Introduction

Abstract

Throughout the world, thousands of Catholic men and women have, over centuries, lived in single-sex communities as members of what were, and still are, popularly known as religious orders. Here they constructed their professional lives as integral to their religious vocation. As described in the opening quotation, this particular notion of vocation embodies a spiritual belief in being called by God, to work for God, as a priest, a religious brother (a brother), or a nun—collectively known as “the religious”—within a religious order, and taking vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience. For many priests, religious brothers (brothers), and nuns, the work in question was “teaching.”

Teaching was a life-long commitment. Teaching was not a means of gaining economic stability or advantage; it was a commitment to a life in community where the community not the individual gained the financial remuneration. Teaching was not a job; it was a vocation—a call to serve God.¹