Religious Sisters of Charity

How long do you pray for each day?
Each day we attend Mass in the parish and generally have Evening Prayer of the Church/Office together in the evening. Individually we meditate/contemplate usually on a Scripture passage for an hour in the morning and have short times for prayer, reading a spiritual book and reflection throughout the day.

Why don't you wear a habit or religious dress?
We wear a gold ring and a crucifix. A habit is not relevant for the ministries we do today.

Can living in Community be difficult?
In modern day society the emphasis is very much based on individualism, so living in Community provides a real opportunity of learning to live together. This is never static but demands a renewed response daily. Our aim is to live a balanced life of Mission and Community, sharing time for prayer and celebrations.

Do you have to be a virgin to become a sister?
No, but you do need to be growing in self-awareness and be ready to live a celibate life.

Do you have time to be with your family and friends?
As with any other vocation/way of life, it is important to nurture loving relationships. Usually we have breaks with friends or family during the year.

Why dont you get married?
We choose to be celibate so that we can devote our time to God and to serving the needs of others.

Do you miss not being married and having a family?
Yes, at times. Like any other choice in life, sometimes you may wonder what life would have been like if you choose another path. But most of the time we are at peace with our calling.

Do you have your own money?
Yes, we have money to buy personal things, like clothes, toiletries etc.

What do you mean when you talk about poverty?
Poverty is having an attitude of respect for creation, using the goods of the world to help others. For us it means, not having personal ownership of what we might earn, it is used for the good of all.

What do you mean when you talk about chastity?
We talk about celibacy, it means a willingness to live for others, without having an exclusive sexual relationship.

What do you mean when you talk about obedience?
Obedience for us means to listen to God, to the needs around us, and to our superiors, so that together we can try to serve where the greatest needs are.