What Is a Religious Order and How Do You Choose One?

Introduction

When we talk about religious orders in the Catholic Church, we’re talking about groups of people—men or women—who’ve committed their lives to following Jesus in a special way. They’ve decided to give up a “normal” life with stuff like marriage and personal property to focus on prayer, service, and community living. If you’re thinking about joining a religious order, you’re not alone, but it’s a big decision. How do you even go about choosing one? Let’s dig into that.

What Is a Religious Order?

In plain words, a religious order is like a spiritual family within the Church. Its members live by a specific set of rules, known as a “Rule,” and they usually focus on some sort of mission, like teaching, serving the poor, or evangelizing. Each order also has its own way of praying, and its own set of traditions and customs.

According to the Catechism of the Catholic Church, “Religious life was born in the East during the first centuries of Christianity. Lived within institutes canonically erected by the Church, it is distinguished from other forms of consecrated life by its liturgical character, public profession of the evangelical counsels, fraternal life led in common, and witness given to the union of Christ with the Church” (CCC 925).

So, it’s a way of life that’s officially recognized by the Church and helps us grow closer to God.

Charism: The Special Flavor of Each Order

Each religious order has something called a “charism,” a special gift or focus given to it by the Holy Spirit. This charism helps the order carry out its mission in a way that no other group can. For instance, the Franciscans are known for their love of poverty and simplicity, while the Jesuits are known for their emphasis on education and intellectual pursuits.

Types of Religious Orders

Not all religious orders are the same. In fact, they can be grouped into a few types:

Monastic Orders

These are the folks you often think of when you hear the word “monk.” They live in monasteries and spend a lot of time in prayer. Examples include the Benedictines and the Carthusians.

Mendicant Orders

These guys rely on donations and often live among the people they serve. Examples include the Franciscans and Dominicans.

Apostolic Orders

These religious often do active work like teaching, nursing, or social work. Examples include the Salesians and Sisters of Mercy.

Secular Institutes

Members don’t usually live in community and often have regular jobs, but they still commit to living a life of poverty, chastity, and obedience.

How to Choose a Religious Order

Discernment: The First Step

The first thing you have to do when thinking about joining a religious order is what the Church calls “discernment.” This is a process of prayer and reflection to figure out what God’s calling you to do. Jesus said, “My sheep hear my voice; I know them, and they follow me” (John 10:27). So take time to listen.

Learn About Different Orders

Each order has its own mission and charism, so you need to learn about them to see where you might fit in best. Read about their history, founders, and work. If possible, visit communities and participate in their life for a time.

Consult Trusted Advisors

Speak to people you trust—priests, spiritual directors, family, and friends who know you well. Their insights might be very helpful. But remember, the decision is ultimately between you and God.

Consider Your Gifts and Limitations

Think about what skills or talents God has given you that could be used for His service. St. Paul says, “As each one has received a gift, use it to serve one another as good stewards of God’s varied grace” (1 Peter 4:10). Also, be realistic about your limitations. Not everyone is suited for every kind of religious life.

Pray

Above all, pray for guidance. The Catechism says, “We can pray anywhere: ‘whether he is in the church, or in his house, or in the country; if he is traveling, or in his chariot, or in his shop, or at his place of labor'” (CCC 2743, paraphrasing St. John Chrysostom).

Universal Teaching vs. Theological Opinion

It’s important to note that the existence and value of religious orders are universal teachings of the Church. However, the process of discernment and the best ways to go about it might include theological opinions and advice from various sources.

Conclusion

Choosing a religious order is a big decision, but remember, it’s not just you making the choice. God is also calling you to a particular way of life, and He’ll guide you if you let Him. Take your time, learn, pray, and trust that God will show you the way. And don’t be afraid; as Jesus told His disciples, “Do not be afraid; just have faith” (Mark 5:36).

May God bless you on your journey of discernment.