About Sister Julie
My name is Julie Vieira, IHM, and A Nun’s Life is my personal blog. I am a member of the Sisters, Servants of the Immaculate Heart of Mary (IHM), a Roman Catholic religious community based in Monroe, Michigan. Our community is dedicated to the liberating mission of Jesus which we seek to express in a variety of ways according to our charism and the needs of the world around us. We are committed to building a culture of peace and right relationships. A Nun’s Life is not sponsored by nor in any way connected to the IHM Congregation. I have been been a part of my religious community for over 12 years and am one of its youngest members.
I am currently working at Loyola Press, a nonprofit publisher serving the Catholic community in faith formation, education, and spiritual growth. Loyola Press was founded in 1912 by the Chicago Province of the Society of Jesus (the Jesuits). Our mission as a company is to nurture a lived faith through building relevant and enduring bridges between our 2000-year-old Catholic faith and the needs and desires of today’s spiritual seekers. A Nun’s Life is not part of my work at Loyola Press. Though my employer and colleagues are supportive and certainly entertained by my musings, they have nothing to do with the blog or its content. My work at Loyola Press is a wonderful opportunity to bring together my professional experience as a writer and my academic training in theology and spirituality. I received a master’s degree in Theology from Regis College, a Jesuit school of theology in Toronto, and a bachelor’s degree in philosophy and religion from Saint Michael’s College at the University of Toronto.
Mostly, A Nun’s Life is my story — what it is like for me to be Catholic nun, that is, a member of a Catholic religious community of women. It’s also about nuns and sisters in general, how we are portrayed in the media, and who we are “for real.” I have been very fortunate to develop friendships with many nuns, and it is through them that I have come to better know myself and this crazy thing called religious life. Being a nun has not always been my lifelong goal. When I was growing up, I did not dress up as a nun for Halloween. When I was a young, impressionable Catholic school girl, I did not secretly (or otherwise) pine for the veils, habits, odd religious names, and overall mystique of the nuns who taught me. The whole “nun” thing kind of snuck up on me when I wasn’t paying much attention. I absolutely love being a nun. It’s what makes me who I am and helps me to be the best person I can be for God, the Church, and the world. A Nun’s Life is intended to be an open forum — in terms of both my musings and your comments. Please write to me about how being a nun or knowing a nun has impacted your life. Keep us posted on nuns in literature, the media, popular culture, or current events. Although the focus is on being a Catholic nun, I also welcome perspectives from nuns and religious in other Christian or religious traditions. Drop me a line — If you have any questions or comments that you would like to address to me personally, please email me at anunslife(at)yahoo(dot)com. I cannot always respond immediately but will do my best to respond in a timely manner.
August 21st, 2006 at 8:31 am
[…] Check out “A Nun’s Life,” a new blog run by my friend and colleague Sister Julie Vieira, IHM. If you’re curious about how nuns live today, Julie is eager to tell you. She quotes Mother Justina Reilly, a nineteenth-century IHM: “Do not think I am sitting here to pass the time away telling you that religious life is poetry. It is the roughest kind of prose.” […]
August 29th, 2006 at 6:55 pm
Wonderful to find another blogging sister!
September 1st, 2006 at 11:40 am
Dear Julie,
What a great blog! I really enjoy reading your posts. Feel free to check mine anytime. It’s nice to know about other young people in community!
http://osbboonies.blogspot.com/
September 2nd, 2006 at 7:48 am
Thanks, Sarah. I’ll definitely check out your blog. I have a deep fondness for the Rule of Benedict and the Benedictine lifestyle.
September 15th, 2006 at 7:50 am
Hello, Julie,
I just came across your blog. i am an SSJ in Rochester NY.
Thanks for shariong your thoughts with us.
Susan
September 16th, 2006 at 8:50 pm
Julie…this is really quite wonderful and you are managing to catch the essence…glad we are sister…..Barbara Stanbridge, IHM
September 18th, 2006 at 4:01 pm
Hey, Julie, “nuns2day” is catchy and intriguing. I spent more time than I had planned just clicking, reading, and wondering. I like the broad approach-inclusive of mnay varieties of “prophetic witnesses”.
September 20th, 2006 at 12:45 pm
Great idea Julie. You are creating great new ways for mission and ministry to occur. IHM is proud of you!
September 20th, 2006 at 12:59 pm
Hi Julie, I am so glad you are doing this. Your thoughtful relfections are a contribution to how religious life is evolving and taking new forms and shapes. Peace, MFG
September 20th, 2006 at 1:09 pm
Julie,
Ever since you shared this blog dream with me, I’ve known that it would come true and that it would be very well done. You make me proud to be in your community.
Much love,
Carol
September 24th, 2006 at 10:04 am
Julie, nice finding your blog - thanks to Susan Rose. I will add a link on my own if that’s ok with you.
September 29th, 2006 at 9:58 am
Dear Julie, Thanks for using your abundant writing and tech skills to engage in a public reflection on religious life, your own and that of religious more generally. A great gift. Mary
September 29th, 2006 at 5:49 pm
Sister Julie (?),
I came across your blog site because I’m currently working on a site dedicated to all the Catholic nuns. I’m a layperson who take the Catholic Faith militantly (not fanatically). I’m also a convert (no Catholic talked me into becoming one, so I give the credit to our Blessed Mother).
Among other thoughts, my site will be directed to both the Sisters (to let them know that their sacrifices are appreciated by lay people like myself), as well as to the lay Catholics so they become more aware of the Mystical relationship, being parts of the same Body); and also to the public, in general, so they become more informed about the contributions of those who have taken the vow - historically and currently.
Having had a military background, I always let people know that in the Spiritual Warfare, the Religious are like the Special Forces who have special skills in confronting the enemies of salvation (seen and unseen), and thus are entitled to a profound veneration and respect that the world is unwilling to express.
My other email address is soldierforchrist@winning.com
humbly, and always in need of your prayers,
nestor
September 30th, 2006 at 6:16 pm
Hey Julie,
We’re in Madison,CT and checking out blogs. Your’s is great! Congratulations! Hope things in Chi-town are going well.
Lots of love, your IHM sisters and associates
Mary Ann H.
Marge P.
Jane H.
Mary Bea K.
Kate P.
Peggy T.
Joann C.
John C.
Lois
Terry
Liz P.
Chris G.
Sue R.
October 20th, 2006 at 1:13 pm
Dear Julie,
Great job! Thank you for sharing your insights and wisdom. You are a gift to us as IHMs.
Ginny
October 20th, 2006 at 7:37 pm
Dear Julie,
So glad to find you on a blog! It is all that I expected of you and more to come.
Margaret of Toronto
October 21st, 2006 at 9:18 am
Way to go Julie! I love your blog. Rita of Canton/Philly
October 23rd, 2006 at 10:07 am
Julie,
I found it an adventure to read through your blogs..they renewed my spirit…and gave rise to many of my earlier ideals (and heated them up again). I paricularly resonated with the “altar server” story. My mom used to be so amused when I would walk around the kitchen behaving like an
“altar boy” when I was in grade school. I would bow to the table, and place the dishes I wiped on the altar very reverently. Keep up your great work. You have an extraordinary gift!
October 29th, 2006 at 9:18 pm
Julie,
What a wonderful, creative way to share your life - our life with all its interconnecting relationships. Thank you for taking on this project!
Pat
November 3rd, 2006 at 10:48 pm
Julie - Very interesting and could not refrain from skiming all of your materials. I’m a Franciscan Sister of 56 years. Each of our relationships with our good God are unique but for the most part it do not grow easier thru the years…only more certain. Keep up the good work. I’d like the term “sister” used rather than “nun” for the active and evangelical community member. I’m an iconographer and would like to see credit given to the one “writer” of the icon you used. Peace, joy, laugher and prayer, Roberta
November 3rd, 2006 at 11:09 pm
Dear Julie,
Thanks for the accurate, down-to-earth portrayal of a wonderful way of life. I’m happy to share those IHM initials with you.
Mary P. of Scranton, IHM
November 4th, 2006 at 8:40 am
Julie:
Heartiest congratulations. I love your site and will now visit it regularly. Just completed Brigg’s book and loved Margaret’s review in Commonweal. That period of time was a very poignant period of time for me, fresh with a new MA in Theology from Catholic U.As always, Margret “nails it” when she says that Many of the struggles rose from commitments of the women religious themselves to differing ecclesiologies. See you at a mission unit meeting next time. Keep on, keeping on! Noreen
November 4th, 2006 at 9:58 am
Thanks for your message and encouragement, Roberta.
I’ve been working on a page that will articulate the meaning of the terms “sister” and “nun” as well as the different ways of living religious life. For now, I’m using the term “nun” because it’s commonly accepted in reference to sisters or nuns especially to the general public for whom this blog is written.
I’m pleased to know that you are an iconographer. The only icon I think I’ve used so far is of Teresa of Avila. It was written by my IHM sister Nancy Lee Smith. If you put your cursor over the image or double click on it, you will see that she is credited with the icon. I’ll double check to make sure it is working because I absolutely believe in acknowledging the work that iconographers, writers, photographers, etc. do.
Again, thank you and I’m glad you enjoy the blog. Check in again! Julie
November 4th, 2006 at 10:02 am
Dear Julie,
I truly enjoy your blog, as you share your beliefs and reflections on varied topics. It truly energizes my spirit.
I am proud of you! Love, Margaret Hughes, IHM
November 4th, 2006 at 2:14 pm
Hi Julie
This is wonderful, I’m proud of you. Such a warm space
November 5th, 2006 at 4:06 pm
Hello, Julie. I have just read some of your blogs and enjoy your wide and deep selections as you live the nun’s story in 2006 and beyond and share your musings and interests. Keep on keeping on!
Good to see you at Max’s profession last night - powerful in its simplicity and depth, wasn’t it?
Joan G.
November 7th, 2006 at 7:22 am
i just came across your blog while getting my first ihm news on my lap top. this is very interesting to me sr julie, and i intend to revisit your blog…i am widowed with a 24 year old son and beginning some changes. I am familiar with the ihm order (being educated by them in grade and high school. and my sister was a former ihm nun…..mmv
November 7th, 2006 at 8:11 am
Hello and welcome to each of you. I welcome your comments and feedback on this blog. Keep on reading and spread the word!
November 7th, 2006 at 11:39 am
I also read -Can Religous Life Be Prophetic Today?_. I would highly recommend it to my br/sr religous.
Good blog!! Keep up the good work!!
November 7th, 2006 at 12:22 pm
Thanks, David. Yes, I too love that book. I think the scholarship, thought, and care behind it are great. A group of us IHM sisters and associates discussed it. Our associates loved it too. Even though it is on religious life, it also has a broader appeal.
November 9th, 2006 at 8:13 pm
Dear Julie, thank you for your willingness to “Blog-the-life.” Many people think that Religious life is all mystery or all misery; thanks for making it real. It is what each new day brings!
Keep the Faith, Denis
November 15th, 2006 at 1:36 pm
Interesting blog. I was raised Catholic, but don’t really consider myself “Catholic” anymore. But it is very interesting to hear what it’s like to be a nun. I’ll definitely keep reading!
November 16th, 2006 at 1:45 pm
Julie,
Thank you making the time for this very captivating blog. I just finished the TIME article - thought it was well done and portrayed well the diversity of those looking towards religious life today. I’m looking forward to following along your blog and those who respond.
November 16th, 2006 at 6:48 pm
Hi Sister, i read the article in Time, it was great…
November 16th, 2006 at 8:24 pm
Hello Julie - I found your blog after reading the article in Time. Just wanted to encourage you in writing and pursuing the heart of God. I plan on reading more and am moved by your entries. As a woman committed to the place of prayer, I also long to know God more and to experience His presence. Many blessings!!
In Him,
-Stephanie
November 17th, 2006 at 4:20 pm
[…] During some of my search for more information about how other communities keep their vows, I found a blog called A Nun’s Life that is authored by Julie Vieira. Today she has a post about religious life not being a popularity contest. I really appreciated her thoughts and the subtle nuance that she sees from the concern about the size. […]
November 23rd, 2006 at 12:06 am
powerful reading. i hope it will do a lot to inspire so many many lost and drifting souls. you are a source of joy and inspiration. love to read more of your stuff, and your fellow religious.
November 23rd, 2006 at 10:04 pm
Hey Julie, I was wondering, what motivation did you have to become a nun? Why did you choose that type of career/life?? Please respond - lilpeep
November 24th, 2006 at 8:21 pm
Hi Lilpeep … sorry for not responding sooner … check out my post “what motivates a person to become a nun??” for my response. Thanks!
November 25th, 2006 at 10:25 am
I want be a nun
November 28th, 2006 at 6:41 pm
Your blog is great. I should become more creative with mine. Just published my response to the TIME MAGAZINE article at MonasticMusingsOSsR.blogspot.com. You may be interested. I am hoping to offer a realistic view of what contemplative monastic life means in today’s world. Incidently, I know a few sisters from your congregation through participation in the RFC Inter-community Novitiate.
November 28th, 2006 at 11:13 pm
Thank you for taking the time to do your wonderful posting. I enjoyed and learned from everything I have read so far and will return. Thank you again.
Also thank you for your vist to my site.
Bill
November 30th, 2006 at 12:37 am
Julie,
Thanks for a thoughtful and thought provoking blog - am just discovering the powerful tool of blogs with sisters - especially those new to religious life. Keep up the good work.
December 5th, 2006 at 1:00 pm
Hi sister Julie,
I’m a muslim man. I love all religious people.We in Islam, beleived that Paradise is not only for muslims but also for everyone who is faitfull, good-hearted and be helper to the people.
What do you think about it?
Best regards to you
Esa
December 5th, 2006 at 1:30 pm
Thanks, Esa … Check out my response to your comment in my post “the people you meet in heaven.” Sister J
December 7th, 2006 at 9:15 pm
Julie,
Thanks for the inspiration to get started myself on a blog!
Sandy
http://nunsuch.wordpress.com
December 8th, 2006 at 4:13 pm
I just found your blog and I am hooked. I went to Catholic grammer school and I always wondered what it would be like to be a nun. Thanks for letting us in.
- Jaclyn
http://gettingmarried.wordpress.com
December 9th, 2006 at 7:08 pm
What a nice blog! It’s so nice to see 21st century women so in love with their vocation as Religious. What a powerful witness you, and the IHM Sisters, are for our world and Church ~ I hope and pray for more vocations to your community. Thank you!
December 10th, 2006 at 8:46 am
Thanks for all the nice things you all have been saying. Writing this blog is truly a joy and gift. Sister J
December 11th, 2006 at 2:27 pm
I just read an article on CNN.com about a sect of priests who are defying the Vatican and practicing while being married.
What are your feelings on priests being married? Do you think it should be allowed?
December 14th, 2006 at 8:14 pm
Hi Amanda … I read that article on CNN. It does touch on one major point that people often offer to support having married Catholic priests — namely there being the shortage of priests (this is particularly true in the US). The article states: “… reinstating priests who are married would help ease a shortage of priests. According to the Center for Applied Research in the Apostolate at Georgetown University, the number of priests has dropped from 58,600 in 1965 to 41,790 this year.”
The Church does require mandatory celibacy for its priests. Celibacy (which is something we religious also observe) is a gift to the Church in that (among other things) it allows a person to be free to respond to the call of God to go where and when the needs are. It is much easier for me — “unattached” with no husband or children — to get up and go to our mission in Africa than it would be for a married person and/or mother or father to do so at the drop of a hat.
Married priests do exist within the Catholic tradition. Anglican priests who are married who convert to Catholicism can be re-ordained as Catholic priests. Also, Eastern Rite Catholics (as distinct from Latin Rite which US Catholics are generally more familiar with) men may marry prior to becoming a priest, but after they are ordained.
December 14th, 2006 at 10:50 pm
This is very interesting as I read about you in
TIME mag waiting for my mammo…I am glad that
nuns are getting out more and doing contemporay
things…I met many great nuns and only two I
did not like…but they were older in the olden
days of grade school…God bless you and keep the
blog going on…I dont even know what a blog is
I am just learning the computer…josephine
December 15th, 2006 at 4:33 pm
Has mmv the widow inquired entry to a convent? I would love to chat with her.
December 19th, 2006 at 6:43 am
Julie,
You’ve a lovley blog! I hope you don’t mind, but I put a link to your site from mine.
Merry Christmas!
Ryan
December 19th, 2006 at 7:15 am
Hi Ryan … thanks! I’ll be sure to check out your blog. Have a wonderful Christmas too!
December 23rd, 2006 at 5:40 am
This is a truly amazing thing you’ve done Sister Julie. I was schooled in a Domincan convent for 8 years of grammar school and 4 years of high school. I have deep admiration for people like you and all that serve God. This blog has opened worlds for us. Thank you for sharing. Merry Christmas!
December 25th, 2006 at 5:19 am
Dear Sister Julie,
I am from India, and accidentally stumbled on your blog while surfing the net. I feel so happy to have come in contact with you.
People here in India often think of the USA as a promiscuous society that is ruled by greed and materialism, and that has abandoned the traditional Christian way of life. But after reading you blog, I realise that the stereotype isn’t fully true, and that there are many Americans, even today, who dedicate their lives to the Love of Jesus Christ.
December 26th, 2006 at 9:32 am
Hello Roxie and Krishna … thanks for the comments. May God’s blessings be with you.
December 28th, 2006 at 1:20 pm
Sr. Julie,
A young woman told me about you website. She has found it helpful in her discernment journey. As a vocation director I’m always interested in ways to help women to follow their call. This blog seems to be another avenue to share the Good News.
Thanks.
Blessings upon the New Year!
January 4th, 2007 at 10:38 pm
Great website and insight. Conratulations on your final vows. I’m not catholic (Lutheran) and I work on my relationship with Jesus regularly. I envy your total dedication to loving God with all your heart, mind and soul. I’m a new Christian so I may drop by from time to time for some help in understanding if that is alright with you. He is a truly wonderful God.
Have a blessed day and thanks again.
January 5th, 2007 at 5:41 am
Hello Sister Cathy and Pete. Welcome to A Nun’s Life. Please feel free to comment or email me.
January 5th, 2007 at 2:44 pm
Just doing a little research for my forthcoming article on Sr. Antona and the film, “Sisters of Selma: Bearing Witness for Change.” Watch for it in the March issue of St. Anthony Messenger.
February 5th, 2007 at 9:08 pm
Thank you for creating a way to learn about your world. The whole site has a delightful (and non-judgemental) feel to it.
I am not of the Christian tradition, but I have always been fascinated by those who lived the life of a religious. Your site is very welcoming and informative.
And the picture looking down the cliff on your home page is inspired and amusing all at once.
Thank you again!
Blessings!
February 6th, 2007 at 6:50 am
Elizabeth, Many thanks for your kind words. I do want this blog to be an open and welcoming place for all who visit. And the picture … still experimenting with what to put up there. For the moment it is a photograph I took on a hike at Starved Rock State Park. Thanks again and blessings to you, Elizabeth. Sister Julie
February 11th, 2007 at 1:54 pm
I was wondering if you would be interested in describing what your day is like. If you consider this an intrusion, please feel free to ignore it.
Congratulations on your final vows! I am taking my marriage vows in 42 days (7 hours and 34 minutes… LOL) for the first time at 38 years of age and, even though it is on a much less cosmic scale than your vows, it is a vary small saying that holds a tremendous amount of meaning.
Blessings!
February 12th, 2007 at 8:08 pm
Hi Elizabeth! Congratulations and blessings to you as you move toward marriage vows! It is indeed an important event of cosmic proportion. We all stand before God and profess a lifelong commitment. Be assured of my prayers. I just wrote a post in answer to your inquiry about what a day is like in my life. Check it out at “A Day in the Life of Sister Julie“.
February 18th, 2007 at 12:06 pm
What a wonderful, informative blog. I posted about it at http://www.peopleinthepews.com/2007/02/18/a-nuns-life/
Thank you for sharing your experiences. This is a valuable place for women to visit who are discerning a call to the religious life.
Peace,
Caitlin
February 21st, 2007 at 2:33 am
Hi Sister Julie,
I heard you on Fair Game a few nights ago, and love your wonderful blog! I plan speakers and events for a small religious bookstore in San Antonio, TX. If you are ever headed down our way, I would love to speak with you about the possibility of speaking at the store. San Antonio has a large Catholic community. Your perspective and experience would be very welcome to our community.
Thank you, and keep up the writing,
Kate Spencer
March 2nd, 2007 at 9:26 am
Hello,
I am neither religious or had neither calling, but i have always thought that it must be a gerat relief and joy to have a faith. There are many religions and i find it always interesting to find out of other faiths. I am only 18, and live in England. England was once very religious and it dwindles year by year. It is so refreshing to have a someone who does not force other religions on people.
Many thanks
Laura
March 2nd, 2007 at 3:59 pm
[…] friend and colleague, Sr. Julie, […]
March 3rd, 2007 at 12:11 am
Hi Sr. Julie
I am a fromer Sister of the Holy Family of Nazareth. Our American provinces included Monroe Ct. Phila. Pa, Pittburgh , Pa. Chicago, Il. and Grand Prairie Tx.Many of our younger members have transferred from one of our two Polish Provinces, i.e. Krakow and Warsaw.
We have a great community. I was a member for 36 years. Then God had other plans for me I look upon those who left as part of the diaspora.
My cousin mentioned this site to me and here I am. Nice work and agood idea!
Geri
March 5th, 2007 at 6:29 am
Hello to Caitlin, Kate, Laura and Geri … I am grateful for your comments and hope you’ll visit again. And Kate, if I’m ever in the area I would be pleased to come to your bookstore. Sister Julie
March 5th, 2007 at 8:34 am
Hi Jules! I think it’s weird to hear you called “Sister Julie,” too! (For others, I met Julie during our undergrad at the University of Toronto.) My mum came across your site after the Chicago Trib article. Great work! xoxo
March 6th, 2007 at 2:16 pm
Hi Sister Julie,
I just wanted to say how happy I was to see your blog, I was just going through the internet about Catholic work shops and saw your blog. I have to say I loved it I once wanted to be a nun I still have that urge but I am married and have been married for 15 years and have 3 children. It was great to read about your life and it gives me great pleasure to have this and to be able to look at it on a weekly basis, I especially like the questions asked and your answers.
God Bless you
Daniela
March 8th, 2007 at 1:26 am
i am so proud of you and ever in awe of the depth of your intelligence and spirituality.
keep steadfast on your path!
March 8th, 2007 at 9:19 pm
Sister Julie-
my name is Rebecca and I’m fifteen years old. My mom (a catholic covert) died two and a half years ago. I’ve always been catholic but when my mom died it took on new meaning. (i.e. I really started trying to pay attention in church, and pray more.)It wasn’t until quite recently, however, that I actually felt like I was getting somewhere in my journey of faith. I started reading some Thomas Merton and then the thought of becoming a nun entered my mind. I have been considering it ever since, though in an extremely flip-flopping manner.
Anyway, the whole point of telling you my long-winded life story was to say thanks for your blog, because it’s been a great resource for me. It did help break the stereotypes and some romantic (unrealistic) ideas that I had about what religious life was like. So thanks again!
Rebecca
March 11th, 2007 at 8:39 am
G’day
Wow!!! This is a fantastic site.
Thankyou for putting together such a great female vocations resource.
I’m a 23yr old Aussie girl hoping to enter religious life next year into a small Australian order.
I really appreciate you putting you life/blog out there for the rest of us to be inspired challenged and educated (not to mention just plain entertained) by.
Thanks and Gob bless
Heather
March 12th, 2007 at 5:50 pm
I think it is great to share this religion with the world, and through a bolg i think is very nice. now more people can learn about it.
March 15th, 2007 at 9:47 pm
Hi Sr. Julie,
I read an article from the Chicago Tribune, that was placed in a local newspaper in Georgia. I was intrigued. I grew up Catholic. The usual 8 years in grade school and 4 years in High school. My first two years of High school was spent in an aspirency, (a high school level noviciate)withthe Sisters of Christian Charity. It’s two years that I treasure.
Anyway I found the inteview fascinating. I love your down-to-earth approach. It is very refreshing. Most of my knowledge about the catholic church and nuns come from the late 60s.
I have always felt a call on my life, However, as I was to learn later in life, it was one that the catholic church could not fill.
My calling was to be a pastor. I now pastor a small church of about 30. This is a big difference from the church where I grew up. St Raphael’s seated 2000 and it there was 7 Masses. (It was one of the churches in New Orleans to be closed because of extensive damage from hurricane Katrina.)
I didn’t mean to make this a book, I only wanted to have a connection. I pray that God continues to bless you and everyone who is touched by your blog.
Emily
March 17th, 2007 at 1:36 pm
Dear Julie:
Saw an article in our local paper and looked up your web site. I have been a Christian since 1947. IF you are a Christian too then we truly are brother and sister. I may never meet you here on this earth but we will have lots of time in GLORY. I enjoyed the comments.
IN CHRIST
ACCOUNTABLE
Conrad
March 20th, 2007 at 10:27 am
Please pray for me.
I am getting married in 4 days and I woke up with a cold.
Everything will be fine, because everything always works out fine.
But I would appreciate your support.
March 21st, 2007 at 6:05 am
Absolutely, Elizabeth. All will be well. Congratulations on your upcoming big day and new adventure!
March 24th, 2007 at 10:00 am
Hi Sister Julie! Your photo and an article about you and your blog appeared in this morning’s Houston Chronicle. I am Catholic and I am struggling with my 21 year old son’s news that he is gay. Love bridges everything, yet in my heart I’m troubled for him and the life style he is living. Honestly I pray that God will convert his heart to a straight life style. Your insight would be welcomed. Love, Annette
March 25th, 2007 at 2:47 pm
Thank you for your comment. I think the best place to start is exactly what you wrote: “Love bridges everything.” That your son has shared something very important about himself to you is a sign that he trusts you and needs you to be there for him, even though you may not understand or agree with him. The Church encourages us to be very compassionate towards gay men and lesbian women. According to the teaching of the Church, men and women with homosexual tendencies must be accepted with respect, compassion and sensitivity. Every sign of unjust discrimination in their regard should be avoided.
In 1986 Cardinal Ratzinger wrote a document on the Church’s care of homosexual persons. In it he says: “[T]he phenomenon of homosexuality, complex as it is and with its many consequences for society and ecclesial life, is a proper focus for the Church’s pastoral care. It thus requires of her ministers attentive study, active concern and honest, theologically well-balanced counsel.” He goes on to discuss the unchosen nature of homosexuality saying: “[T]he particular inclination of the homosexual person is not a sin.” Moreover, homosexual persons, he asserts, are “often generous and giving of themselves.” Then he uses the Church’s usual arguments in defense of human dignity in order to defend the dignity of homosexual persons: “It is deplorable that homosexual persons have been and are the object of violent malice in speech or in action. Such treatment deserves condemnation from the Church’s pastors wherever it occurs. It reveals a kind of disregard for others which endangers the most fundamental principles of a healthy society. The intrinsic dignity of each person must always be respected in word, in action and in law.”
Like faith, one’s sexuality is not simply a choice; it informs a whole way of being. But like faith, it involves choices - the choice to affirm or deny a central part of one’s being. I would encourage you in all of your interactions with your son or about your son that you affirm his innate human dignity which we all have made in the image and likeness of God and pray for your son that his faith be strengthened.
You might want to check out the recommendations from the US bishops’ letter “Always Our Children” to parents of homosexual children (click here).
March 25th, 2007 at 3:05 pm
How do you learn how to forgive yourself,
after doing someting, out of ignorance, you really regrets ?
Thank you
March 27th, 2007 at 2:37 pm
Regrets and learning to forgive oneself can be tough things to deal with. We are always harder on ourselves than God (and even othes) are on us. There are a couple of things that are important to remember when we mess up. First, we are all human. We make mistakes. We hurt others, including those whom we love. We live in hope that we can make amends and learn from our mistakes. Second, there is nothing that we can do that is unforgivable by God. God is always calling us to himself, and nevers stops loving us even when we hurt him or others. Though you cannot change what has happened in the past you can make a choice to learn from it and grow. My prayers go with you.
March 28th, 2007 at 9:53 pm
fascinating blog; Am a monk for 35 years, ahd a Yahoo group, 355members, bishops, priests, religious, laity, hermits like myself since before 2000. Dealing with monasticism past, present, future and associated topics, eg contemplation, prayer, mysticism, news, info, and much else…John (monk) http://groups.yahoo.com/group/monasterion
March 31st, 2007 at 11:58 am
Dear Sr Julie, I heard you on NPR with Scot Simon today. Not only do I love your blog but there are several links from other writers that I found here. I went to Catholic school all the way until I graduated from Trinity, so I have many nuns who had a great influence on who I am today.Since I am mother of four and grandmother of six I hope many young people find your blog and I sure will let them know about it.Thanks for the inspiration. Barbara
March 31st, 2007 at 1:15 pm
Regarding your request of experiences with Nuns. Unfortuanetly, mine was harsh. The Sisters of … were harsh, unforgiving, with very little warmth offered to the children. My grade school years were very unhappy in the mid-thirties an forties. I appreciate the opportunity to share my experience.
March 31st, 2007 at 1:19 pm
Hi, Sister,
I heard you on NPR today. Delightful.
You recently wrote about “being and doing” and it reminded me of this bit of philosophy:
To be is to do: Plato
To do is to be: Socrates
Do be do be do: Sinatra
Keep up the good work.
Leo
April 3rd, 2007 at 4:11 pm
Jules…
Whoa! 10 + years ago…airport trips and kleenex. I wonder if those stories and musings would make the blog. I pray you are well and I look forward to hearing the NPR interview and cathing up with your life via blogland.
Peace my friend,
Jenni of Toledo (off of Margaret’s post)
April 3rd, 2007 at 6:20 pm
Thanks for all the wonderful comments. So good to meet new folks and to connect with old friends. It’s great to hear from you, Jenni, and I look forward to catching up too!
April 6th, 2007 at 11:11 pm
Dear Sister Julie,
I was baptized a Catholic over 55 years ago. In my early 20s I had an abortion and believed I could not receive any sacraments and attend any Church services due to this mistake. Please advise..is there any way I can return to the Church and become a practicing Catholic again? thank you in advance for your help.
April 7th, 2007 at 4:04 am
Absolutely, Arlene. You most definitely can come home to the Catholic Church and be a practicing Catholic. Though the Church considers abortion a grave offense, it does not believe that a woman (or couple) who decides to have an abortion is beyond the love and mercy of God.
Pope John Paul II once wrote: “I would now like to say a special word to women who have had an abortion…do not give in to discouragement and do not lose hope … The Father of mercies is ready to give you his forgiveness and his peace in the Sacrament of Reconciliation.”
I would encourage you to prepare your heart for and celebrate the Sacrament of Reconciliation. You may also wish to talk with a priest or pastoral person at your local parish. I know the Archdiocese of Chicago has a program called Project Rachel which offers help and support for women who have had an abortion. I’m sure other dioceses have this. You can also check out the web site http://www.hopeafterabortion.com. Blessings to you, Arlene.
April 8th, 2007 at 5:48 pm
Dear Sister Julie,
I have just read about you in the Ottawa Citizen. (Ontario)
I am so thankful that you have this blog! It’s so amazing to hear about the REAL, human with a specific calling!
I am guilty of stereotyping, real experience. Working in a Catholic Hospital. The head Nurse dressed in a pure white traditionl habit was very “rough.”
I am pleased to say that my myths regarding nuns/sisters have burned away. I have been seeing a Nun, my psychologist for a few tears now and I was very sceptical that she was in fact a Nun. She didn’t waer a habit, her ears are peirced and she is very contempory! I love her to bits. I sought out a christian psych., as siritually is a very imp. part of my life….she has opened my eyes to admire, respect and yes…..Nuns do have agreat sense of humor and laugh from the heart!!!
Bless your ministry!
A.
April 8th, 2007 at 6:48 pm
Hello Sr. Julie,
Last weekend, I heard your interview on NPR. It seemed very timely as I feel a strong pull to religious life. Currently, I am working toward a Ph.D. in music education in Greensboro, NC. God has blessed me with many talents including music abilities, teaching, listening, and guiding others in positive directions. I developed rheumatioid arthritis when I was 8 or 9 years old, however, my ability to play flute remained unaffected by the physical limitations of my joints.
I guess my question for you is this: Is it ever too late to pursue studies toward the religious life?
Thanks,
Jennifer
April 9th, 2007 at 10:49 am
What does the Bible and/or the Catholic faith say about tattoos?
April 10th, 2007 at 7:29 am
Ken … in answer to your question, check out this link which has some good information about your question. Thanks. Sister J
April 14th, 2007 at 6:42 pm
Hi, Julie. With some time on my spring break hands, I have not read buckets on your blog. Excellent ministry you have here. I’m so grateful to read blogs by sisters who are able to articulate so clearly and compassionately the Gospel message as lived in the religious life. Blessings and prayers for you this Easter Season!
April 14th, 2007 at 6:42 pm
whoops that should have read “now” read (not “not” read.) Geeshk.
April 16th, 2007 at 6:28 am
Jennifer … Thanks for your comment. Each community has a general age range, typically from 18-40. In some communities, the range may be greater, probably up to late 50s depending on individual circumstances. I would recommend checking web sites of religious communities that you are interested in to get a sense of what they are like, what you are attracted to, etc. Many religious communities also have lay associates/affiliates. I don’t think there is a cut-off age for becoming an associate/affiliate.
April 16th, 2007 at 5:05 pm
Good to hear from you Sister Christer! Blessing to you as well.
April 18th, 2007 at 4:51 pm
Sister Julie,
I read about your blog in my hometown newspaper, the Toledo Blade. I haven’t read the entire blog yet, but what I’ve read thus far has been entertaining, insightful, and more than a little educational about the “secret” lives of women religious.
I’ve always been fascinated by nuns, and had the privilege of working at St. Vincent Medical Center,then operated by the Grey Nuns. All fo the sisters I had the opportunity to know at St V’s were compassionate, kind and warm-hearted women who lived their faith and demonstrated their commitment to God on a daily basis. The stereotype of nuns as cold, unfeeling and cruel would never have held up under the knowledge of these sisters.
Thank you for letting us “outsiders” in for a peek at what “A Nun’s Life” is really like!
Peace,
Lynne
April 20th, 2007 at 9:09 am
Sister Julie,
I read about your blog in the Houston Chronicle several weeks ago and logged in for the first time yesterday. It is so delightful! I especially like the “Three Minute Retreat”. I plan to log into that often. A refreshing way to start the day, or any time.
Sister, there is something I have always wanted to ask a nun or Sister. When I was a child, I thought I wanted to become a nun. A bit surprising because the nuns in our Sunday School were rather strict, stern and punitive. Be that as it may, starting at about age 7 I did think about it sometimes but when I became an adult, a freer life appealed to me more. I never married, have observed chastity all my life (not hard at all — one of my first signs that I might have been meant to be a nun), I don’t mind relative poverty (I’m frugal by nature, I think it’s fun and a kind of victory over an avaricious world), but always have had trouble with Obedience, which is one of the many reasons I never married. I am now age 64, retired, and do volunteer work, and have a daily prayer session. I believe I am in direct contact with God all the time. I spill out little Thank-Yous and little prayers for others all the time. What I want to ask you is this. Since I never became a nun, what can a lay person do who lives the way I do, to have a bit more of a nun-ly sort of life? I don’t know what the Holy Office is, for example. A friend of mine from church told me she is a Sister but not a Nun, which you explain very well in your blog, but she has had quite a bit of trouble with, for example, her order being dissolved and having to go through the novitiate a second time, that sort of thing, she is a professional and it’s difficult for her to do all the things she is supposed to do in her order. Anyway, is there anything like a lay-nun who observes certain customs, readings, that sort of thing, involves herself with certain, I don’t know, certain types of charities, or do you think I’m perhaps as close to a nun-like life as I can have without joining an order?
April 20th, 2007 at 10:26 am
Hi Caroline, Thanks for writing and telling me a bit about your story. It sounds like you are very much living out your vocation. There are a few things you can do if you would like to be more associated with a religious community. Many people who live a lifestyle similar to yours do appreciate having a community dimension to it as well, which is one of the gifts of religious life. Most religious communities have an associate program for men and women, married or single, who want to live more intentionally the mission of that congregation but do not want to be full fledged nuns. In addition there are oblates or third-order seculars which is another way to be part of a religious community. Here are a couple of posts to check out in which I’ve written a bit about them and others have given good info as well. Let me know if this is helpful. Sister Julie
How does one become an oblate?
What are options for religious life other than being a full-fledged nun?
April 20th, 2007 at 11:52 am
Sister I have to ask has becoming a nun helped you to feel better in regards to the world at large. I am currently depressed about life in general and I really think that the world has nothing to offer me. The only thing keeping me from suicide is the fact that God says its a sin. I am 40 years old. I am an author. A series of bad events in my life over the past 10 years has left me feeling that life isn’t worth it anymore. There has to be something better for me to do. I care for people both young and old and all my book royalties go to the Disabled. But yet I feel as if I should be doing something more with my life and I can’t find it. I am seriously considering going into a Convent and hoping God has a better use of my time and life then I have at present. Any advise would be greatfully received.
April 20th, 2007 at 12:50 pm
Jeanny, thank you for your email. I am so sorry to hear that things have been so tough for you that you feel life isn’t worthwhile. That must be a very dark and lonely place to be. I want to tell you first and foremost what a gift you are. The work that you are doing and the way you have chosen to live your life is wonderful. I know depression can make it seem not worthwhile or insignificant, but you are doing great stuff. Are you able to talk about your depression with a trusted friend or mentor or health care professional? Depression is not an easy thing to live with and I hope you know that there is help available.
Life as a nun is truly a fabulous way of life, and it does affect how one perceives the world, just as any of our significant commitments do. However I would caution against entering religious life as a way to avoid dealing with how you feel. If anything, the journey of joining religious life will make you come face to face with that. Discernment is a very powerful thing.
In all things, even when you are totally depressed, God is with you, Jeanny. You are never alone even if you feel like God is miles away. God is closer to you than your very next breath.
I pray that you hang in there and give yourself a chance to explore and discover what will make you fulfilled. You owe yourself every opportunity to continue to grow into the beautiful person that you are and that God wants you to be.
Please feel free to email me (see above in my post). My prayers are with you, Jeanny. Sister Julie
April 21st, 2007 at 5:28 pm
Dear Sister,
I am in the process of making out my “Last Will and Testament.” Our LORD has blessed me with financial success. I would like to leave a portion of my estate to reputable *RETIREMENT HOMES FOR NUNS.* I have used Google but have not been able to find retirement homes for aging nuns.
Help!
If possible, please provide me a few names for nun’s retirement homes, their snail mail addresses, web addresses, phone numbers ect.
Thank you and GOD bless ……..Dave
April 23rd, 2007 at 5:54 am
Dear Dave, Thank you so much for your generosity in wanting to give of your financial resources.
Many religious communities take care of their own retired sisters and so you would actually go through the particular community. You might want to contact the community of sisters who taught you (if applicable), are in your parish or local community, are coworkers, etc.
Another option would be to consider giving to the Retirement Fund for Religious that has been established by the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops. You can find out more about this fund by going to the National Religious Retirement Office. They have info on what their mission is and how to go about making a gift/bequeth.
The National Religious Retirement Office and the Retirement Fund for Religious are sponsored by the Conference of Major Superiors of Men, Council of Major Superiors of Women Religious, Leadership Conference of Women Religious, and United States Conference of Catholic Bishops.
Again, Many thanks for your generosity, Dave. God bless you.
Sister Julie
April 29th, 2007 at 8:43 pm
I remember being proud to learn the prayers and see the Nuns nod as they hear me recite.
I remember being confused, the child of divorce, and found that silence was better.
I remember learning and believing that God and Jesus are all good and all just and couldn’t possibly have written the man-made laws.
I know in the end, it is loving kindness without judgment that matters.
Bless you for your faith.
May 6th, 2007 at 7:44 pm
Hello sister,
Is your congregation also called “Congregation of the Immaculate Conception”. I am asking for sister who is discerning her vocation and interested in the “Congregation of the Immaculate Conception”. I hope to get more information for her.
Thanks and God bless.
May 7th, 2007 at 5:41 am
Thanks for the question … My congregation is called IHM Sisters, or Sisters, Servants of the Immaculate Heart of Mary. I did a little scoping around on the internet and couldn’t find a web site for the congregation you mentioned. The only thing I could really find was this article in Catholic Encyclopedia (note: published in 1910). Blessings on your search.
May 9th, 2007 at 6:58 pm
HI, I HAD NO CLUE WHAT NUN WAS UNTIL I READ YOUR BLOG!! THAN I DID RESERCH AND IT SEEM RUFF!!! HAVE A GOOD LIFE… LIVE YOUR LIFE DONT LET IT LIVE U
May 11th, 2007 at 9:26 am
Peace and all good! I am in my 30’s and exploring religious life as I live it. Since younger members can be scarce, cyberspace can be a forum. I would certainly call your blog a ministry. Where do you find the time? I’ll keep checking back. Thanks for putting your self and our way of life out there!
Sister Gayle, OSF
P.S. I also am disappointed when someone leaves out a sister’s initials!
May 11th, 2007 at 9:47 am
Sr. I did not see the Sisters of The Good Shepherd on your list. There are some Contemplative and Active Sisters in Detroit MI. I hope you get to know them.
On the Heart’s of Jesus and Mary
Sr. Maureen Jounson CGS
May 11th, 2007 at 12:48 pm
Glad to meet you Lori, Gayle and Maureen! I like what you said, Gayle, about “exploring religious life as I live it.” That’s kind of what we do, isn’t it?
I don’t always have the time to blog or respond adequately to comments or emails. It’s tough because I want to address each person individually, especially when folks share their story and their struggles with me. I pray for the help of the Holy Spirit regularly.
My list “Nuns I’ve Known” was just a way to get list communities that I have some kind of connection with. I’d love to list all communities but this was the best I could do for now. I hope to have a page listing all women’s religious communities at some point. I’ll gladly take volunteers who wish to compile such a list of web sites!!
May 11th, 2007 at 7:14 pm
Dear Julie,
I have read over many of your postings and truly enjoyed your blog. One of my sisters (known in the blogging world as Sister Christer) helped me understand how to put a blog together. And once the Domain name has settled in, it will be truly launched. I hope I am able to be as attentive to comments and posting as you have been.
Peace and all good, Pat Farrell, OP
May 15th, 2007 at 3:05 am
Hello Sr. Julie,
I a month’s time I will join the Good Shepherd Sisters here in the Philippines as an aspirant. I would like to ask if it is really okay for me to feel scared of it and at the same time excited? I’m a little worried to have these kinds of feelings. I’m always praying for the strength and the clearness of mind, heart and soul for me to really focus on what’s God directing me to. Do you have any advice on how could I face these feelings. Thank you very much for your site and for your time. God bless!
June 3rd, 2007 at 6:03 am
Sister Julie,
I stumbled across your site after reading about it in Catholic Digest. I just wanted to say thank you for sharing so much. Truly a gift. Looking forward to exploring your site and the links as I continue my own discernment process as to what God has in store for me…could be religious life!
June 10th, 2007 at 5:42 pm
Thanks Sr. Julie for being another counter-cultural voice in the world of mass-media! It’s been interesting to read your reflections and also see what other perceive of religious life. I am a junior sister with the PDDM and I work alot with Internet and social communications for my apostolate so am glad to found that more and more religious are doing it too! All for the glory of God!
June 15th, 2007 at 3:28 pm
I came across this site through Judith’s meme which I think originated with Gabrielle. It will take a long time to read through your posts, but I’m delighted to have found a blogging nun - I don’t think there are any in Ireland but maybe I’m wrong.
June 15th, 2007 at 8:59 pm
Have you seen this? It’s a game about becoming pope.
http://www.vaticanboardgame.com/COD/index.php?id=1294
Just thought I would drop it to you…
June 17th, 2007 at 5:09 am
Sister Julie,
I have only recently found your site. It’s great to come across one that’s so well established and I think the ‘ ask Sister’ service you provide is a helpful one in today’s often confusing world. I haven’t had the chance to read the archive yet but I am delighted to have discovered your voice.
June 20th, 2007 at 8:44 am
Sister Julie–
Thank you for your website. I find your site to be well written and thought provoking. I am Buddhist, but I enjoy learning about other religions and those that practice them. The love of God eminates through your words. Thank you for doing your good work on the internet. A thousand blessings and one to you.
*deep bow*
Toni
June 22nd, 2007 at 6:25 am
Sister Julie,
This is my first visit to your blog. It won’t be my last. I thoroughly enjoyed it. It reminds me of the blessed Ursaline Sisters that provided guidance during my early years. They are remembered with fondness.
July 10th, 2007 at 7:17 am
Dear Sr Julie Vieira ,
Greeting to you and everybody who belives in God.
You don’t know me and it’s not very important but I want to talk to you and If you have enough time to spare for me I would like to describe something about myself.
some months ago a question excisted in my brain that who is God and Why we should pray for him and If I have no religion what will happend? and are these religion usefull therefore I can live better without religion and …?
I started to search and investigate with reading books that are from God , I think that christians are more successful than moslims and other people so I wanted to start with Bible so I wnet to the bookshop for buy a new Bible , and I belived that these holy books should be more useful than other books like psycological books or computer books but all of them are books, when I want to buy a Bible the bookshop didn’t has it so I had to buy another holy book I thought that time that what shall I do? and I decided to by a Quran .
any way I started to read Quran from first page , I undrestood many things and I was lisening to my God untile I was midle of it that something changed I found God the best friend … he said that if any person in the world want giudance and help I help him or her but he should belives in me … he said : there is no limited for God and can use even a mosquito or biger than that so if a person who wants to accept me and do everything that I said this is helpfull for him and if a person want to against me he will be lost in the stupidity deserts and the God doesn’t say lie.
Yes I found him honest and I wanted from him , so after that I had some dreams in my sleep that helped me a lot.
After that I expanded my research and finally I found a relidion as Islam but it is new and I can not find any moslim except 3 or 4 and no more. You know I am living in Iran.
Finllay my main question : did you reach about your religion or you are in christian just because your father is? and this is a question in my head that do you accept that the final prophet is Mohammad and if yes why don’t belive him? also in Quran I read that God said : Bible was ok and perfect religion but because some people changed it I sent Quran for people but nobody can change it untile the end of the day of the world.
there are many question like this and I would like to know them, so I am waiting forward to your answer.
Our prophet Mohammad has some short tip, like this :
It is must to answer the letter like answer of Hello.
Thank you.
A.m
July 10th, 2007 at 7:31 am
Dear A.M,
Thank you for your comment and for telling me about yourself. I am pleased that you have encountered God as your friend and are getting to know him. I have done some study of Islam and have read parts of the Quran, but don’t know it in depth. In answer to your question, I am a Christian first because I was baptized into the Christian community because of the faith of my mother and my father and my family. As I matured and was able to make choices about my faith and my life, I reaffirmed my commitment to the Christian faith and I continue to live out of that faith by the grace of God. Because I am a Christian, I believe that God spoke definitively in the person of Jesus Christ and that through him salvation is made possible for all of creation. Even though I am a Christian, I have a great respect for the prophet Mohammad and for Muslims. I am grateful that you have shared a bit of your journey with me and I wish you well.
Peace to you. Sister Julie
July 10th, 2007 at 9:58 am
a.m.:
I don’t know if you were asking others on this blog to respond to your post or not. But since it’s an open forum, I thought I’d chime in.
I think it’s great you found God. Studying religion, even all or most of the main religions, is a fascinating exercise. It may be hard to find in Iran, but I’d highly recommend reading the New Testament - the second part of the Bible. It is full of love and beauty.
I was baptized a Catholic Christian. I spent some years searching and then, with study, and the grace of God, reaffirmed my commitment to my God and my faith. So being a Catholic Christian is my own decision consciously made as an adult. The part I find most compelling about Christianity is Jesus’ focus on love and peace. It’s true that some Christians, as with anyone from any other religious background, have not always behaved well in the past or even present. But Jesus preached nonviolence.
Have a great day!
deerose
July 17th, 2007 at 9:16 am
sister Julie,
This was my fist time visiting your website,I enjoyed it an it is very interesting, your website was very intresting,thankyou for the wonderful work that you are doing for the communite, i really enjoyed reading your website,i just have one question how old does a person have to be to join? this will be not be my last time to visit, it was a very interesting website.Thankyou for your site and your time,God Bless!
July 17th, 2007 at 9:39 am
Dear Melena, Thank you for visiting! The minimum age for entering a religious community may vary but typically it is around 18 years of age. Some communities may require that you have a college degree and/or professional work experience so of course that takes some time. Even if a woman is not old enough or ready to enter a community, she can still get to know the community and learn about their life and mission. Having a spiritual director or someone to discuss and discern this with would be a good thing. Blessings to you, Melena.
July 17th, 2007 at 9:41 am
I have done some searches and cannot find the answer to my question. I know there is some way of contributing the a retirement fund for nun’s but, I can’t seem to find the website. Would you be so kind as to direct me to where I can find the information?
Thank you.
July 17th, 2007 at 9:44 am
Hi Beth, Yes there are ways to contribute to the retirement fund for nuns. That is such a good thing of you to do.
Many religious communities take care of their own retired sisters and so you would actually go through the particular community. You might want to contact the community of sisters who taught you (if applicable), are in your parish or local community, are coworkers, etc.
Another option would be to consider giving to the Retirement Fund for Religious that has been established by the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops. You can find out more about this fund by going to the National Religious Retirement Office. They have info on what their mission is and how to go about making a gift/bequeth.
The National Religious Retirement Office and the Retirement Fund for Religious are sponsored by the Conference of Major Superiors of Men, Council of Major Superiors of Women Religious, Leadership Conference of Women Religious, and United States Conference of Catholic Bishops.
Sister Julie
July 26th, 2007 at 8:47 pm
Hello Sister Julie! I am interested in knowing more about becoming a nun, but I am afraid it’s too late for me. I am 49 years old and so far, the cut-off age is 40-45. Are there any orders out there that would consider me as a candidate? Please let me know. Thank you and God bless you.
August 2nd, 2007 at 3:10 pm
Julie, I have been wanting to write to you since I found your blog, many months ago. I was on retreat with you at Siena Center back in March, I believe, with Macrina Wiederkehr, Honoring the Hours. We did not speak to each other but I heard you talk about your website. It peaked my interest. After reading you site many times I have decided to write to you. To say what I am not sure. I know one thing for sure, you seem to have what I was looking for many years ago and never found. Where I am now is ok and getting better with each new day and experience. You see my goal all my life was to be a sister/nun. But I guess you can say God had other plans. I was in a community for 8 years until I was shown the door. I did not fit their mold and just would not do. After many, many years of struggle just to be alive each day, I can now say I am on the other side of the valley. The sunny side and look toward each new day, experience as truly a gift from above. After the rejection depression took hold and held me for over 20 years. It was a long, dark time. Some where in me is the longing to have what you speak of today. But I don’t think that is what is meant for my life any more. Physical age does not matter because I feel like a child with pure excitement these days. So it took me a lot longer to get here then most. It really does not matter any more. I am having to much fun now. I still fear sometimes that the darkness could take hold again. I pray it doesn’t but one never knows what God has in store for each of us. Well I am not sure why I told you all this but I did.
Thank you for your blog. It is wonderful to read. I was born and raised catholic but I never stop learning what it means. Your insights are great to read. My aunt was a SSND all her life. She was a wonderful woman. She passed away in March. I miss her every day.
Well now that was long winded just to say hello and to tell you how much I enjoy your blog. You don’t need to post this because I just wanted to say hello to you.
take care
Maggie
August 7th, 2007 at 12:34 pm
Hi Wanda, Thanks for the message. I know there are orders that accept women over 45. If you are looking for a community in your diocese, contact the diocesan vocation director. Sometimes communities go on a case by case basis even though the norm is to have a cut-off age around 40-45. If you are interested in an active/apostolic community check out my IHM community in Monroe, Michigan. Sister Mary Bea Keeley is our vocation/membership person. You can contact her by going to the IHM web site. I’m also going to post a query to the sisters who read this blog to see if they have recommendations. Check back! Blessings to you, Wanda. Sister Julie
August 8th, 2007 at 3:55 pm
Hi and thank you for your interesting website!
Recently I was forwarded a video about Jesus which I’ve watched a number of times, and every time I watch it, it draws me into a serene meditation on the life of Christ with powerful images that I have never seen before. I found it truly inspiring and am wondering if you’ve seen it. Maybe you’ve seen it already but if not, here it is:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5crbtwXYc1U
God bless!!
Gab
August 15th, 2007 at 12:55 pm
Thanks for the link, Gab. I haven’t seen that video before. It’s so good to see people using Internet technology to spread the Word of God and inspire people. Sister J
September 3rd, 2007 at 8:59 am
Sr. Patricia’s idea to do an interview with “oprah” is great! My mom thought it was real!!
I wish someone knew how to get this to Oprah so she could see it. Who knows? Sr. Patricia might be invited to discuss the sacrament of Reconciliation on the real Oprah show!
October 27th, 2007 at 7:48 pm
Dear Sister Julie
I’ve just found your blog, while searching on Google for information on the life of Mother Celine, as I was watching the mass live on EWTN. Congratulations on this web blog. This is a great way way for bringing us all together in Christ. Thank you for this great opportunity to share the Good News of our Faith. I have just started blogging and still learning.
God Bless you
Mary
October 29th, 2007 at 6:21 pm
Thanks, Mary! Blessings to you and on your blog as well. Sister J
October 30th, 2007 at 1:12 am
Dear Sister:
I have always wondered about how it would feel to be a nun, reading your blog i have found it very insightful. however there is still a question that remains in my mind and that is, being a catholic nun are you allowed to visit other religious temples such as mosques and hindu temples. what is your view about other religions. This may sound like an ignorant question but is something that has intrigued me a lot. I hope to hear from you soon.
Yours Faithfully,
Natalie Alicia C.