FINAL PROFESSION

As you read in the last INPUT, it takes three to four years of "initial" formation before you make the decision to become a sister.

From the time you take your first until you take your final vows is referred to as "temporary vows". The period of time from first to final vows can be up to six years. It is possible to take your final vows after three years of temporary profession. Anytime before final vows if temporary vows have expired, you are free to leave. Can you think of any other life-style that gives you all these opportunities?

Throughout these years, the woman continues to deepen the understanding of herself and who she is in the eyes of her God. She becomes more bonded to the community to which she has vowed herself and comes to a deeper understanding of her own spirituality and that of the community. She is very much gift--lending her particular talents to the talents of the whole.

Speaking on a more personal basis, I realize that by choosing this life, I have said no to other options: a husband, children, owning thin-as in my own name. Yet I have said yes to other options: spiritual community which shares their faith life with me and I with them; many homes where I can love and minister; the space and the time for prayer and recreation.

The reasons that I chose religious life are not the same reasons why I remain today. I've outgrown those reasons, and God has given me new reasons along the way to continue this lifestyle.

I realize that security is not a very good reason to commit myself to religious life. Is there any way of fife that is secure today? I realize that ministry is a good reason, but that ministry cannot be the only reason. It is too easy for religious who constantly "do" to bum out. Perhaps the best reason for me to be a sister is to follow Christ. Following Christ has meant giving service when I would rather be doing my own thing. Following Christ has meant learning what it means to be a wounded healer--to accept my own wounds so that the woundedness of others does not repel me. Following, Christ has meant to learn how to have faith when I cannot see where the road leads. Following Christ has meant to pray with my whole heart and soul, to grow in faith, hope and love; to be a woman of joy.

No matter what vocation you are being called to, I hope that you will be an apostle. Be a woman of Christ. Be a lover of God's people.

I pray that you will answer the questions, "Where can I love best with the help of my God?"

NEXT ISSUE: POVERTY, CHASTITY, AND OBEDIENCE