Sister Margarita had thought about becoming a sister when she was in eighth grade, but it wasn't until she was in her 50s that she was in a place to pursue it.
God's call to marriage, religious life, or the single vocation can come at any age, as this story in the Global Sisters Report shows. What's important is listening to that call and responding when you're able.
The Sisters in the story shared a few reasons why becoming a sister after age 30 can be a gift to you and your community.
1. "You can stockpile stuff, but it's just things." When you get older, you realize life isn't about acquiring things. The most important things to "acquire" are actually intangible and that is important for women who are preparing for a life not of getting, but giving.
2. "They're very intentional about religious life." Many older women bring a deep commitment to religious life. They have seen a lot in life and have a better grasp of what is important to them and what they want out of life, such as the support that comes from a community or a deep prayer life.
3. "Experience and maturity." Exploring graduate school or caring for an elderly parent in the first part of your adulthood could be part of God's plan for you. You just may find that your earlier experience was God's way of preparing you to enter religious life in your 30s, 40s or 50s.
If you wonder if God's calling you to religious life, explore your call. God will be there to help you on the path, no matter what age you are!