Dissenting Religious

[irisfromohio]

While I was in the early stages of discerning a vocation in the Church, I affiliated myself with a group, aspiring to become a part of an established congregation as a third expression of the foundress’ charism. They wanted status of at least an association of the faithful and possibly a secular institute. They ran up against a lot of resistance, but except for their contemplative sisters, who are dying out quickly, they are fading fast. Losing vocations at a frightening speed. They no longer wear habits. Some very old sisters wear a modified habit, and I am talking about two or three women in their 80’s.

Once, at a retreat, I mentioned that I was opposed to women in the priesthood and I looked up to the biggest bunch of google eyes I have ever seen. One of the sisters said, “I hope you are the only one here who believes that!”

Then, in subsequent meetings and retreats, sisters would incorporate pagan traditions, Native American rituals and talismans, Bhuddist rituals… I was so uncomfortable. When I found a reason to leave, I did. I still love everyone of them dearly and their foundress will always be one of my favorite saints, but I just cannot go the way of the liberals. They had a big “Obama” sign out in front of their house this year. They told me that the pro-life issue is a seamless issue that won’t be solved and we cannot expect to affect change in a secular venue… I’m glad I am no longer affiliated with them.

 

[Sister_Helena]

“The tree is judged by its fruits.”

 

[two1176]

While I was in the early stages of discerning a vocation in the Church, I affiliated myself with a group, aspiring to become a part of an established congregation as a third expression of the foundress’ charism. They wanted status of at least an association of the faithful and possibly a secular institute. They ran up against a lot of resistance, but except for their contemplative sisters, who are dying out quickly, they are fading fast. Losing vocations at a frightening speed. They no longer wear habits. Some very old sisters wear a modified habit, and I am talking about two or three women in their 80’s.

Once, at a retreat, I mentioned that I was opposed to women in the priesthood and I looked up to the biggest bunch of google eyes I have ever seen. One of the sisters said, “I hope you are the only one here who believes that!”

Then, in subsequent meetings and retreats, sisters would incorporate pagan traditions, Native American rituals and talismans, Bhuddist rituals… I was so uncomfortable. When I found a reason to leave, I did. I still love everyone of them dearly and their foundress will always be one of my favorite saints, but I just cannot go the way of the liberals. They had a big “Obama” sign out in front of their house this year. They told me that the pro-life issue is a seamless issue that won’t be solved and we cannot expect to affect change in a secular venue… I’m glad I am no longer affiliated with them.

'=

From my experience in formation with a less than orthodox community, I would say that when religious get too comfortable and have too much time on their hands, they fall into some weird stuff. Many also seem too be stuck in the 70’s and have not kept up with the times. I have also figured out that being “pastoral” to many religious translates as “permissive” in faith and morals. I have met many angry sisters and sisters who refuse to show any signs of reverence to the Eucharist. I am not surprised that they are not getting vocations. Who would want to give up their life for that?