A Glossary of Terms Commonly Used by Women Religious

Some terms and words commonly used within religious communities are often unfamiliar to the general public. Following is a list of “sisterspeak” terms and their definition in “everyday speak.”

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Canon law

Body of laws that govern the Catholic Church.

Chapter

A representative body of the entire congregation that conducts elections, makes decisions on governance issues and sets the future direction for a congregation.

Charism

Gifts and spiritual qualities given by God to individuals or groups for the good of the community. A charism given to the foundress of a religious community is passed on from one generation to the next although it may need to be renamed or refocused.

Community

A generic term used to describe the members of a religious group or the group itself. Living in a community no longer necessarily means living in the same geographic place but implies other commitments to the group.

Congregation

All religious communities begun since 1752. The term preferred rather than order.

Consecrated life

A way of life characterized by the vows of poverty, chastity and obedience.

Council

Governing body of the congregation comprised of the president and other sisters elected at general chapter.

Centering Prayer

Centering Prayer is an ancient, silent prayer in which the intellect is quieted in order for one's spirit to rest in God.

 

Used with permission of NCNWR