The Quest of Women Religious

The Second Vatican Council speaks of religious as “men and women who set out to follow Christ with greater liberty” (Perfectae Caritatis 1). Religious life, then, is meant to foster greater freedom in their life and mission. However, it has been observed by some that the life and mission of women religious is being hampered by an out-dated spirituality, unnecessary rules and inappropriate structures. It is against this background that I chose to conduct a small study. My plan was to investigate the quest and experiences of women religious in the areas of freedom, community living, spirituality etc. The survey was conducted during the first four months of 199