Actually, it is God who founds religious orders by inspiring certain individuals to be His instruments in accomplishing this. God has often called the seemingly most unlikely people to do this. If one feels called to cooperate with Him in establishing a new order, the first thing one must do is find a bishop who will support such and establishment in his diocese. Without a bishop’s support, nothing will happen. Should one find a supportive bishop, one still has to manage attracting members who are suited to the life. This is easier said than done. There are many, many other details to be accomplished. On the whole, such an endeavor is impossible without the Lord being behind it.
Fr. Vincent Serpa, O.P.
