Religious Men and Women

We sometimes call them “Brothers” or “Sisters.” Or we call them “Monks” or “Nuns.” Whatever their title, these men and women receive a unique calling to follow Christ in a generous way. These are people who live in community or are associated with a larger community devoted to a particular ministry or charism. A charism is a gift of the Spirit, a particular way of living and believing.

Upon entering a community men and women form themselves to lives vowed to obedience, poverty and chastity. They live as contemplatives, teachers, care-givers for the sick, musicians, ministers to the poor, craftsmen, academics, artists. Many communities are self-sustaining, generating their own income and resources.

In the Diocese of Richmond, sisters from over 30 communities and brothers from about 10 work with and minister to God’s people. Many priests in the diocese are or have been members of a monastic community. For a complete listing of religious men and women and their communities, check out the diocesan listings.