Elisabett writes: Does
anyone have a "ten ways to know you're called to be a sister"
worksheet or something?
S. Ellen responds:
One
of the reasons you probably have not been able to find a “ways to know if
you’re called to be a sister” checklist or worksheet is that each
individual is unique and so is her call to religious life. I have provided a
few websites that could help in your general discernment. You can e-mail with
details and we may be able to be more specific.
Although not a checklist as such, our joint SDS website has an article, “The
Signs of a Religious Vocation.” It list three signs of a religious vocation:
Do
I have a desire for the life?
Do I want the life for the right reasons? If you're looking within your own
heart and still find a deep void there that needs to be filled -- and you are
interested in giving more than you are in getting -- then maybe you're looking
in just the right place.
The third sign is fitness, by which is meant the ability to live a religious
life, to live it comfortably, cheerfully and generously, without going to pieces
or without a constant drain on your inner resources or energies or without a
whole lot of tensions.
God bless you as you continue your journey.
Elisabett writes:
There must be SOME specific, identifiable ways to know if you're on the right
track....
S. Mary Lee responds:
I
agree with Sr. Ellen’s response (above). The only additional advice I could
come up with is to suggest that you check the article in 2006 Vision magazine,
page 48 entitled “Sixteen Questions about Church Vocations.” It is broader
than just religious life, but you may find it helpful. Unfortunately it is not
available on the web as the 2007 Vision magazine is out (http://vocation-network.org/articles/list)
but if you e-mail me, I can send you a copy.