What's the Deal with Religious Orders?

[S_V7]

I’m rather confused about all the different orders/communities ( Franciscan, Dominican, Felician…what is all that and what’s the difference? What do they do??) and communitites out there so if anyone can provide some info or a link to a site about this it would be great.

I’m sort of considering religious life and honestly can’t say I know much about it. I have made contact with some sisters and would appreciate any other info or advice.

 

[bilop]

I’m rather confused about all the different orders/communities ( Franciscan, Dominican, Felician…what is all that and what’s the difference? What do they do??) and communitites out there so if anyone can provide some info or a link to a site about this it would be great.

I’m sort of considering religious life and honestly can’t say I know much about it. I have made contact with some sisters and would appreciate any other info or advice.

Different orders have different charisms (basically missions). Some work with the poor (Franciscans) some are in education (many Dominicans), some are in healthcare (run Hospitals, nursing homes), etc.

Hope that helps. May God Bless you in your discernment.

 

[Della]

Religious orders also have differing spiritualities (or rather emphasis on some over others). For instance, the Carmelites are affective (of the heart) and are dedicated to contemplation. Dominicans seek truth as a primary charism, Franciscans value simplicity, and so on.

Your prayer life ought to be a good guide to the type of spirituality God is calling you to. Talk to your priest or a reliable spiritual director about it.

 

[Dave]

As an analogy, doctors are all doctors, but some specialize in cardiology, some in neurology, oncology etc…

The same is true with religious communities - they’re all dedicated to Christ, they just live out their calling in different ways.

To find out which communities might attract you, consider taking the short survey here: vocation-network.org/match

It will suggest some communities that might appeal to you based on your personality type.