NEWS
Register for the convocation now and save $100
Register today to save $100 on attendance at our fall convocation in Minneapolis. Don’t delay—this gathering will be an inspiring, informative, enriching event for vocation ministers and those who support new membership to religious communities. To receive the $100 discount, you must register before October 1. Learn more.
Resource of the month: "10 questions parents ask" brochure
This colorful, four-panel brochure gives accurate answers to things parents commonly ask about vocations to religious life: from taking vows to spending time with family members. Sold in packages of 100, this brochure is affordable as a giveaway in parish bulletins, at sponsored ministries, in schools, etc. Members pay $15 for a pack of 100, non-members $23. Bulk discounts are available. Order here.
Who is entering religious life and what do they say about it?
The Center for Applied Research in the Apostolate recently published its annual Entrance Class Report, providing important information about those who began formation with a religious community in 2023. The report tells the demographics, reasons for entering, and more about the 153 men and 126 women who entered religious life in 2023.
A total of 99 religious institutes in the United States had at least one person enter initial formation as postulant or candidate. The majority of entrants were born in the United States, with 18 percent born in another country. About one quarter of them speak two languages fluently. Seventeen percent earned a master’s degree before entering religious life.
Starting a conversation about their vocation discernment was easy for about half of the newer entrants (63 percent for men and 42 percent for women).
Contact with institute members continues to be the most significant factor in discerning a calling to religious life. The spirituality and example of members of the institutes attracted 91 percent of newer entrants to their religious institute. Learn more here.
Welcome new board members; thank you outgoing members
Welcome to Sister Eileen McCann, C.S.J. and Brother John Skrodinsky, S.T., who are joining the NRVC board. Farewell to departing board members Nancy Costello and Sister Mary Yun, O.P. The new NRVC board members begin their terms with the September meeting. Departing members will attend their final board meeting in September. We extend thanks to all of them for their commitment to vocation ministry.
Celebrate All Saints and All Souls Days at Convocation
Convocation participants are asked to bring two photos or statues of their favorite patron saints for the opening prayer ritual and two mementos of people who have died. We will collectively display these items in the conference ballroom to focus our time and prayer together during the convocation.
Member Area gatherings
Southwest, September 17, by Zoom
Upper Midwest, September 24, by Zoom
Mid-Atantic, October 6, at Catholic University, Pray, Walk, Eat! event.
International, November 21, by Zoom
Do you know what's happening in your Member Area? Log in to nrvc.net and learn what is happening near you to collaborate and give and receive support in your ministry. See Member Area News to read the minutes of your area's meetings and see what is happening around the country. For more information, contact your member area coordinator.
News and events of our collaborators
Check out news about our collaborators: large Catholic gatherings, resources, classes, retreats, and more.
