As of late, I’ve been really interested in the possibility of being a nun…but not quite sure if its for me or not. How does someone know when they are getting the call? Whats the difference in the different orders of nuns? Is there certian physical and psychological requirements for becoming a nun? Do they even wear the black robes and habits anymore? Thanks in advance!
Hi Rachel,
Yes, being interested in it is a sign of a religious vocation. It may take some time before you know for sure. Do you find that you can’t get the idea out of your head? There may still be a strong attraction to married life. That is only natural and does not necessarily mean that you are not called to be a religious. Most of us had to struggle with the idea of giving up marriage and children. Keep praying about it and God will show you where he wants you. Ask God what he wants of you.
There are many differences and many similarities in orders, between cloistered, semi-cloistered, apostolic, between carmelite, franciscan, dominican, benedictine and all the different communities. To start to know the differences, try looking at the different religious communities websites. To really understand the similarites and differences you’ll need to visit.
There are requirements of physical and mental health and maturity, these vary somewhat by community. Some communities wear habits others do not, for others it is optional. You should be able to see that from their websites.
well thats where I’m stuck. Sometimes I imagine myself with a husband and family and other times I just cant see it happening. I always figured I would leave it up to God…whatever he gives me I will gladly accept. And I know I have all the time in the world but my life has been at a stand-still lately and I just feel like I’m waiting for something to happen. Being Catholic, becoming a nun was always an option but I almost feel bad thinking of it as a last choice option. What happens if you decide to become a nun and then five years later you meet that special person?
Do not think that you should rule out marriage first. Religious life is not something to treat as a last resort, for people not cut out for marriage. The same qualities needed to be a good wife and mother are also needed in religious life.
I think the idea of being married or a sister and then finding the one you were meant to be with is a modern myth. Marriage and religious life are vows made to God. You have a responsibility to seriously consider what you are doing before making vows. They both may have their hards times and temptations come. You have a responsibility not to put yourself in occasion of sin, to guard your feelings from being romantically attached to someone when you are committed to another. And that is what religious life is, a marriage to Christ, the perfect bridegroom. No one on earth can out do Him.
I hope this makes sense to you.
I’ll remember you in my prayers.
