Did you know there is a difference between a "nun" and a "sister"? Until yesterday, I did not. According to Bing, the difference between a sister and a nun is mainly the type of vows they take and the lifestyle they lead. A nun takes solemn vows, which are lifelong and unbreakable and lives in a monastery or convent, where she devotes herself to prayer and work. A sister takes simple vows, which are renewable and can be dispensed, and often works outside the convent in various ministries, such as education, health care, or social service.
In the past I have shared visits with the Sister I had in both the 2nd and 8th grade. Yesterday, 12 of us went and visited her once again. She was so delighted to see us. Sister Marian Coughlin of the Sisters of Notre Dame (back in the day she was known as Sr. Mary St. Patrick . . . and at some point in the past they had the opportunity to change their name and she took her maiden name) is still sharp as a tack going on 96.
Also in the group was Sister Valerie, one of our classmates who began her journey to a life with God after the 8th grade and has been a Sister for many decades. Having grown up in the era when Sisters were covered head to toe and the only thing visible was their face, it seemed so strange to see Sister Valerie in capri pants and sandals 😇
Here's hoping next year we can celebrate Sister Marian's 97th birthday!!!
Thanks so much for stopping by.
Pug hugs 😊
Lauren
