Attraction to Religious Life and Challenges of Temporarily Professed Sisters in India
Conducted by: Center for Applied Research in the Apostolate (CARA), Georgetown University
In collaboration with: Centre for Research on Religious Life India (CRRI)
Authors: Sr. Lavina Rodrigues, AC and Dr. Thu T. Do, LHC
Date: September 2024
Purpose of the Study
This research investigates the motivations, experiences, and challenges of temporarily professed Catholic sisters in India, specifically from congregations located in the Northern and Eastern regions. It aims to improve the quality of vocations and enhance support systems for religious formation.
Study Participants
- 493 temporarily professed sisters from 133 congregations
- 381 from pontifical and 63 from diocesan institutes
- Average age: 27 years
- Nearly all born in India and raised Catholic
- Predominantly from Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, Odisha, Bihar, West Bengal, and Sikkim
Key Findings
1.
Demographics & Background
- Majority from active institutes (89%), with only 11% in contemplative life.
- Speak 42 languages, with Hindi, Odia, Uraon, and Santali being most common.
- Average family size: 4 siblings, mostly raised by both parents in stable homes.
- 63% entered religious life after completing Class X; only 7% had college degrees.
- 62% had Catholic schooling before entering.
- Only 8% were employed before joining.
2.
Vocational Discernment
Top motivators:
- Desire to serve (96%)
- Commitment to the Church (96%)
- Charism and founder’s life of the institute (95%)
Strong influence from:
- Vocation retreats (90%)
- “Come and see” programs (85%)
- Visits to religious houses (85%)
- Family and clergy support (85%+)
3.
Satisfaction in Religious Life
High satisfaction with:
- Daily Eucharist (98%)
- Community life & celebrations (97%)
- Sense of belonging (96%)
- Prayer life (95%)
- Reported experiences of personal growth, emotional maturity, and joy in mission work.
4.
Prayer & Community Life
- Core spiritual practices: Eucharistic Adoration, private prayer, and daily Mass are seen as crucial.
- Community life is valued deeply: shared meals, prayer, work, and leisure.
- 41% report wearing sarees regularly; only 20% wear religious habits exclusively.
5.
Challenges in Religious Life
Top concerns:
- Deepening relationship with God (95%)
- Commitment to vows (95%)
- Balancing prayer, work, and community (41%)
- Handling interpersonal conflicts (39%)
- Feeling restricted in self-expression (37%)
- Difficulty adapting to structured lifestyle, limited family contact, and living with diverse personalities
- Use of technology and mental health (e.g., anxiety, loneliness) also noted as concerns
Themes from Open-Ended Responses
Most Rewarding Aspects:
- Deepening spiritual life and relationship with Jesus
- Community support and intercultural living
- Personal growth in maturity, discipline, and emotional well-being
- Joy in mission and ministry, being a blessing to others, and witnessing family blessings
Most Challenging Aspects:
- Struggles in community living
- Difficulties with personal emotional issues and vow commitments
- Attraction to worldly comforts, technology
- Lack of freedom of expression and unmet expectations from authority
- Strict rules and pressure to conform
Conclusion
The study highlights a deep spiritual motivation and satisfaction among junior sisters in India, while also revealing significant challenges, especially related to emotional well-being, community dynamics, and adaptation to religious expectations. These findings provide valuable insights for improving formation programs, fostering supportive environments, and ensuring sustainable vocations in religious life.