What exactly is a “calling”?

A calling to religious life is usually a realization that occurs over time, a conviction that takes root within you, and a nagging awareness that God wants YOU to serve others by following Jesus' footsteps. It's often accompanied by fears, by tears and by the struggle to resist God's voice. 

Simply Human and Searching for More

Many people have a misperception of women religious as infallible people lifted up on a pedestal of holiness.  We’re here to tell you that this truly is a misconception!  As Sisters of Mercy, we realize that the only infallible person is Jesus Christ and that we, on the other hand, are each extremely fallible.  In fact, we each prove our humanness every single day!

However, we yearn for more and are united by a desire to serve God’s people….especially the poor, the sick, and the uneducated.  It’s through this mission that we are Sisters of Mercy!

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Bound through our Uniqueness

At left, Sister Larretta Rivera-Williams, RSM

Each Sister of Mercy is a unique woman with a personality and individuality that’s truly her own.  Some Mercys are tall, while others are short.  You’ll find plump Sisters and skinny Sisters.  Some of us are extraverts and others are introverted.  There are Mercys who like sports and Mercys who like art! 

We marvel at our unique qualities as we bring them together to create a solid community of vowed women religious.

When discerning a religious vocation, many women fear that a community will expect them to change their personalities to fit a certain mold.  God created each of us as individuals with our own strengths and our own talents.  That’s why it’s our belief that no one should ever expect us to change from the people we are.

 As Mercys, we believe that by each incorporating the best of our unique characteristics into the community, we strengthen the community such that we can put our best foot forward in our service to God’s people. 

In a nutshell, we want each Sister of Mercy to be themselves…..and to bring the best of themselves into their ministries.

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Discerning Minds Want to Know

If you are seeking God’s will and searching for an answer, the best advice we can give you is to pray … and pray often. Remain open and listen to how God is speaking to you in your heart.

If you're like many of us who have resisted … or avoided God's call … it may be that God is allowing these struggles so that you can work through them as you strengthen your vocation and test your resolve.

At right, Sister M. Loreto Brown, RSM  & Sister Lisa Atkins, RSM

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Taking Discernment One Day at a Time

Every vocation….single, married, or religious….is a serious step that requires a lifelong commitment.  That’s why these matters should be taken slowly and with a deep and conscious deliberation.  It’s essential to pray for guidance throughout your discernment.  Working with a trained Spiritual Director is also very helpful.  No one, including yourself, should ever rush your decision or place unrealistic timelines in front of you. 

Let the Holy Spirit guide you … and enjoy the journey!

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Let us Journey With You!

If you’re discerning a vocation as a vowed woman religious, consider the Sisters of Mercy.  Regardless of where you are in the discernment process, we can begin a conversation.

We realize the importance of confidentiality….and conversations can be as anonymous as you’d like.  We understand that discernment can be scary and sometimes overwhelming.  We’re here to help!

We can share with you about our journey to vowed religious life, about our ministries, and about our lifestyle.  You choose the communications method….e-mail, chat rooms, phone calls, letters, or even face-to-face meetings all work for us.  Which works best for you?

At left, Sister Virginia Raymond, RSM

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Finding Your True Vocation

The most important outcome of any discernment is uncovering your true vocation.  If you have a vocation to become a Sister of Mercy, we’ll rejoice with you.

If you have a vocation to another religious order….we’ll also rejoice with that decision.

And, if you determine that single or married life are your true and natural calling, that is also wonderful!

When all is said and done, we want to help you become the person God is calling you to be, so that you can accomplish more than you ever dreamt possible.  

We were each created in God’s image with a specific purpose and a specific calling. Exploring this purpose brings about questions, concerns, and opportunities.  

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So….ask yourself. . .

	What do you see as the pros and the cons of religious life?
	Have you been seeking a deeper relationship with God?
	Do you pray frequently for guidance?
	Have you considered how fulfilling a life of service to God and God's people would be for you?	S. Erencia Saipweirik, RSM
	Does the idea of religious life continue to run in and out of your consciousness?
	Do you reverence the sacred gifts that God has given you?
	Would you enjoy living in a community of supportive Catholic women?
	What can you do to help answer your questions? How can we help you?

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Have you considered:

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Take that First Step….no strings attached!

If you have a question about religious life and would like a Sister of Mercy to reply to you, feel free to contact Sister Mary Angela Perez, Sister Jill Katherine Weber or in Guam, Sister Maria Rosario Gaite. 

If you are in the U.S., call us toll free at 1-866-HAV-MERCY.  In Guam, you can call 671.632.5126. 

Or you can e-mail: Sister Mary Angela, Sister Jill. or Sister Maria Rosario.  Take that first step today….we’re looking forward to hearing from you!

Sister Mary Angela	Sister Jill	Sister Maria Rosario

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Prayer for Religious Vocations

Catherine McAuley, foundress of the Sisters of Mercy