How to Become a Nun
Becoming a nun is a big decision that requires a lot of thought and soul searching. It is a life-long commitment and a spiritual journey that requires dedication and sacrifice. If you are considering becoming a nun, here’s a guide to help you understand the process and what it takes to join a religious community.
What is a nun?
A nun is a woman who has dedicated her life to serving God and the community through prayer, service, and living in community with other nuns.
What are the requirements to become a nun?
The requirements may vary depending on the religious community you are considering, but generally, you must:
- Be a baptized Catholic
- Be unmarried or widowed
- Have a genuine desire to serve God and the community
- Be in good physical and mental health
Do I have to be a virgin to become a nun?
No, you do not have to be a virgin to become a nun. However, some religious communities may prefer candidates who are virgins.
What is the process of becoming a nun?
The process may vary, but generally, it involves the following steps:
- Research and discernment: This is a time for you to research and learn about different religious communities and to discern if becoming a nun is right for you.
- Contact a religious community: Once you have found a community that you are interested in, you can contact them to learn more about their requirements and application process.
- Application: You will need to fill out an application form and submit it along with any required documents.
- Candidacy: If your application is accepted, you will enter a period of candidacy where you will live with the community and participate in their daily life.
- Novitiate: If your candidacy is successful, you will then enter the novitiate, a two-year period of spiritual and theological formation. This is also the time for you to test your commitment to becoming a nun.
- Profession of vows: After the novitiate, if you are ready to continue with your journey, you will make temporary vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience. After a few years, you can choose to make perpetual vows and become a fully professed nun.
What are the vows of a nun?
The vows of a nun are poverty, chastity, and obedience. Poverty means living a simple life without material possessions, chastity is a vow of celibacy, and obedience is a commitment to follow the rules and regulations of the religious community.
Can I leave the convent after I become a nun?
Joining a religious community is a life-long commitment, but there may be exceptional circumstances where you may be allowed or even encouraged to leave the convent. However, this decision must be made in consultation with your superiors and must be done with a lot of thought and prayer.
Is there an age limit to become a nun?
There is not a specific age limit to become a nun, but most religious communities prefer candidates who are between the ages of 18-35.
Conclusion
Becoming a nun is a noble calling and a life-changing decision. It is a journey that requires courage, dedication, and a genuine desire to serve God and the community. If you are considering becoming a nun, pray, and reflect on your decision and reach out to different religious communities to learn more about their way of life.