Process of Becoming a Sister
Join with many faith-filled women who have gone before you on this journey. It begins with an awakening to a call, followed by prayer, exploration and discernment. It continues with the sense that the Sisters of Notre Dame are a good fit for you.
We are here to meet you and support you no matter where you are in the journey, and to help you envision what is possible for your life through Christ’s love.
Contact us to start the conversation. Request a prayer for your journey or any other intention you may have, and we will place it confidentially in our Book of Intentions.
Awaken to a Call
Awakening sometimes begins with a recurring question: “Is there something more?” Perhaps you feel a tug toward God that you sense but don’t completely understand. Take note of the desires, feelings and experiences of consolation and desolation that arise when considering a vocation to religious life.
Pay Attention
As your discernment journey continues you will have the opportunity, along with your director, to prayerfully ponder the inner movements of your heart as you consider a religious vocation.
If you aren’t already making notes of what you are experiencing, begin a journal and reflect upon what movements you notice throughout this time.
Get to Know Us
Conversations with community members, visits to community houses, “Come and See” or “Come and Be” events, service programs, and live-in opportunities can provide rich experiences of daily life with the Sisters of Notre Dame.
Once you sense God’s call, seek out someone you can trust with your story, such as a Spiritual Director or Vocation Director.
Religious communities, retreat centers, or Diocesan Vocation Directors may be able to help you find a Spiritual Director.
Contact us and we will prayerfully guide you through this important step.
Take Stock
Discerning a vocation is also a time for you to take stock of your gifts and talents, strengths and weaknesses.
Be heartened to know that your unique individuality of purpose and potential is what will help support activities, projects and services that use your strengths and talents to creatively respond to those who need us most.
Consider any of these recommended Prayer Resources as support along your journey.
Imagine Being a Sister
The answers to your questions will come, but not necessarily all at once. Sometimes we have to risk stepping out in faith. Dare to live according to the Spirit’s guidance. God’s abundant love will be with you.
Application Process
If your discernment leads you to the Sisters of Notre Dame, then an application process begins. If you keep your heart open to God through prayer, and get clarification from the Vocation Director for any questions or concerns that may arise during the process, you will find yourself ready to begin the application phase of your vocation discernment journey.
Whenever you are ready to respond to God’s call, we are ready to journey with you each step of the way.