God loves you and has a plan for your life .... YOUR VOCATION
Have you ever considered "Religious Life" as your possible way of life?
Explore this page to learn more about God's call to consecrated life with the Sisters of the Sorrowful Mother. Please click on the + tabs below to learn more.
How Do I Know I'm Being Called?
Remember that your life is a gift from God and each one is called into this world for something greater than we can simply see with our physical eyes so if you feel a nagging in your heart, pay attention as God may be calling you to a specific way of life.
Here are few points to guide you in your prayer and discernment:
- Do you feel a yearning desire to know God, Love Him, and serve Him more?
- Do you feel that God may be inviting you to use the gifts and talents you have in His service and for His people in a very specific way?
- Do you find that a career is not enough but you are looking something more?
- Are you familiar with Consecrated Religious Life? and/or what they do? https://www.ihmvocations.org/copy-of-national-vocation-awareness-week
- On this website you can find some materials to help you as you make this journey. https://nrvc.net/374/publication/4808-discernment
Here are other suggestions to help you in this process:
- If you feel that the Lord may be calling you, that means you have to find time to pray a little more with the intention; to know what way of life He is calling you to? https://www.usccb.org/prayers/prayers-vocations
- Do you have a spiritual director? or other person with whom you can share with, your spiritual journey?
- Are you still unsure about what could be your potential vocation and your future? e-mail or talk with a Sister. A Sister can help you talk through these thoughts and your questions and concerns about being called to a religious life. Sister Katherine Marie would be happy to chat with you. You can e-mail her at vocations4ssm@gmail.com or call 920-230-2050. or at 920 385 8192
Formation Process
Religious formation is a lifelong process. During this time, we make our commitment to God, to the Church, and to the SSM Congregation. It is a process of continual renewal that needs to be nurtured and sustained - fostering personal and communal spiritual growth. Initial formation is a 9 year period consisting of several formative stages.
Inquiry:
Inquirers are women who are seriously discerning if God is calling them to religious life. During this stage women become acquainted with two important elements of religious life: prayer and community life. They also learn about the SSM way of life, St. Francis of Assisi, St. Clare, and Our Lady of Sorrows.
Candidacy: 6 months to 2 years
After spending some time discerning, a woman interested as living as an SSM can submit a formal request for candidacy. This formal request is the beginning of the journey toward a life as an SSM. Her acceptance as a candidate is an invitation to join us in prayer, ministry, and continuous dialogue and discernment. A candidate typically continues to live in her own house or live with her family, continuing to participate in her chosen profession or job, volunteer services, and seeking to deepen her Catholic faith.
Postulancy: 1 year to 2 years
The postulancy is a transitional period of formation for a candidate to experience living with the Sisters in community, under the guidance of the Postulant Director. A woman resides in a formation house and gets to know the SSM history, way of life, and ministries. The postulant will immerse themselves in faith formation, spirituality, and community living.
Novitiate: 2 years
After completion of postulancy, a woman can be admitted to the novitiate, a period of formation rooted in prayer. The novitiate is a period of discernment and development, blending prayer, study, personal growth, and ministry. Novices also have opportunities to meet and interact with other men and women of religious congregations who are also in formation. Novices reside in a formation house under the guidance of the Novice Director.
The first year of the novitiate, known as the Canonical Year, is a contemplative time. The novice focuses on prayer, reflection, and deepening her relationship with God and others. In the second year, a novice continues her study, especially the study of vowed life and engages in the SSM ministries.
Temporary Profession: 2 years (renewable for up to 6 years)
At the end of the 2 year novitiate, each novice professes their vows of chastity, poverty, and obedience for the first time, before God and the SSM community. During the time of temporary profession, a sister professes her vows for a period of 2 years, to be renewed every 2 years, up to 6 years. During this time, the Sister will have opportunity to experience living with different Sisters.
Perpetual Profession:
After a period of temporary profession, a Sister of the Sorrowful Mother publicly professes perpetual vows of chastity, poverty, and obedience during Mass. Family members, friends, and the SSM family and friends gather with the Sisters to witness and celebrate the profession of perpetual vows. Perpetual profession is a sacred commitment to dedicate their entire life to God and to Church, through the SSM way of life. The call to religious life is one of continuous journeying deeper into one's relationship with God through ongoing spiritual, communal, ministerial, and personal formation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who are the Sisters of the Sorrowful Mother?
We are an international congregation founded in Rome in 1883 by Venerable Mother Frances Streitel. We follow the Third Order Rule of St. Francis of Assisi. Our founding charism is to live an active contemplative life in order to bring fuller Life to others. especially those in need.
“Through a dedicated life of apostolic service, vitalized by a contemplative spirit, we care for those in need, especially the poor, and in our own poverty seek the Lord above all.”
Who can become a Sister of the Sorrowful Mother?
A practicing Catholic woman ages 20-45 who desires to live the Gospel values as a consecrated religious sister within our Religious Community and, is physically and mentally healthy, capable of living the vows of chastity, poverty and obedience; and is capable of living community life and is able to engage in full-time ministry
Why become a Sister of the Sorrowful Mother?
- To love and serve the Lord by standing with Mary Our Sorrowful Mother as She stands under the Cross of Jesus who continues to suffer in our brothers and sisters in todays' world.
- To live and work with others who share the same love and passion for the Lord and within His Church by: healing, teaching, comforting, strengthening, encouraging others on the faith journey and striving to seek God’s will above all.
- To engage in embracing diversity as we minister in the U.S., in the Caribbean (Grenada, St. Lucia, Trinidad), the Dominican Republic, Austria, Germany, Italy, Brazil, and Tanzania.
Can I enter a religious community in a few months?
Entrance into any religious community is a lengthy process. It means taking time to discern, get to know that religious community whom you think God may be calling you to. You will need to know the religious community and that community will need to know you.
What does a Sister of the Sorrowful Mother do all day?
What a Sister does in ministry depends on whether she is a physician, counselor, teacher, healthcare professional, social worker, domestic worker, secretary, youth minister or coordinator, Director of Religious Education, a Pastoral Associate or many other variety of career choices in keeping with the charism and mission of the Congregation.
Apart from her ministry – usually full time – a Sister engages in:
- Personal and Communal prayer times
- Personal prayer time – a time to come closer to the Lord; to speak to Him, listen to Him and to enter into a conversation with Him.
- Spiritual reading time
- Daily attendance at Mass
- Sharing of, as well as preparing, meals with the Sisters with whom she lives
- Socializing/having fun times/leisure times usually with with Sisters with whom she lives but can be with others as well
- Exercising (whatever contributes to a Sister staying healthy for her own sake, the sake of becoming her best self and enhancing her ability to be a life-giving person in community and ministry)
How is a Sister assigned her ministry?
Ministries are mutually discerned. A Sister may be asked to engage in a particular ministry because of an existing need identified by the community and communicated through one’s legitimate superiors or the appropriate authority persons. Or, a Sister may request to engage in a particular ministry that she recognizes as being compatible with the charism and mission focus of the Congregation and for which she is qualified, skilled and eager to serve. If mutually discerned and agreed upon by legitimate authorities, this Sister is then sent to take on that ministry.
Can a Sister choose her ministry?
The community of the Sisters of the Sorrowful Mother has a mission: “to care for those in need, especially the poor.” Within that mission, each Sister has the opportunity to train and develop her skills. However, the community may ask a Sister to a particular position based on her existing talents, giftedness and educational background. If additional training or education is needed to fulfill a ministry position, the community provides for that.
Can a Sister choose the location of where she wants to work?
The goal is that Sisters minister in locations where there are other Sisters so as to live in community. It is possible that an identified need surfaces for opening a mission where SSMs have no presence. In that case, effort is made to mission at least two Sisters to minister in that area. Exceptions can be made and are mutually discerned with the appropriate authorities whereby that need can be fulfilled, even if it means a Sister living alone and connecting with a larger community via social media, and whenever possible, in person.
How do Congregations or Orders differ from one another?
By their basic charism. For instance, Dominicans are a preaching order—evangelizing is a key aspect of their gift to the church. Benedictines live a monastic lifestyle and vow stability, staying in one place. Franciscans are evangelical congregations, that is, they work to serve the poor and oppressed of society. This evangelizing mandate leads to missions throughout the world.
What is an Associate and how does that differ from being a Sister?
SSM Associates are men and women of faith who respond to their baptismal call to nurture and deepen their spiritual life in affiliation with the Sisters of the Sorrowful Mother. They embrace the values of the Sisters, commit to the challenges of living the values of St. Francis and the Sisters of the Sorrowful Mother in their everyday lives as married and/or single men and women. They do not live in community. They are committed to encouraging each other on their spiritual journey with mutual acceptance and respect. Learn more about the Associates Movement on the SSM Associates page.
What are the Entrance Requirements for becoming a Sister of the Sorrowful Mother?
- Age: Not younger than 20 or older than 45 at the date of entrance into the postulancy
- Marital Status:
- Single
- If previously married, the person may begin postulancy two years after a valid change in marital status, widowhood or annulment.
- Family responsibilities:
- Free of dependents or minor children
- No financial or legal responsibilities for a family member or relative
- Faith:
- Baptized and confirmed in the Catholic faith
- If a convert to the Catholic faith, one must live the faith for at least two years prior to entering postulancy
- Health:
- Must be physically, emotionally and mentally healthy, that is, able to participate in ministry and community life
- Must have completed three years of recovery after treatment of an addiction
- Education:
- U.S. Citizens: High School education with a year’s working experience following high school; prefer completion of an associate’s degree, a bachelor’s degree or its equivalent
- English-speaking Caribbean Citizens:
- Five General Certificates of Education *(GCE) or Caribbean Examination Council (CXC) subjects required
- An associate degree, bachelor’s degree or equivalent is preferred
- Spanish-speaking Caribbean Citizens:
- The ability to speak and understand the English language
- Secondary education or is equivalent
- An associate degree, bachelor’s degree or equivalent preferred
- Citizenship, immigration, and naturalization
- Birth certificate, naturalization papers required
- A valid passport required
- For other requirements and further questions do not hesitate on contacting SSM Director of Vocation Ministry, Sister Katherine Marie, at vocations4ssm@gmail.com
Vocation Stories from the Sisters
Read the reflections from these Sisters about how they were called to and experience religious life as a Sister of the Sorrowful Mother…
“Many different parts of our Franciscan heritage inspire me, but the one that speaks to me the most, is the simple Prayer of St. Francis…”Lord, make me an instrument….” In the past I simply mouthed those words; now I pray the prayer more consciously. I realize that in that prayer lies the fullness of the “Kingdom of God” to which I am called to contribute to make a present reality. Hence, to the measure that I am at peace is the same measure that I give to the world….A Franciscan way of living, therefore, calls me into right relationship with God, self, creation and others, and I cannot think of a better way to do this, than to be in right relationship with myself. It is a challenge, yet it is possible. My prayer is that as a Sister of the Sorrowful Mother I will continue to strive to live simply and consciously, with a deeper love and respect for others, so that my example may speak for itself.”–Sr. Gillian Angela Marie Jerome
“Franciscan Spirituality was fundamental for me to live my faith more joyfully, long before I entered the Congregation. During my novitiate, I had the grace to immerse myself in the places of Francis and Clare and to “absorb” their charism by the living testimony of their current spiritual children. The study of the Franciscan Sources and the Third Order Rule was very important to me to help to get closer to the heart and faith of Francis. His style of praying has also greatly impacted my way to pray. Through the study and testimony of Brothers and Sisters who follow in the footsteps of Francis and to reach Christ, I learned to love this spirituality even more and I desire to be guided by it throughout my consecrated life. My desire and commitment in my daily life is to be able to incarnate the Franciscan simplicity, joy, community and gratitude for all the gifts I received.”–Sr. M. Monica Baneschi
“I have been attracted by the person of Francis since childhood; his ability to rejoice in everything, the joy of seeing God in the most humble of creatures; being trustful in his heart like a child who expects everything from his parents and knows that all his needs will be satisfied. All these aspects of the Franciscan Spirituality have accompanied me as a Sister of the Sorrowful Mother. In the last few years, Francis’ unceasing reference to the Mercy of God supported me very much. God does not disdain any of us and it is through our poverty that His grace and power shine. My continuous experience of God’s Mercy helps my heart to be more merciful to our Sisters and those close to me. All of this makes me think of Mary, and, in a particular way, of standing under the cross. In her moment of utter poverty and untold suffering she became a mother in the fullness of motherhood, welcoming in her heart all the sons and daughters who were entrusted to her by her dying Son.”–Sr. Daniela Maria Alborghetti
“My vocation arose in Assisi, a place marked by Franciscan Spirituality which connected my experience with St. Francis. Growing in the charism of the Sisters of the Sorrowful Mother, I experienced some important aspects of Franciscan Spirituality. The constant reference to conversion by St. Francis, the journey to be humble of heart and to ever more welcome God’s love arises from a special relationship with the Father. My journey to truth is guided by listening to the Word and receiving the Sacraments, daily Eucharist and Adoration. In this my first year of temporary profession I am ministering to the youth. One of the most important aspects that I have experienced in this ministry is the loving and simple welcome, sharing of meals and prayer. The youth are willing and helpful; doing whatever is needed in the house. The simple lifestyle and the Providential support of friends and benefactors is concrete testimony for the youth. Living in this place full of Franciscan Spirituality allows me to live it more intensely, for example, by participating in important celebrations and being a guide for youth when they visit the holy shrines.
–Sr. M. Stefania Sangalli
“God was speaking very strongly in my head. Every evening my mother told stories of different people in the world who did not know Jesus…This was really the beginning of my vocation. I loved Jesus so much that I felt sorry that others did not know him. This desire was deepening more and more in my heart. Then I met the Sisters of the Sorrowful Mother in Rome. They were very welcoming and announced Jesus by their simplicity, humility, hospitality.”–Sister M. Teresina Marra
“I had the SSMs in school. In my little town of Villanueva, the Sisters were a quiet, yet powerful presence. One quality of the Sisters that was greatly appreciated was their respectful acceptance of who we were and of our culture. I was attracted to their prayerful presence. Each morning I would sit in church and listen to them praying in their chapel, right off the sanctuary. As I saw them in the community among us and visiting the elderly, the sick, teaching us I grew more and more in my desire to BE LIKE THEM. I believe the deep, simple faith, and prayer at home, and the lives of the Sisters were what God used to call me to religious life.”–Sister M. Lucille Flores
“I met the SSM’s at Mother of Perpetual Help School in Milwaukee where I attended grade school. I was drawn into prayer through them, especially for the four years I sang in the children’s choir. My parents were religious people, and I learned service and prayer by things I saw them do. My Dad drove the Sisters when they needed a driver. My Mom often sent food to our neighbors when we had family gatherings so those not able to get out could share our celebration. I witnessed their prayer and goodness. I was also influenced by the day of adoration held monthly in the parish, specifically for the purpose of praying that more men and women would answer their call to ministry.”–Sister M. Charleen Weiler
“Sr. Rosalie, my Mother’s sister, an SSM, was always welcoming at St. Michael’s Hospital in Stevens Point. Sr. Kiliana and Sr. Cornelia visited our house when I was in 5th grade. At that time, I believed to be a Sister was the “best” thing I could be. Mom and Dad lived their faith fully and loved me. Teachers in school encouraged me. The parish with its liturgies and sacraments supported me. My older sister, Sr. Mary Michel, who entered ahead of me, attracted me and led the way.”–Sister M. Helen Malolepsy
“When I was confirmed in the 8th grade I received a sense of “service.” It developed during high school. I wanted to be a nurse, but also serve God in a special way. I entered nurses’ training, followed one year of liturgical celebrations, and with association with the Sisters my call became more clear…with the help of one Sister I was able to “let go” of nursing to enter the convent. My family was supportive—we were good practicing Catholics. My Mother had a great love of the Rosary. I entered on the Feast of St. Anne.”–Sister M. Sylvia Egan
“When in 8th grade a Sister asked who wanted to go to the Convent, my hand went up, much to my surprise and hers. But my hand stayed up and has gone up again as my vocation became more specific and at each crossroad I knew I loved Jesus in the Eucharist. And when he asked various things of me the love had to become action.The spirituality of my mother and father was foundational. The Sisters who taught us catechism were so awesome and spoke of how God was. The example of the Sisters…spoke to my heart—in great silence.”–Sister Margaret Mary Troy
Still Uncertain About Your Call?
A letter from Sister Dorothy Ann to women discerning their call…
Being uncertain about your vocation, not sure whether you are called to religious or married life or the single life, is normal. Knowing which direction to take cannot be forced. What God wants of us is revealed in the nitty gritty of the choices we make. So, let’s say that you continue dating and as a result of those experiences, it becomes clear to you that you are or are not called to marriage; if you conclude that you are not called to marriage, you might then feel freer to focus most of your attention on seriously looking at the other vocations in life.
Living in the tension of not knowing is important. I suggest that, in prayer, you share your tension, all the feelings and thoughts that are going on within you, with the Lord as you consider all vocations. You could do that by journaling, writing the Lord letters in which you express these inner stirrings, the confusion, the questions, etc., you have about marriage, the single life and/or religious life. Eventually a clear picture will emerge in God’s time and place, not ours.
Do not rush the process or force clarity. Live in the mystery. Go about life, living it fully and intentionally, meaningfully and calmly as a student, if you are a student; as a participant in service and/or parish activities, in your area of employment, if employed, knowing that, as Isaiah tells us, “in quiet and in trust your strength lies.” (Is. 30:15). Keep seeking God’s will above all–He will show you what He wants of you as you continue to open yourself up to a variety of experiences and considerations, always seeking His counsel, calling upon Him for clarity, patience, humility and love. Be open to the possibility of intentionally remaining single, if that were God’s will for you. The key is: what does God want of you?
Since the Holy Spirit has whispered to you to consider religious life, it is possible that you are called to consecrate your life to the Lord. That, too, can become obvious as you search out information about religious life, browsing web sites, visiting convents, talking to vocation directors (face-to-face or through e-mail, telephone conversations, Skype), attending discernment sessions and/or “Come and See” events where you meet sisters, become acquainted with their charism and spirituality, listen to their vocation stories and ministry experiences, their living of community life, what makes them happy and joyful in their vocation, etc.–a sort of dating “religious life” over an extended period of time.
Many young women do not enter marriage or religious life until their late twenties or early thirties, so give yourself space to consider the vocation in life to which God is calling you without putting undue pressure on yourself.
I hope this information is helpful to you. Please feel free to contact our Director of Vocation Ministry with any further questions you may have.
–Sister Dorothy Ann Dirkx, Sisters of the Sorrowful Mother
What if I have other questions?
You can contact our Vocation Director, Sr. Katherine Marie at vocations4ssm@gmail.com or via cell (920)385-8192.
Interested in learning more about religious life? We would love to hear from you!
Congregation of the Sisters of the Sorrowful Mother
Third Order Regular of Saint Francis of Assisi
Contact us @
Congregation of the Sisters of the Sorrowful Mother
Third Order Regular of Saint Francis of Assisi
Sister Katherine Marie Mujawamariya
920-385-8192 (cell)
920-385-8192 (cell)
920-230-2050 (office)
Sister Katherine Marie Mujawamariya
Read Sister Dorothy Ann’s Blogs:
Locations:
The St. Clare of Assisi Region of the Sisters of the Sorrowful Mother has ministries across Wisconsin; in Tulsa, Okla.; Denville, NJ; and the Dominican Republic. Internationally we have locations in Germany, Italy, Austria, Brazil, Tanzania and the Caribbean islands of Grenada, St. Lucia and Trinidad/Tobago.
What It Means to Be a Sister
Watch the video below, which includes interviews with Sisters on the meaning of religious life.
