Convent

The word convent was first used by the mendicant friars of the 13th century, in place of "abbey" or "monastery." Signifying the building in which monks shared a common life, it was later extended to mean any residence in which the members of a Religious Order lived in community under vows. Today, however, the word is applied almost exclusively to the domiciles of religious women, or nuns, although it is also frequently used to refer to convent life in general. Roman Catholic canon law requires a minimum of three members to establish a convent.

Both general and specific requirements are imposed on a person wishing to join a convent. They include normal intelligence, sound mental and physical health, and a desire to serve God in a life dedicated to the work of the church. Specific requirements are set according to the makeup and work of a particular religious group. Cloistered religious orders are called to a life of prayer and contemplation, whereas missionary orders are called to a life of compassionate, loving service. Still others teach and do nursing work in schools and hospitals. The various orders seek to respond to every human need; thus specific requirements depend on the kind of work undertaken.

The Second Vatican Council called for a renewal of convent life, with adaptation of rules and constitutions in a manner appropriate to the needs of the church and world today. This renewal has led to a diversity of life-styles and structures in the concept of convents and convent living. This diversity, pursued in a spirit of creative fidelity, serves to make more evident the gospel witness that should characterize religious life.

Agnes Cunningham

Monasticism
Nuns
Friars
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Major Orders
Holy Orders