Celebrating 60 years as a Catholic Sister would give anyone pause. Was it a good life? Were the trade-offs worth it? Would she do it again? Sr. Catherine Cleary reflects on the life-changing decision she made back in 1951.

When the Benedictine Sisters of St. Mary Monastery decided to hang up their traditional robes and adopt the dress of the day nearly 40 years ago, they joined thousands of Catholic Sisters across the country who were doing the same thing. Their decision was in response to the Second Vatican Council’s call to women religious to renew their congregations in the spirit of their founders in order to meet the needs of the times. While a seemingly minor matter – Shall we wear a uniform or not? – the question continues to be debated by people everywhere today.

Before the Second Vatican Council (1962-1965), religious life in the U.S. might have looked more like a punishment to outsiders than a joyful lifestyle. Sisters and Brothers truly gave up everything to join their communities. Indeed, they gave up their very freedom – freedom to dress as they pleased, go where they wished, and work in ministries they chose. Today's Benedictine Sisters live a bit differently ... but still make sacrifices!

Sr. Rita Cain entered the Benedictine Sisters in 1950. Although she has enjoyed a variety of ministries, her main call – as with all Benedictines – has been to seek God together with her Sisters. We asked Sr. Rita to offer some wisdom from her own vocation experience.