Religious Orders and Christian Communities

“Guide and sanctify, we pray, those whom You call to follow You under the vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience” (Book of Common Prayer, p. 819)

The Episcopal Church canonically recognizes 18 traditional orders and 14 Christian communities for men, women, or both. Religious Orders and Christian Communities serve the greater church in several ways. Many offer retreat houses and individual spiritual direction. Each community has a rule of life and is committed to prayer, life in community, and hospitality.  

What is the difference between a Religious Order and a Christian Community?

What is a regular worship routine for a monk or nun (i.e. a ‘religious’)?

What is the “quest and adventure” of Religious life today?

I’m wondering if God is calling me to the Religious Life in Community. What should I do?

How can I participate in the life of a Religious Order or Community?

Listings: Episcopal Religious Orders and Communities