Am I called?

The first step is to contact one of our vocation ministers a vocation@sndden.org. We will put you in contact with a Sister Companion. She will tell you more about discernment, our congregation, and resources such as vocation retreats, prayer, and working with a Spiritual Director. She will explore with you important questions such as the following:

• Do you desire a deeper relationship with God and a life of Gospel service
• Are 20-50 years old with at least one year of college or work experience
• Are a practicing Catholic
• Are you free from marriage vows and responsibility for minor children
• Are you physically and mentally healthy
• Do you wish to live in community and minister according to the Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur's mission.

Moving Forward:

This stage provides support while you explore your call to religious life. If you feel called to religious life, you will enter the Pre-Affiliate stage while you discern your call to be a Sister of Notre Dame de Namur. During this time, you discern with a Sister Mentor. You may:

• Live independently as you prayerfully consider your decision.
• Meet and spend time with individual Sisters and local communities.
• Share with a vocation minister and Sisters in your area. 

Is this Congregation right for me? Affiliation is a time for you to live in a Notre Dame community and experience life with members of the congregation. A Sister mentor walks with you on this journey. As you continue to discern, you will: 

• Continue your current job and studies.
• Participate in community life, prayer and activities.
• Continue to learn about the spirit and mission of Notre Dame. •
• Maintain your financial independence. 

Is God calling me to a life of poverty, celibate chastity, and obedience? In this stage you will become a Novice. This is a two year program.