Discernment Fears

[Eva23]

Hi, I am a 23 year old who is in law school. Lately, I have not been able to shake the idea of becoming a nun. This scares me a lot, because I can’t tell if it’s just a passing thing or if this is God calling me. My instinct is to resist it, because I have spent spent my whole life focusing on my education. I guess I’m really scared right now, and I am not sure how to proceed in general. I’m never sure what God’s will for my life really is. Any advice will be helpful. Thanks in advance.

 

[Kindnessmatters]

I am not in a vocation but among those I know who are, a few have told me “the idea of a vocation kept coming back, though it wasn’t always welcome”. Often, celibacy was the sticking point but other concerns were largely based on unknowns such as what an average day would be like. They ultimately decided to enter vocations and are happy with the decision.

Nevertheless, education is not wasted in service as a nun. Unlike in movies, it’s not all about singing hymns and polishing banisters. The nuns I know are highly educated women serving in all manner of roles from teaching, medical fields and social work to accounting and hospital administration. I would think law could be useful as well.

It may be worthwhile to visit several orders to get a better idea of the vocation as a whole and the many choices as to how and where you might consider serving.

 

[nunsuch]

I know a number of sisters who are attorneys. Many use their expertise to serve the poor, immigrants, etc. There are a number of communities that would welcome someone with such a credential.

 

[JimR-OCDS]

You can visit an order of nuns during one of your school breaks

It will help you with your discernment

Remember, the call to religious life isn’t an order, but an invitation.

You’re allowed to say no without offending God.

 

[Eva23]

thank you! The saying no part without offending God is really comforting.

 

[amazingcatholic]

The call to religious life is an invitation and discernment is a beautiful thing. Don’t resist it, just go visit a few communities. God will be with you every step of the way. The vocations director recommended the book “Discerning religious life” by Mother Clare Matthias. I also want to be a nun, so you can feel free to message me anytime you want to.