For some, the virus has stirred a desire for a deeper relationship with God. The Holy Spirit has been nudging them toward community and solitude, persistence and patience, courage and prayer. Many Episcopalians have found their spiritual life enriched and supported by becoming associates of one of the church’s religious orders. Five are listed here.
Society of Saint John the Evangelist
The Brothers of the Society welcome members of the Fellowship of St. John as partners in the Gospel life … They look to SSJE for encouragement and inspiration in following our Lord Jesus Christ. and who seek to abide in him by living an ordered life of prayer and service in fellowship with us, may seek to become members of the Fellowship.
Society of Saint Margaret
Associates have a close link with the life and work of the Sisters of St. Margaret. They are people of faith whose sense of vocation draws them to be related to the Sisters. After a period of mutual discernment between the prospective Associate and the Sisters, this connection with the Society is formalized at a Service of Commitment. Each potential Associate crafts a Rule of Life based on the core Rule for Associates.
Order of the Holy Cross
Associates commit to anchoring daily life in the basic values of Benedictine spirituality: Community, Hospitality, Humility, Balance, and Mindfulness. The process of tailoring the rule to fit specific circumstances is consistent with the practical wisdom of Benedictine life.
Community of Saint John Baptist
Associates and Oblates are bound to us in a spiritual bond of love and prayer.... Those interested may receive a Manual, and after practicing the Rule for a period of time, may then be received.
Order of the Ascension
Our hope is:
- that you will find growth in holiness of life and strengthen your own vocation.
- that you will join us in seeking the presence of Jesus Christ in the people, things and circumstances of life through stability, obedience and conversion of life.
- that you will love and pray for your parish church and live in the parish community in a way that best fulfills your vocation and gifts.
A list of religious communities
-------------------------
You are invited to create a link to this page on your parish website and FaceBook page. Or you may want to cut and paste these page onto your site.
Postings on the inner life and the virus
You know, and they know, that they are offering their lives
God's not indifferent to our pain
Becoming an Associate of a Religious Order
Spiritual vitality and authenticity
Faith to perceive: In your great compassion
Turn everything that happens to account
Postings on Parish Development during the Virus
Power from the center pervades the whole