What is a religious vocation?

We are all called to be religious, but if you feel it in your heart, this may also become a vocation.

These days, religious sisters, brothers and priests seem misunderstood. Sometimes you look at these folks and you instantly have thoughts of clasped hands, kneeling and praying. Of course, this is true to a religious vocation, but it doesn't fully express the meaning of being a "religious".

Like you and me, nuns, brothers and priests are human too. From a first hand account, they like to eat cheeseburgers, ride rollercoasters, and day dream about being a rock star.

What do religious do?

Nuns, brothers and priests strive to live a life central to the Gospel message of love. They not only do this by praying, but many who are doctors, nurses, social workers, psychologist, academic professors take an active role in the bettering of the community in which they live.

How do they do it?

Religious go through a period of time of learning and understanding what it means to live a life fully dedicated to Christ. Fully dedicated here doesn't mean that only religious can live a dedicated life to Christ, but here it means living a Christ-like life by freeing oneself from earthly attatchments through vows of poverty, chasity and obedience.

What are the vows of a religious?

Many religious communities have the same vows. These vows help the religious in spiritual, mental and even phyisical growth. All vows are reflections of Jesus' life.
-Poverty: living a simple life. Sharing in all possessions. Renouncing extravagents.
-Chasity: giving oneself exclusively to Christ through celibacy and loving all God's people inclusively.
-Obedience: listening to the will of God through the voice of another.

How do I know if I'm called?

If you are here reading this, you are on the right track. Below are some links to religious orders. Pray, explore, understand and pray some more. If you would like to talk to someone in more detail about a religious vocation, seek out your parish priest or the nun who does charity work at your parish or any other fun, crazy habit wearing person you can find.

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