By virtue of Baptism each Christian is called to the service of neighbor for the love of God. Some Christians fulfill this by joining a congregation committed to serving Christ and the Church through the public profession of Vows. At one time these religious were quite visible in their habits and ministries of teaching or health care. Today they are scattered in small numbers but still doing the work of God.

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 in Jesus' footsteps. It's often accompanied by fears, by tears and by the struggle to resist God's voice.