I continue to discuss the topic of discernment of a vocation.

I continue to discuss the topic of discernment of a vocation. I fear some young women might not know that it takes a serious and prayerful discernment to make a commitment that will affect their entire life.
This is good prayer to pray: “Lord, let me know what it is You want me to do in life because I will be happiest only in doing Your Holy Will.” God calls us to participate in the mission of the Church and to love His people. The young person may fulfill this same mission in a variety of ways. They will best be able to serve God in the ministries of the Church by using the gifts God has given to them.
How does one know to what community God is calling her? That is a big mystery! It is not a mystery to God, however. He will direct her to a particular community. I wrote letters to different communities. I visited at least three communities. But guess what? I entered a community to which God directed me. I had never visited or written to the Sisters of St. Mary of Oregon. Yet, my love of Our Lady and the fact that I came to Oregon to work as a migrant worker…that was enough for God to point me in the right direction.
Women in religious communities live a simple and celibate lifestyle. They make public vows of poverty, chastity and obedience. These vows free her to serve God more fully. Prayer and work are part of the tradition of all communities. By joining a religious community a young woman will find the support and courage to focus on the ministries of the Church. Depending on the vision of their founders, the charism of the Congregation, and the gifts and talents of their members, each community accents them differently. Thus, some communities are primarily contemplative while others are more active.
I became a “postulant” in September many years ago. A year later I became a “novice”. I remained a novice for three years. Then I became a “junior Sister” until I made my final vows. The congregation prepared and trained me for the community’s particular apostolic work…education. The works of some communities frequently address areas of education, social work, administration, communication, healthcare, etc.
Where to start? You may start by calling the office of vocations at our local diocesan office (503-234-5334) and they will direct you to inquire and visit different communities in the area. Personal contact is one of the best ways to gain knowledge of a community and find out about its spirituality, apostolate, and life-style. Some communities offer weekend retreats or live-in experiences. Two weekends are scheduled with the Sisters of St. Mary of Oregon at 4440 S.W. 148th Ave. in Beaverton 97007. One is on March 26-28 and the other is on May 21-23. Please feel free to contact Sister Charlene Herinckx, SSMO at 503-906-1131.
Seek information, ask for advice, seek the guidance of competent people, especially religious or priests, evaluate yourself and above all, pray to the Lord for wisdom and courage to discern and do His Will. A good spiritual director may be very helpful in receiving objective advice.