Speed-dating inspired nuns to open vocations café

The phenomenon of speed-dating was the inspiration behind a new initiative aimed at attracting young women to consider a vocation to religious life.

A pop up café, which is being backed by eight religious congregations in conjunction with Vocations Ireland, will open its doors next week to women aged between 20 and 35.

‘The Sisters’ Café’ will be an open space for young women to hear from experienced nuns about their ministry in religious life. There will also be the opportunity to learn more about vocations and the meaningful role that a nun can play in assisting the more vulnerable in society.

Vocations Ireland Director Margaret Cartwright explained that the idea for the café originated from the practise of speed-dating.

Faith

“We thought it would be great to have a space for meeting and for people to be able to share their faith stories and to hear the stories of religious. We looked at speed-dating where people would come in and have the opportunity to hear from different people and it took off from there,” she told The Irish Catholic.

“Young women regularly approach us about potential vocations and yet there is no open forum which enables them to really explore their options. “We believe our little café will allow women to get to know our lifestyle a lot better,” she said.

Dominican Sr Edel Murphy said the café “will be a social place where women can get a real sense of the impact we make and what faith can bring to the broader community”.

“We are aware that many people don’t have an understanding of our work – this gives us an opportunity to share what our life is really like. Women who are interested in education, health, society and parish work will get a first-hand insight into the life as a sister,” she said.

The Sister Café opens on Thursday, February 25 from 7-8.30pm in the Dominican Adult Education Centre, Merrion Avenue in Blackrock, Co Dublin. Speakers at the inaugural café include Srs Carmel Ryan, Deirdre Twomey and Julie Buckley.

For more information see www.vocationsireland.com or contact Margaret Cartwright on 0867820149.