Religious sisters have forged a tremendous legacy of service throughout the entire 175-year history of the Diocese of Cleveland. Their indispensable contribution continues today as they serve a myriad of ministries in Northeast Ohio and witness to the life of Christ through their profession of the evangelical counsels of poverty, chastity and obedience. Those who are infirm continue to live Christ-centered lives and assist us by their ongoing prayers.
March 8-14, 2022 marks National Catholic Sisters Week. It is a week that shines a light on the spirituality, mission and community building of women religious across the country. We are blessed to have more than 700 religious sisters serving in orders based in the Diocese of Cleveland.
Last month, Pope Francis highlighted the indelible positive effect religious sisters have on the Church when he said, “the Church is unintelligible without them.” Over the years, sisters serving in the Diocese of Cleveland have given their lives to Christ and helped others grow their relationship with the Lord in so many ways. Their lives of service and dedication to the faith are an inspiration to us all.
Many of us remember the role a religious sister had in improving our lives and bringing us to a greater faith in Jesus. During the observance of National Catholic Sisters Week this year, let us all remember to pray for religious sisters in our diocese and everywhere who have given and continue to give great witness to the Gospel in their lives. May their faith, charisms and community continue to grow in the Lord, and please pray that young women consider a vocation to religious life.