MEMBERSHIP

Those interested in becoming full members are invited to visit our communities and get to know us. If still feeling drawn to our way of life, they live for a year or so in one or more communities, sharing the prayer and community life without obligation.

During this time someone will accompany them spiritually, helping them discern the way forward. It is a time of asking, "Am I called to religious life? Is the life of this group of women suited to my understanding of what God is asking of me? Or would another choice be better for me?"

This can be followed by commitment to two years of intense spiritual training, either in Britain or in the international novitiate in Belgium. After this the candidate may make her first vows, and there follow about six years in which she works towards full membership and final commitment. During this time she is helped to integrate her chosen ministry with community living and her life of prayer - all according to the spirit of the Sisters of St Mary.

Partnership

People associate with the Sisters of St Mary in different ways. Some women become full members. Others are Associates who share our spirituality without living in community: these may be married or single, male or female. Still others form a looser association as Prayer Companions. We are currently exploring other possibilities.