at the foot of the Cross. Upon founding the LCM Sisters in Nottingham, England in 1877, Venerable Mary Potter dedicated her community to the Maternal Heart of Mary.

We bear witness to the healing presence of Jesus through our spiritual and physical care of the poor, sick, suffering, and dying in our midst, and by constant prayer for the sick and dying of the world. We welcome single women, ages 21 to 45, of diverse cultures, talents, and life experiences who have the health and desire to follow Jesus in gospel living as consecrated women. Contact: Sister Jean Stickney, L.C.M., (708) 229-5797 or Suzanne Petrouski, (708) 229-5095, American Province LCM Sisters, 9350 South California Avenue, Evergreen Park, IL 60805; email: vocations@lcmh.org; website: http://www.lcmh.org or http://www.lcmsisters.org.

See ad on page 35. Code #039.

Little Sisters of Jesus and Mary (L.S.J.M.) The Little Sisters of Jesus and Mary are an active-contemplative community of religious women called to meet Christ in the poor, in one another, in the created world and in the Eucharist. Embracing the spirituality of Charles de Foucauld, our mission is to Cry the Gospel with our lives. We live in community; daily Eucharist, morning and evening prayer, adoration, service and hospitality are hallmarks of our life. Our apostolate includes a crisis center for the poor, a soup kitchen, a residential program for homeless men, a representative payee program and a good neighbor program. We were founded in 1974 by Sr. Mary Elizabeth Gintling who described our community as women “loving God together”, and as “wounded people healing wounded people”. Please contact: Sr. Connie Ladd, P.O. Box 1755, Salisbury, MD 21802; (410) 543-1645; e-mail: lsjm@comcast.net; website: www.thejosephhouse.org.

See our web ad at www.VocationGuide.org.

See ad on page 54. Code #361.

Little Sisters of the Poor (L.S.P.) We are an international congregation living the Beatitudes and serving the needy elderly in the spirit of St. Jeanne Jugan, one of our Church’s newest saints (canonized October 11, 2009!).

Through our fourth vow of hospitality, we dedicate our lives to the aged poor, with whom we become one family.

The words of St. Jeanne Jugan are our inspiration as we spend our lives in humble service: “Making the elderly happy, that is what counts. . .Never forget that the poor are Our Lord; it is Jesus whom you care for in them.”

Through our vocation we wish to give quiet witness to the dignity of every human life, until the very end. The Association Jeanne Jugan is comprised of Catholic lay men and women who share in our spirit and mission.

Visit our website: http://www.littlesistersofthepoor.org or contact Sr. Constance, 601 Maiden Choice Lane, Baltimore, MD 21228; e-mail: serenity@littlesistersofthepoor. org. See our web ad at www.VocationGuide.org.

See ad on page 83. Code #041.

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Marianist Sisters, Daughters of Mary Immaculate (F.M.I) The Marianist Sisters are the women vowed religious in the Marianist Family. We continue the risk-taking faith of our foundress, Adèle de Batz de Trenquelléon, in developing faith communities in collaboration with the laity, and in the service of women, youth, and the poor.

FMI’s serve in Europe, Asia, Africa, South America, and the United States (Dayton, OH and San Antonio, TX). In the United States we still have much of the pioneer spirit, with “a mission to spread the Marianist Charism wherever we are.” Vocation Office: 30 Sawmill Road, Dayton, OH 45409; (937) 224-5896; or 235 W. Ligustrum Drive, San Antonio, TX 78228-4092; (210) 433-5501; e-mail: laura. leming@notes.udayton.edu or gtrautman@sm-usa.org.

See our web ad at www.VocationGuide.org.

Code #105.

Marianites of Holy Cross (M.S.C.) United with Mary standing at the foot of the cross, we, Marianites of Holy Cross, are APOSTOLIC religious, women of PRAYER and COMPASSION. Our mission, energized by our life in COMMUNITY, is to incarnate the love and compassion of Jesus Christ. Called to be a PROPHETIC presence in an ever-changing world, we resolutely stand with those who are excluded. We number 200 sisters, and are part of the Holy Cross Family of Sisters, Brothers, Priests, and Lay Associates. We minister in the all-inclusive fields of education, health care, social work, and parish ministry in France, the United States, Canada and Burkina Faso. In prayer, community life, ministry, with family and friends, we witness to God’s Spirit dwelling within us and encourage others to recognize God’s action in their lives. Sound like you? Contact us! E-mail: reneemsc@marianites.org; website: http://www.marianites.org.

See ad on page 39. Code #162.

Marist Missionary Sisters (S.M.S.M.) The Marist Missionary Sisters are a multi-cultural congregation.

They belong to a religious family known as the Society of Mary, whose members include laity, sisters, brothers, and priests. Today, the Marist Missionary Sisters serve in many countries on six continents. We serve in many different ways, such as education, pastoral ministry, social outreach, and the promotion of health and ecology. We live simply and prayerfully in community in the spirit of Mary. As we embrace different cultures and traditions, we experience many unique expressions of faith and community that enrich us. If you are looking for more and want to make a difference in our world, come and share our vision. Contact: Vocation Office, 349 Grove St., Waltham, MA 02453; (781) 893-0149; e-mail: smsmvoc@ aol.com; website: http://www.maristmissionarysmsm.org.

Code #128.

Maronite Servants of Christ the Light (MSCL) “Radiate His Light” illumines the direction of this new foundation begun in 2008 to serve the Maronite Catholic Church in the United States. With the invitation of His Excellency Bishop Gregory J. Mansour, Sister Marla Marie Lucas established this mission. The Maronite Servants of Christ the Light are the spiritual mothers of the parish taking the Mother of God as their inspiration to radiate Christ the Light, the light of his merciful love and hope in service to the pastoral needs of God’s people. As consecrated religious, the sisters serve alongside the priests through diverse works of mercy offering the maternal presence in addressing the needs of children, youth, young adults, families, marriage and pro-life efforts, solicitation for the sick, aged and grieving. Sister Marla Marie Lucas, 856 Tucker Road, Dartmouth, MA 02747; (202)213-7700; email: sister@maroniteservants.org; Blog: RadiateHisLight.

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woMen’s communities sarch WOMen’s communities

Handmaids of the Sacred Heart of Jesus (ACJ) The mission of the Handmaids of the Sacred Heart of Jesus is Reparation. As Eucharistic women, we work with Christ to bring healing to people’s hearts and peace to their relationships with God, with one another, and with creation.

St. Raphaela Mary Porras answered God’s call and began our congregation, describing the mission of the Handmaids as “Love of Christ in the Eucharist and the concern of His Heart for the salvation of all.” In twenty-five countries, Handmaids pray in daily Mass and Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament, in private and community prayer, and in yearly Spiritual Exercises. We serve in schools, retreat houses, parishes, clinics, and more. Our spirituality is that of St. Ignatius, who desired to seek, find, and serve the Lord in all circumstances and be constantly open to God’s will, serving His Church in any part of the world.

Take, Lord, receive! Visit us at http://www.acjusa.org or contact Sr. Sagrario Núñez or Sr. Uyen-Chi Dang; e-mail: vocations@acjusa.org. Write: 2025 Church Road, Wyncote, PA 19095. Call: (215)576-6250.

Code #409.

I

Search these Women’s Communities online at VocationNetwork.org blogspot.com; Website: maroniteservants.org. See our web ad at www.VocationGuide.org.

Code #419.

woMen’s communities Search WOMen’s communities

Maryknoll Sisters (M.M.) We are women religious missionaries. Rooted in Christ, we cross boundaries of cultures, races, gender, socio-economic-political status and faith traditions, making God’s love and compassion visible in 25 countries in Asia, Africa, the Pacific Islands and the Americas. We serve as pastoral workers, social workers, community based health workers, doctors, nurses, catechists, farmers, teachers, theologians, spiritual directors and advocates for justice and peace, preservation of the environment and integrity of all creation. We journey with the people especially the poor and oppressed in the search for truth, for justice, and for peace. Join us. . . . to help make God’s love visible! Contact: Vocation Ministry Coordinator, Maryknoll Sisters, P.O. Box 311, Maryknoll, NY 10545; (914) 941-7575 ext. 5612; e-mail: vocation@mksisters.org. Our website: http://www.maryknollsisters.org.

See ad on page 101. Code #199.

Medical Mission Sisters (M.M.S.) Medical Mission Sisters are an international community of Catholic Sisters and Associates whose lives are committed to healing and wholeness. We live out this commitment in 19 countries on five continents, including North America. Our call “to be present to life in the spirit of Jesus the healer” takes shape in our involvements in primary health care, hospitals, holistic health, women’s groups, community development, social work, global education, environmental concerns, and justice and peace issues. Our approach is to work closely with local people, helping them learn how to experience health and healing in their own lives, communities and nations. We invite women who want to live the love of God for all people through a mission of healing to join us on our journey. For more information, contact: Sr. Marie Schmids, 8400 Pine Road, Philadelphia, PA 19111; (215) 742-6100 or (215) 205-8979; e-mail: marie.schmids@yahoo.com; website: http://www.medicalmissionsisters.org.

See ad on page 110. Code #042.

Medical Missionaries of Mary (M.M.M.) Inspired by our Blessed Mother’s visit to her cousin Elizabeth, the Medical Missionaries of Mary (MMM) follow her example, bringing Christ’s healing love to those most in need. Sustained by prayer and community life, each sister, in self-surrender, seeks God through a life-long commitment of poverty, celibacy, and obedience in service to the sick, poor, marginalized and most neglected of our world.

MMM is particularly drawn to those services that heal and empower women. MMM presently serve in nine African countries, Brazil and Honduras ministering in a variety of professional capacities such as midwives, nurses, doctors, social services, administrators and various pastoral ministries. The sisters strive to identify, respect and affirm cultural differences and wisdom with particular regards to health and healing. Primary Health Care, in continuous dialogue with the local people, is a MMM priority.

Contact: Sr. Joan Grumbach, Vocation Director, Medical Missionaries of Mary, 179 Highland Ave., Somerville, MA 02143-1515; (617) 666-3223 or (718) 885-0945; e-mail: srjoang@gmail.com; website: http://www.mmmusa.org.

Code #299.

Missionary Servants of the Most Blessed Trinity (M.S.B.T.) Love means service! The Holy Spirit is seeking qualified young women to become our sisters as we work to open NEW MISSIONS, and to help us continue to serve at our established missions. Our call is to take on “abandoned work”—work of the Church that wouldn’t get done without us. We find ourselves in poor or remote places where people need material help and spiritual encouragement. We are missionaries! We work to preserve the Catholic Faith among traditionally Catholic people, often immigrant populations who desperately

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need support. We are in the USA, Puerto Rico, Mexico and Jamaica. We adapt to the needs we find. Our work includes: parish ministries of all kinds, social services, young adult ministries, outreach to migrant workers, prison work, health care, at-risk children’s programs, retreat ministries, and family life development programs.

Glory to the Triune God! Sr. Mary Kay McDonald, MSBT, and Sr. Olivia Montejano, MSBT, 3501 Solly Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19136; (215) 335-7534; e-mail: voc@ msbt.org; website: http://www.msbt.org.

See ad on page 108. Code #278.

Missionary Sisters of the Holy Rosary (M.S.H.R.) The Missionary Sisters of the Holy Rosary seek to continue Christ’s mission in today’s broken world. We are diverse in ministries, countries, and cultures. As women of faith and prayer, we strive to give witness to our missionary zeal. We are ready to be sent beyond the boundaries of our own country and culture. As we go forth, we endeavor to find, nurture, and share the Divine Life in its abundance, especially with those on the margins.

Through our ministries in Africa, the Americas, and Europe, we work to establish a Christian presence, to empower, especially women, and to foster spiritual and economic development. Our missionary life allows those on the margins to challenge us to become more compassionate and to work with them to create a more christian community and thus, more Godly world. Contact: Sr. Florence Enechukwu, 741 Polo Rd., Bryn Mawr, PA 19010; (610) 520-1974; e-mail: mshr2008@yahoo.com; website: http://www.mshr.org See our web ad at www.

VocationGuide.org.

Code #186.

Missionary Sisters of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus (M.S.C.) We are a missionary congregation of sisters who are called to be the Heart of God on earth. United in faith and prayer, we are 800 women risking for the Gospel in the United States and in 17 other countries. Our mission is to serve those most in need of the compassionate love of Jesus, wherever that may be. Our ministries are diverse, including: evangelization, social work, health care, education, pastoral care, counseling and parish ministry.

We invite women 20-45 years of age to join us in spreading the message that God loves all people. For further information please e-mail Sr. Catherine Cellini, MSC, at vocations@mscreading.org; or visit www.mscreading.org.

See ad on page 79. Code #305.

Missionary Sisters of the Sacred Heart of Jesus (M.S.C.) “Lord, when did we see you hungry, thirsty, naked. . .? Whatever you did for the least of my brothers and sisters, you did it to me.” We are Missionaries of the Sacred Heart of Jesus—passionate and bold in responding to the most urgent needs of our world. Our works include health care for the poor and uninsured, elder care, education, low-income housing, advocacy for immigrants and persons who are trafficked, faith formation and human promotion. We are in 16 countries around the world.

We are vowed sisters, lay missionaries, volunteers and many others who collaborate in our works—all seeking to be a creative and compassionate expression of Christ’s love in the world. Come. Join us. For more information on how to share your gifts as a Missionary for one year, two years, or the rest of your life, visit our website www. mothercabrini.org. MSC Vocation Director, 610 King of Prussia Rd., Mansion, Second Floor Wing, Radnor, PA 19087; (610) 902-1039; e-mail: MSCvocations@ mothercabrini.org.

See ad on page 3. Code #044.

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Oblate Sisters of Providence (O.S.P.) The Congregation of the Oblate Sisters of Providence was founded in 1829 to meet the needs of Haitian refugees in Baltimore.

As the oldest religious community for women of African descent, we continue the tradition of education and service to the poor and neglected begun by our foundress,

Mother Mary Lange. In African American and Latino communities in the United States and Costa Rica we serve primarily as teachers, school administrators, social workers, catechists and pastoral associates. Through our ministries we share the Good News of Christ by the integrity of our faith, our love of God and our firm hope and trust in God’s Providence. If you hunger for a deeper relationship with God, have a longing to help God’s people and desire to be an instrument of change, contact Sr. Marcia Hall, OSP, Vocation Director; (410) 242-8500; e-mail: ospvocations@oblatesisters.com website: http:// www.oblatesistersvocations.com. Together we have the ability to change lives!

Code #340.

Oblate Sisters of the Sacred Heart of Jesus (O.S.H.J.) The Oblate Sisters are a group of women who strive to attain union with God by offering their lives for diocesan priests. Their special charism is both spiritual and ministerial. The sisters are called first of all to pray for priestly holiness and to offer the joys and sorrows of their lives for the good of priests. Ministerially the sisters care for retired and convalescent priests, and collaborate with them in parish ministry, which includes teaching, directing religious education, hospital visitation, and distribution of the Eucharist to the home bound. The sisters also conduct a preschool and kindergarten, which is located on their Motherhouse grounds. Sr. Teresina Rosa, 50 Warner Road, Hubbard, OH 44425; (330) 7599329; e-mail: VMTOBLATE@aol.com; website: http:// www.oblatesistersofshj.com.

See ad on page 133. Code #196.

Order of the Sacred and Immaculate Hearts of Jesus and Mary We are a Eucharistic and contemplative community consisting of priests, brothers, and sisters, who wear a full habit, as well as lay “external” members, all of whom are consecrated to the Sacred Heart of Jesus and the Immaculate Heart of Mary. Our daily schedule, besides Holy Mass, includes: 15 decade Rosary (20 on Thursday), Divine Mercy Chaplet, Liturgy of the Hours, and time for silent adoration, all before Our Lord Jesus, truly present in the Blessed Sacrament. After being filled with the love and mercy of Our Savior, we go forth to be His reflection to others through various corporal works of mercy. Contact: Vocation Director, 48765 Annapolis Rd., Hopedale, OH 43976; (740) 946-9000; e-mail: twohearts1@mac. com; website: http://www.heartsofjesusandmary.org.

Code #271.

Our Lady of Victory Missionary Sisters (O.L.V.M.) Like Mary, Our Lady of Victory Missionary Sisters (Victory Noll Sisters) are rooted in the Word of God. They stand with Jesus for justice and compassion for all. They are vowed religious who choose to live out their vows in response to the needs of the poor and oppressed, especially women. Victory Noll Sisters do this in creative and diverse ministries in a personal, non-institutional way, and with an emphasis on the Hispanic community and immigrants. If you would like to explore challenging opportunities to continue the Mission of Jesus as a Victory Noll Sister, contact us at: Vocations, Our Lady of Victory Missionary Sisters, P.O. Box 109, Huntington, IN 46750; (260) 356-0628; e-mail: voc@olvm.org; website: www.olvm.org.

See ad on page 53. Code #201.

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Pallottine Missionary Sisters (S.A.C.) [Missionary Sisters of the Catholic Apostolate] “The love of Christ impels us” is the motto of our congregation. St. Vincent Pallotti founded the sisters in Rome as a way to fulfill the needs of the people of his time. His vision was for everyone to live out their baptismal call and spread the Gospel message by any and all means through their unique God-given gifts.

As Pallottines, we are called, just as St. Vincent was, to empower the laity and to awaken in all Christians their apostolic call. We live out our consecrated life through

VISION 2012

For more features go to VocationNetwork.org

Search these Women’s Communities online at VocationNetwork.org prayer, community living, and apostolic service. Our ministries vary based on our individual call and the needs of others. The Pallottines serve in West Virginia, Maryland, Missouri and 19 other countries. For more information contact Sr. Lena May, SAC, 15270 Old Halls Ferry Rd., Florissant, MO 63034-1611; (314) 830-9814; e-mail: vocations@pallottinespirit.org; website: http:// www.pallottinespirit.org.

See ad on page 19. Code #239.

Parish Visitors of Mary Immaculate We are contemplative-missionary Sisters, founded in New York City in 1920 by Mother Mary Teresa Tallon. Our apostolate of evangelization, religious education and social service assistance is fired by a life of Eucharistic prayer and love for Jesus and His Church. Mary’s Visitation to Elizabeth, and Jesus the Good Shepherd, inspire us as we visit parish families or catechize children, youth and adults. We seek especially to befriend and spiritually assist careless and alienated Catholics while guiding and encouraging Catholic family life. To learn more about us, see our website at www.parishvisitorsisters.org or contact Sr. Dolores Marie, Vocation Director, P.O. Box 658, Monroe, NY 10949-0658; (845) 783-2251; e-mail: pvmi@frontiernet.net.

See ad on page 21. Code #292.

Passionist Nuns (C.P.), Ellisville, MO Brides of the Crucified. Giving Him everything through Religious vows. A spirit of poverty, solitude, prayer and community builds a relationship with Jesus of worshipful love. We love for those who don’t; pray for those who won’t. Thus do we serve God, the Church, the World.

Loyal to the Holy Father. We pray the Liturgy of Hours, daily Holy Mass and Rosary, coming before the Blessed Sacrament at least 8 times daily keeps us attuned to the beatings of the Sacred Heart. Looking for something to fill the emptiness in life? Write: Passionist Nuns, 15700 Clayton Rd., Ellisville, MO 63011-2300; website: http:// home.catholicweb.com/passionistnuns. NO E-MAIL. Please provide a mailing address when you write.

Code #047.

Poor Clares (O.S.C.) [Order of Saint Clare]—Andover, MA We, the Poor Clares of Andover, MA find our inspiration and example in the life of St. Clare and her sisters.

We are an enclosed contemplative community living the Gospel life according to the Rule of St. Clare of Assisi. The Poor Clare vocation begins with an individual response to the love of Jesus and is lived out in community. St. Clare saw our vocation as a gift from God for which we owe greatest thanks. Each day we strive to grow and live in deeper relationship with God and each other. Our vowed life is centered around the Liturgy of the Hours spaced throughout the day. Eucharistic Adoration and Eucharistic Exposition is vital to our heritage as Poor Clares.

Vocation Director: Sr. Emily Marie Silveira, Monastery

VISION 2012

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Poor Clares (O.S.C.)[Order of St. Clare]—Chesterfield, NJ As the daughters of St. Francis and St. Clare, we joyfully embrace the Gospel way of life following in the footprints of Jesus Christ. Prayer is the heart of the Poor Clare life. We come together daily to celebrate the Eucharist and to pray the Liturgy of the Hours seven times during the day. We hold the Church and the world in our hearts and prayers. By nurturing a loving contemplative atmosphere, we hope to mirror God’s abiding presence and love for all people. We welcome visitors to celebrate Mass and to join in our prayer time. If you are desiring a more simple life style, a deeper relationship with Christ and are experiencing the call to be a grateful witness of Christ’s love through community living and a hidden ministry of prayer and intercession for the Church and the world contact us. Sr. Etta Patton, Monastery of St. Clare, 150 White Pine Rd, Chesterfield, NJ 08515; (609) 324-2638, formationosc@hotmail.com. Visit our website at www.poorclaresnewjersey.com See ad on page 11. Code #412.

Poor Clares (O.S.C.) [Order of Saint Clare]—Great Falls, MT We, the Poor Clares of Montana, daughters of St. Clare and St. Francis of Assisi, are called to live the Holy Gospel in the contemporary Church. We are dedicated to a life of contemplative prayer in an enclosed community, dependent on God’s providence, providing a place where all are welcome to experience God’s presence and peace. Our daily schedule includes daily Eucharist, the Liturgy of the hours, contemplative prayer, and adoration of the Blessed Sacrament. The monastery building provides a setting for sharing our life of prayer with the people of God. All are welcome to pray with us in the chapel to find spiritual nourishment and peace. We welcome women between the ages of 25 and 50 who may be feeling God’s call to our life of prayer, community and contemplation. Vocation Director: Sister Maryalice Pierce, OSC, Poor Clares of Montana, 3020 18th Ave. S, Great Falls, MT 59405-5167, (406) 453-7891, maryalicep@poorclaresmt. org; website: http://www.poorclaresmt.org.

See ad on page 11. Code #412.

Poor Clares (O.S.C.) [Order of Saint Clare]—Jamaica Plain, MA Mother Maddalena Bentivoglio, O.S.C., asked her community to take care of their “little sister in Boston”, the last she founded before her death in 1905. The Franciscan hearts of our present 20 sisters, thoroughly dedicated to our contemplative life, are uplifted by the beauty of creation in our enclosure garden and the surrounding area. We are closely inserted into the lives of our neighbors: they turn to us for support in their spiritual needs and for a quiet place to pray, while we depend on their generosity and help in our material needs. Being poor sisters, we work quietly to earn our living, designing and making liturgical vestments, providing altar breads to parishes, making prayer cards for all occasions, rosaries, and other items. We are grateful for the grace of our vocation to be Poor Clares. Please help us to continue our apostolate of prayer within the Church of Boston. Contact: Sr. Mary Francis Hone, OSC, 920 Centre Street, Jamaica Plain, MA 02130-3099; e-mail: mfhoneosc@yahoo.com; website: http://www.stanthonyshrine.org/poorclares.

See ad on page 11. Code #412.

Poor Clares (O.S.C.) [Order of Saint Clare]—Langhorne, PA Cloistered Franciscan nuns, founded by St. Clare of Assisi, companion of St. Francis of Assisi. For 800 years Poor Clares have been part of the heart of the church, living the Gospel Life in their contemplative life style which is nourished by daily Mass, the Liturgy of the Hours throughout the day, exposition of the Blessed Sacrament during times of the day, and a joyous community life. A year of postulancy follows a time of getting to know

the community. There are two years of novitiate before vows. Each Poor Clare house is autonomous, but joined in living the ideals with Poor Clares throughout the U.S. and the world. Join us in living a life of love of God and in loving and praying for the world. Monastery of St. Clare, 1271 Langhorne-Newtown Road, Langhorne, PA 19047-1297, e-mail: vocation@poorclarepa.org; website: http://www.poorclarepa.org.

See ads on pages 11, 47. Code #048.

Poor Clares (O.S.C.) [Order of Saint Clare]—Travelers Rest, SC As Poor Clare Nuns, we the sisters of the Monastery of Saint Clare in Travelers Rest, SC live a life of contemplative prayer and pray for the whole world.

In the tradition of Saint Clare and Saint Francis of Assisi we choose to live simply and in community. Our daily schedule includes communal praying of the full Liturgy of Hours, Eucharist, personal prayer, sacred reading, and work within the monastery. Eucharistic adoration is available daily. We welcome unmarried women between the ages of 25 and 45 who may be feeling Gods call to live our life of prayer, community, and contemplation.

We hope to hear from you: Vocation@Poorclaresc.com; (864) 834-8015, 37 McCauley Rd., Travelers Rest, SC 29690. We encourage you to visit our website: http:// www.Poorclaresc.com. Please know that as you are reading this your Poor Clare sisters are holding you in prayer.

See ad on page 11. Code #412.

Poor Clares (O.S.C.) [Order of Saint Clare]—Wappingers Falls, NY We Poor Clares are a cloistered contemplative community, centering our lives on the Celebration of the Eucharist, the praying of the Liturgy of the Hours, private prayer and spiritual reading. Our daily work helps us to support ourselves, and unites us in a meaningful way with our sisters and brothers all over the world who must also work for a living. St. Clare of Assisi began her mission of prayer in the year 1212, following the inspiration of St. Francis of Assisi and our community was founded in the New York Archdiocese in 1915. In 1999, it became evident that our Bronx location no longer met the needs of our community, and after a temporary move to New Rochelle, the Monastery was built here in Wappingers Falls on the same property as our Franciscan brothers on Mount Alvernia. Monastery of St. Clare, 70 Nelson Avenue, Wappingers Falls, NY 12590; (845) 297-1685; e-mail: clarelight@gmail.com or claresny@gmail.com; website: www.poorclaresny.com.

See ad on page 11. Code #412.

Poor Handmaids of Jesus Christ (P.H.J.C.) We Poor Handmaids of Jesus Christ are an international congregation of apostolic religious founded by Blessed Catherine Kasper in Dernbach, Germany. We minister with the poor, the sick and children in the United States, Mexico, Germany, England, the Netherlands, India, Brazil, Kenya and Nigeria. With prayer and community living as our foundation, we carry out the mission of Jesus in rural, urban and inner city settings primarily in the Midwest.

Focused on partnering in the work of the Spirit, we invite others to join us in various facets of education, pastoral and social work, neighborhood based health ministries, spiritual guidance, and care for the environment. We are recognized more by the love and simplicity with which we serve than by any particular ministry. The Poor Handmaids of Jesus Christ, together with the Associate and Fiat Spiritus communities, live the spirit of Blessed Catherine Kasper, their foundress. In the U.S.A. - Sr. Kathy Haas, P.H.J.C., P.O. Box 1, Donaldson, IN 46513; (574) 936-9936; e-mail: khaas@poorhandmaids.org; website: http://www.poorhandmaids.org. In Mexico – e-mail: vocacion.spjc@gmail.com; website: www.siervaspobres. org.mx. See our web ad at www.VocationGuide.org.

Code #049.

R

Redemptoristine Nuns (OSsR) [Order of the Most Holy Redeemer] Redemptoristines hear the invitation

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Pallottine Sisters (C.S.A.C.) [Sisters of the Catholic Apostolate]—Immaculate Conception Province The charism of the Pallottines is to awaken in each person the awareness that God has called us to be apostles. St. Vincent Pallotti, inspired by the universal call to holiness, established the Union of the Catholic Apostolate with priests, brothers, sisters, and laity in 1835 in Rome, Italy.

Pallottines work together to give new life to faith, a new spark to love, and a new thrust to bringing all to unity in Jesus Christ. They do this through education of children and adults, formation programs for the laity, outreach to immigrants, and collaboration with other groups. As Pallottine Sisters community life, scripture, prayer, and the Eucharist are a major part of our religious life. We have missions in Italy, Brazil, Argentina, India, and Mozambique, Africa. For more information, write to Director of New Membership/Ministry, 98 Harriman Heights Rd., Monroe, NY 10950. Call (English) (845) 492-5076; (Spanish) (845) 238-3917; e-mail: newapostle98@yahoo. com; website: http://www.pallottinesisters.org.

See ad on page 19. Code #239.

of St. Clare, 445 River Road, Andover, MA 01810 (978) 683-7599; e-mail: poorclares445@comcast.net. Visit our website at www.poorclaresandover.org.

See ad on page 11. Code #412

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to search for God in contemplative silence and solitude within monastic community and surrender themselves to conversion and transformation into the “Living Memory of Jesus our Redeemer.” Redemptoristine life centers on unceasing prayer begun in daily Eucharist and continued through the Liturgy of the Hours, private prayer and recollection. In silence and solitude we are a praying presence, a memory of God’s love in the Church and in the world. Solemn vows lived simply in poverty, lovingly in celibacy and willingly in obedience bring us to contemplation. Freely offering ourselves to God, to be possessed

by Him, we find the enclosure an external expression of an interior value; the desire for total availability to God. Contact: Sr. Hildegard Pleva, OSsR, Mother of Perpetual Help Monastery, P.O. Box 220, Esopus, NY 12429; (845) 385-6533; e-mail: ContemplativeCall@gmail.com; website: http://www.RedemptoristineNunsofNewYork.org.

Code #336.

Religious of Jesus and Mary (RJM) The Religious of Jesus and Mary is an international congregation of apostolic women founded by St. Claudine Thévenet and committed to live a simple life style rooted in the Ignatian spiritual heritage. We serve in 28 countries, in various educational, pastoral, social, and spiritual ministries, through which we make known God’s goodness and forgiving love, as revealed in the hearts of Jesus and Mary. Having witnessed the brutal death of two of her brothers during the French Revolution, Claudine Thévenet dedicated her life and resources to alleviating the moral and physical ravages left in its wake. She believed that the greatest misfortune was to live and die without knowing God. Thus, she gathered friends around her to offer shelter and basic education for poor girls, whom she considered the “weakest, the most shameful, the most deprived” of post-Revolutionary French society. Today, the RJM throughout the world continue to respond to this call. Our life of prayer and community supports our ministry to those most in need wherever we are sent. Vocation Office: Sr. Janet Stolba, RJM; (202)884-9798; e-mail: rjmvocations@gmail.com; website: www.rjm-us.org.

See ad on page 130. Code #414.

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Salesian Sisters (F.M.A.) The Salesian Family is the largest Religious Community in the world. Over 14,000 Sisters and 16,000 Priests and Brothers—changing the world one young person at a time. Our mission is one: We’re all about YOUTH! (We really love kids!) We serve youth in schools, youth groups, catechetical centers, youth centers, summer camps, retreat centers, and mission lands. We’re in over 90 countries. In the U.S. we are present in Arizona, California, Colorado, Florida, Illinois, Louisiana, New Jersey, New York, and Texas. We are known for deep devotion to Jesus in the Eucharist, a great love for Mary, and our fidelity to the Pope. Check out our website: http://www.salesiansisters.org or e-mail us: happynun@yahoo.com. “Like Mary, for Jesus and for the Young.”

See ad on page 127. Code #117.

School Sisters of Notre Dame (S.S.N.D.) Founded in Germany by Blessed Theresa Gerhardinger, School Sisters of Notre Dame are a vibrant international congregation of vowed apostolic women with nearly 3,200 members, living and ministering in over 30 countries. We are women of hope, committed to bringing Jesus’ message of love and unity to our world. Our life in mission integrates prayer, community life and ministry. Believing that our international presence gives us a unique global responsibility, we address urgent needs of our time, particularly those of women, youth and those who are poor. Engaged in a variety of ministries, we are educators at heart, believing the world can be changed through the transformation of persons. Some of our ministries include formal education, social services, parish and retreat ministry, health care and missionary service. Contact Sister Barbara Bacak: e-mail:

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sisters@ssnd.org; website: http://www.ssnd.org; YouTube: www.youtube.com/sistersofnotredame; Facebook: http:// www.facebook.com/ssnd.northamerica. See our web ad at www.VocationGuide.org.

See ad on page 52. Code #052.

School Sisters of St. Francis (OSF)—Milwaukee, WI We are an international community of Catholic sisters who unite with others to build a just and peaceful world. Founded in 1874, we have sisters, associates, staff, donors and volunteers actively working to address the needs of those who are poor and marginalized by society.

Our mission is thriving throughout the United States, Europe, Latin America and India. Our mission is to live the Good News of Jesus and witness to the presence of God as we enter into the lives and needs of people around the world, especially those who are poor. We strive to be a source of new life, new meaning and new hope. We carry out our mission through education, healing, pastoral, social justice, and fine arts ministries. Please contact Sister Lee Agnes Hodapp or Sister Patricia Throener, 1515 South Layton Boulevard, Milwaukee, WI 53215; (402) 727-7542; e-mail: vocations@sssf.org; website: http:// usp.sssf.org. See our web ad at www.VocationGuide.org.

Code #053.

School Sisters of St. Francis (O.S.F.)—Pittsburgh, PA We are a congregation of Franciscan women living in “Intimate Union with God in the midst of Apostolic Service.” As Gospel women, transformed by the Eucharist, ministering by our joyful presence, we are a prophetic voice in the world. Relational living is central to our life: developing a deep relationship with God through daily Eucharist and communal and private prayer; living as “Sisters” by sharing prayer, meals, sorrows and joys; relating to those we serve by our loving ministry; and living in relationship with all Creation through care of the earth.

Our sisters minister in formal education; retreat, youth and parish ministry; health and elder care; mission work; social services and prayer ministry in Massachusetts, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Texas, Rome (Italy), Slovakia and South Africa. Contact: Vocation Director, Mount Assisi Convent, 934 Forest Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15202; (412) 761-6004; e-mail: vocationsosf@gmail.com; website: http://vocationsosf.wordpress.com.

Code #357.

School Sisters of St. Francis of Christ the King (SSFCR) The Congregation of the School Sisters of St. Francis of Christ the King is an international order of religious women who serve the church throughout the world. In the United States there are over 45 sisters who offer themselves to the church through ministries of education, administration, religious education, care of the sick and elderly, in parish ministries, and in food service. As Franciscan women in the church today, we seek to live in a spirit of humility, simplicity, and total dedication to building God’s Kingdom on earth. Through prayer, Gospel living, service and community sharing, we walk together in hope and joy. Girls, or women between 18 and 34 years of age, are encouraged to contact us.

Sr. Mary Terese, Vocation Director, Mt. Assisi Convent, 13900 Main St., Lemont, IL 60439; (630) 257-7524; e-mail: vocareosf@yahoo.com; website: http://www. lemontfranciscans.org.

See ad on page 35. Code #140.

Servants of the Blessed Sacrament (S.S.S.) A worldwide Eucharistic contemplative community, we maintain Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament in our public Chapels. Our life of prayer is shared with others according to the talents of the Sisters, e.g. spiritual guidance, Eucharistic Minister, organist. Age limit: 20-45.

Education: 2 years college or work experience. Contact: Vocation Director, 101 Silver St., Waterville, ME 04901; (207) 872-7072; e-mail: srkk@blesacrament.org; website: http://www.blesacrament.org.

Code #054.

Servants of the Holy Heart of Mary (S.S.C.M.) A religious congregation serving the needs of the church through parish ministry, health care, teaching, counseling, and human services. The sisters serve in the dioceses of Belleville, Chicago, Rockford, Joliet, and Peoria. The heart of the ministry of the SERVANTS OF THE HOLY HEART OF MARY is the support and challenge of their lives of PRAYER AND COMMUNITY. It is personal prayer, as well as through the liturgical prayer of the church, that the sisters are impelled to ministry and community. For more information please contact: Vocation Office, Servants of the Holy Heart of Mary, 717 North Batavia Avenue, Batavia, IL 60510; (815) 3707228; e-mail: vocation@sscm-usa.org; website: http:// www.sscm-usa.org.

See ad on page 132. Code #055.

Sisters, Servants of the Immaculate Heart of Mary (I.H.M.)—Immaculata, PA Animated by our charism of love, creative hope, and fidelity, and in imitation of Mary, we proclaim the Gospel message in the spirit of Jesus the Redeemer. Strengthened by a life of vowed consecration, nurtured by prayer and the Eucharist, and sustained by community living, we radiate joyful service and promote Gospel values, offering compassion to all God’s people through our mission to evangelize, to catechize, and to teach. In the spirit of St. Alphonsus, we promote peace and justice in addressing the needs of the most abandoned poor. For information contact Sr. Rose Bernadette Mulligan, Villa Maria House of Studies, 1140 King Rd. Immaculata, PA 19345-0200; (610) 8891553; e-mail: ihmvoc@aol.com; website: http://www. ihmimmaculata.org.

See ad on page 92. Code #187.

Sisters, Servants of the Immaculate Heart of Mary (I.H.M.)—Monroe, MI We are a progressive, visionary faith community of 451 sisters, as well as 120 associates, and volunteers who join our God quest leading us along new pathways today. Our mission has evolved and grown in response to the pressing global, social, and ecological injustices in the world. Those needs offer us various opportunities in ministry, including traditional and nontraditional education, justice advocacy, spirituality and sustainability. We build community that sustains us as individuals, as sisters and as interdependent members of the entire community of life. We are willing to take risks for the sake of the future and trust in divine providence. Contact us at our Membership Office, 610 West Elm Avenue, Monroe, MI 48162; (734) 240-9820; e-mail: membership@ihmsisters.org; website: http:// www.ihmsisters.org.

See ad on page 15. Code #258.

Sisters of Charity (Federation) The Sisters of Charity Federation is comprised of 12 religious congregations, representing more than 4,000 members in the United States and Canada, who recognize their particular character and spirit in the tradition of Charity founded by St. Vincent de Paul, St. Louise de Marillac and St. Elizabeth Ann Seton. Impelled by Christ’s love and joined together in the mission of Charity they respond to the cries of those who are poor and marginalized with lives of extravagant love. To learn more and for contact information for vocation directors of member congregations visit www.sisters-of-charity-federation.org. See our web ad at www.VocationGuide.org.

Code #059.

Sisters of Charity of Cincinnati (S.C.) We are an active apostolic congregation, following in the footsteps of our foundress, St. Elizabeth Seton. For contact information and to view our DVD “Extravagant Love: The Vocation of the Sisters of Charity of Cincinnati” visit our website at http://www.srcharitycinti.org/vowed.htm or write to Vocation Coordinator, 5900 Delhi Road, Mount St. Joseph, OH 45051. See our web ad at www.VocationGuide.org.

Code #059.

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Search these Women’s Communities online at VocationNetwork.org Sisters of Charity of Halifax (S.C.) The Sisters of Charity of Halifax are seeking young adult women who wish to make the love of God visible by giving joyful witness! Our spirituality is rooted in the tradition of Saint Elizabeth Seton, Saint Vincent de Paul, and Saint Louise de Marillac. We are committed to standing in the fire of Gospel values and responding to a world wounded by violence and stripped of hope. While many of us are in Massachusetts, New York, and Nova Scotia, we also serve in other parts of the United States, Canada, Bermuda, Peru, and the Dominican Republic. Our ministries include education, pastoral ministry, social service, health care, earth ministry, social justice, community service, and outreach.

We welcome those whom God calls to share our life of community, prayer, and service. Considering religious life? Call Sr. Maryanne Ruzzo at (781) 997-1355; e-mail: mruzzo@schalifax.ca; website: http://www.schalifax.ca.

See our web ad at www.VocationGuide.org.

Code #059.

Sisters of Charity of Nazareth, KY (S.C.N.) We are an international congregation founded in 1812 in Kentucky.

We and our associates are committed to work for justice in solidarity with oppressed peoples, especially the poor and women, and to care for the earth. We engage in diverse ministries in the U.S., India, Nepal, Belize, and Botswana. Sr. Nancy Gerth, S.C.N., P.O. Box 10, Bardstown, KY 40048; (502) 331-4516; e-mail: snancy@ scnazarethky.org; website: http://www.scnfamily.org. See our web ad at www.VocationGuide.org.

Code #059.

Sisters of Charity of New York (S.C.) An apostolic congregation of women living in community in the tradition of St. Vincent de Paul and St. Louise de Marillac. Founded

by St. Elizabeth Ann Seton, we are called to reveal God’s love in our lives with and for all in need, especially with persons who are poor. We serve particularly in the New York area, and among the people of Sololá and Quiché in Guatemala. Our ministries include education, health care, social services, pastoral care and housing. We collaborate with organizations working for peace/justice.

We invite women to join us for the sake of the Gospel.

To find about more about us, please visit our website at www.scny.org or call (718) 543-4898 at the Office of New Membership, 6301 Riverdale Avenue, Bronx, NY 10471; e-mail: vocationsc@scny.org. See our web ad at www.

VocationGuide.org.

Code #059.

Sisters of Charity of Rolling Hills (S.C.R.H.) The Sisters of Charity of Rolling Hills were founded in 1964 in Los Angeles, California. Our foundresses envisioned a community of Sisters working in different professions, living in community, praying together, and sharing a passion for serving Christ in the poor and needy, principally in the Los Angeles area. Some of the professions: artists, musicians, microbiologists, teachers, college professors, librarians, office workers. If you see yourself fitting into this, perhaps you can add to the list..., contact us! Sr.

VISION 2012

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Lou Anglin, BVM; Kathy Carr, BMV; 1100 Carmel Drive, Dubuque, IA 52003; (563) 588-2351; e-mail: newmember@bvmcong.org; website: http://www.bvmcong.org. See our web ad at www.VocationGuide.org.

Code #296.

Sisters of Charity of Saint Elizabeth (S.C.) As women of prayer, rooted in community and committed to the mission of Jesus Christ we are compelled by his love to make God known in the world. We work with and for the poor, to alleviate suffering and dispel ignorance and promote justice in all our ministries. In the spirit of Saint Vincent de Paul, Saint Louise de Marillac, Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton and Mother Mary Xavier Mehegan we are faithful to our charism of charity as we engage ourselves in education, health care, diocesan and parish ministry, counseling, spiritual direction and retreats, hospitals, homes for the aged, adult literacy programs, social services and advocacy for the poor and oppressed.

We serve in 17 states and El Salvador, Central America.

For more information about us and living BOUNDLESS CHARITY IN YOUR LIFE AND WORK please contact Sister Maureen Corcoran, S.C., P.O. Box 476, Convent Station, NJ 07961-0476; (973) 290-5331; e-mail: mcorcoran@ scnj.org; website: http://www.scnj.org. See our web ad at www.VocationGuide.org.

Code #059.

Sisters of Charity of the Incarnate Word (CCVI), Houston, TX We are an international, multicultural, apostolic congregation. We commit ourselves to being “gospels of love,” by creating communities that are gospel based and supportive. We respond with others in faith to the pain and brokenness of our world, risking new pathways in direct service to the sick, the elderly, the orphaned, in education and to unmet needs and challenging oppressive structures. Our ministries extend to the United States, El Salvador, Guatemala, Ireland, and Kenya. If you feel “CALLED TO SERVE” please contact Sister Mary Patricia Driscoll, e-mail: mpdriscoll@ ccvi-vdm.org or Sister Kim Phuong Tran; e-mail: kimccvi@gmail.com; (713) 928-6053; website: http://www. sistersofcharity.org.

See ad on page 21. Code #061.

Sisters of Charity of Seton Hill (S.C.) Prayer, service, and life in community are the primary principles upon which the sisters carry out their mission, which is to reveal the reality and beauty of God’s love to people in need.

The sisters administer and staff educational institutions from preschools through universities; serve in Christian formation; chaplaincy, counseling, pastoral and social services. They are represented primarily in the Dioceses of Western Pennsylvania, West Virginia, and Arizona. Contact: Sr. Rachel Blais, S.C., 740 Elysian Avenue, Morgantown, WV 26501; (304)296-0125; e-mail: rachelwv2001@ yahoo.com, or Sr. Barbara Ann Smelko, S.C., and Sr. Yong Son Kim at Seton House International, 4933 W. Patterson Ave., Chicago, IL 60641-3512; (773) 205-1822; e-mail: basmelko42@yahoo.com; cathyysk416@yahoo.com; website: http://www.scsh.org. See our web ad at www.

VocationGuide.org.

Code #059.

Sisters of Charity of St. Joan Antida (S.C.S.J.A.) Gifted with a 200-year tradition of vowed service with and among the poor, we choose again to be one with Jesus Christ and the powerless. We are rooted in the Gospel by dedicating ourselves to the love, empowerment, service and evangelization of the poor through a fourth vow. As an international community, we minister in 27 countries in a diversity of ministries. Committed to living in community, we invite women of daring love and faith to come join with us as we stand with and work among the powerless and the poor. Sr. Theresa Rozga, S.C.S.J.A., 8560 North 76th Place, Milwaukee, WI 53223; (414) 354-9233; e-mail: srtheresa@scsja.org; website: http://www.scsja.org.

Code #060.

Sisters of Charity of the Blessed Virgin Mary (B.V.M.) The Sisters of Charity of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Freed by Love, Acting for Justice. The Sisters of Charity of the Blessed Virgin Mary continue to follow the footsteps of our Irish foundress, Mary Frances Clarke, responding to God’s love and serving wherever needed.

We find strength in our faith in God, in one another, and with the people we serve. Our core values—freedom, education, charity, and justice—guide our lives and ministry.

We are educators, pastoral ministers, counselors, and advocates for the elderly and immigrants; we work in social services, health care, and prayer ministry. Trust and a spirit of joy enliven our community of Catholic Sisters because God’s love frees us. This freedom calls us to honor diversity, to act against injustice, and to stand humbly before God with gratitude. For information, contact:

Sisters of Christian Charity (S.C.C.) The Sisters of Christian Charity, an international, active apostolic congregation exist to live and make visible the love of Christ today. The charism of Blessed Pauline von Mallinckrodt, foundress, impels the sisters to be women of deep faith who will refresh the millennium with “joyous, youthful enthusiasm and energy, the fruit of intimacy with Jesus in the Eucharist,” (S.C.C. Documents). Like Mary, the community seeks to be open to the formative power of the Holy Spirit, which transforms it into the bread and wine of Christ’s love.

Pauline’s Eucharistic vision leads the Sisters into the future as a community of love, a people commissioned to bring “good news to the poor . . . sight to the blind . . . liberty to captives” (Luke 4:18). Contact (Eastern Province) Sr. Bernadette McCauley, S.C.C., Mallinckrodt Convent, 350 Bernardsville Road, Mendham, NJ 07945; (973) 543-6528 ext. 274; e-mail: sbernadette@ scceast.org; website: http://www.scceast.org. Contact (Western Province) Sr. Carol Bredenkamp, S.C.C., 2041 Elmwood Ave., Wilmette, IL 60091; (847) 920-9341; e-mail: callscc@sccwilmette.org; website: http://www. sccwilmette.org. See our web ad at www.digitalVocationGuide.org.

See ad on page 90. Code #212.

Sisters of Loretto (S.L.) We are an active community of faith and service. We face the emerging needs of today’s world in the fields of education, environment, women, rights of marginalized, global concerns, and nonviolence. Our community consists of Sisters of Loretto, Loretto Co-members, and Loretto volunteers. Together we affirm that we are people called by God to share community, faith and mission through works of peace and justice, prayer and hospitality. If this is your call or if you want to know more about religious life, contact Sr. Mary Kay; 4000 S. Wadsworth Blvd., Littleton, CO 80123; 1-877-LORETTO; e-mail: marykay@lorettocommunity. org; website: http://www.lorettocommunity.org.

Code #264.

Sisters of Mary of the Presentation (S.M.P.) We are an apostolic international Congregation of women consecrated to God TO BE THE PRESENCE OF JESUS in today’s society. We strive to live authentic community life rooted in prayer and the Eucharist under the patronage of Mary, the mother of Jesus. We were founded in France in 1828. Our Provincial House in the United States is Maryvale, 11550 River Rd., Valley City, ND. Areas of Service: hospitals, nursing homes, home health and hospice care, education, parish ministry, and retreat work. Vocation Director: Sr. Anne Germaine Picard, SMP, (815) 915-8035; e-mail: sisterannegermaine@gmail.com; website: www.sistersofmaryofthepresentation.com.

Code #229.

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Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth (S.C.L.) Impelled by the love of Christ, we, Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth offer every loving service in our power to meet the critical needs of God’s people. We are an apostolic community.

We serve in California, Colorado, Kansas, Missouri, Montana, New Mexico, North Carolina, Wisconsin, Wyoming, and Peru. We serve in a variety of ministries including: Health care: hospitals and clinics for the uninsured; Education: college, high school, elementary; Pastoral ministry: diocesan and parish administration, religious education, spiritual direction, campus ministry, youth ministry; Social services: Catholic Charities, AIDS ministry, social justice advocacy. Sr. Victoria Lichtenauer, 4200 South 4th Street, Leavenworth, KS 66048; (913) 758-6522; e-mail: vocations@scls.org; website: http:// www.scls.org. See our web ad at www.VocationGuide.org.

Code #059.

Tracey Sharp, SCRH, Vocation Director, 28600 Palos Verdes Dr. East, Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275; (310) 831-4104 or (310) 831-5385; e-mail: SrTSharp@aol.com; website: http://www.scrh.org.

See ad on page 132. Code #007.

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Sisters of Mary Reparatrix (S.M.R.) We are Sisters of Mary Reparatrix, an international congregation called to a mission of reparation and reconciliation in union with Mary, who are rooted in the love of Christ, led by the Spirit, to manifest the tender love of God for the world.

Sharing our lives in prayer, service and community, the Sisters are present in 22 countries and number 753 worldwide. We are 20 Sisters in the United States. Our presence is in Michigan, New York, Florida, California, Ohio, Pennsylvania. We have two retreat houses-Riverview and Port Huron, Michigan. Our ministries include prayer, retreat work, spiritual direction, parish ministry, altar breads, music/art ministries, hospital /nursing home visitation, and computer work. We were founded by Emilie d’Oultremont, d’Hooghvorst (Mother Mary of Jesus) in 1854, who was beatified in 1997. Sr. Joan Pricoli, 17320 Grange Rd., Riverview, MI 48193; (734) 285-4510, e-mail: joanpricoli@comcast.net; websites: http://www. smr.org or http://www.maryrep.org.

Code #356.

Sisters of Mercy of the Americas (R.S.M.) We are an international community of women religious vowed to serve people who suffer from poverty, sickness, and lack of education, with a special concern for women and children. In innovative and traditional ways, Sisters of Mercy address human needs through collaborative efforts in education, health care, housing, and pastoral and social services. Among Sisters of Mercy one can find doctors, lawyers and paralegals, theologians, immigrant advocates, missionaries, justice advocates and peace activists, and foster mothers. The Institute includes over 3,800 sisters who serve in North, South, and Central America, the Caribbean, Guam, and the Philippines. More than 3,100 associates, eight Companions in Mercy, over 960 Mercy Volunteer Corps alumni, and thousands of coministers in Mercy-sponsored programs and institutions also share in our mission, following the example of Mercy foundress, Catherine McAuley. We invite you to visit our website: http://www.sistersofmercy.org/vocations; contact us at 1-877-50MERCY; e-mail: newmembership@sistersofmercy.org; chat with us at www.sistersofmercy.org/ connect; follow us at www.facebook.com/MercySisters or on Twitter, www.twitter.com/SistersofMercy. See our web ad at www.VocationGuide.org.

See ad on page 79. Code #063.

Sisters of Notre Dame [Our Lady], (S.N.D.) We are an international, active apostolic community centered in Jesus Christ and dedicated to Mary, the first disciple.

Through lives of simplicity and joy, we seek to bring the Gospel message of God’s goodness and provident care to others. Our ministries of education, pastoral care and social outreach, health care and catechesis reflect our desire to respond to the needs of the times and to share God’s compassionate love, particularly with those who are poor and marginalized. We live our vocation in community, supporting one another in our following of Jesus and in our ministries. The daily celebration of Eucharist, communal prayer and encounters with God in personal prayer are indispensable to our lives. For those considering religious life we offer discernment helps, retreats, service opportunities and live-in experiences.

For more information: California Province: Sister Valerie Roxburgh, e-mail: sistervalsnd@gmail.com; website: http://www.sndca.org. Kentucky Province: Sister Mary Ruth Lubbers, e-mail: smrlubbers@gmail.com; website: http://www.sndky.org. Cleveland, OH Province: Sister Kathleen Hine, e-mail: khine@ndec.org; website: http:// www.sndchardon.org. Toledo, OH Province: Sister Marilyn Marie Ellerbrock, e-mail: mellerbrock@toledosnd.org; website: http://www.toledosnd.org. International website: http://www.sndl.org.

Code #064.

Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur (S.N.D.deN.) Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur, women with hearts as wide as the world, make known God’s goodness and love of the

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poor through a Gospel way of life, community, and prayer.

Continuing a strong educational tradition, we stand with the poor, women, and children. We commit ourselves to work with others to create justice and peace for all. As an international religious community, founded in 1804 by St. Julie Billiart and Françoise Blin de Bourdon, we continue their mission today in Africa, Europe, Japan, North and South America. Our ministries include: education, parish and youth ministry, spiritual direction/counseling, and other developing ministries which respond to today’s needs. Notre Dame Associates and the Notre Dame Mission Volunteers also share our charism. Sr. Angele Lewis, 30 Jeffreys Neck Road, Ipswich, MA 01938-1398, (978) 380-1571; e-mail: Angele.Lewis@SNDdeN.org; website: http://ASKanSND.org or http://www.SNDdeN.org. See our web ad at www.VocationGuide.org.

See ad on page 12. Code #065.

Sisters of Our Lady of Sion (N.D.S.) Also known as Sisters of Sion, are called to follow Jesus in a consecrated life that is both contemplative and apostolic. The Word of God is central to our lives. Rooted in prayer, we are called to a vocation of reconciliation and justice. God’s Word calls us to work for understanding among Christians and Jews and people of all faiths, and to join with those in situations of conflict and oppression. We are a small international community engaged in ministries such as education, pastoral work, Jewish-Christian, ecumenical and inter-religious relations, ecological concerns and social services. Do you long for something more? Are you drawn to a life of prayer and service? Do you seek a world of justice? Are you open to other cultures and faith traditions? Are you willing to share life in community?

Contact: e-mail: sosion.info@gmail.com; website: www. sistersofsion.net.

Code #366.

Sisters of Our Lady of Sorrows (O.L.S.) We are an international Congregation founded in 1839 in Coriano, Italy. Our Foundress, Blessed Elisabetta Renzi, was committed to providing both human and Christian formation and education to the children and young women of her times. As consecrated women, faithful to our charism, we “witness to the enduring presence of the preferential love of Christ to the young, the poor, the weak, and the needy” through education, catechesis, parish ministry, and social services. Join us for discernment retreats and Come and See programs. Age limit: 18-35 years old. Contact: Sr. Fatima Aphiri, O.L.S., Vocation Director, 231 General Gardner Ave, Lafayette, LA 70501; (337) 322-9983; email: vocations@ols.org; website: www.ols.org.

Code #413.

Sisters of Providence (S.P.)—Holyoke, MA We are a community of women with a passion for life and meeting the needs of our times. Through our lives of prayer, community, and service we are called to reveal the loving care of God’s Providence through ministries of hope and healing with particular emphasis on women, the earth, and those who are poor. Our sponsored ministries include a soup kitchen and shelter, health care facilities and a spiritual life center. We are a community of women rooted in the past and open to the future. We, like you, are committed to making a difference in our world. If you would like to join us in that effort contact Sister Ann Horgan, S.P., Sisters of Providence, 5 Gamelin Street, Holyoke, MA 01040; (413) 536-7511, ext. 2558; e-mail: ahorgan@ sisofprov.org; website: http://www.sisofprov.org.

Code #066.

Sisters of Providence (S.P.)—Saint Mary-of-theWoods, IN Through prayer and commitment to living in community, our sisters witness to their Catholic family by living deeply spiritual and faithful lives to God in service to others. Our foundress, Saint Mother Theodore Guerin, was canonized the eighth United States saint October 15, 2006. Embracing her spirit, we honor Divine Providence by serving in various ministries in 20 states, Washington,

D.C., Taiwan and China. Our sisters are educators, parish life coordinators and social service professionals. Sisters help low-income families, foster children, migrant worker families and the elderly—all who may need affordable food, housing, health care and prescriptions. Other sisters support our ministry commitment to eco-justice and practice actively in being good stewards of God’s natural resources through preservation, restoration and reverent use. We invite women between the ages of 18-42 to join with us in serving God, and God’s people, as a sister of Providence. Contact us for more information at Sisters of Providence, Vocation Office, Owens Hall, 1 Sisters of Providence, Saint Mary-of-the-Woods, IN 47876-1089; (812) 535-2895; e-mail: bkuper@spsmw.org; website: http://www.sistersofprovidence.org.

Code #068.

Sisters of Providence Mother Joseph Province (S.P.)— Seattle and Spokane, WA The Sisters of Providence are an international congregation founded by Emilie Gamelin of Montreal in 1843. As women religious, our ministries are diverse, fulfilling, and needed. They include education, parish ministry, health care, community service and support, housing, prison ministry, pastoral care, spiritual direction and retreats, and foreign missions. The community is composed of four provinces and one viceprovince spread across Canada, the United States, Chile, El Salvador, Argentina, Egypt, the Philippines, Haiti, and Cameroon. Living in community enables us to support and enrich personal and communal growth and witness gospel values. Our life of prayer includes quiet moments and faith sharing as we journey to wholeness. Contact the Vocation Director for Mother Joseph Province, in Seattle at (206) 923-4028, or in Spokane at (509) 474-2323; e-mail: vocations@providence.org; website: http://www. sistersofprovidence.net.; Facebook: http://www.facebook. com/sistersofprovidencemjp.

See ad on page 131. Code #067.

Sisters of Saints Cyril and Methodius (SS.C.M.) The Sisters of Saints Cyril and Methodius were founded in 1909 in Scranton, PA. Our spirituality is Christ-centered and Mary-modeled and flows from our motto, “ Thy Kingdom Come.” We are a presence of Christ in the world through our vowed communal life, our spirit of prayerfulness and simplicity, and our joy in the service of the Kingdom. We live out our call and charism by witnessing to, proclaiming and building God’s Kingdom, dedicating our prayer and ministry to: evangelization, education, elder care, and ecumenism. We are based in the U.S., serving in Pennsylvania, Connecticut, Illinois, Indiana, New York, Texas, and South Carolina. If you feel God may be calling you to a lifetime of service, or simply have questions about consecrated life, please contact: Sr. Deborah Marie, SS.C.M., at Villa Sacred Heart, Danville, PA 17821; (570) 275-1093; fax: (570) 275-5997; e-mail: debbiesscm@hotmail.com; website: http://www.sscm.org.

See our web ad at www.VocationGuide.org.

See ad on page 45. Code #181.

Sisters of St. Agnes (C.S.A.) The Sisters of St. Agnes participate in the mission of Christ by joyful service in the church, always aware that we, too, are among the needy and are enriched by those we serve. As an apostolic community, we are committed to transformation of the world, the church, and ourselves through promoting systemic change for the quality of life; justice for the economically poor; furtherance of the role of women in church and society; mutuality; inclusivity; and collaboration. Sr. Jean Hinderer, 320 County Road K, Fond du Lac, WI 54937; (920) 907-2310; e-mail: vocations@csasisters. org; website: http://www.csasisters.org. See our web ad at www.VocationGuide.org.

See ad on page 129. Code #171.

Sisters of St. Casimir (SSC) The Sisters of St. Casimir invite YOU to share in a life of prayer, community, and service. As vowed women religious we center our lives

VISION 2012

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Search these Women’s Communities online at VocationNetwork.org on the Gospel message of Jesus and His mission of caring for the poor and marginalized. Our foundress, Venerable Servant of God Maria Kaupas had a deep love and concern for the faith life of immigrants and their needs. It is her vision and spirit that inspire us to serve with love and compassion through education, health care, social services, and advocacy. We minister in Illinois, Pennsylvania, Michigan, Texas, and also in Argentina. We journey with others toward a gospel vision of a peaceful, loving and just world. For more information please contact: Sr. M. Janine Golubickis, SSC or Sr. M. Dolorine Lopez, SSC, 2601 W. Marquette Rd., Chicago, IL 60629; (630) 2438349; e-mail: sscvocation@yahoo.com; website: http:// www.ssc2601.com.

See ad on page 16. Code #071.

Sisters of St. Francis of Assisi “Women of faith touching a world in need.” Our Franciscan Congregation is committed to bringing the teaching, healing, reconciling, and liberating power of Jesus to every life we touch. We stand in solidarity with women and those who are poor, oppressed, and disenfranchised. We promote social justice, preservation of the earth, harmony and world peace.

We seek to deepen our Franciscan identity. Our ministries are as diverse as the women who serve them: administrators; teachers; health-care providers; social workers and counselors; campus, prison, and parish ministers; child care workers; artists and musicians. Community members are located across the United States and in Taiwan. We invite women who are seeking the simplicity, meaning, and heartfelt joy of a Franciscan lifestyle to risk their future with us. Sr. Rose Sevenich, 3221 S. Lake Drive, St. Francis, WI 53235; (414) 294-7306; e-mail: vocdir@ lakeosfs.org; website: http://www.lakeosfs.org. See our web ad at www.VocationGuide.org.

See ad on page 43. Code #072.

Sisters of St. Francis of Perpetual Adoration (O.S.F.) Western Province (Colorado Springs, CO) We invite women ages 35 to early 50’s who are discerning their call to religious life to contact us. We strive to live our Franciscan charisms of conversion, contemplation, poverty, and humility daily through our Eucharistic celebrations and Adoration, through ministries with financial vulnerable women and children, counseling programs, parish and hospital ministries and justice, peace and care of creation activities. We share our beautiful Mt. St. Francis campus with thousands of people each year through our retreat center, skilled nursing home, diocesan parish, counseling program, and autism center. Discover more about us at www.nunsarewe.org; Sister Frances Sedlacek, 7665 Assisi Heights, Colorado Springs, CO 80919; (719) 955-7015; e-mail: frances@stfrancis.org. If vowed life is not your call or possibility, we invite you to check out our Companion Relationship program: www.osfcompanions.com.

Code #073.

Sisters of St. Francis of Philadelphia (O.S.F.) Are you called to make a difference? Join our committed risk-takers! Committed to the needs of others—especially those who are economically poor, marginal, and oppressed.

We are willing to take the necessary risks to be a healing, compassionate presence in our violent world—especially for women, children, and those who have no voice. We are a community of approximately 550 Catholic women religious who choose a Gospel way of life lived in community. We uphold a long and honored tradition of loving God and being in relationships through loving service.

Today we minister in the U.S. and beyond in various ministries—wherever God’s people need us most. Contact: Sr. Mary Beth Antonelli, Vocation Director, East, 609 S. Convent Rd., Aston, PA 19014; (610) 558-6789; e-mail: vocations@osfphila.org; website: http://www.osfphila.org.

Code #139.

Sisters of St. Francis of Mary Immaculate (O.S.F.) Led by the Spirit, we, as Joliet Franciscans, embrace the Gospel life by commitment to Franciscan values and respond to the needs of our time through prayer, community, and ministry. We minister in preschool through adult education, in parish ministry, health care, social services, religious education, and as musicians and artists. Ministering in 13 states and in Brazil, we invite inquiries from women who feel called to our Franciscan way of life as vowed members. Inquiries are also welcomed from both men and women interested in the Associate relationship. Vocation Minister: Sr. Juanita Ujcik, O.S.F., 1433 Essington Road, Joliet, IL 60435; (815) 725-8735; fax: (815) 725-8648; e-mail: jujcik@jolietfranciscans.org; website: http://www. jolietfranciscans.org.

See ad on page 93. Code #252.

Sisters of St. Francis of the Immaculate Conception (O.S.F.) Called to make God’s compassionate presence known through our vowed life in community, the Sisters of this diocesan religious congregation dedicate themselves to prayer, community life, and service in the spirit of St. Francis of Assisi, whose personal lifestyle was expressed in prayer, joy, and simplicity. The Sisters presently serve the people of God throughout Illinois through prayer and community witness, and a variety of ministries to all ages.

These include caring for the aging, teaching, religious education for adults and children, adult literacy, parish ministry, social work, chaplaincy, teen and adult retreat programs, spiritual direction, and campus ministry. Sr. Sarah Elizabeth, 2408 West Heading Avenue, West Peoria, IL 61604; (309) 674-6168; e-mail: sistersarahelizabeth@ gmail.com; website: http://www.westpeoriasisters.org. See our web ad at www.digitalvocationguide.org.

See ad on page 82. Code #279.

Sisters of St. Francis of Penance and Christian Charity (O.S.F.)—Holy Name Province We are a worldwide con-

Sisters of St. Francis of the Neumann Communities (OSF) As women of vision, rooted in the Gospel and

VISION 2012

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energized by the spirit of Francis and Clare, we strive to live in right relationship with God, one another, and all creation. The Sisters of St. Francis of the Neumann Communities is composed of four Franciscan communities who have common historical roots. Together, we are in the process of creating a new vision for our reunited community. As a multi-cultural, international community we are striving to meet the needs of the church and the world today. Through our prayer and Franciscan life together in community, both at home and abroad, we are empowered to serve in traditional ministries, such as education, health care, social services, pastoral and spiritual care; as well as in new and evolving ministries. We offer many opportunities to blend your education and talents with the Franciscan tradition. We invite you to come grow with us. Contact: Sister Rosemary Hendry, (315) 634-7084 or Sister Joselle Orlando, (315) 634-7083; e-mail: rhendry@ sosf.org or jorlando@sosf.org; website: http://www.sosf. org. See our web ad at www.VocationGuide.org..

See ad on page 42. Code #294.

Sisters of St. John the Baptist (C.S.J.B.) We are an international group of consecrated women in the Catholic Church living together in community to give hope and prophetic witness to Jesus of Nazareth. We work for the glory of God in the service of our neighbor—especially the youth and children who are poor, abandoned, marginalized and at risk of losing their faith—through evangelization, education, and human promotion. As women religious, we serve as teachers, administrators, pastoral and social workers, health professionals, and care givers. Founded in Italy in 1878 by Blessed Alfonso Marie Fusco, our religious family continues to move in time with the Holy Spirit in responding to the challenges and needs in our society. In seventeen countries, our sisters strive to live the Founder’s words: “I wish that even my shadow might do good.” Is God Calling you to respond to these challenges? What is your answer? For more information see: http://www.baptistines.org or contact our Provincial Office (718) 518-7820. See our web ad at www.VocationGuide.org.

See ad on page 80. Code #075.

Sisters of St. Joseph (S.S.J. and C.S.J.)—Federation Does loving God and neighbor without distinction stir your heart and energize you for living in today’s world? In 1650, six ordinary women came together to share their gift of God’s love. They prayed daily, lived simply in community and responded to the needs of their area. Over 350 years later, this same mission continues in over 50 countries worldwide. We are vowed religious women from all walks of life who share the mission of Jesus that all may be one. We do this through prayer, living in community, and responding to the needs of our time. Our mission calls us to work toward union of God and neighbor without distinction. Together with our Associates and Volunteers we respond to the needs of our Church and world with compassion, creativity, and courage by using our individual and collective gifts in a variety of ways. Would you like to live the challenge of the Gospel with us? For more information please contact one of our Vocation Ministers Albany, NY: Sr. Jeanne Marie Gocha, CSJ, (518) 783-3605; e-mail: jgocha@ csjalbany.org; website: www.csjalbany.org; St. Joseph Worker Volunteer Program (Albany) (518) 393-0528; email: sjworkers@csjalbany.org; website: www.sjworkers. org; Baden, PA: Sr. Dorothy Pashuta, CSJ, (412) 6612528; e-mail: dpashuta@stjoseph-baden.org; website: www.stjoseph-baden.org; Boston, MA: Sr. Mary Theresa O’Reilly, CSJ, (617) 746-2045; e-mail: vocation.office@ csjboston.org; website: www.csjboston.org; Brentwood, NY: Sr. Kerry Handal, CSJ, (631) 273-1187 ext. 42; email: vocationcsj@aol.com; website: www.brentwoodcsj. org; Buffalo, NY: Sr. Mary Lou Schnitzer, SSJ, (716) 7596454; e-mail: SML944@aol.com; website: www.ssjbuffalo. org; Chambery-West Hartford, CT: Sr. Susan Cunningham, CSJ, (860) 987-7053; e-mail: suecsj@juno.com; website: www.sistersofsaintjoseph.org; Concordia, KS:

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woMen’s communities sarch WOMen’s communities

Sisters of St. Francis (OSF), Sylvania, OH As Sylvania Franciscans, our beginnings brought us to northwest Ohio to teach. Over the 90 years of our existence lifestyles and customs have changed, but our desire to live the Gospel message in the Franciscan tradition remains constant. The courageous act of responding to God’s call to serve the ever-changing needs of His people has taken us out to 19 dioceses, 12 states, and the island of Haiti—not only into education—but into health care, pastoral work, justice and peace efforts, ministry to the materially and spiritually poor. As Franciscans, it is not about “what we do”, but “who we are in what we do” that gives expression and life to living the gospel message.

We are a diverse community of 200 Vowed Women and 80 Associates, who witness to God’s love by being rooted in prayer and the Eucharist, strengthened by community life and focused on our mission. Feel the Joy! Live Franciscan! For further information please contact Sister Julie Myers at 419-824-3914; e-mail: jmyers@sistersosf.org; website: http://www.sistersosf.org.

See ad on page 124. Code #085.

gregation striving to live the Gospel of Jesus Christ in the spirit of St. Francis and St. Clare of Assisi, and Magdalen Damen, our foundress. We contemplate the Word of God, living community together with the sisters God gives us.

We live as Sisters minor, vowing obedience, poverty, and celibate chastity. Within the United States and Chiapas, Mexico we serve wherever needed, with special attention to the poor and marginalized, reflecting gentle courtesy toward all creation. New or experienced we walk together with courage, open to risk and trusting God’s goodness and providence. We invite you to join us as we bring a Franciscan presence of simplicity, joyful service, and peacemaking to the world of today. Contact: Vocation Office, 4421 Lower River Rd., Stella Niagara, NY 14144; (716) 754-4312, ext. 9701#; e-mail: vocationoptionssf@ yahoo.com; website: http://www.franciscans-stellaniagara.org and www.franciscanway.org.

See ad on page 29. Code #142.

woMen’s communities Search WOMen’s communities

Search these Women’s Communities online at VocationNetwork.org Sr. Beverly Carlin, CSJ, (785) 220-4428: e-mail: srbevc@ csjkansas.org; website: www.csjkansas.org; CSJ Volunteer Program: (785) 243-2149; e-mail: cdoman@csjkansas. org; Congregation of St. Joseph: Sr. Ileana Fernandez, CSJ, (225) 388-2262; e-mail: vocations@csjoseph.org; or Sr. Celeste Cotter, CSJ, (708) 310-1292; e-mail: ccotter@ csjoseph.org; website: www. csjoseph.org; St. Joseph Worker Volunteer Program (in New Orleans): (504) 909-0091; e-mail: sjw@csjoseph.org; Erie, PA: Sr. Linda Fusco, SSJ, (814) 836-4127; e-mail: formation@ssjerie. org: website: www.ssjerie.org; Honolulu, HI: Sr. Eva Joseph Mesina, CSJ, (808) 244-8123; e-mail: sevajm@ msn.com; website: www.csjhawaii.org; Los Angeles, CA: Sr. Anne Davis, CSJ, (310) 889-2117; e-mail: vocations@ csjla.org; website: www.csjla.org; Orange, CA: Sr. Mary Elizabeth Nelsen, CSJ, (714) 633-8121 ext. 7108; e-mail: vocationcsj@csjorange.org; website: www.csjorange.org; Philadelphia, PA: Sr. Kathy Claflin, SSJ, (215) 248-7236; e-mail: kclaflin@ssjphila.org; website: www.ssjphila.org; SSJ Mission Corps Volunteer, (215) 248-7239; e-mail: rloughery@ssjphila.org; website: ssjphila.org/volunteers. html; Rochester, NY: Sr. Donna Del Santo, SSJ, (585) 733-4422; e-mail: vocations@ssjrochester.org; website: www.ssjrochester.org; Sisters of Saint Joseph Volunteer Corps, (585) 529-5689; e-mail: volunteercorps@ssjrochester.org; Springfield, MA: Sr. Natalie Cain, SSJ, (413) 536-0853 ext. 249; e-mail: ncain@ssjspringfield.com; website: www.ssjspringfield.org; St. Augustine, FL: Sr. Kathleen Power, SSJ, (904) 610-9228; e-mail: ssjflvocations@bellsouth.net; website: www.ssjfl.org; St. Louis, MO: Sr. Linda Markway, CSJ or Sr. Kathleen Eiler, CSJ, (314) 678-0315; e-mail: lmarkway@csjsl.org or keiler@ csjsl.org; website: www.csjsl.org; St. Paul, MN: Sr. Jill Underdahl, CSJ, (651) 696-2872; e-mail: junderdahl@ csjstpaul.org; website: www.csjstpaul.org; St. Joseph Worker Volunteer Program, (651) 690-7049; e-mail: bkelly@csjstpaul.org; website: www.stjosephworkers. org; Watertown, NY: Sr. Mary Gregory Munger, SSJ, (315) 782-3460; e-mail: smgssj@yahoo.com; website: www.ssjwatertown.org. See our web ad at www.VocationGuide.org.

See ad on page 16. Code #024.

Sisters of St. Joseph of Peace (C.S.J.P.) The Sisters of St. Joseph of Peace are an international community built on a rich heritage of promoting social justice as a way to peace. Our founding spirit calls us to further the work of peace, and our call to peacemaking pervades our prayer and leads us to a life of simplicity and service. In accord with our tradition we commit ourselves to promote peace in family life, in the church, and in society. We minister in education, health and hospital services, religious education, parish ministry, social justice, spiritual direction, and peace ministry in the U.S., U.K., and El Salvador.

Community life sustains us in ministry. Likewise ministry enlivens and enriches our life in community. Recognizing gospel peace as both gift and task, we believe that prayer is fundamental to our life. We rely on the love and fidelity of God to lead us in the way of peace. Vocation Contact: Sr. Jo-Anne Miller, CSJP, Vocation Director, P.O. Box 248, Bellevue, WA 98009; (425) 451-1770 ext. 118; e-mail: jmiller@csjp-olp.org; website: http://www.csjp.org. See our web ad at www.VocationGuide.org.

See ad on page 14. Code #227.

Sisters of St. Joseph of the Third Order of St. Francis (SSJ-TOSF) The Sisters of St. Joseph of the Third Order of St. Francis are a community of more than 300 Franciscan vowed religious women and associate members who are dedicated to Gospel living. In the spirit of Jesus and St. Francis of Assisi, we seek to serve the minores—the little ones who often fall through the cracks in society through a variety of ministries. Our Franciscan charism calls us to reach out to all members of the human family and, in a special way, to the poor and the outcast. The missioned presence of the Congregation continues today in 14 states, Puerto Rico, Brazil, and Peru. For more information contact the Director of Vocation Ministry,

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P.O. Box 305, Stevens Point, WI 54481-0305; (715) 341-8457; e-mail: vocation@ssj-tosf.org; website: http:// www.ssj-tosf.org.

See ad on page 167. Code #154.

Sisters of St. Mary of Namur, (S.S.M.N.) Eastern Province Are you fascinated by God? We are. Are you challenged to deepen your spiritual life and values? We are. Is God urging you to serve the poor of your neighborhood, your country, your world? The Sisters of St. Mary of Namur are an international congregation of religious women, consecrated by vows, and living together in community to transmit the Word of God. In eight provinces throughout both the Northern and Southern hemispheres, we find our service among the poor and marginalized of the world with special commitment to women and young people. We share community life, prayer, the Eucharist, and a life united to the joys and sorrows of the human family. Ready to search further?

Contact Sr. Patricia Brady, 241 Lafayette Avenue, Buffalo, NY 14213; (716) 884-8221; e-mail: bradyp@canisius.edu; website: http://www.ssmn.us.

Code #348.

Sisters of the Blessed Sacrament (S.B.S.) We are a multiracial community of vowed women who were founded by Saint Katharine Drexel. We are called to be a sign of the power of the Eucharistic Christ to effect unity and community among all peoples. Through education, parish ministry, social and health services, and spiritual ministries, we challenge injustices and share the Gospel message with the poor and oppressed, especially among the Black and Native American peoples. Our ministries take us to Native American reservations, inner cities, and rural areas in the United States and Haiti. Vocation Director, 1663 Bristol Pike, Bensalem, PA 19020-5796; (215) 244-9900, ext. 327; e-mail: sbsvocof@aol.com; website: http://www.katharinedrexel.org.

See ad on page 25. Code #076.

Sisters of the Divine Compassion (R.D.C.) As Sisters of the Divine Compassion we are women of the 21st century called to be God’s compassionate presence among the marginalized and oppressed in our midst. For 125 years we have gathered in community, prayer, and service to respond to the brokenness of our world. As prophetic women attentive to the signs of the times, we are invited to live into ways of being that are just, nonviolent and inclusive in relationship with all of creation.

Our co-founder, Monsignor Thomas Preston reminds us, “. . . to think that not only may we be the recipients of the divine compassion, but that God will let us take this divine compassion into our hands and extend it to others.” (1888). Susan Becker, R.D.C., 52 N. Broadway, White Plains, NY 10603; (914) 798-1109; fax: (914) 949-5169; e-mail: snbecker2000@yahoo.com; website: http://www.divinecompassion.org.

Code #277.

Sisters of the Divine Savior (SDS) [Salvatorians] We are a branch of the international Salvatorian Family which also comprises priests and brothers, and lay men and women. The Salvatorians were founded in Rome by Father Francis Jordan and Blessed Mary of the Apostles in the 1880s. We carry out our mission to make Jesus our Savior known so that all may experience fullness of life.

Salvatorian Sisters minister in 29 countries worldwide as well as in Alabama, Arizona, California, Tennessee and Wisconsin. Our apostolic works include parish ministry, education, health care, advocacy—especially for victims of human trafficking, social work, art, law, and retreat ministry. We invite women ages 20-50 to explore the Salvatorian pathway by contacting Sister Mary Lee Grady, SDS, at (414) 466-0810, ext. 229; gradym@salvatoriansisters.org; or 4311 N. 100th Street Milwaukee, WI 53222; www.sistersofthedivinesavior.org; www.facebook.com/ SistersoftheDivineSavior.

See ad on page 17. Code #315.

Sisters of the Holy Cross (C.S.C.) We, Sisters of the Holy Cross, are a dynamic international congregation of sisters who are part of the Holy Cross family of sisters, brothers, and priests. Striving to live out Jesus’ gospel and mission in the 21st century, we minister to people in eight countries on four continents. Compelled by Love, we continue to address the unmet needs of these communities as educators, healthcare workers, administrators, counselors, pastoral ministers, social workers, retreat leaders, writers, attorneys and social justice advocates. We have committed ourselves as a congregation to promote right relationships wherever we serve. Walk with us in our life and mission. Sr. Katherine Kase, CSC, 4910 Strathmore Avenue, Kensington, MD 20895; e-mail: vocations.us@cscsisters.org; website: www.cscsisters.org.

See ad on page 41. Code #269.

Sisters of the Holy Family (S.H.F.) For more than 135 years the Sisters of the Holy Family have responded to the Gospel call to seek out the poor and the needy, especially families, for the Kingdom of God. Founded in San Francisco, CA, and serving the western United States, the diversity of our ministries reflects our historical commitment to provide meaningful services to the communities in which we live and work. Some of our current ministries include: child care, religious education, social services, grief counseling, teachers, special education, parish administration, social work, and home visiting. Our doors are open to those exploring membership as vowed members or associate members. We invite you to explore membership with the Sisters of the Holy Family. Vocation Director, P.O. Box 3248, Fremont, California 94539; (510) 624-4500; fax: (510) 624-4550; e-mail: vocations@ holyfamilysisters.org; website: http://www.holyfamilysisters.org. See our web ad at www.VocationGuide.org.

See ad on page 90. Code #036.

Sisters of the Holy Family of Nazareth (C.S.F.N.) In a world marked by individualism, we choose family! Our lives, rooted in prayer and in the example of the Holy family of Nazareth, speak to the world about love, sacrifice, and true joy. Believing that charity begins at home, we create communities where lives are nurtured and shared.

Empowered by this gift, we reach out to the Church and world through diverse ministries, striving to uphold the value and dignity of the human family. Founded in Rome in 1875 by Blessed Mary of Jesus the Good Shepherd, we are an international congregation, presently serving in the continental United States, Puerto Rico, Australia, Eastern and Western Europe, Israel, and the Philippines. Make a life-giving choice today and explore what God may have in mind for you! For more information, contact: Sister Michele Vincent Fisher at voc4naz@aol.com; website: http://www.nazarethcsfn.org. See our web ad at www.

VocationGuide.org.

See ad on page 28. Code #155.

Sisters of the Holy Redeemer (C.S.R.) The Sisters of the Holy Redeemer are compelled to bring the healing presence and compassion of the Redeemer to those who suffer in body, mind and spirit. We strive to be witnesses to hope and joy as we serve Jesus in the most vulnerable.

Our inspiration flows from our relationship with Jesus, our Redeemer as we follow the example of Mother Alphonse Maria Eppinger who founded the congregation 160 years ago on the principal that “Love of God and love of neighbor are but one single love.” Through our sponsorship of the Holy Redeemer Health System, we provide health care, social services, and pastoral care, with a special emphasis on older adults, women and children. Contact us: American Province; Vocation Ministry Office, 521 Moredon Road, Huntington Valley, PA 19006; (215) 914-4109; e-mail: vocations@HolyRedeemer.com; website: http://www.SistersHolyRedeemer.org.

See ad on page 38. Code #079.

Sisters of the Holy Spirit and Mary Immaculate (SHSp) The Sisters of the Holy Spirit and Mary Immacu-

VISION 2012

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Search these Women’s Communities online at VocationNetwork.org late are a pontifical community of religious women—with the celebration of the Eucharist and communal prayer as the center of our lives. We were founded in 1893, in San Antonio, Texas, by Mother Margaret Healy-Murphy.

We follow the original mission of our foundress who was moved to respond to the urgent social needs of her times—the spiritual and educational needs of the poor.

We are called by the Spirit to work with people of diverse social and ethnic backgrounds and dedicate our lives to promoting the human dignity of those neglected or marginalized. The Sisters teach the message of the Gospel and work on Christian education, spiritual direction, immigration reform, homelessness, peace and justice, housing, health care, and homes for the aged and abused children. We minister in the U.S., Mexico, and Africa.

Contact: Sr. Gabriel Hession, SHSp, 300 Yucca St., San Antonio, TX 78203; (210) 533-5149; e-mail: sghession@ hotmail.com; website: http://www.shsp.org.

Code #331.

Sisters of the Incarnate Word and Blessed Sacrament (I.W.B.S.)—Corpus Christi, TX We are consecrated women following the call of Jesus to spread the love and presence of Jesus through prayer, community life, and service to God’s people. We delight in a personal intimacy with Jesus and seek to make Him visible in the world through a life lived in the Spirit of the Beatitudes.

Currently our Congregation ministers in the Diocese of Corpus Christi, Brownsville, and Beaumont. We serve in Catholic schools, parish catechesis, adult faith formation, ministry to the homeless, hospital chaplaincy, and prison ministry. We are part of a world-wide Incarnate Word Order composed of eleven independent groups with ministries in North, Central and South America, Europe, and Africa. Women between the ages of 18-50 who have completed a high school education and are interested in a contemplative/apostolic community life are invited to contact us at www.iwbscc.org.

See our ad on page 25 . Code #274.

Sisters of the Living Word (S.L.W.) Our community was founded in 1975, in response to the call for renewal in religious life at the Second Vatican Council. We focus our energies on situations where the Living Word of God needs to be spoken and reflected, to help free the oppressed and bring new life. We do this through education, pastoral care, parish ministry, spiritual direction, social work, creative arts, and more. We invite generous and courageous women to join us in continuing to shape this new community. Check us out at our website, or come and meet us at a location near you. Or participate in a Living Word Retreat to experience our spirituality and passion for mission. For more information contact:

VISION 2012

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Enter #126 at VocationMatch.com Sr. Colette Fahrner, 800 N. Fernandez Ave.-B, Arlington Heights, IL 60004; (847) 577-5972; e-mail: Kathleen Heer at Kathleen_slw@yahoo.com or Colette at coletteslw@ yahoo.com; website: http://www.slw.org.

See ad on page 49. Code #173.

Sisters of the Precious Blood (C.PP.S.) We are an apostolic community rooted in Eucharistic prayer and motivated by the Precious Blood of Jesus. As Sisters of the Precious Blood we are urged to be a life-giving, reconciling presence in our fractured world. A vibrant community founded in 1834, we serve in the United States, Chile, and Guatemala bringing hope and redeeming love. We carry on the legacy and mission of our foundress Maria Anna Brunner in diverse ministries: education, pastoral ministry, prisons, and health care. We minister in rural, urban, and inner-city settings. Community, personal prayer, and Eucharist form the cornerstone of our life and ministry.

Learn more about us and how you can help us respond to the hungers of our world by contacting: Coordinator of Vocation Ministry, 4960 Salem Avenue, Dayton, OH 45416; (937) 278-0871 ext. 1303; e-mail: Vocations@ PreciousBloodSistersDayton.org. Please visit our website: http://www. PreciousBloodSistersDayton.org.

See ad on page 121. Code #318.

Sisters of the Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary (P.B.V.M.) Dubuque, IA Sisters of the Presentation of Dubuque are women religious inspired by the faith and life of their foundress, Nano Nagle. In 18th century Ireland, working against religious, political and economic oppression and with great personal risk, Nano launched an underground school system, visited the poor and elderly in their homes, and spent hours in prayer and adoration of the Eucharist. Her charism of hospitality lives today in the sisters, associates and friends who reflect God’s love for the world, live the Gospel value of welcoming all, and carry Nano’s lantern of hope to struggling people in the United States and Bolivia. Are you interested in a life of service that gives witness to Gospel values and makes a difference in the lives of other people? If yes, then, listen to the Spirit’s stirrings in your heart, ask for wisdom and pray for courage to take the next step. Visit the Sisters of the Presentation website: http://www.dubuquepresentations.org and contact the Vocation Office, 2360 Carter Rd., Dubuque, IA 52001; (563) 588-2008; e-mail: vocations@dubuquepresentations.org.

Code #327.

Sisters of the Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary (P.B.V.M.)—International We, the Union of Sisters of the Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary, are an international congregation of apostolic women living and ministering in joyful service to God and all people across five continents. Called to follow Christ in the spirit of our foundress, Nano Nagle, we live a

vowed life in community. We promote God’s kingdom through education, social and medical care, catechesis, parish and community outreach, giving priority to those marginalized in society. We are confident that God continues to call women to join us in spreading the Good News of Jesus Christ. Are you willing to take a risk and journey with us? God may be calling you. For more information please contact Sr. Julie Hurtado, Jhurtado@pbvmunion.org; (210) 366-1730; website: www.pbvmunion.org; Facebook: Presentation Sisters International, http://www.facebook.com/pages/ Presentation-Sisters-International.

Code #416.

Sisters of the Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary (P.B.V.M.)—San Francisco Presentation Sisters of San Francisco today serve throughout California and in Central America. Their sponsored ministries include: Presentation High School, San Jose, Presentation Retreat and Conference Center, Los Gatos, Learning and Loving Center for immigrant women, Morgan Hill, El Proyecto de las Rosas literacy center, Tipton, The Lantern literacy center, San Francisco, and SafeHouse, a residential program for women seeking to leave prostitution, San Francisco. In keeping with the charism of the Presentation founder, Nano Nagle, the Presentation Sisters of San Francisco work for justice and structural change, especially in issues related to women and children, immigrants and ethnic communities, the environment and sustainable living, human rights. The Presentation Sisters of San Francisco collaborate with Presentation Sisters in North America and around the world in ministry, justice projects, and educating others about global conditions and issues. For more information, contact Sister Darlene Terry, PBVM, (415) 422-5017; e-mail: dterry@pbvmsf. org; website: http://www.presentationsisterssf.org.

See ad on page 124. Code #266.

Sisters of the Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary (P.B.V.M.)—South Dakota We are enthusiastic apostolic women eager to make the world a better place. We live lives consecrated to God through the vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience. As apostolic women we are contemplative in action. Following the example of the apostles, we live in communities among the people, with an emphasis on service. Prayer, faith, and sharing our lives in community fire us with energy for mission and ministry. We serve in range of ministries as broad as the needs of those we serve: from health care and education, to advocacy and our ministry with Hispanic immigrants.

The ministries we serve are determined by the needs of the people and the gifts of each individual sister. We encourage women who are seeking God through service grounded in prayer to discover the possibilities of Presentation life! Sr. Pegge Boehm, 1500 N. Second Street, Aberdeen, South Dakota 57401; (605) 229-8414; fax: (605) 229-8412; e-mail: vocoff@presentationsisters.org;

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woMen’s communities sarch WOMen’s communities

Sisters of the Humility of Mary (H.M.) As Sisters of the Humility of Mary, the heart of our commitment to religious life is a radical love and following of Jesus Christ grounded in a life of prayer and compassionate service. Mary’s humility inspires us to say “yes” to God’s call, whatever it asks of us, in joyful simplicity. Her fidelity to God’s Spirit challenges us to be a prophetic presence in today’s world by bringing more abundant life to God’s people. Our founders, Marie-Antoinette Potier and John Joseph Begel, responded to the needs of the time in France with vision, courage and generosity, eventually emigrating to the Cleveland diocese in 1864.

Today, we follow in their footsteps, dedicated to works of peacemaking, justice, and care for Earth through a variety of ministries in education, health care, social service, and pastoral ministry. We number 168 Sisters serving in Midwestern states, Florida, and Haiti. Others join in our life and mission as Associates, HM Volunteers and Volunteer Alums. For more information: www. humilityofmary.org. Membership Office, 20015 Detroit Road, Rocky River, OH 44116, (440)356-5711; e-mail vocation@hmministry.org. See our web ad at www.

VocationGuide.org.

See ad on page 131. Code #329.

Search these Women’s Communities online at VocationNetwork.org website: http://www.presentationsisters.org. See our web ad at www.VocationGuide.org.

Code #050.

woMen’s communities Search WOMen’s communities

Sisters of the Resurrection (C.R.) God called a mother and daughter to form a religious congregation of women immersed in the spirit of Jesus’ Resurrection. As Sisters of the Resurrection, we are women of prayer and of the church who believe deeply in the presence of the Risen Christ. We have given our lives to God in joy through a vowed commitment of chastity, poverty, and obedience.

In our education and health care ministries, we strive to imitate the example of Jesus’ love, compassion, and concern for others. We believe that God continues to call women to live as Sisters of the Resurrection and we invite you to prayerfully consider whether this could be true for you. New York Province: Sr. Teresa Grace, C.R., 35 Boltwood Avenue, Castleton, NY 12033; (518) 7322226; e-mail: vocation@resurrectionsisters.org; website: http://www.resurrectionsisters.org. Chicago Province: Sr. Kathleen Ann, C.R., 7432 W. Talcott Avenue, Chicago, IL 60631; (773) 792-6363; e-mail: callres@yahoo.com; website: http://www.crsisterschicago.org.

See ad on page 91. Code #215.

Sisters of the Sacred Heart of Jesus (S.S.H.J.) We are Sisters of the Sacred Heart of Jesus founded by Blessed Maria Schinina in 1889. Following the command of Jesus “obey my ministers,” Maria Schinina rejected worldly pleasures and dedicated her life in service to the destitute, the homeless, and the unwanted. The aim of this Congregation is the glory of God and the sanctification of its members through the practice of Evangelical Vows, spiritual and corporal works of mercy. The Sisters of the Sacred Heart of Jesus live their Spirituality of Love and Reparation to the Sacred Heart of Jesus through Love and Service to the Poor. The Sisters continue to serve the poor in orphanages, rest homes, parish ministry, schools, missionary work, and in propagating devotion to the Sacred Heart. We live prayer and community life and wear full religious habit. We serve in Italy, Madagascar, Nigeria, Philippines, Romania, France, India, Equatorial Guinea, Panama, Canada, and United States. Age limit is 18 to 35. Contact: Sister Grace Dike, SSHJ, Sacred Heart Villa, 5269 Lewiston Rd., Lewiston, NY 14092; (716) 284-8273; e-mail: sshj_vocation@yahoo.com; website: http://www.shvilla.org.

Code #165.

Sisters of the Sorrowful Mother Third Order of St. Francis of Assisi (S.S.M.) We are an internationally diverse group of Franciscan women committed to prayer, community, and service. With Mary, the Mother of Sorrows, we bring a compassionate presence to the world by focusing on the needs of those who are suffering.

We have missions in ten countries: the USA, the Dominican Republic, Grenada, St. Lucia, Trinidad; Austria, Germany, Italy; Brazil and Tanzania. Are you yearning to make a difference in a suffering world as did Mary, Mother of Sorrows? If yes, take the first step in exploring the process of becoming one of us by contacting Sister Dorothy Ann Dirkx, 9 Pocono Rd., Denville, NJ 07834; (973) 627-0424; e-mail: ssmvoc@gmail.com; http://www. ssmfranciscans.org; http://www.becomingasister.org and http://www.motherfrances.streitel.org.

See ad on page 36. Code #034.

Sisters of the Third Order of St. Francis (O.S.F.)—East Peoria, IL We are personally called by the Most High God to live the Franciscan way of life. With the Holy Virgin Mary as our mother and model, we strive to follow the examples of St. Francis of Assisi and Mother M. Frances Krasse. We travel this earth as pilgrims, walking through life together, strengthened by the Eucharist, praising our God in the Liturgy of the Hours, and allowing Him daily to transform us by our life of penance. In emptying ourselves for others, in humble sharing of the gifts we have received from our Father, we bring the peace of Christ

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among men. Our community apostolate includes health care and education. Our primary commitment is to care for the sick and poor. The special spirit of our community is the loving simplicity which our holy Father St. Francis practiced to a very high degree. Vocation Director, 740 NE Glen Oak Ave., Peoria, IL 61603; (309) 655-4840; e-mail: vocation.info@osfhealthcare.org; website: http:// www.franciscansisterspeoria.org. See our web ad at www.

VocationGuide.org.

See ad on page 24. Code #081.

Sisters of Transfiguration Hermitage We are a monastic, contemplative community, following the Rule of Benedict in a way of life which nurtures the love of God in solitude as well as in community. Our life includes Liturgy of the Hours together as well as hours for personal prayer and lectio in solitude both morning and evening.

We live by the work of our hands: making fruitcakes, jams, and other baked goods, and by writing, offering occasional workshops and retreats, and through the ministry of our small guest house. Our 68 acres of gardens, fields, woods, and streams offers a solitary environment in which to attend to God’s presence. Firmly rooted in the monastic tradition, we are also open to the needs and aspirations of contemporary women who desire to seek God both in silence and solitude and in the daily life of the community of sisters. Transfiguration Hermitage, 205 Windsor Neck Rd., Windsor, ME 04363; (207) 445-8031; e-mail: benedicite@fairpoint.net; website: http://www. transfigurationhermitage.org.

Code #367.

Society Devoted to the Sacred Heart (S.D.S.H.) God called Sister Ida Peterfy through her personal relationship with Him and through the inspiration of the Holy Spirit to begin our Community in Hungary in 1940. Our Community is characterized by: ONENESS WITH GOD  daily personal and communal prayer  daily Eucharist  adoration of the Blessed Sacrament  GENUINE LOVE FOR ONE ANOTHER  community life  teamwork in the mission  recreation together  LOVING SERVICE FOR HIS CHURCH  a joyful apostolate  ZEALOUS LOVE TO SERVE OUR LORD  we serve in the United States, Taiwan, and Hungary in catechetics, evangelization and medical work  VIVID FAITH LIFE  HUMBLE RELIANCE ON GOD  we profess Vows of Chastity, Poverty, and Obedience  “With our hearts and minds anchored permanently in Jesus Our Lord, we surrender ourselves to Him to be filled with His transforming love.” Sister Ida.  We are one in Christ.  Contact: Sacred Heart Novitiate: 10480 Winnetka Ave, Chatsworth, CA 91311; (818) 831-9710; website: http://www.sacredheartsisters. com. See our web ad at www.VocationGuide.org.

Code #343.

Society of Helpers (S.H.) The Helpers are an international community of women religious who have been urged by the love of Christ to respond to a world in crisis by bringing hope to the human journey. We work in solidarity with the forgotten, those wounded in human dignity, those suffering injustice, those surviving without hope, those searching for God. We share with them in the life and death situations of the human situation moving towards fullness of life. To learn more contact: Sr. Jean Kielty, 4721-J South Woodlawn, Chicago, IL 60615; (773) 405-9884; e-mail: jeankielty@yahoo.com or Sr. Anna Maria Baldauf, 4721-J South Woodlawn, Chicago, IL 60615; (312) 806-1884; e-mail: anna.maria.baldauf@ sbcglobal.net. For Spanish contact Sr. Dominga Zapata, 2043 N. Humboldt Blvd., Chicago, IL 60647; (773) 3438832; e-mail: mingaz@sbcglobal.net. Visit our website at http://www.helpers.org. U.S. Provincial House: 4721-J S. Woodlawn, Chicago, IL 60615; (773) 548-5026. See our web ad at www.VocationGuide.org.

Code #223.

Society of St. Teresa of Jesus (S.T.J.) The Teresian Sisters are an international congregation of women

religious called to “know and love Jesus and make him known and loved” through the apostolates of prayer, education, and sacrifice. Founded in 1876 by St. Henry de Osso, the Teresian Sisters serve in 24 countries in the Americas, Europe, Africa, and Asia. In the U.S. we minister in Texas, Louisiana, and Florida in education, youth ministry, retreats, and parish ministry. Our life of prayer and community strengthen us for mission and enable us to proclaim Christ to all people. Mindful of the needs of the poor, we are called to go wherever the interests of Jesus are most in danger. Discover if God is calling you to witness to his love in our world.

Contact: Sr. Clarice Suchy, S.T.J., 18080 St. Joseph Way, Covington, LA 70435; (504) 615-4504; e-mail: teresianvocations@yahoo.com; website: http://www. teresians.org.

See ad on page 55. Code #261.

Society of St. Ursula (S.U.) The Sisters of St. Ursula, following in the footsteps of our foundress, Anne de Xainctonge, are women religious called to work with and among women and young people especially the poor. Through education in the broadest sense, we are to enable all people to appreciate and desire Gospel values. We minister in schools, parishes, retreat centers, and social service agencies. It is through the witness of our lives consecrated to Jesus Christ that we desire to make Him known and loved. We are called to live lives of discernment, to find God in all things, and to manifest the magis (the more) in every aspect of our lives. Sisters of the SU Federation serve on four continents in 10 countries. Contact: Sr. Barbara Marie Cady, SU, (910) 389-1742 or e-mail: bmcadysu@aol.com; website: http:// www.societyofstursula.org.

See ad on page 46. Code #021.

Society of the Holy Child Jesus—American Province (SHCJ) Founded by Cornelia Connelly, the Society of the Holy Child Jesus is an international community of women religious. Our mission is to help others to believe that God lives and acts in them and in our world, and to rejoice in God’s presence. Our life of prayer and community strengthens us for diverse ministries. Since the Society’s founding in 1846, education has been at the heart of our mission. Today, we continue to serve as educators in the broadest sense of the word through ministries in teaching, spirituality, health care, social work, pastoral care, parish administration, and law. In the U.S., the Society sponsors 14 schools, including Rosemont College, and several social service organizations. Holy Child Sisters serve on four continents and in 16 states. For more information, please contact: Anita Quigley, SHCJ; 1341 Montgomery Avenue, Rosemont, PA 19010; (610) 626-1400, ext. 304; e-mail: aquigley@shcj. org. Visit our website at http://www.vocations.shcj.org.

See our web ad at www.VocationGuide.org.

See ad on page 37. Code #172.

Society of the Sacred Heart (R.S.C.J.) The Religious of the Sacred Heart invite you to join in our mission of discovering and making God’s love known. Our members share life together in small communities and seek, through prayer and contemplation, to be drawn ever more deeply into intimacy with God, who is alive and active in our hearts and minds and who challenges us to make choices for justice and peace in response to the Gospel and the needs of the world. In the United States, we live out our educational mission in a wide variety of settings, including schools and colleges, social agencies and shelters. Linked with our sisters in 45 countries, and led by the Spirit, we strive to live courageously in the traditions of our founder, Saint Madeleine Sophie Barat, and our pioneer educator Saint Philippine Duchesne. Visit us at http://www.rscj.org and http://www. rscjinternational.org or contact us at: 1-888-844-7725 (toll free) or vocation@rscj.org. See our web ad at www.

VocationGuide.org.

See ad on page 125. Code #027.

VISION 2012

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Search these Women’s Communities online at VocationNetwork.org

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Trappistine Cistercian Nuns (O.C.S.O.), Crozet, VA—Our Lady of the Angels Monastery Our way of Christian discipleship is a gospel life according to the teaching of the Church, the Rule of St. Benedict and the Constitutions of our Cistercian Trappist Order. Daily we celebrate the Eucharist, the Liturgy of the Hours, and we also give time each day to meditation and adoration, sacred reading and study. The whole community works together in our means of self-support—the making of a fine quality cheese on our monastery farm. We also offer hospitality to retreatants in our guest cottages, and we exercise stewardship over our woodlands and cultivated fields here in the heart of Virginia, in the foothills of the Blue Ridge mountains. We invite single Catholic women between the ages of 20 and 45 to contact us through our website: www.olamonastery.org or by e-mail: vocations@ olamonastery.org or by writing to: Vocation Director, Our Lady of the Angels, 3365 Monastery Drive, Crozet, VA 22932. We look forward to welcoming you! See our web ad at www.VocationGuide.org.

See ad on page 51. Code #415.

Trappistine Cistercian Nuns (O.C.S.O.), Sonoita, AZ—Santa Rita Abbey As the mountains surround us, so the monastic observance surrounds and fosters our contemplative longing to behold the face of God. We live out the divine and human gifts of simplicity, community, liturgy, joy and prayer. Are you being invited by the Spirit into this School of Charity that is the Cistercian Southwest? Sr. Victoria Murray welcomes your questions at Santa Rita Abbey, HC 1, Box 929, Sonoita, AZ 85637; e-mail: sracommty@wildblue.net; website: www.SantaRitaAbbey.org. See our web ad at www.VocationGuide.org.

See ad on page 51. Code #415.

Trappistine Cistercian Nuns (O.C.S.O.), Whitehorn, CA—Redwoods Monastery Our monastic roots began in France in 1098 by Benedictines, who desiring a Godcentered life, embraced the values of simplicity, poverty, silence, continual prayer and personal transformation.

They sought and found God in the ordinary experience of daily living, nurturing the centrality of love as they grew in union with Christ. Redwoods Monastery makes this spiritual heritage available today through the communal practices of the Divine Office, daily Eucharist, divine reading and study, meditation and prayer, manual labor, and hospitality to guests. We are located on 300 acres of old growth redwood forest in Northern California and are deeply committed to preserving our forests, rivers, and wildlife. If you are a single Catholic woman, between 22 and 40 with 2 years of college or work experience and desire our way of life, please contact Sr. Suzanne; e-mail:

VISION 2012

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Trappistine Cistercian Nuns (O.C.S.O.), Wrentham, MA—Mount Saint Mary’s Abbey Our order is a monastic Order wholly directed to contemplation. We are dedicated to the worship of God in a life that is hidden, obscure and laborious within the monastery and under the Rule of St. Benedict. In this school of love, the nuns grow in humility and self-knowledge. Through the discovery of the depths of God’s mercy in their lives, they will learn to love. The various elements of Cistercian conversatio, such as obedience, humility, ascesis, solitude and silence, lead, each in its own way, to the interior freedom through which purity of heart and an abiding attention to God are attained. It is in the particular and delicate balance of lectio divina, liturgy, and work, that the Cistercian charism most directly manifests itself.

Women between 20 and 40 may apply. We are located at 300 Arnold Street, Wrentham, MA 02093. Please contact Sister Katie McNamara; e-mail: s.katie@msmabbey.org; website: http://www.msmabbey.org.

See ad on page 51. Code #415.

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Ursuline Sisters of Cleveland (O.S.U.) As Ursuline Sisters we are called to live the Gospel values and to deepen our relationship with Christ, both individually and with the support of one another in community.

We were founded by St. Angela Merici whose compassion led her to serve the Church and God’s people as needs and circumstances dictated. Today, imitating St. Angela, we offer a compassionate presence in schools, neighborhoods, retreat centers, prisons, shelters, and health care facilities. We serve primarily in the Greater Cleveland community and on the Diocesan Mission Team in El Salvador. If you have an interest in using your gifts within a religious community that values contemplation, compassion, and justice, we invite you to contact us. Women seeking Vowed Membership or Associate Membership contact Sister Ann Letitia, 2600 Lander Road, Pepper Pike, OH 44124; (440) 449-1200 ext. 138; e-mail: aletitia@beaumontschool.org; website: http://www.ursulinesisters.org.

Code #311.

Ursuline Sisters of Mount Saint Joseph (O.S.U.) We are Ursuline Sisters committed to “Freeing and nurturing women and children.” Founded in 1874 in western Kentucky, our congregation embraces the core values of Prayer, Service, Empowerment, Justice, and Contemplative Presence, in the spirit of our founder, Saint Angela Merici. We minister in Kentucky, Tennessee, Illinois, Kansas, Missouri, Minnesota, Louisiana, New Mexico, the District of Columbia, and Chile, South America. Our focus is in four areas: education, from primary grades to college; ecclesial or church ministry; social outreach and justice advocacy with the poor, children, the elderly, immigrants, and the homeless; and ministries of body, mind, and spirit. We sponsor two institutions, Brescia University and Mount Saint Joseph Conference and Retreat Center. More than 500 Ursuline Associates join us in prayer and ministry. Vocations: Contact Sister Martha Keller, (270) 229-4103, ext. 212; e-mail: vocations.msj@ maplemount.org; 8001 Cummings Road, Maple Mount, KY 42356. Visit us at www.ursulinesmsj.org.

Code #222.

Ursuline Sisters of the Roman Union U.S. Province (O.S.U.) The Ursulines were the first religious women in what is now the United States, arriving in New Orleans in 1727. We have been serving God’s people here continuously since that time. Like our foundress,





Sisters of St. Joseph of the Third Order of St. Francis www.ssj-tosf.org vocation@ssj-tosf.org (715) 341-8457 Enter #154 at VocationMatch.com St. Angela Merici, Ursulines believe that every day is a journey toward God. We seek to be faithful to a daily rhythm of contemplation, community life and ministry.

We dare to confront the oppression of women and to stand in solidarity with the poor. Known as educators, the Ursulines fulfill this mission in varied works by helping people recognize and develop their gifts for the service of others. For information, please contact: Sr. Jean Hopman, OSU, sjeanosu@gmail.com, (773) 8440950; Sr. Elisa Ryan, OSU, elisaosu@gmail.com, (314) 825-9733; www.usaosu.org. See our digital web ad at www.digitalvocationguide.org.

Code #218.

V

Visitation Sisters of Minneapolis (VHM) The Visitation Sisters of Minneapolis, MN, are present in the inner city to “Live Jesus” by being part of this multicultural community—to share prayer, hope and God’s blessings with the people in our neighborhood and to receive their blessedness. As part of the Second Federation of Visitation Sisters, this monastery of north Minneapolis was founded in 1989. It was conceived in prayer as a desire to express Visitation contemplative life in a new way—a commitment to be one with those who are often marginalized by society. Our urban monastery is part of the worldwide Order of the Visitation Sisters of Holy Mary, founded by St. Francis de Sales and St. Jane de Chantal in Annecy, France, in 1610. For more information, please contact Sister Katherine Mullin at mullinkf@aol.com or by calling (612) 521-6113. Visit our website at www.visitationmonasteryminneapolis. org; follow us on Twitter (http://www.twitter.com/ minnemonastery) and “Like” us on Facebook (“Visitation Monastery North Minneapolis”)! See our web ad at www.VocationGuide.org.

Code #086.

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woMen’s communities sarch WOMen’s communities

Trappistine Cistercian Nuns (O.C.S.O.), Dubuque, IA—Our Lady of the Mississippi Abbey Our community follows the Rule of St. Benedict, and is wholly oriented towards contemplation. We dedicate ourselves to the worship of God in a hidden life within the community. Our life is structured according to a special rhythm of prayer, work, and Lectio Divina, which continually calls us to deeper conversion, love, and self-awareness as we grow in our relationship with Jesus and in our care for others. Lectio Divina is the prayerful reading and pondering of God’s Word. Our manual work is the prayer of our hands which supports us. There are specific times for the Divine Office and for personal prayer. We are located on the bluffs of the Mississippi River, surrounded by our organic farm and rolling hills. Women 18-39 years of age may apply. For more information contact Sr. Gail Fitzpatrick; Our Lady of the Mississippi Abbey, 8400 Abbey Hill Lane, Dubuque, IA 52003; (563) 582-2595, ext. 141; e-mail: vocations@olmabbey.org; website: http://www.mississippiabbey.org. See our web ad at www.VocationGuide.org.

See ad on page 51. Code #415.

vocationdirector@redwoodsabbey.org; website: www. redwoodsabbey.org; blog: http://www.redwoodsabbey. blogspot.com; or write, Vocation Director, Redwoods Monastery, 18104 Briceland-Thorn Rd., Whitehorn, CA 95589; (707) 986-7419. See our web ad at www.

VocationGuide.org.

See ad on page 51. Code #369.

Search these other Communities/Programs online at VocationNetwork.org

woMen’s communities Search other communities/programS

loved where he has placed them. All members have a sponsor to help them live a life in which God comes first even though they are working in the heart of the world. After three years of initial formation, members take a vow of celibate chastity and promises of poverty and obedience at a first dedication, followed by a definitive dedication five years later. For further information write: Jo Ann Ballinger, joannbear@gmail.com; website: http://www.ccinfo.org.

Code #347.

Don Bosco Volunteers (DBV) Don Bosco Volunteers are consecrated lay women living the Salesian spirituality of Saint John Bosco, (Don Bosco), while fully immersed in the ordinary occupations and careers of secular society. We participate in the evangelizing mission of the Church by witnessing Christian joy and service especially to young people and those most in need. We do not live in community but share communion through regular prayer and social gatherings.

Founded in 1917 by Blessed Philip Rinaldi, Don Bosco Volunteers are a Secular Institute of Pontifical Right for single Catholic women who are consecrated to God through the vows of chastity, poverty and obedience while maintaining their lay status within the Church and world. Candidates must be women who have never married and who want to dedicate their life in a radical way to love of God and neighbor. Members follow a formation plan of discernment and preparation for vows, six years of temporary vows, then perpetual vows. Contact information: PO Box 334H, Scarsdale, NY 10583-5834; e-mail: seculardbv@aol.com.

Code #360.

Fr. Italo Dell’Oro, CRS 610 W. Melwood St. . Houston, TX 77009 somascans@yahoo.com . www.somascans.org

Enter #120 at VocationMatch.com

Associate communities Associate Community of the Poor Handmaids of Jesus Christ We are baptized men and women who make a non-vowed renewable covenant with the Associate Community for the purpose of mutual spiritual enrichment, development of community and promotion of service. Our commitment is based on the common call of the Holy Spirit. The Associates, together with the Poor Handmaids of Jesus Christ and Fiat Spiritus Community, live the spirit of their foundress Blessed Catherine Kasper. Contact: Donna Sikorski, P.O. Box 1, Donaldson, IN 46513; (574) 936-9936 ext. 733; e-mail: dsikorski@poorhandmaids.org; website: http://www. poorhandmaids.org/associates. See our web ad at www.

VocationGuide.org.

Code #049.

discernment programs LifeChoices® Are you unsure of your future? On the fence—and stuck there? Consider LifeChoices®, a spiritual discernment program designed to help young adult Catholics answer big-picture questions of career, lifestyle, spirituality, and vocation. This decade-old program is the first of its kind. The information and processes will allow you to challenge your insecurities, befriend your self-doubts, and provide a path for you to step into the infinite possibilities of your true and authentic self. More than 4,000 women and men have benefited from LifeChoices®, which pairs you up with an experienced vocation minister to ensure that the big decisions you make are the right ones. There’s no pressure to choose religious life, just a commitment to uncovering the path of your heart’s desire with God’s help, where you will find fulfillment and happiness. For more information about LifeChoices®, log onto www.

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adorers.org or contact Sr. Rita Schilling at 1-877-2367377 ext. 1409 (ADORERS) or schillingr@adorers.org and Sr. Jeanne Stewart at 1-877-236-7377 ext. 1414 or stewartj@adorers.org.

See ad on page 84. Code #002.

new communities of consecrated life Fiat Spiritus Community (FS) We are a community of vowed Christian men and women who are committed to living an apostolic life. We are called to listen to the Holy Spirit through community which empowers us to discern our response to the needs of our time especially with the needy and underserved. The Fiat Spiritus Community, together with the Poor Handmaids of Jesus Christ and Associate Community, live the Spirit of Blessed Catherine Kasper their foundress. Contact: Brother Bob Overland, FS, P.O. Box 1, Donaldson, IN 46513; (574) 936-1726; e-mail: boverland@poorhandmaids.org; website: http:// www.fiatspiritus.org. See our web ad at www.VocationGuide.org.

Code #049.

secular institutes Caritas Christi, Secular Institute of Pontifical Right Founded in Marseilles, France, in 1937 by Fr. Joseph-Marie Perrin, OP, and Juliette Molland, Caritas Christi is now one of the largest secular institutes for single women in the United States and has members in over thirty countries. The purpose of Caritas Christi is to form and give to the Church contemplative apostolic laywomen who, in every condition of life, strive to live as consecrated Catholics by loving God and making him

Secular Institute of Missionaries of the Kingship of Christ (SIM) Consecrated single women professing poverty, chastity and obedience. Founded in 1919 in Assisi, Italy by Agostino Gemelli, OFM and Armida Barelli.

In 1948 approved as a Secular Institute of Pontifical Rite.

Established in the United States in 1953 by Fr. Stephen Hartdegen, OFM and Barbara Ottinger. Our purpose is to evangelize where we work, live and pray in the Spirit of St. Francis. We strive for a Franciscan Spirituality, living the Gospel in our Franciscan tradition with Christ centered humility, joy, simplicity, poverty, peace, generosity, love of the church and her teachings. A close bond is created among the members through monthly Days of Recollection, annual retreats, publications, correspondence, and e-mail. Requirements are a commitment to celibate life, desire to grow in love of Christ, desire to promote Christian values in today’s society, a self-supporting occupation, and freedom to live our way of life. For more information contact: Charleen Dahlin, (508) 386-1417; e-mail: cdahlin@aol.com; website: http://www.simkc.org.

Code #337.

United States Conference of Secular Institutes (USCSI) The United States Conference of Secular Institutes is an association of all the Secular Institutes in the United States. Its mission is to provide education, resources, and support for member institutes, and to assist inquirers in finding the Secular Institute that is right for them. USCSI is committed to making known, understood, and appreciated the call to consecrated secularity in the Catholic Church. Total consecration to God through the evangelical counsels of poverty, celibate chastity, and obedience is the hallmark of all Secular Institutes. Institutes are for single women or for single men, and some are for diocesan priests. It is the newest and fastest-growing vocation in the Church today. For more information see http://www.secularinstitutes.org. Inquirers may be helped by writing to or talking with Sandra Clark, 1012A Ivydale Drive, Las Cruces, NM 88005; (575) 527-1794; sandraclark223@ comcast.net.

Code #147.

UK/Irish Communities Find UK and Irish Communities online through our community search or in our digital edition of Vision: www.digitalvocationguide.org.

VISION 2012

For more features go to VocationNetwork.org

Index to religious communities advertising in Vision ’12 Log onto VocationNetwork.org to request information from any of the religious communities advertising in Vision Vocation Guide. Listings in Spanish and French also available online.

Looking for a good match? Fill out a profile at VocationMatch.com and narrow your vocation search.

Men’s 141 Alexian Brothers, p. 2 207 Augustinian Friars, p. 128 020 Augustinian Monks of the Primitive Observance, p. 137 328 Augustinians of the Assumption, p. 137 254 Barnabite Fathers, p. 42 308 Basilian Monks, p. 137 247 Benedictine Monks, Conception Abbey, p. 137 355 Benedictine Monks, Marmion Abbey, p. 137

119 Edmundite Fathers and Brothers, p. 69 102 Franciscan Brothers of Brooklyn, p. 70 418 Franciscan Friars-Province of St. Barbara, p. 141 370 Franciscan Friars-Province of the Immaculate Conception, p. 30

149 Society of St. Paul, p. 146

098 Franciscan Friars, Conventual, p. 141

003 Franciscan Friars of the Atonement, p. 115

417 Benedictine Monks, Portsmouth Abbey, p. 141

103 Glenmary Home Missioners, p. 128

204 Benedictine Monks, Saint Anselm’s Abbey, p. 139

104 Jesuits, p. 142

014 Benedictine Monks, Saint Meinrad Archabbey, p. 171 243 Benedictine Monks, Saint Vincent Archabbey, p. 75 256 Benedictine Monks, Subiaco Abbey, p. 139 206 Brothers of Christian Instruction, p. 98 100 Brothers of the Christian Schools, p. 140 203 Brothers of the Sacred Heart, p. 113 091 Capuchin Franciscan Friars, p. 33 112 Carmelite Friars, Most Pure Heart of Mary Province,` p. 97 307 Carmelite Friars, St. Elias Province, p. 140 092 Claretian Missionaries, p. 140 224 Columban Missionaries, p. 140 095 Congregation of Christian Brothers, p. 95 097 Congregation of Holy Cross, p. 67 411 Congregation of St. Basil, p. 120 178 Congregation of the Mission, p. 113 046 Congregation of the Sacred Stigmata, p. 20 099 Crosier Fathers and Brothers, p. 140 177 Divine Word Missionaries, p. 108 228 The Dominicans, p. 70

VISION 2012

118 Servants of Charity, p. 120

233 Franciscan Friars-St. John the Baptist Province, p. 141

182 Benedictine Monks, Newark Abbey, p. 24

088 Benedictine Monks, Saint Mary’s Abbey, p. 76

145 Salvatorians (Society of the Divine Savior), p. 73

107 Society of Mary (See Marists Fathers and Brothers), p. 36

232 Franciscan Friars, T.O.R., Province of the Most Sacred Heart, p. 99

332 Benedictine Monks, Saint Louis Abbey, p. 139

117 Salesians of Don Bosco, p. 127

283 Franciscan Friars-Province of the Sacred Heart, p. 68

217 Benedictine Monks, Mount Saviour Monastery, p. 137

408 Benedictine Monks, Saint Joseph Abbey, p. 139

135 The Redemptorists, p. 9

300 Servants of the Paraclete, p. 55

295 Franciscan Friars, T.O.R., Immacu late Conception Province, p. 14

132 Benedictine Monks, Saint John’s Abbey, p. 96

116 Priests of the Sacred Heart, p. 145

313 Franciscan Friars-Province of the Most Holy Name of Jesus, p. 141

365 Benedictine Monks, Mount Angel Abbey, p. 139

349 Benedictine Monks, Saint Gregory’s Abbey, p. 139

115 Presentation Brothers, p. 98

192 Josephite Fathers and Brothers, p. 52 344 Little Brothers of the Good Shepherd, p. 125 334 Marianists, Province of Meribah, p. 48

136 Society of African Missions, p. 54

120 Somascan Fathers and Brothers, p. 168 164 Spiritans, p. 77 121 Trappist Cistercian Monks, Ava, MO, p. 147 415 Trappist Cistercian Monks, p. 51 122 Trinitarians, p. 147 094 Viatorians, p. 75 178 Vincentian Priests and Brothers, p. 113 198 Xaverian Brothers, p. 71 137 Xaverian Missionaries, p. 123

Missionaries

105 Marianists, Society of Mary, p. 142

267 Apostles of the Sacred Heart, p. 130

298 Marist Brothers, p. 95

214 Bernardine Franciscan Sisters, p. 89

107 Marists Fathers and Brothers, p. 36

203 Brothers of the Sacred Heart, p. 113

199 Maryknoll Congregation and Society, p. 101

013 Carmelites, Congregation of Our Lady of Mt. Carmel, p. 112

129 Missionaries of the Holy Family, p. 110

092 Claretian Missionaries, p. 140

108 Missionaries of the Precious Blood, p. 109

178 Congregation of the Mission, p. 113

130 Missionaries of the Sacred Heart, p. 143 133 Missionaries of the Sacred Hearts of Jesus and Mary, p. 77 109 Missionary Oblates of Mary Immaculate, p. 112 284 Missionary Servants of the Most Holy Trinity, p. 111 289 Norbertine Fathers and Brothers, Daylesford Abbey, p. 143 110 Norbertine Fathers and Brothers, p. 129 285 Oblates of St. Francis de Sales, p. 74 111 Oblates of the Virgin Mary, p. 143 216 Order of the Blessed Virgin Mary of Mercy, p. 145 271 Order of the Sacred and Immaculate Hearts of Jesus and Mary, p. 145 239 Pallottines, p. 19 113 Passionists, p. 145 114 The Paulist Fathers, p. 119 195 Piarists, p. 145 134 PIME Missionaries, p. 107

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224 Columban Missionaries, p.

168 Daughters of Charity of St. Vincent de Paul, pp. 41, 43, 45, 47

130 Missionaries of the Sacred Heart, p. 143 133 Missionaries of the Sacred Hearts of Jesus and Mary, p. 77 109 Missionary Oblates of Mary Immaculate, p. 112 278 Missionary Servants of the Most Blessed Trinity, p. 108 284 Missionary Servants of the Most Holy Trinity, p. 111 186 Missionary Sisters of the Holy Rosary, p. 158 044 Missionary Sisters of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, p. 3 289 Norbertine Fathers and Brothers, Daylesford Abbey, p. 143 201 Our Lady of Victory Missionary Sisters, p. 53 113 Passionists, p. 145 292 Parish Visitors of Mary Immaculate, p. 21 114 The Paulist Fathers, p. 119 134 PIME Missionaries, p. 107 115 Presentation Brothers, p. 98 135 Redemptorists, p. 9 414 Religious of Jesus and Mary, p. 130 300 Servants of the Paraclete, p. 55 060 Sisters of Charity of St. Joan Antida, p. 161 136 Society of African Missions, p. 54 222 Ursuline Sisters of Mount St. Joseph, p. 167 178 Vincentian Priests and Brothers, p. 113 198 Xaverian Brothers, p. 71 137 Xaverian Missionaries, p. 123

Women’s 001 Adorers of the Blood of Christ, p. 22

177 Divine Word Missionaries, p. 108

267 Apostles of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, p. 130

056 Franciscan Sisters of St. Elizabeth, p. 80

161 Augustinian Nuns, p. 148

033 Franciscan Sisters of the Sacred Heart, p. 30 138 Glenmary Home Mission Sisters of America, p. 172 103 Glenmary Home Missioners, p. 128 409 Handmaids of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, p. 157 127 Holy Spirit Missionary Sisters, p. 111 041 Little Sisters of the Poor, p. 83 128 Marist Missionary Sisters, p. 157 199 Maryknoll Congregation and Society, p. 101 042 Medical Mission Sisters, p. 110 299 Medical Missionaries of Mary, p. 158 129 Missionaries of the Holy Family, p. 110 108 Missionaries of the Precious Blood, p. 109

004 Benedictine Sisters/ A.B.F.C., p. 57 362 Benedictine Sisters, Beech Grove, IN, Our Lady of Grace Monastery, p. 57 358 Benedictine Sisters, Bismarck, ND, Annunciation Monastery, pp. 57, 122 321 Benedictine Sisters, Bristow, VA, p. 57 270 Benedictine Sisters, Colorado Springs, Co, Benet Hill, pp. 15, 57 407 Benedictine Sisters, Cottonwood, ID, Monastery of St. Gertrude, p. 57 221 Benedictine Sisters, Crookston, MN, Mt. St. Benedict Monastery, pp. 20, 57 280 Benedictine Sisters, Cullman, AL, Sacred Heart Monastery, p. 57 282 Benedictine Sisters, Duluth, MN, St. Scholastica Monastery, pp. 57, 87

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Index to religious communities advertising in Vision ’12 (continued from page 169)

Log onto VocationNetwork.org to request information from any of the religious communities advertising in Vision Vocation Guide. Listings in Spanish and French also available online.

Looking for a good match? Fill out a profile at VocationMatch.com and narrow your vocation search.

Women’s

(continued)

353 Benedictine Sisters, Elizabeth, NJ, St. Walburga Monastery, p. 57

126 Franciscan Missionary Sisters of Our Lady of Sorrows, p. 165

044 Missionary Sisters of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, p. 3

037 Franciscan Sisters at Springfield (Hospital Sisters of St. Francis), p. 88

340 Oblate Sisters of Providence, p. 158

069 Benedictine Sisters, Ferdinand, IN, Monastery Immaculate Conception, pp. 57, 109

189 Franciscan Sisters of Allegany, p. 34

341 Benedictine Sisters, Fort Smith, AR, St. Scholastica Monastery, p. 57

193 Franciscan Sisters of Dubuque, IA, p. 44

202 Benedictine Sisters, Mt. Angel, OR, Queen of Angels Monastery, pp. 23, 57 152 Benedictine Sisters, Rock Island, IL, St. Mary Monastery, pp. 27, 57 175 Benedictine Sisters, St. Joseph, MN, St. Benedict’s Monastery, p. 12 293 Benedictine Sisters, Tulsa, OK, St. Joseph Monastery, pp. 38, 57 157 Benedictine Sisters, Watertown, SD, Mother of God Monastery, pp. 57, 133 143 Benedictine Sisters, Yankton, SD, Sacred Heart Monastery, pp. 57, 134 008 Benedictine Sisters of Perpetual Adoration, p. 31 214 Bernardine Franciscan Sisters, p. 89 333 Carmel of Cristo Rey, p. 7 153 Carmelite Sisters for the Aged and Infirm, p. 82 364 Carmelite Sisters of Baltimore, p. 151 010 Carmelite Sisters of St. Thérèse, p. 88 013 Carmelites, Congregation of Our Lady of Mt. Carmel, p. 112 188 Cenacle Sisters, p. 91 011 Cistercian Nuns, p. 152 325 Congregation of Divine Providence, Marie de La Roche Province, p. 152 012 Congregation of Notre Dame, p. 93 058 Congregation of Sisters of Bon Secours, p. 31 363 Congregation of the Humility of Mary, p. 152

166 Franciscan Sisters of Chicago, p. 44

354 Franciscan Sisters of John the Baptist, p. 155 268 Franciscan Sisters of Little Falls, MN, p. 34

271 Order of the Sacred and Immaculate Hearts of Jesus and Mary, p. 158 201 Our Lady of Victory Missionary Sisters, p. 53 239 Pallottine Missionary Sisters, p. 19 239 Pallottine Sisters, p. 19

167 Franciscan Sisters of Oldenburg, IN, p. 155

292 Parish Visitors of Mary Immaculate, p. 21

170 Franciscan Sisters of Our Lady of Perpetual Help, p. 84

047 Passionist Nuns, Ellisville, MO, p. 159

017 Franciscan Sisters of Peace, p. 156

412 Poor Clares (Holy Name Federation), p. 11

030 Franciscan Sisters of Perpetual Adoration, p. 121

048 Poor Clares, (PA), pp. 11, 47

213 Franciscan Sisters of Rochester, MN, p. 22 056 Franciscan Sisters of St. Elizabeth, p. 80 031 Franciscan Sisters of St. Paul, MN, p. 156 211 Franciscan Sisters of the Atonement, p. 39 410 Franciscan Sisters of the Eucharist, p. 89 033 Franciscan Sisters of the Sacred Heart, p. 30 138 Glenmary Home Missions Sisters of America, p. 172 077 Good Shepherd Sisters, p. 85 183 Grey Nuns of the Sacred Heart, p. 28 409 Handmaids of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, p. 157 127 Holy Spirit Missionary Sisters, p. 111 368 Holy Union Sisters, p. 29 210 Institute of the Blessed Virgin Mary, p. 157 039 Little Company of Mary Sisters, p. 35 361 Little Sisters of Jesus and Mary, p. 54 041 Little Sisters of the Poor, p. 83 105 Marianists Sisters, p. 157

168 Daughters of Charity of St. Vincent de Paul, pp. 41, 43, 45, 47

162 Marianites of Holy Cross, p. 39

236 Daughters of Divine Zeal, p. 152

128 Marist Missionary Sisters, p. 157

015 Daughters of St. Paul, p. 152

419 Maronite Servants of Christ the Light, p. 157

150 Daughters of the Heart of Mary, p. 81

196 Oblate Sisters of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, p. 133

049 Poor Handmaids of Jesus Christ, p. 159 336 Redemptoristine Nuns, p. 159 414 Religious of Jesus and Mary, p. 130 117 Salesian Sisters, p. 127 052 School Sisters of Notre Dame, p. 52 053 School Sisters of St. Francis, Milwaukee, WI, p. 160 357 School Sisters of St. Francis, Pittsburgh, PA, p. 160 140 School Sisters of St. Francis of Christ the King, p. 35 054 Servants of the Blessed Sacrament, p. 160 055 Servants of the Holy Heart of Mary, p. 132 187 Sisters, Servants of the Immaculate Heart of Mary, Immaculata, PA, p. 92 258 Sisters, Servants of the Immaculate Heart of Mary, Monroe, MI, p. 15 059 Sisters of Charity (Federation), p. 160 007 Sisters of Charity of Rolling Hills, p. 132 060 Sisters of Charity of St. Joan Antida, p. 161 296 Sisters of Charity of the Blessed Virgin Mary, p. 161 061 Sisters of Charity of the Incarnate Word, Houston TX, p. 21 212 Sisters of Christian Charity, p. 90

199 Maryknoll Sisters, p. 101

264 Sisters of Loretto, p. 161

016 Daughters of the Holy Spirit, p. 81

042 Medical Mission Sisters, p. 110

275 Daughters of Wisdom, p. 85

299 Medical Missionaries of Mary, p. 158

229 Sisters of Mary of the Presentation, p. 161

018 Dominican Sisters, p. 135

278 Missionary Servants of the Most Blessed Trinity, p. 108

019 Dominican Sisters, Springfield, IL, pp. 134, 135 022 Dominican Sisters of Divine Providence, p. 23 025 Felician Franciscan Sisters, p. 13

170

186 Missionary Sisters of the Holy Rosary, p. 158 305 Missionary Sisters of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus, p. 79

356 Sisters of Mary Reparatrix, p. 162 063 Sisters of Mercy of the Americas, p. 79 064 Sisters of Notre Dame, p. 162 065 Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur, p. 12

366 Sisters of Our Lady of Sion, p. 162 413 Sisters of Our Lady of Sorrows, p. 162 066 Sisters of Providence, Holyoke, MA, p. 162 068 Sisters of Providence, Saint Maryof-the-Woods, IN, p. 162 067 Sisters of Providence, Seattle and Spokane, WA, p. 131 181 Sisters of Saints Cyril and Methodius, p. 45 171 Sisters of St. Agnes, p. 129 071 Sisters of St. Casimir, p. 16 085 Sisters of St. Francis, Sylvania, OH, p. 124 072 Sisters of St. Francis of Assisi, p. 43 252 Sisters of St. Francis of Mary Immaculate, p. 93 142 Sisters of St. Francis of Penance and Christian Charity, Holy Name Prov., p. 29 073 Sisters of St. Francis of Perpetual Adoration, Western Prov., p. 163 139 Sisters of St. Francis of Philadelphia, p. 163 279 Sisters of St. Francis of the Immaculate Conception, p. 82 294 Sisters of St. Francis of the Neumann Communities, p. 42 075 Sisters of St. John the Baptist, p. 80 024 Sisters of St. Joseph (Federation), p. 16 227 Sisters of St. Joseph of Peace, p. 14 154 Sisters of St. Joseph of the Third Order of St. Francis, p. 167 348 Sisters of St. Mary Namur, (Eastern Province), p. 164 076 Sisters of the Blessed Sacrament, p. 25 277 Sisters of the Divine Compassion, p. 164 315 Sisters of the Divine Savior, (Salvatorians), p. 17 269 Sisters of the Holy Cross, p. 41 036 Sisters of the Holy Family, p. 90 155 Sisters of the Holy Family of Nazareth, p. 28 079 Sisters of the Holy Redeemer, p. 38 331 Sisters of the Holy Spirit and Mary Immaculate, p. 164 329 Sisters of the Humility of Mary, p. 131 274 Sisters of the Incarnate Word and Blessed Sacrament, Corpus Christi, TX, p. 25 173 Sisters of the Living Word, p. 49 318 Sisters of the Precious Blood, p. 121 327 Sisters of the Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Dubuque, IA, p. 165

VISION 2012 VISION 2009 2009

Formore morefeatures featuresgo gototoVocationNetwork.org VocationGuide.org For VocationGuide.org

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Index

(continued from page 170)

Women’s

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416 Sisters of the Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary, International, p. 165 266 Sisters of the Presentation, of the Blessed Virgin Mary San Francisco, p. 124 050 Sisters of the Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary, South Dakota, p. 165 215 Sisters of the Resurrection, p. 91 165 Sisters of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, p. 166 034 Sisters of the Sorrowful Mother, p. 36 081 Sisters of the Third Order of St. Francis, p. 24 367 Sisters of Transfiguration Hermitage, p. 166 343 Society Devoted to the Sacred Heart, p. 166

The Monastic Life at

Saint Meinrad Archabbey

223 Society of Helpers, p. 166 261 Society of St. Teresa of Jesus, p. 55 021 Society of St. Ursula, p. 46 172 Society of the Holy Child Jesus, p. 37 027 Society of the Sacred Heart, p. 125 415 Trappistine Cistercian Nuns, p. 51 369 Trappistine, Cistercian Nuns, Whitehorn, CA, Redwoods Monastery, p. 51 311 Ursuline Sisters of Cleveland, p. 167 222 Ursuline Sisters of Mount St. Joseph, p. 167 218 Ursuline Sisters, Roman Union, p. 167 086 Visitation Sisters of Minneapolis, p. 167

www.saintmeinrad.edu

Associate communities 049 Associate Community of the Poor Handmaids of Jesus Christ, p. 168

Discernment programs 002 LifeChoices, p. 84

New communities of consecrated life 049 Fiat Spiritus Community, p. 168

Secular institutes 347 Caritas Christi Secular Institute, p. 168 360 Don Bosco Volunteers, p. 168 337 Secular Institute of Missionaries of the Kingship of Christ, p. 168 147 United States Conference of Secular Institutes, p. 168

A Building-up of the Kingdom and a Daily Desire for God. Office of Monastery Vocations, 100 Hill Drive, St. Meinrad, IN 47577, (812) 357-6318 vocations@saintmeinrad.edu Enter #014 at VocationMatch.com

communities based in the united kingdom

communities based in the United Kingdom

women’s communities A

Association of British Carmels The Carmelite Nuns belong to the worldwide Order of the Discalced Carmelites. There are 20 Carmelite Monasteries and almost 300 nuns in the UK. Their lives are dedicated to prayer in silence and solitude. Carmelite monasteries speak to the world of God and spiritual realities. The sisters value the companionship of Jesus above everything else. They are aware of sin and suffering and sadness and death throughout the world. They know that only Jesus has the answer; they are prepared to stake their lives on this. On behalf of all people, they choose to live out with Him the mystery of His life and death, through which all will come to His resurrection and the promise of fullness of life and joy. They unite themselves with Jesus “who lives ever to make intercession for the world” and their life’s purpose is to bring themselves and all humanity closer to the love of God. http://www.carmelnuns.org.uk; carmel.nuns@ tesco.net. Member of Compass.

Code #373.

Augustinian Sisters, Burgess Hill The Augustinian Order was founded in 1842 in Bruges, Belgium by Reverend Canon Peter John Maes who devoted his life to the care of the mentally ill. The Sisters of St. Augustine was re-formed in 1866 when it established its first home, St. George’s Retreat in Burgess Hill, Sussex, principally to care for the mentally and physically ill. The Sisters have continued to care for those that need it ever since.

Today our Sisters work in our own houses in the Diocese of Plymouth, Northampton. We also have Sisters in Birmingham and Westminster still carrying on the vision of Canon Peter Maes. St. George’s is the Mother House, where the new care village and three care homes have been established. http://www.anh.org.uk; patf@ank.org. uk. Member of Compass.

Code #374.

C

Carmelites, Notting Hill, UK The mission of the Carmelite is to enter, by the total gift of herself, into the saving mission of Christ, who gave himself for us that we might come to a fuller life in God. The Carmelite is one with all people, those who believe, those who search, and those who do not know that they are searching, She identifies with all that is worthy of humanity’s endeavour. Yet she is called to a life that is counter-cultural: to live quietly, against the background noise of the city; to live sparingly in an increasingly wasteful age; to live hidden in a competitive society; above all, to live lovingly in a violent world. In her contemplative prayer, the Carmelite carries the needs and hopes of every person before God, lifting the face of humanity to the Father, and opening her heart to be a channel of his outpouring love for all. Each sister works for the good of all and everything is held in common.

While silence is maintained throughout the day as far as possible, this is balanced by two periods of recreation when the sisters come together to strengthen the bonds of community life. http://www.carmelitesnottinghill. org.uk/formation.htm; carmelnottinghill@talktalk.net.

Member of Compass.

Code #393.

Cenacle Sisters, Liverpool Cenacle Sisters are inspired “to work for the transformation of the world by awakening and deepening faith with and for the people of our time.”

Our three-fold mission is lived out through Apostolic

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Service, Prayer, and Community Life. Apostolic Service of making Christ known and loved is carried out through a variety of ministries, retreats, spiritual direction, chaplaincies, and faith development. Prayer is at the centre of the mystery of the Cenacle and our lives as Cenacle Sisters.

Inspired by the Holy Spirit, prayer is at the heart of our ministry and our ministry inspires our prayer so that in all things Christ may be made known and loved. Community Life is where we come together and seek to have but one heart and soul. Our community of faith is gathered out of love for God, united in our mission, nourished by the Word of God and the Eucharist so that we may have the grace of loving one another as Christ has loved us. http:// www.cenaclesisters.co.uk; provcenacle@btconnect.com.

Member of Compass.

Code #376.

Congregation of Jesus Despite centuries of struggle in a Church and a world unprepared for Mary Ward’s pioneering vision, sisters of the Congregation of Jesus today are fulfilling her Ignatian dream of women at the apostolic service of the Church and their fellow human beings all over the world. Formed in the tradition of St. Ignatius and the Spiritual Exercises we aspire to: • be “wholly God’s” - finding God in all things; • be “lovers of truth and workers of justice” in the light of the gospel; • live as companions of Jesus, sharing in His mission to our brothers and sisters.

Whether by working in schools and universities, prisons or hospitals, spirituality centres or chaplaincies, through education, spiritual direction, social action for justice and hospitality we try to: • live with passion; • act with integrity; • pray with desire. http://www.cjengland.org/; jfl.cj@virgin.net. Member of Compass.

Code #377.

Congregation of the Sacred Hearts, Ireland and England The Congregation of the Sacred Hearts represented by the abbreviation SS.CC. after its Latin name Sacrorum Cordium, is a worldwide missionary order whose mission is to contemplate, live, and proclaim God’s love in the world. There are over 1500 in the Congregation made up priests, brothers, and sisters and an increasing number of lay associate members in over 30 countries throughout the world. The Ireland-England Province has its provincial house near Dublin for priests and brothers as well as sisters. There are currently 23 male members and 16 female members involved in a range of ministries from school chaplaincy and retreat work, parish and pastoral support activities as well as missionary support programmes. In Ireland, the community is involved in parish work, chaplaincy, pastoral care, and youth initiatives. In England, the congregation is active in parish work in Ealing, Acton, and Nunhead in South London. http://www.sacred-hearts.net; mikeruddy@eircom.net. Member of Compass.

Code #378.

D

Daughters of Jesus Before speaking in terms of action and of service, the choice of religious life, for us, is founded on an obvious interior fact: Christ has taken hold of us and we have replied. This spiritual experience of an encounter is a source of renewal and strength for mission.

We feel a “family relationship” with the women of the Gospel: Mary, the mother of Jesus; the Samaritan woman; Mary of Magdala... who received the mission to announce the Good News. Today, women have an important role in

attentiveness to the various forms of suffering that pervade our societies, as well as in handing on the Faith. In community we receive the mission to carry the Good News of Jesus the Saviour into the varied realities of our lives.

The Sisters, since the beginning, have been able to adapt to respond to the calls of the Church and the needs of the milieus to which they are sent. http://www.fillesdejesus. org; thompsona@ukonline.co.uk. Member of Compass.

Code #379.

Daughters of Mary and Joseph, UK We, the Daughters of Mary and Joseph, are an international community of vowed women religious. We are committed to deepening our relationship with Jesus Christ. This relationship manifests itself as an individual and corporate response to the needs of today’s world. Our mission is to be a compassionate, joyful presence that enables each person to recognize his or her value and dignity. We are dedicated to sharing the merciful love of God with all who experience brokenness and poverty in any form. In England, we are involved in a variety of ministries including retreat centers and pastoral ministries. Whatever we do and wherever we are, we are concerned for those seeking spiritual meaning and values in their lives and we are called to make room in our hearts for each person, especially those of whom society says, “There is no place for you here.” http://www. daughtersofmaryandjoseph.org; fabwbowker@yahoo. co.uk. Member of Compass.

Code #380.

Daughters of Mary Help of Christians (Salesian Sisters), UK Our religious family has its origin in the heart and mind of St. John Bosco and the creative fidelity with which St. Mary Domenica Mazzarello and her sisters assumed the project he intended, that of being called Daughters of Mary Help of Christians. The Salesian Sisters of the Province of St. Thomas of Canterbury feel strongly called to follow Jesus, dedicating our lives to God through service for others. The Salesian charism—our special gift and responsibility—is to reach out to the young offering friendship, support, and help for their journey through life, and especially looking out for those most in need.

Community is a key value for us. We consider it important to live together as “family.” We encourage others to work with us for the good of the young, and most communities benefit by the presence of committed Salesian cooperators and co-workers. http://www.salesiansisters.org.uk/; fmaprovincial@ukonline.co.uk. Member of Compass.

Code #381.

Daughters of St. Paul, UK We are an international Catholic community of religious women dedicated to spreading the Good News of Jesus Christ, using all forms of communication. Our spirituality is nurtured by the Eucharist and the Word of God and expressed through our collaborative effort to present the living message of Christ in a way that is meaningful for people today. We are committed to spreading the Good News of Jesus Christ, through word, color, and sound in the spirit of the apostle Paul. We use all forms of communication, new and old, to enable people of every nation to find for themselves an answer to their hearts’ deepest questions. http://www. pauline-uk.org/Contactus.asp?id=69; catherine@paulineuk.org. Member of Compass.

Code #382.

Daughters of the Cross of Liege, UK We are an international group of Roman Catholic women who have been called to understand and proclaim to others that the love of God has been revealed to us in the most striking way in the Passion and Death of Jesus. Our RESPONSE to this great love is to honor Christ by loving and serving

Note: These listings do not appear in the current print edition

VISION 2012

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Search these Communities based in the United Kingdom online at VocationNetwork.org Him above all in the poorest, weakest and most suffering people. Living in a religious community means choosing to live with God and with others, for God and for others. Today the Daughters of the Cross seek to build communities of faith, centered on the Eucharist and nourished by prayer, in order to fulfill the Congregation’s apostolic mission. Our ministries are many and varied. You will find us: visiting and caring for the sick and infirm; providing pastoral ministries in parishes, schools, and hospitals; and working for peace and justice. http://www. daughtersofthecross.org.uk; paainsworth@fcfriends.com.

Member of Compass.

Code #383.

Dominican Sisters of St. Catherine of Siena, Newcastle, Natal We are passionate about our call to follow Christ and share in His mission. Through contemplative prayer and reflective study our minds are open to truth. We are a multi-cultural, prophetic community who are committed to right relations with God, each other, society, and creation. Inspired by the zeal of Saint Dominic; we desire to bring the liberating message of the Gospel to a world searching for meaning and hope. This we do as Dominicans through various forms of the ministry of preaching, particularly in education and evangelization.

We are sent out on our apostolate by the community and return to our communities to be refreshed by the prayers and goodwill of the community. We strive to share our faith and doubts with each other. In wrestling with the truth together we make sense of who we are, and what we are called to be in the light of the Gospel. http://www. dominicansisters.co.uk; anncunningham@rosarypriory. co.uk. Member of Compass.

Code #392.

F

Faithful Companions of Jesus Our vocation is simply to be Companions of Jesus, sharing in the mission of Jesus in the world. We are called to follow Jesus faithfully, willing to stand at the foot of the cross like Mary and the holy women. To be one with Jesus in his thirst for the coming of the Kingdom of God. We live an Ignatian spirituality and, as Faithful Companions of Jesus, our missionary spirit urges us to adapt our work to the changing needs of Society and to the culture in which we live. In a world often torn apart by violence and poverty we offer our whole selves for whatever God is asking of us. lynnefcj@hotmail.com; http://www.fcjsisters.org/. Member of Compass.

Code #426.

Franciscan Missionaries of the Divine Motherhood We are an International Religious Congregation of Catholic women who proclaim with their lives the joy and freedom of the Gospel in the spirit of Francis and Clare of Assisi.

We share in Christ’s mission and witness to our charism by channelling our energies and resources primarily for the voiceless and the vulnerable in our beautiful but

VISION 2012

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I

Infant Jesus Sisters We are an International group of Catholic Women Religious serving in 16 countries. We desire to center ourselves in God, who is constantly creating and recreating all that lives. Our institute, founded in France in 1662, has always had a strong focus on mission, with sisters being trained to serve the needs of people in Europe, Asia, the Americas, and Africa. In collaboration with others, our current ministries include teaching, working with refugees and asylum seekers, visiting and supporting the “traveling community,” running a pony center, bereavement counseling, art therapy, awareness raising in the field of ecology and care of the earth, catechetical formation of children and adults, pastoral leadership in parishes, and many activities in the promotion of justice, peace, and integrity of creation. http://www.infantjesussisters.org; rbarterijs@eircom.net. Member of Compass.

Code #386.

L

La Retraite Sisters We are an international group of Catholic religious women committed to witnessing to the love of God in the world. Our name touches both our history and who we are today. When we began in 1674, in Brittany, France, we provided retreats for women and that’s how our name ‘La Retraite’—from the French word for retreat—stuck. Today, retreat work means helping people in their prayer and human and spiritual development. This happens not only through formal retreats and spiritual direction, but through chaplaincy, pastoral work, teaching, health care, and adult formation and education.

The center of our life as La Ratraite Sisters is a personal and loving God that is mighty and tender, real and hidden, reassuring and challenging. The things which help us deepen our faith and commitment include the experience of the love and faithfulness of God, our Rule of Life, our communities (small groups of sisters living together), and Ignatian spirituality. http://www.laretraite.ws/en/0. htm; ann@emmaushouse.org.uk. Member of Compass.

Code #388.

La Sainte Union Sisters As Holy Union Sisters we draw our inspiration from the Mystery of the Incarnation believing that in Jesus of Nazareth, God became one of us, fully engaged in human history, alert and responsive to human need. We draw strength and encouragement from our personal prayer and relationship with God; reflection and prayer together; and from our awareness of Christ. We began as educators in the 19th century and we continue to serve as educators and are now also engaged in many other diverse ministries, including spiritual and human development, faith formation, pastoral ministering in parishes, schools, prison nursing care, community development, and work with immigrants and refugees. We are called to be at the heart of the world revealing God’s love. http://www.lasainteunion.org/; michtotslu@ntlworld.com.

Member of Compass.

Code #389.

Little Company of Mary Sisters, UK Inspired by the faith, courage, and initiative of our founder, Mary Potter,

we are women of many nations who have heard a call to FOLLOW JESUS, in the spirit of Mary the Mother of Jesus. We are women who simply believe beyond belief that our small talents and capacity to love and serve echo the love and service Jesus gave to those he encountered in His life. Our ministries may vary, but we are all called to bring to the world the healing presence of Jesus. The individual way we do this is through our involvement in: prayer for the dying; hospital/hospice/parish visits; bereavement support; spiritual direction; support of the elderly in their own homes; working with the homeless; and school chaplaincy. http://www.lcmsisters.org.uk/; sisterm@btinternet.com. Member of Compass.

Code #390.

M

Missionary Sisters of the Holy Rosary, Ireland At the core of being Missionary Sisters of the Holy Rosary is missioning – the readiness to be sent, to go beyond the boundaries of our own country and culture to find, nurture, and share the Good News with those in any kind of need, especially with the poor, oppressed, and exploited through the ministries of healing, education, pastoral work, and community development. We are always searching for new ways in which to find and nurture the seed that is Christ in every culture – the living hope of liberation. Come join us on this remarkable journey of faith, worship and service! Learn how to love your neighbors in the global community. Experience the wonders of many cultures. Speak the language of the poor wherever you are led. http://www.holyrosarymissionarysisters.org; mshrgen@eircom.net. Member of Compass.

Code #391.

O

Oblates of the Assumption Missionary Sisters, UK The Oblates of the Assumption live and work in over 20 countries worldwide. We live lives of Contemplation in action; driven by a love of Christ, the Virgin Mary and the Church (to be deepened continually and taken “to the world”). We live in international and intergenerational communities; with an ardent desire for the Coming of God’s Kingdom: within us, between us, around us. We are open to the modern world with a passion for mission; in collaboration with our Brothers: the Augustinians of the Assumption (with whom we share the same founder). Faithful to the spirit of our founder, Emmanuel d’Alzon, we aim to live this mission as: daughters of the Church and workers for unity who seek the Glory of God and the realization of the ultimate desire of Christ: “May they be one”. Ecumenism and Inter-Faith dialogue are, therefore, foremost in all that we do. Our Motto is: Thy Kingdom Come. http://www. assumptionoblatesisters.org.uk/; mnicannaid@yahoo.ie.

Member of Compass.

Code #394.

woMen’s communities sarch communities based in the United Kingdom

Daughters of the Heart of Mary, Ireland and England The Society of the Daughters of the Heart of Mary is a world-wide congregation of Women Religious born in the 18th century through the inspiration of a priest and a laywoman who ardently desired to imitate Our Blessed Mother and live like her. Today we Daughters of the Heart of Mary continue to live out our founders’ inspiration through lives of contemplation in action. Living together is not obligatory, so you will find us living in common houses, individually, or with family members. We gather as often as we can in community, giving support to each other in our ministries through sharing and prayer. A partial list of individual ministries includes teachers, religious educators, pastoral associates, social workers, nurses, spiritual directors, and a variety of secular professions which, through obedience, become our apostolates. http://www. dhmary.com/; mbdhm@eircom.net. Member of Compass.

Code #384.

broken world. Our common vision of Gospel community flows into service through education, health-care, social, pastoral, and spiritual support. As Franciscan women we commit ourselves to living as ‘sister’ to all people and the whole of creation. Right relationships lie at the heart of our charism. We rejoice in our gifts of family, simplicity and joy that permeate our communities. As a small International congregation we are enriched by our cultural diversity. We value our personal and community prayer which nourishes us for the many and different ways in which we are called to serve God’s people. http://www. fmdminternational.co.uk/; onengmendoza.fmdm@yahoo. co.uk. Member of Compass.

Code #385.

P

Poor Servants of the Mother of God, UK We are an international group of Catholic women who share a life commitment to Jesus Christ, the Incarnate God. We combine prayer and community life, which supports our gospel response and service to the poor and vulnerable.

We are involved in local parishes and communities in pastoral care and catechetical work. Many sisters also take part in such ministries as prison, school, and university chaplaincy and work with the homeless, refugees, asylum seekers, and others in need. Our foundress, Frances Taylor, understood the “Word made flesh” as the Father’s greatest gift to humanity. Her response to God’s great love and self giving in the person of Jesus was her own self-giving love expressed in service of the poor. From her example flows the central philosophy and ethos of the Congregation, the unique value and inherent dignity of each person as created by God and redeemed by Jesus.

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woMen’s communities Search communities based in the United Kingdom

http://www.poorservants.com; margaret.oshea@psmgs. org. Member of Compass.

Code #396.

Presentation Sisters As a religious Community, we commit ourselves to deepening our relationship with God, supporting each other and continuing the Mission of Jesus. At the heart of Presentation Spirituality is compassion and hospitality. We are called to a reflective way of living in which our prayer moves us to action and our action to prayer. Nano Nagle, our foundress, began her work of liberation of the poor in Cork, Ireland, in a setting of political oppression, displacement of people, economic and social injustice and deprivation of human rights. She brought to the sad reality of her day all that a person can ever bring - her own response made in faith to God, whom she knew to be present in each human life.

Inspired by her example, other women, in circumstances at once amazingly different, amazingly similar, have down the centuries, brought to the developing story their own unique contribution in every continent. pbvmnottm@ yahoo.co.uk; http://www.presentationsisters.co.uk/.

Member of Compass.

Code #429.

R

Religious of the Assumption, UK The Religious of the Assumption are inspired by a vision of Jesus Christ and the Kingdom of God. He came on earth to inaugurate.

With our many friends and associates, we strive to make the earth a place of glory for God, and humanity a people that reflects that glory. We are women of faith living together in communities; passionate about God; passionate about people. We are educators by vocation, called to the transformation of society in the light of the Gospel. We strive to discover the good in each person and to help them develop it; to forge strong characters; to give young people roots and wings. Convinced that each of us has a mission on earth, we want to help people discover the meaning of their lives and how they can be of service in our world. www.assumptionreligious.org/; simoncatlinra@hotmail. co.uk. Member of Compass.

Code #397.

Religious Sisters of Charity, UK We are a Catholic religious congregation of women founded in Ireland in 1815

by Mary Aikenhead. We have been working in England since 1840, and in Scotland since 1948. Through our ministries and in the spirit of our 4th vow of ‘service to the poor’, we desire to reach out with the compassion of Christ to all especially the most vulnerable and those in greatest need. As each new need has been perceived, we have endeavored to discern our response in ways that will serve the most pressing needs. Sometimes this means finding new and creative ways of being with people. Currently our ministries include hospice care, pastoral parish work, social justice and environmental advocacy, education, and hospital chaplaincy. http://www.religioussistersofcharity. org; jboland@pobox.com. Member of Compass.

Code #398.

S

Sacred Hearts of Jesus and Mary, UK As Sisters of the Sacred Hearts of Jesus and Mary, we follow Christ who is always to be found in those places where pain, hunger, intolerance, and hatred tear people apart. We are particularly sensitive to women and children; people with special needs; and to vulnerable and marginalised people who are denied the fullness of life. Our communities strive to be places of hospitality, where forgiveness and healing are ongoing, and each person’s culture, gifts, and talents are acknowledged, respected, and celebrated.

In keeping with our Mission Statement we are called to help shape communities of gentleness, justice, and peace that witness to the healing, liberating, and empowering

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love of God. Our home base is in Ireland and the UK, with over 20 communities spread across these isles. Our sisters also serve in the U.S., South America, Africa, and Asia. http://www.sacredheartsjm.org/; shjmleader@shjm.org. uk. Member of Compass.

Code #399.

Servite Sisters, UK Servite women desiring to follow Jesus, look to Mary who was the first disciple of Jesus and the best. As Mary did, we strive to listen to the Word of God, live as women of faith, and live in hope. Mary’s patient suffering and her presence at the foot of the cross embodies our charism which is one of compassionate presence. We are open to needs as they arise and change our focus in keeping with emerging needs. As sisters we normally live in community and put ourselves and our gifts at the service of the Church’s mission, welcoming others in a spirit of hospitality. Prayer and contemplation coupled with ministry is integral to our lives. Through our ministries in education and healthcare among others, we nurture in others an awareness of their own dignity and beauty and help them realize their potential. http:// servitesistersinternational.org/; eoriordan@btinternet. com. Member of Compass.

Code #402.

Sisters Hospitallers of the Sacred Heart The Congregation of Sisters Hospitallers is an international Religious Congregation providing health care to people with psychiatric illnesses, people with physical and mental disabilities, people who are elderly or suffering with dementia and people with other illnesses in accordance with our founding charism. From the moment of its foundation, the Congregation has had among its primary objectives the provision of complete care and acceptance of the sick. We aim at caring for the person in her/his entirety, working to maintain or reinsert the person into society and in defence of her/his dignity. councillor@hsc-uk.org; http://www.sistershospitallers.org/. Member of Compass.

Code #428.

Sisters of Christ, UK We are members of an international apostolic congregation in the Roman Catholic Church.

Our consecration to God by the vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience is rooted in our baptism. Gathered together in the diversity of nationalities, countries, activities, and age, we are united in Christ and live together at the service of communion wherever we are sent: into the heart of the world; to be present in people’s lives where there is suffering, oppression and division; to understand, discern and nurture the seeds of unity and hope which are already present in human situations; to risk, if necessary, persecution for the Kingdom and thus be able to proclaim Jesus Christ who is the way of reconciliation and unity. http://www.sistersofchrist.org.uk; joycebone@iname.com.

Member of Compass.

Code #403.

Sisters of Christian Instruction (St. Gildas) The apostolic zeal of Gabriel Deshayes and the openess of Michelle Guillaume to the will of God led to the birth of our Congregation in Beignon - Brittany on the 8th November 1820. The spiritual experience of our founders has become for each of us today, a light by which we respond to our vocation in the Church and in the world.

Our mission is to witness to Jesus Christ and to proclaim the Gospel. Our first task in the Church and in the world is to be humble witnesses of the love of God. The power of the Gospel message is an invitation to reach out from wherever we are to those who are most affected by injustice and poverty. Today in England, France, Ireland, Africa and Mexico small communities of sisters live in rural areas or small towns, in suburbs, town centres or on housing estates. Activities and professions are varied: Education, social work, care of the sick and elderly, pastoral work, in all its forms. a4386@hotmail.com. Member of Compass.

Code #431.

Note: These listings do not appear in the current print edition

Sisters of Notre Dame, UK Saint Julie Billiart founded the Sisters of Notre Dame to make known God’s goodness, especially among the poorest and most abandoned people.

Today, Sisters in Britain find themselves engaged in a wide and rich variety of ministries. The sisters contribute to the pastoral work in many dioceses in England and Scotland and to projects for the poor and marginalised around the country. Many sisters have chosen to work with the homeless, asylum seekers, refugees, and others in need of help and support. Other sisters are engaged in work with interfaith groups, spiritual direction, retreat work, and various forms of therapy and counselling work. We too strive to be women of prayer, who seek in every aspect of our lives to be united with God and to be responsive to the Spirit of Jesus, the Spirit of love. http://www.sistersofnotredameuk. org/; kathleen.mcgee@sndden.org. Member of Compass.

Code #404.

Sisters of Our Lady of Providence, UK The Sisters of Our Lady of Providence established several convent schools early in the last century, and they continue to be active in education and parish work with a convent school in Alton, a convent in Basingstoke, and a mission in India where there are now 11 convents. The sisters do not currently have a website. avery.webb@btopenworld. com. Member of Compass.

Code #405.

Sisters of Our Lady of the Missions, UK We are committed in a special way to working with women and the young because we believe that when you educate women, you help to educate families and to build a better world. We allow ourselves to be called to account by the Gospel and to respond with responsibility and prophetic ardour similar to those which animated our founder, Euphrasie Barbier.

In the light of reflection and research in today’s Church, we are convinced that mission demands solidarity on the one hand and, on the other, a change of direction in the name of the Gospel. The possibilities for ministry here are limitless.

At present our apostolic involvement includes teaching, retreat work, parish ministry, adult education, social work, mission appeals, work with immigrants and refugees, care of the elderly, hospital and hospice chaplaincy, working with the homeless, and hospitality for student sisters from Bangladesh, Kenya, Myanmar, and Vietnam. http://www. rndm.org; rndmshields@aol.com. Member of Compass.

Code #395.

Sisters of St. Joseph of Peace (C.S.J.P.) The Sisters of St. Joseph of Peace are an international community built on a rich heritage of promoting social justice as a way to peace. Our charism of peace through justice challenges us to prophetic risk so that God’s reign might be more fully realized. We serve in the Western United States, Eastern United States, the United Kingdom, El Salvador and Haiti.

Our ministries include healthcare, education, spirituality, justice advocacy, women and families, and missions.

Community life sustains us in ministry. Likewise ministry enlivens and enriches our life in community. Recognizing gospel peace as both gift and task, we believe that prayer is fundamental to our life. We rely on the love and fidelity of God to lead us in the way of peace. http://www.csjp. org. Member of Compass.

Code #227.

Sisters of the Holy Cross We are a community of sisters gathered under the cross where new life emerges. Our way to God is made through our mission in the world. The purpose of our mission is the transformation of society with the Gospel. We work to set the positive energies in human persons free for a Gospel way of life. Together with others we work for justice in the world. We centre our lives in a relationship with God: in personal and community prayer; in the Word of God; in the liturgy; in creation and in interpersonal relationships. holycross@hcengland.co.uk ; http:// www.holycrossengland.org.uk/. Member of Compass.

Code #421.

VISION 2012

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Search these Communities based in the United Kingdom online at VocationNetwork.org Sisters of the Holy Family of Bordeaux The Holy Family was founded in 1820 by Pierre Noailles, a priest of Bordeaux. Our Family is characterized by its inclusive nature, incorporating Apostolic and Contemplative sisters who together form a Religious Institute; an Institute of Consecreated Seculars; Priest Associates and Men and Women Lay Associates. We are present on five continents and have communities in 24 countries throughout the world. In our diverse ministries, we continue the mission of Jesus who came to bring good news to the poor and to gather all God’s children into one family. We model our lives on the Holy Family of Nazareth and the first Christians who had but one heart and one mind. Our spirituality calls us to choose life and to live in communion with God and the entire cosmic family. Together we form a sacred community of life whose source is our Trinitarian God. http:// www.holyfamilybordeaux.org; maria@mcrowley.wanadoo. co.uk. Member of Compass.

Code #372.

Stone Dominicans Our religious life is essentially lived in community, which is a sign in the Church and in the world of that fellowship in Christ to which everyone is called. We have prayer in common; we have shared meals, and various forms of relaxation. Our community life is also enhanced by our dependence on one another for our needs, since we hold all things in common. Since we have renounced the intimacy of marriage, friendship is all the more important to us. Our ministries are diverse, but in prayer, listening and mutual support, encouragement and active works, we are united in a Christ-centred purpose. We commit ourselves to a search for Truth, and to the strengthening of justice in our Congregation, and in the wider communities in which we live. Together we journey in hope to make the Incarnation a reality in the lives of all people. valeryop39@googlemail.com; http:// www.stone-dominicans.org.uk. Member of Compass.

Code #430.

U

Ursulines of Jesus An international religious congregation, we are women who allow the Holy Spirit to urge us to be the image and presence of Christ in the world today.

Today, as at the beginning of our Congregation, the love of Christ spurs us on to look at the pressing needs of our time in order to be at the service of life. Our original ministries of education, nursing and support of priests are now expressed in: parish pastoral ministry, catechesis, spiritual accompaniment, university and hospital chaplaincy, counseling, holistic therapies, healthcare and working with the marginalized. agnescuj@googlemail. com; http://www.ursulinesjesus.org/. Member of Compass.

Code #424.

W

Ware Carmel As Christians and Carmelites we try to follow Jesus Christ in faith hope and love for the glory of God and for his reign on earth. The apostolic nature of our contemplative prayer gathers all engaged in the active ministry

VISION 2012

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men’s communities C ­

Congregation of the Sacred Hearts, Ireland and England The Congregation of the Sacred Hearts represented by the abbreviation SS.CC. after its Latin name Sacrorum Cordium, is a worldwide missionary order whose mission is to contemplate, live, and proclaim God’s love in the world.

There are over 1500 in the Congregation made up priests, brothers, and sisters and an increasing number of lay associate members in over 30 countries throughout the world.

The Ireland-England Province has its provincial house near Dublin for priests and brothers as well as sisters. There are currently 23 male members and 16 female members involved in a range of ministries from school chaplaincy and retreat work, parish and pastoral support activities as well as missionary support programmes. In Ireland, the community is involved in parish work, chaplaincy, pastoral care, and youth initiatives. In England, the congregation is active in parish work in Ealing, Acton, and Nunhead in South London. http://www.sacred-hearts.net; shane_halpin@yahoo.co.uk. Member of Compass.

Code #378.

J

Josephite Community, UK The Josephites are a Roman Catholic congregation of priests and brothers founded in Belgium in 1817 specifically to work with young people.

Currently our confrères work in England, Belgium, California, DR Congo, Gabon, and Cameroon. The traditional apostolate of Josephites has been in schools, but in recent years the scope of our work has widened to include parishes and universities. The “Family Spirit” is one of the distinguishing features of the way of life lived by Josephites.

Our strong sense of community life expresses itself in a number of ways including our celebrations of the liturgy, sharing meals, and enjoying each other’s company. http:// www.josephiteweb.org; bmuircity@aol.com. Member of Compass.

Code #387.

M

Missionaries of the Sacred Heart More than ever, what the world needs now are men and women who can be missionaries of God’s compassion, kindness, gentleness, and healing love. Whether you feel called to be a Religious (a priest or Brother) or lay missionary, we invite you to join our congregation. Through all of our actions and words, we seek to promote healthy relationships with self, others and God, to reach out to the isolated, marginalized and the poor, and to proclaim God’s love to the world. Walk with us as we follow the Way of the Heart and be on earth the Heart of Christ. dnixon@mscvocations.com; http://www. misacor.org/. Member of Compass.

Code #427.

O

Order of Discalced Carmelites, English Region The Eng-

lish Region of Discalced Carmelites have communities at Kensington (London), Boars Hill (Oxford), Gerrards Cross and Preston. We embrace the religious life in friendship and service of Jesus Christ, in imitation of and under the patronage of the Virgin Mary, whose life of faith, simplicity and intimate union with Jesus and his mission, constitutes for us the interior model. Our vocation aspires to union with God by the way of contemplation and apostolic zeal indissolubly united, and to the formation of a fraternal community as a sign of communion in the world. Prayer, which is a life of prayer and a prayer of life, is nourished by listening to the Word of God and the liturgy and with the joys and hopes, sorrows and anxieties of the Church and of humanity. It is a way of life of faith, hope and love. http://www.carmelite.org.uk; mmcgoldrickocd@gmail. com. Member of Compass.

Code #375.

S

Salesians of Don Bosco, UK The Salesians of Don Bosco, (SDB) are an international Roman Catholic Religious Order of men dedicated to be signs and bearers of the love of God for young people, especially those who are disadvantaged.

Founded by Saint John Bosco in Italy during the 19th century, we now number over 16,000 Priests and Brothers, present in 128 different countries all over the world.

Wherever we work, the development of the young through education and evangelization is the focus of all our concern because we believe that our total dedication to the young is our best gift to humanity. Saint John Bosco said, “I have promised God that I would give of myself to my last breath for my poor boys.” In the Salesian province of Great Britain we have over 80 Salesians (Priests and Brothers) working from eight communities, with responsibility for schools, parishes, youth work, and a retreat center. We collaborate with other members of the Salesian Family including the Salesian Sisters, Cooperators, Volunteers of Don Bosco, and past pupils. http://www.salesians.org.uk/; provincial@ salesians.org.uk. Member of Compass.

Code #400.

Servites, UK Before the Servites ever existed as an official religious Order, seven prosperous men came together in the city of Florence, Italy. As a reflection of the penitential spirit of the times, it had been the custom of these men to meet regularly as members of a religious society established in honor of Mary, the Mother of God. Eventually, the seven left their comfortable homes, put aside their finery and went to live together in a ramshackle building. Today Servite Friars are found in Europe, North and South America Africa, Asia, and Australia. From a humble beginning we have been blessed with a long and rich history. Like our Seven Founders, we go where the needs of God’s people demand and seek the perfection of the Gospel way of life under the protection of Mary, the Mother and Servant of the Lord. http://www.servitechurch. org; patryalosm@aol.com. Member of Compass.

Code #401.

woMen’s communities sarch communities based in the United Kingdom

Society of the Holy Child Jesus We are an international community of Catholic women religious committed to Christ, living their consecrated life in the spirit of the Society founded by Cornelia Connelly in 1846. We believe that God has chosen to need women and men in every age to reveal God’s love as Jesus did. We serve in a variety of educational, pastoral, social, legal and spiritual ministries, through which we continue our mission to help others understand that God lives and acts in them and in our world and to rejoice in God’s presence. Trust and reverence for individual dignity and God’s loving mercy for the human family and for all creation mark our lives and our work wherever we are. europeanprovince@shcj.org; http://www.shcj.org/. Member of Compass.

Code #422.

of the church (priests, theologians and lay persons) and places us at one with the needs and longings of the whole human family. Through the total gift of ourselves to God we strive under the Spirit’s action to establish a community of love. The Eucharist is the focal point of each day and is prolonged and renewed by the Liturgy of the Hours, a celebration of divine praise. Two hours daily are set aside for silent and solitary prayer and there is further time for spiritual reading. Through a careful balance between solitude and life in community and all that is required to earn our own living we try to give gospel values priority.

“In the heart of mother Church I will be Love” This is St Therese’s understanding of the life - work of a Carmelite. warecarmel@btinternet.com. Member of Compass.

Code #425

The Society of Jesus Founded by St. Ignatius of Loyola in 1540, and living in the spirit of his Spiritual Exercises, we are servants of Christ participating in the Church’s overall mission of evangelisation. We seek to proclaim Christ’s love by our service of the poor and our work for justice.

We seek to uncover His presence in our world through our engagement with culture and through dialogue with men and women of other faiths. We seek to promote His kingdom by being instruments of reconciliation, in humanity’s relationship with God, with creation, and amongst peoples. We are sent to where the needs are greatest, and in particular to the frontiers where faith and culture meet, where peoples of different faiths and no faith encounter one another. We receive particular missions entrusted to us by the Pope for the service of the Church. matthew.power@jesuits.net; http://www.jesuit. org.uk/. Member of Compass.

Code #423.

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