Thread for Women Discerning Religious Life

[Bebekoualy]

**Hello! **

I’m 19 (I think it’s the “middle age” lol - the average)
I’m in love with the Cistercian Order. I have a monastery in view. A French one of course, cause I’m French. But I can’t say… It’s only since nearly two years.
But I wouldn’t say that I’m undoubtedly called to religious life, nor to contemplative life. I do absolutely not know, and I can’t stop discerning in every way.

I love contemplative life. but I might not be called for that.
Maybe marriage. (but I prefer religious life)

Don’t know.

It’s good to have so many people discerning here!

 

[iamMyBeloveds]

JMJT
Hello! How is everyone doing?
Praised be Jesus Christ.
It’s so nice to meet others who are discerning this beautiful way of life.
I decided to join this forum because I might need a little help and advice from people, as I only have a few more months until I enter the convent.
Upon college graduation next summer, I’m going to begin the process of becoming a religious Sister, God-willing, and I feel so much joy and so humbled at such a calling.
I am currently a candidate for the Carmelite Sisters of the Divine Heart of Jesus. I would appreciate any prayers, and I will pray for you as well.
Here is the Carmelites’ website for anyone who’s interested: carmelitedcj.org

“My Jesus…when You return, I desire to be found doing what You gave me to do.”

 

[MeggerDC]

JMJT
Hello! How is everyone doing?
Praised be Jesus Christ.
It’s so nice to meet others who are discerning this beautiful way of life.
I decided to join this forum because I might need a little help and advice from people, as I only have a few more months until I enter the convent.
Upon college graduation next summer, I’m going to begin the process of becoming a religious Sister, God-willing, and I feel so much joy and so humbled at such a calling.
I am currently a candidate for the Carmelite Sisters of the Divine Heart of Jesus. I would appreciate any prayers, and I will pray for you as well.
Here is the Carmelites’ website for anyone who’s interested: carmelitedcj.org

“My Jesus…when You return, I desire to be found doing what You gave me to do.”

:extrahappy: Congratulations on your acceptance! Where are you going to be in formation at? I know the Carmelites have a few ministries in St. Louis. I know the time between acceptance and formation is hard especially when you are excited. I will be surely praying for you!

Peace & Blessings,

Meg

 

[CarmeliteGirl25]

**Hello! **

I’m 19 (I think it’s the “middle age” lol - the average)
I’m in love with the Cistercian Order. I have a monastery in view. A French one of course, cause I’m French. But I can’t say… It’s only since nearly two years.
But I wouldn’t say that I’m undoubtedly called to religious life, nor to contemplative life. I do absolutely not know, and I can’t stop discerning in every way.

I love contemplative life. but I might not be called for that.
Maybe marriage. (but I prefer religious life)

Don’t know.

It’s good to have so many people discerning here!

The Cistercians are a beautiful order. I was considering one here in the States, until I found out how hard it is to gain entrance into a contemplative community with a history of depression, and then God called me to the Carmelites. I have been blessed to find a beautiful contemplative community known as the Savannah Carmelites in Savannah, GA. I’ve been emailing their Prioress, Sr. Joann, back and forth, and now she’s getting me in touch with their Formation Mistress since she is taking a long sabbatical and traveling to other Carmelite monasteries on the order of her superior. Things seem to be progressing smoothly. They know that I have a history of depression and they are allowing me to enter, if I so choose, while still on my medication (and continue it while I’m there!). I cannot believe how wonderful God is to someone who has failed Him several times. His wonders never cease to amaze me. God is so good!

All I can tell you is, be open to God’s call. If He calls you to religious life or to married life, He knows what is best for you. He knows where you will be happy. We can prefer one way or the other, but if we choose to go the opposite route than the Lord is leading us to, it could mean that you will be thinking “What if?” all your life. I think the most important advice a friend gave me (she’s entering Carmelite DCJ next year) is: “The best thing you can do is at least try if you think you are called to religious life. It is not for everyone, but if you have the recurring thought of life in a convent/monastery, then try it out. You can always leave if you find out it’s not right for you.” She is absolutely correct. Sr. Joann confirmed this. Find a good community that you can build a relationship with, and who understands you and vice versa. If you enter and you find out it’s not where you are supposed to be (several women have discovered this), then you can leave, but at least you will not spend your life thinking “What if?” That, I believe, would be extremely detrimental. And the only way you will know, one way or the other, is to live for a short period in the convent and learn the life. If you can, try a three-month live in. This will allow you to experience monastic life without joining. The Cistercian monastery here allows the three month live in, so ask the French monastery if you can do that. If it’s not right, then start discerning marriage or the single life. You can always become a lay member of a religious order.

Here is the website to the Cistercians that I was considering:
nunocist.org/

And the Carmelites I am considering now:
savannahcarmel.org/

Find your self a good spiritual director, too. They can be either a priest, nun, qualified lay person, brother, etc. They can be an invaluable resource to discerning your vocation. Sr. Joann has been that to me, but I am also seeking out a priest in my parish to talk to in person. The best thing about having a priest for your spiritual director is they can also do Confession. This is really important for spiritual growth.

Use the Sacraments to your benefit. Attend daily Mass if you can, or if you can’t, at least go every Sunday. Spend some time in Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament. This is where I learned that God was calling me to the Carmelites. There is nothing better than spending an hour with our Lord in contemplative prayer. It’s a great way to be tuned in to His call. I’ve also found that walking the Stations of the Cross helps me focus totally on Him. It might help you too.

The Lord only wants you to be happy. If you are called to religious life, married life, single life, etc., then you should listen. God be with all of you in your discernment. You are in my daily thoughts and prayers!

 

[iamMyBeloveds]

:Congratulations on your acceptance! Where are you going to be in formation at? I know the Carmelites have a few ministries in St. Louis. I know the time between acceptance and formation is hard especially when you are excited. I will be surely praying for you!

Peace & Blessings,

Meg

JMJT
Dear MeggerDC
Praised be Jesus Christ! Thank you for yous prayers and your kind response. I will be entering the Central Province of the Carmelite Sisters DCJ in St. Louis, MO. It is very hard when you are excited to wait, but God is giving me many graces to endure with love for Him!
I will be praying for you too! God bless you always!!
If there’s anything I can do for you, let me know!

http://www.carmelitedcj.org/life/children.jpg

 

[CarmeliteGirl25]

JMJT
Hello! How is everyone doing?
Praised be Jesus Christ.
It’s so nice to meet others who are discerning this beautiful way of life.
I decided to join this forum because I might need a little help and advice from people, as I only have a few more months until I enter the convent.
Upon college graduation next summer, I’m going to begin the process of becoming a religious Sister, God-willing, and I feel so much joy and so humbled at such a calling.
I am currently a candidate for the Carmelite Sisters of the Divine Heart of Jesus. I would appreciate any prayers, and I will pray for you as well.
Here is the Carmelites’ website for anyone who’s interested: carmelitedcj.org

“My Jesus…when You return, I desire to be found doing what You gave me to do.”

Is that you, my friend? LOL. I was wondering if you were a member of this forum! Too cool! Love ya!

–Caroline

 

[MeggerDC]

JMJT
Dear MeggerDC
Praised be Jesus Christ! Thank you for yous prayers and your kind response. I will be entering the Central Province of the Carmelite Sisters DCJ in St. Louis, MO. It is very hard when you are excited to wait, but God is giving me many graces to endure with love for Him!
I will be praying for you too! God bless you always!!
If there’s anything I can do for you, let me know!

http://www.carmelitedcj.org/life/children.jpg

If you could simply pray for me I’d appreciate it! I’m entering the Daughters of Charity in St. Louis, MO so it will be nice to know there is another person in my city in my shoes!

Be assured of my continued prayers for you!

Peace & Blessings,

Meg

 

[iamMyBeloveds]

Is that you, my friend? LOL. I was wondering if you were a member of this forum! Too cool! Love ya!

–Caroline

Yeah! God bless you!

 

[ClareTherese]

Hello fellow Discerners ! I decided to get on this forum topic, because I felt my contemplative calling at age 37. I have visited the beautiful Cistercian order in Prairie du Sac, WI, and did a 2 month live in. But as much I felt called there, He was saying in my heart, it was not to be. I still keep in contact with the nuns, and their community is really growing. I do not feel called to the Benedictines either, nor the Dominicans. Although, after writing to numerous cloistered, Dominican communities, only one accepted me as a possible applicant. You see, I have a very mild case of epilepsy. I have no problems with it. I take only 2 meds (29 years now). Many religious communities frown on those of us who have “impediments”, or health issues. What is that? So, I was visiting a shrine to St.Joseph in Santa Cruz, CA., and felt a strong tugging on my heart, and a voice whisper in my ear. He led me to St. Joseph’s Monastery in Aptos, CA. My friend and I drove the car up the road, as it went to the left, and then around to the right. The large sign said “Poor Clares” on the fence. We both looked at each other. We drove down through the beautiful gate and parked. We got out, entered the chapel, and begin praying. My friend said it wasn’t for her, but for me to be there. Behind the stained glass partition, we saw the Blessed Sacrament being exposed. Off to the right of the Alter, was where the nuns sat for mass, or any other special mass. A sister came in the chapel and asked if we’d like to speak to M.Clare, the Prioress. My friend said yes, as I did also. Went into the large parlor, and soon she came in. We all began talking and she asked many questions, and I seemed to answer them without hesitation. My friend decided to go back into the chapel and pray, but not without some drinks and cookies the sisters had made. Mother asked me if I’d be interested in doing a 3 month live in as an Aspirant/Candidate. How could this be happening I thought. Oh Yes! I smiled at her! She went and got all the paperwork I needed to fill out. One of the extern sisters started taking measurements of me. I found out I would live in the cloister, have my own cell, 4 postulant jumper’s—brown–, 2 veils, and I’d be in the Novitiate hallway. I would have a list of things to bring of my own. This experience was a transformation for myself and my calling. Indeed I am Franciscan 100%, with alitte Carmelite thrown in. ! I am currently 46, but numerous fellow catholics ask if I am a nun already. In the eyes of God I am. However, I am discerning with contemplative orders here, that accept women over 40. And a community called the Daughters of St.Joseph!! They accept to age 50. They will wear the habit of a Carmelite. They are in the Visions magazine. Also Institute for Religious Life have a great site up. Many older vocations are listed. May Our Lord Reward You All Abuntantly.:nun1:

 

[CarmeliteGirl25]

Hello fellow Discerners ! I decided to get on this forum topic, because I felt my contemplative calling at age 37. I have visited the beautiful Cistercian order in Prairie du Sac, WI, and did a 2 month live in. But as much I felt called there, He was saying in my heart, it was not to be. I still keep in contact with the nuns, and their community is really growing. I do not feel called to the Benedictines either, nor the Dominicans. Although, after writing to numerous cloistered, Dominican communities, only one accepted me as a possible applicant. You see, I have a very mild case of epilepsy. I have no problems with it. I take only 2 meds (29 years now). Many religious communities frown on those of us who have “impediments”, or health issues. What is that? So, I was visiting a shrine to St.Joseph in Santa Cruz, CA., and felt a strong tugging on my heart, and a voice whisper in my ear. He led me to St. Joseph’s Monastery in Aptos, CA. My friend and I drove the car up the road, as it went to the left, and then around to the right. The large sign said “Poor Clares” on the fence. We both looked at each other. We drove down through the beautiful gate and parked. We got out, entered the chapel, and begin praying. My friend said it wasn’t for her, but for me to be there. Behind the stained glass partition, we saw the Blessed Sacrament being exposed. Off to the right of the Alter, was where the nuns sat for mass, or any other special mass. A sister came in the chapel and asked if we’d like to speak to M.Clare, the Prioress. My friend said yes, as I did also. Went into the large parlor, and soon she came in. We all began talking and she asked many questions, and I seemed to answer them without hesitation. My friend decided to go back into the chapel and pray, but not without some drinks and cookies the sisters had made. Mother asked me if I’d be interested in doing a 3 month live in as an Aspirant/Candidate. How could this be happening I thought. Oh Yes! I smiled at her! She went and got all the paperwork I needed to fill out. One of the extern sisters started taking measurements of me. I found out I would live in the cloister, have my own cell, 4 postulant jumper’s—brown–, 2 veils, and I’d be in the Novitiate hallway. I would have a list of things to bring of my own. This experience was a transformation for myself and my calling. Indeed I am Franciscan 100%, with alitte Carmelite thrown in. ! I am currently 46, but numerous fellow catholics ask if I am a nun already. In the eyes of God I am. However, I am discerning with contemplative orders here, that accept women over 40. And a community called the Daughters of St.Joseph!! They accept to age 50. They will wear the habit of a Carmelite. They are in the Visions magazine. Also Institute for Religious Life have a great site up. Many older vocations are listed. May Our Lord Reward You All Abuntantly.:nun1:

That’s really cool! I know of one community here that I am discerning with, and getting quite serious about, that accepts people with controlled disorders. As long as it’s not life threatening and it’s under control. I have a history of depression, anxiety (which really isn’t a problem anymore, but it’s my history) and I have ADD. I also have asthma (which is not much of a problem anymore either). They have been kind enough to say that I would not be hindered by my health issues. As long as they felt that I had a vocation there and my medication was helping me, I could apply. Here’s the best part…my medication is allowed in the cloister! God did find a way for me to enter, even with the problems I’ve had in the past. Praised be Jesus Christ! It was tough though, because I sent an email to one community and was dismissed just because I had depression. I didn’t even tell them about the other things. Also, one community’s prioress emailed me back and asked me what attracted me so to the Carmelite charism (where I am called). I answered as best I could at the time (though now, I would word it differently) and after just one email, she said that she and the novice mistress reviewed my information and determined that I had a “great attraction to the Carmelite life, but nothing that indicated a genuine vocation.” I was rather confused by this statement. Isn’t attraction the basis of a religious vocation? She had never met me in person, yet she felt determined to say that I did not have a vocation. I emailed her back, and in a polite manner, I said that I did not agree with her statement and that I didn’t believe it was fair for her to make that judgment early on. I had never met her before and vice versa. She replied that perhaps I had a calling to another community, but I was confused again. If I did not have a genuine vocation, as she said, then I wouldn’t be called by any community, would I? I never emailed her again. I thought that if she was going to dismiss me so abruptly, then surely God was calling me somewhere else, which He is. I feel called to the Discalced Carmelites of Our Lady of Confidence in Savannah, GA. (savannahcarmel.org/) After speaking with the prioress several times through email, not only about my health problems, but about my calling, she continues to invite me to check out their community. She believes I have a vocation and there is nothing to convince her otherwise. I have made the decision to visit them when Sr. Joann (prioress) gets back from visiting other cloistered Carmels in about a month or so. By then, I will have a new job as a CNA and be able to afford the visit. I am so excited! My heart is telling me that I will be called in about 1-2 years, and so is my gut instinct. Neither have failed me yet, so I am excited about the prospect of belonging totally to Jesus and living for His Church and His people. I am on fire for Him!:extrahappy::dancing:

 

[ClareTherese]

Hi again !! It is late here in windy california right now, and late. This message is for CarmeliteGirl. I do know about taking medications, and some communities just throw it in your face, like it’s the worst thing in the world! The Poor Clares that I did the live in with, said in the beginning that it was alright becuz they had other sisters with health issues. I guess they decided after my 2nd live in, to discuss the matter further.I did 2, 3 month each live-in’s, and Mother Vicar told me I could not enter as a Postulant, because I felt called there, and amazingly, still do! There is a community of Poor Clares of Perpetual Adoration that take those with health issues, and later vocations. so I am going to email them. The Visitation Nuns and Sisters also take those with health–under control-- and later vocations. My best friends are telling me I am to be His true Bride, only in the cloistered life. And in the full habit:thumbsup: !! Must go! Does the Carmelites in Savannah wear the traditional or modified habit, and would they consider me? :bowdown:

 

[CarmeliteGirl25]

Hi again !! It is late here in windy California right now, and late. This message is for CarmeliteGirl. I do know about taking medications, and some communities just throw it in your face, like it’s the worst thing in the world! The Poor Clares that I did the live in with, said in the beginning that it was alright because they had other sisters with health issues. I guess they decided after my 2nd live in, to discuss the matter further.I did 2, 3 month each live-in’s, and Mother Vicar told me I could not enter as a Postulant, because I felt called there, and amazingly, still do! There is a community of Poor Clares of Perpetual Adoration that take those with health issues, and later vocations. so I am going to email them. The Visitation Nuns and Sisters also take those with health–under control-- and later vocations. My best friends are telling me I am to be His true Bride, only in the cloistered life. And in the full habit:thumbsup: !! Must go! Does the Carmelites in Savannah wear the traditional or modified habit, and would they consider me? :bowdown:

That’s a shame that the Mother Superior turned you away. Why did she turn you away even though you felt you had a vocation there? That’s rather crazy to do that to someone after leading them on. Sometimes I will never understand some people’s rationale.

I was just discussing the Poor Clares of Perpetual Adoration with my friend tonight. They are a very beautiful order and traditional. She said that she would go there if she was called to be cloistered. I would consider them too, if I found out that my inclination and attraction towards the Carmelites turned out to be a mistake. I know a little about the Visitation Nuns/Sisters. I think the Holy Spirit Adoration Sisters (they are nuns) are very beautiful! I love their pink habits.

I am trying to remain open to God’s will in case I discover that the path that I am currently on is not correct. I know, almost for certain, that I am called to religious life. I cannot ignore it no matter how hard I try.

 

[zaramarie81]

Here’s a question for all the ladies that have posted so far and for those who might join us later: Have any of you felt equally called to life as a religious and a life of marriage and children? I used to be quite certain that God would lead me to marriage and a family (especially pre-conversion). During the time that I was studying Catholicism and post-conversion, I began to feel fascinated by and drawn to the life of the religious and a life of Christian service as a sister or nun. y.

Ladylinguist, I definitely think I know a little bit of where you’re coming from. I have always felt very drawn to married life - even have an identical twin who is living the Catholic married vocation, and I can literally “see” myself in that life. But as I’ve grown in faith and closer to God, there have been times I’ve become very drawn to religious life, too. I used to actually fear religious life, and am quite surprised at how attractive it is to me now.

Ultimately, I think I am called to married life. Just seems to be “me” (as in how God made me, even from very young having that strong desire) but…I am certainly not done praying and discerning. I once heard that for some people, their call is clear and with others, God gives them a choice…and He will bless whichever choice we make. That’s given me a lot to think about (and has comforted me).

Sarah

 

[KaylaP]

Hi, everyone. This is my first time posting here. I have been discerning with cloistered Dominican nuns for a few years and am planning to make my aspirancy next month.
I’ve noticed that those who speak of a vocation to marriage as opposed to a religious vocation often neglect that a vocation is simply the mode that we live our universal vocation, which is to love and serve God with our whole hearts and minds. Therefore, its seems to me that a married vocation is in a way, a religious vocation, because it has as its end the sanctification of the members of the family, and society.
Wow this is my first post!:curtsey:

 

[GilChrist77]

Hi, everyone. This is my first time posting here. I have been discerning with cloistered Dominican nuns for a few years and am planning to make my aspirancy next month.
I’ve noticed that those who speak of a vocation to marriage as opposed to a religious vocation often neglect that a vocation is simply the mode that we live our universal vocation, which is to love and serve God with our whole hearts and minds. Therefore, its seems to me that a married vocation is in a way, a religious vocation, because it has as its end the sanctification of the members of the family, and society.
Wow this is my first post!:curtsey:

Welcome:wave: :tiphat: I’m so glad you’re here!

I think that is very true, marriage is a religious vocation. I also think that is how people differentiate between the two states in life.

JMJ+
~Betsy

 

[zaramarie81]

Hi, everyone. This is my first time posting here. I have been discerning with cloistered Dominican nuns for a few years and am planning to make my aspirancy next month.
I’ve noticed that those who speak of a vocation to marriage as opposed to a religious vocation often neglect that a vocation is simply the mode that we live our universal vocation, which is to love and serve God with our whole hearts and minds. Therefore, its seems to me that a married vocation is in a way, a religious vocation, because it has as its end the sanctification of the members of the family, and society.
Wow this is my first post!:curtsey:

Hi Kayla - welcome! this is my second post. I’d have to agree with what you said about marriage being a sort of “religious” vocation. It’s my understanding that in the Old Testament marriage was a “natural” vocation but that with the coming of Christ it was elevated to a" supernatural" vocation - a Sacrament. Not sure I’m making sense, haha, but yeah, I’ve always seen the married and consecrated life as both “religious callings” from God that help us become holy, just in different ways. - Sarah

 

[wina]

Ladylinguist, I definitely think I know a little bit of where you’re coming from. I have always felt very drawn to married life - even have an identical twin who is living the Catholic married vocation, and I can literally “see” myself in that life. But as I’ve grown in faith and closer to God, there have been times I’ve become very drawn to religious life, too. I used to actually fear religious life, and am quite surprised at how attractive it is to me now.

Ultimately, I think I am called to married life. Just seems to be “me” (as in how God made me, even from very young having that strong desire) but…I am certainly not done praying and discerning. I once heard that for some people, their call is clear and with others, God gives them a choice…and He will bless whichever choice we make. That’s given me a lot to think about (and has comforted me).

Sarah

I agree with you and it has happened to me too even when I’m enggaged. But I bring it to God’s hand because He knows me well. Will pray for all of you…

 

[KaylaP]

I am 15 years old. I am looking at the Passionists and the Cloisterites. Does anyone know of any Passionist convents where the EF of the Mass is celebrated daily?

I’d recommend against the Cloisterites, as they have not even been founded yet, and there may be questionable situation regarding the “foundress”, who indeed is not a foundress because there have been no religious orders founded.
You might want to check out this thread from Phatmass.

phatmass.com/phorum/index.php?showtopic=80569&st=0&start=0

 

[ClareTherese]

That’s a shame that the Mother Superior turned you away. Why did she turn you away even though you felt you had a vocation there? That’s rather crazy to do that to someone after leading them on. Sometimes I will never understand some people’s rationale.

I was just discussing the Poor Clares of Perpetual Adoration with my friend tonight. They are a very beautiful order and traditional. She said that she would go there if she was called to be cloistered. I would consider them too, if I found out that my inclination and attraction towards the Carmelites turned out to be a mistake. I know a little about the Visitation Nuns/Sisters. I think the Holy Spirit Adoration Sisters (they are nuns) are very beautiful! I love their pink habits.

I am trying to remain open to God’s will in case I discover that the path that I am currently on is not correct. I know, almost for certain, that I am called to religious life. I cannot ignore it no matter how hard I try.

Hello again my dear sister in Christ! Yes, it made me quite upset at Mother Clare, because she knew very well I had a very mild case of epilepsy. I brought along 4 letters from different doctors. One of them was a neurologist that had a sister in a monastery, so he new what I needed from him. He even said he would speak to her on the phone, or fax whatever is needed. I am no longer corresponding with them. The Poor Clares in Los Altos Hills, Ca., I am over their age limit. But I keep in very close contact with them. I am always invited to an Investure, or Profession of a sister. They do have a website on this forum, where you can see a Postulant or nova, become a Novice, and so on. The Nuns there are very friendly in all forms. I live visiting them, taking things to them–necessities–,and also thier midnite mass on christmass eve is Beautiful: I just signed up on: www.LoveToBeCatholic.com as of last nite. I’d like to share it with everyone. I was a postulant at a Benedictine Monastery in '05, but the community really changed since I kept my correspondence up with them in 1999. I only stayed 1 month. They wear the full habit. You only see the face, hands, and feet. I believe that the community is growing now, so maybe things have changed. They are teaching sisters. I am more of a Contemplative person. Active sisters really don’t draw me towards them. And I feel very drawn to the Habit—not Secular clothing.: Hope God will protect you everyday through your discerning. Keep me posted on the Carmelites in Savannah. I am very interested. May Our Lady of Carmel, and the Brown Scapular, Protect You and All of Us, from the Devil himself:thumbsup: Oh, and by the way, I used to be a CNA also!! From 1987 to1997. Now I am a Live in CareGiver. They are not catholic, but are very interested in knowing more !

 

[CarmeliteGirl25]

Hello again my dear sister in Christ! Yes, it made me quite upset at Mother Clare, because she knew very well I had a very mild case of epilepsy. I brought along 4 letters from different doctors. One of them was a neurologist that had a sister in a monastery, so he new what I needed from him. He even said he would speak to her on the phone, or fax whatever is needed. I am no longer corresponding with them. The Poor Clares in Los Altos Hills, Ca., I am over their age limit. But I keep in very close contact with them. I am always invited to an Investure, or Profession of a sister. They do have a website on this forum, where you can see a Postulant or nova, become a Novice, and so on. The Nuns there are very friendly in all forms. I live visiting them, taking things to them–necessities–,and also thier midnite mass on christmass eve is Beautiful: I just signed up on: www.LoveToBeCatholic.com as of last nite. I’d like to share it with everyone. I was a postulant at a Benedictine Monastery in '05, but the community really changed since I kept my correspondence up with them in 1999. I only stayed 1 month. They wear the full habit. You only see the face, hands, and feet. I believe that the community is growing now, so maybe things have changed. They are teaching sisters. I am more of a Contemplative person. Active sisters really don’t draw me towards them. And I feel very drawn to the Habit—not Secular clothing.: Hope God will protect you everyday through your discerning. Keep me posted on the Carmelites in Savannah. I am very interested. May Our Lady of Carmel, and the Brown Scapular, Protect You and All of Us, from the Devil himself:thumbsup: Oh, and by the way, I used to be a CNA also!! From 1987 to1997. Now I am a Live in CareGiver. They are not catholic, but are very interested in knowing more !

Wow, this is indeed a small world! LOL I am really excited about my future, and working as a CNA, though the time will be short (I believe my calling to the cloister will occur in 1-2 years’ time). I must pay off my debts first, get health insurance so that I can get the necessary doctor’s visits when the time comes for application, travel a bit (I really hope to go to Rome, Lisieux and Ireland for a kind of pilgrimage before I enter), and continue to build a relationship with the monastery and Jesus. I think of the Savannah monastery almost daily. It is, without a doubt, a question of whether or not He wants me there, or if my relationship is purely for helping build my vocation. I hope it’s both.

Thank you for your blessings and prayers! If you, and the others, would please do me a great favor? Please pray for some young women in Kenya (3 of them) who will be going to the US Embassy on Oct. 22 (Oct.21 in our time) to apply for visas so they can come to join the Savannah monastery! There are already 2 Kenya residents living with them as postulants, and they need new members! Before the postulants arrived, there were only 4 members. This will increase their number to 9 if it is God’s will that all of them arrive! I told Sr. Joann, their prioress, that I would be storming the heavens with novenas to St. Therese, Blessed Virgin Mary, and St. Joseph to guide these young ladies to the monastery. I can’t wait to hear the outcome! Hopefully I will be able to hear it before Sr. Joann leaves for a month or two to visit 2 other Carmel cloisters. Thank you very much!