Formation
Beginning the Discernment Process with the Community
Throughout our life we are called to live with open and listening hearts. However, the discernment process invites a woman to focus her attention on God’s call by looking more seriously at the possibility of a religious vocation for herself.

This time of mutual discernment gives a woman an opportunity to experience the life, ministry and spirituality of a Sister of Notre Dame. It also gives the community an opportunity to come to know the woman responding to God’s call. For approximately one year, she meets regularly with the vocation director who assists her in recognizing and responding to God’s call in her life.

At times the call to religious life is affirmed by family, faith community and friends. At other times, there are places of resistance to God’s call from those around her. It is important to remain true to the deepest desire of one's heart.

A woman beginning this type of discernment is encouraged to approach this time prayerfully so that she can come to a free response to God’s call, whether that means to stay with the discernment process and continue to pursue her call with the Sisters of Notre Dame or to move peacefully onto another vocational path. If you are interested in starting a discernment process or would like more information about it, contact one of our vocation directors.