Many of today's most vital religious orders combine an appreciation of tradition with new innovations. The Sisters of St. Benedict of Ferdinand, Ind. have used the Internet and an award-winning advertising campaign to recruit new nuns. At the same time, they still adhere to traditional monastery life, with its emphasis on communal living and prayer three times a day. Karen Katafiasz, director of communications for the Benedictines, says four new women are in their first year with the community, bringing the order's membership to 233. Three women are in their second year, and 10 women have made temporary, or first, vows.
Some religious communities go for years without any new members.
Reforms meant to make life in Catholic religious orders more appealing may do just the opposite. That compares to a rate of 95 per 1,000 members for orders that hadn't changed. Color graphic, electronic transmission, and Web and ftp download available.