Celibacy brought them the most trouble. Early on, they were persecuted for heresy because of it. The situation in the present is briefly summarized. Though the renewal encouraged by Vatican II is now severely restricted under the present papacy, dynamic initiatives still flourish. In the tradition of the first martyrs, nuns on missions of mercy have been raped and murdered, and their sisters everywhere voice a common protest.
Communities now seek solidarity among themselves.
Undertakings which brought communities together include the Sister Formation Conference, founded in 1954, under grass-roots initiative, to advance the overall education of nuns. The conference for superiors, established by Roman invitation, two years later, is unfortunately only vaguely dated in the book's final chapter. On a concluding note McNamara sees signs of a large global sisterhood developing. This record of obstacles, heroism, and achievements in past times has much to teach those trying to shape a world guided by a Gospel vision. Given the praise Sisters in Arms has received in the secular press, it merits attention from all interested in accurate history and the role of women.