 Have you wondered what the life of a woman religious is like in the twenty-first century? Do you have a question about being a Sister? Or about what it means to be a Racine Dominican Sister or Associate?
Sister Karen will be happy to respond to your questions. Just click here and ask her: vocations@racinedominicans.org
Here are some frequently asked questions:
1. What does it mean to be a sister?
A sister is a woman who shares the gift of her life and love in community. Sisters respond to God's call which is a distinct life's choice of commitment expressed in the vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience. Her life is deeply rooted in relationship with God in prayer, with others in her community, and with the wider human community.
2. What sort of work does a sister do?
The life-giving work of a sister is called ministry. Sisters participate in the mission of Jesus by attending to the needs of others in Church-related ministry, serving in a parish, school, hospital, pastoral care, or in social service organizations. Her work involves her in gospel living and giving in the spirit of the founder/foundress of her community.
3. Who are the Racine Dominicans Sisters?
Racine Dominicans are members of the Dominican family founded by St. Dominic in the early 13th century. Mother Benedicta Bauer came from Bavaria and founded the Racine Dominican Community in 1862. Dominican Sisters of Racine are "committed to truth and compelled to justice" who serve by their presence and ministry in areas of education, pastoral and retreat ministries, spiritual guidance, health care, pastoral care, and social justice.
4. What does it mean to "discern" a vocation?
God's call unfolds as we open our lives to the wonder and beauty of our individual gifts. Discernment is a process of listening attentively through prayer and life experience to God's particular call to single life, married life, or vowed community life. Listening includes sharing one's life story with a spiritual guide who serves as a companion in making life choices.
5. Why is St. Catherine of Siena important to Racine Dominicans? St. Catherine who lived from 1347-1380 was a risk-taker. She is recognized as a "Doctor of the Church" who worked as a negotiator to mend differences in the Church. She was a mystic whose constant conversation with God permeated her relationships and her ministry. Catherine of Siena preached a gospel of mercy in her day and was intent on bringing a message of hope and courage to those who suffered. She continues to be a dynamic model for living Dominican life. Racine Dominicans seek to preach the message she proclaimed in this time and age.
6. Who are Racine Dominican Associates?
Associates are single and married women and men who share the spirit and mission of the Racine Dominican Community. See the side bar menu, Associates, on this website: www.racinedominicans.org
7. How can I learn more about the Racine Dominicans?
Contact vocation director, Sister Karen Vollmer, OP, at 262-639-4100 or by email: vocations@racinedominicans.org and continue to keep updated on community life by visiting the website: www.racinedominicans.org
You may also contact her at:
Sister Karen Vollmer, O.P.
Siena Center
5635 Erie Street
Racine, WI 53402
262-639-4100
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