Beginning a correspondence w/an order?

[dove51]

Hi guys!

I was wondering if someone might be able to give me a little advice about how to contact a religious community. I have a couple picked out just from going by their websites, and I have addresses to write to…but I’m just so darn nervous! (This is more nerve-wracking than a job interview!)

What sorts of things would I say? Is there any kind of etiquette involved in writing a letter to a Reverend Mother? I am wanting to maybe learn some more about the community, get some information, and perhaps spend a short visit there (if they ask me).

How would you begin to word this letter? Is there anything else I should know before contacting them?

 

[daughterofmary]

Write it like a regular letter. You could start with “Dear Reverend Mother,” or “Reverend Mother:”

Tell them you believe you might be called by the Holy Spirit to religious life and you are seeking to inquire into their convent/monastery. Give your age and circumstance (if your married or have been, have finished high school, etc.) Ask your questions. Ask for prayers. Just be yourself. See what response you get, and then possibly ask to visit in response to Mother’s letter or rather, just see how the Holy Spirit works it out.

I get nervous too when I write. Ask the Blessed Mother to help you.

 

[Poor_Clare_tobe]

Hi dove… and blessings to you!

Just write a normal letter… address as Reverend Mother [or even some communities may use sister]

Just pray and say whats on your heart. Ask about being able to visit or correspond with themlet them know a little bit about yourself… are you just beginning the discernment process?? Are you far along?? Do you have a Spiritual Director?? .
Ask what they have available for persons investigating their communities. [ie appointments… or dinners or days of prayer or overnights… etc]
Most will send you some literature first and put you in contcact with their vocation director.

Have you visited other vocation sites?Sometimes they have web sites… so you might even be able to begin an email correspondance … sometimes believe it or not, that is less daunting then pen and paper]
Good Luck and how excited I am for you
Blessings of Peace and All That Is Good!:nun1: