Diocesan Life
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Religious Life
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Religious Life

Serving the Diocese of Springfield in Illinois are brothers, sisters and religious priests who have responded to God's call. They are living signs of a life lived in Christ.

Brothers, sisters and religious priests work together and pray together. They work for peace & justice among all people regardless of their race or creed.

Among these pages you can find a brief summary of the religious calling. Contact information for the various religious houses that serve the Diocese of Springfield can be found in the master address directory. Take the time to visit their own individual websites to become more acquainted with the various orders.

How long does it take to become a priest, sister, or brother in a religious community? It takes 2-4 years as a postulant and a novice, living in a religious community and learning about it; 3-6 years of temporary vows, during which a person fully participates in the religious community; Permanent vows (a lifetime commitment to religious life), after which a seminary Program of Priestly Formation may be undertaken.

How does a person choose among the many different religious communities? Each religious community has a spirituality and purpose. Members of all religious communities participate in daily prayer. Apostolic (active) religious communities focus on service. Contemplative communities focus on prayer.

"The word of the Lord came to me thus: Before I formed you in the womb I knew you. Before you were born I dedicated you, a prophet to the nations I appointed you." ~Jeremiah 1: 4-5