Frequently Asked Questions

What is the admission process?

The admission process for the Sisters of Our Lady of Sorrows follows after meeting with the sisters and participating in discernment retreats and live-in experience.The application process involves different stages and is a time that calls for prayer and discernment. The young woman is asked to write an autobiography and complete a questionnaire about her life. In addition, she will submit school transcripts, health evaluations, letters of recommendation, and sacramental certificates.

How long is the formation process?

Aspirancy (1 year)
Postulancy (1 year)
Novitiate (2 years)
Temporary Vows (5 years)

Who can be a Sister of Our Lady of Sorrows?

Someone who desires herself to God in consecrated religious life.
Attracted to the mission and Charism of the Sisters of Our Lady of Sorrows.
Ability to live in a community
Sufficient physical health
Good mental health
High School Diploma or beyond
Between the ages of 18-35

How often can a sister visit her family?

Sisters can visit their families for two weeks each year. In addition, family members are able to visit. Holidays are celebrated together as community.

What is the apostolate of the Congregation?

Faithful to the Charism of our foundress, Blessed Elisabetta Renzi, the Sisters of Our Lady of Sorrows witness the preferential love of Christ through Catholic education, catechesis, and social services.

Are the Sisters of Our Lady of Sorrows present in other Countries?

Yes, the Sisters of our Our Lady of Sorrows were founded in 1839 in Italy. Our Motherhouse is located in Rome. The Congregations has missions in USA, Brazil, Mexico, Bangladesh, and Zimbabwe.

If you have any other questions that you would like for us to answer do not hesitate to email us at vocations@ols.org. We will respond to you by email.

If we let Christ into our lives, we lose nothing, nothing, absolutely nothing of what makes life free, beautiful and great. Do not be afraid of Christ! He takes nothing away, and he gives you everything. When we give ourselves to him, we receive a hundredfold in return. Yes, open, open wide the doors to Christ – and you will find true life. (Pope Benedict XVI)

Do not desire anything less for your life than a love that is strong and beautiful and that is capable of making the whole of your existence a joyful undertaking of giving yourselves as a gift to God and your brothers and sisters, in imitation of the One who vanquished hatred and death forever through love.

Pope Benedict XVI

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