Most religious congregations of sisters include community life among their characteristic elements, although life in community can take different forms, large or small, informal or structured, according to a particular charism* and the needs of the mission.  

(* Charism: the special gift that a religious group is to the Church and to the world).

We gather in community

• not just because it may be more convenient for ministry;
• not because it may be more economical;
• not even to fulfill a need for human intimacy in a culture afflicted with loneliness

We gather in community, with all its joys and sorrows, primarily because: 

• it expresses our desire to witness to our oneness with God and with each other in the love of Christ; 

• it can be a visible living-out of the common vision of the religious congregation to which we belong;

• it helps us support each other in the mystical pilgrimage of union in God's love — and "in the rigors of the inward journey" (see Parker Palmer, "The Monastic Way to Church Renewal," Desert Call, Winter 1987, 8-9).

Community life proclaims the reality that love of neighbor is indeed possible.  Love and peace are possible among those who are not related, who do not choose each other, who are not necessarily friends.

In this light we commit ourselves to be present to each other in the glad times, and we willingly accept the burdens of the difficult times. We also allow each other the freedom to stumble along the spiritual path.

For additional reflection, view the video, "That All May Be One"...

...or read "Why Do We Gather?"

 Consider the reflection material to the left and the scripture passages above.

Do I feel drawn to life in community? 

Am I willing and able to enter into both the joys and sorrows of community, even when community life fails to live up to the ideal?

(You might want to write your reflections below and save or print out this page as part of your discernment journal.)