Frequently Asked Questions
	Excerpted from Conversations About Religious Life FAQs.                                                   Is it normal to feel afraid of losing my identity as I join religious life?   Yes, everyone who joins wonders if they will be able to be themselves as they become part of religious community. The best thing we can offer to the community is to bring our best selves to bear in this commitment. At the heart of our quest for God is the realization that we cannot be authentic if we don't bring the whole of ourselves as created by God. As we immerse ourselves in joining religious life we will, hopefully, grow in freedom to be most fully ourselves. How will this community be a place where I can feel at home? Undoubtedly, when you are new, you will not feel totally at home right away. It takes time. You will notice the developed relationships of those who have been around for years. You will realize you are just beginning the process of amalgamating into community and creating memories for yourself. But as you participate in each step into this life you will be asking yourself and others about how you fit and how they will make room for you. The freedom to ask the question and to express your doubts and fears will provide you with the ability to really make this your home. Where will I live? At the beginning of candidacy most individuals go on living where they did before they applied. Gradually you will be guided to expand your relationships with members near you and eventually you will be part of the negotiation of where you will live. You will be invited to stay in different houses, as a guest, before being part of the decision of where you would like to live among IHMs. Although there are people who are willing to create spaces for new members, there are no ready-made houses for new people to move into. It is a realistic, adult model of mutual decision-making that takes place as you join the community. Do I have to sign on the dotted line? There isn't any part of this decision that isn't accompanied by time for reflection and peaceful decision-making. You need to be free to leave at any time in order to be really free to stay in the process. There is never a bottom line that completes the process. Once you enter religious life you are choosing continual growth and development. More Questions? We know we can't answer all of your questions here. Your questions and concerns will be as unique as you are. We'll be happy to discuss them with you.   Read more about vowed life. For more information about IHM vowed membership contact: Do you have a question to ask Sr. Mary Bea? Send her an e-mail.   Mary Bea Keeley, IHM Vocation/Formation Director 610 W. Elm Avenue Monroe, MI 48162-7909  Phone 734-240-9820 Read about a religious vocation in VISION, a Catholic vocation guide. You may also consult your local Diocesan Web page for information about vocations.

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