Sister Stefanie MacDonald signs her monastic promises during a simple but beautiful ceremony in our chapel during her first monastic profession.

One of the differences between apostolic communities (like the Franciscans and Dominicans) and Benedictine monastic communities is our vows. In fact, we don’t actually make “vows.” We make promises. It’s more than a word difference!

Our promises underscore our commitment to each other, as Sisters of St. Benedict. They underscore our commitment to seeking God together. They underscore our commitment to be faithful for life.

We wait at least 3 years before making these promises. During that time, we live and work and learn in community as postulants and novices, continuing our discernment. We want to be sure the community is right for us … and that we are right for the community!

At the end of our 2nd Novice year, we make our First Monastic Profession, which is where the promises come in. They include Stability, Fidelity to the Monastic Way of Life, and Obedience.

We asked Sister Mary Core – who has served both as Formation Director and Vocation Director for our community – to talk about our Benedictine Monastic Promises. First, she gives an overview of our promises. Three more videos include talks on Obedience, Stability and Fidelity to the Monastic Way of Life.

For more information, contact Sister Stefanie at smacdonald@smmsisters.org or (309) 283-2300!!!