Reverend Joseph E. Kurtz, D.D. Bishop | Archdiocese of Louisville

The Sisters of Charity of Nazareth are shifting their approach to relationship building and vocation inspiration within the congregation, according to Sister Barbara Flores. The religious community has established a new initiative, the Office of Charity Connections, aimed at advancing this effort.

Sister Flores, who serves as provincial for the Western Province—which includes the United States and Belize—explained that this development followed a period of reflection that began in 2022. During that time, members discussed and prayed about how best to "invite others to respond to God’s call and to join us in life, mission and ministry."

She stated, "The Office of Charity Connections was a result of the discernment that we had with regard to how to do that." She added that this office is seen as a way forward in light of declining membership among vowed religious in the United States.

The purpose of the new office is to encourage individuals "to explore new and meaningful ways of living the charity charism," Sister Flores said. The sisters hope this will broaden their invitation beyond traditional vocations. While continuing efforts toward promoting vocations to religious life, Sister Flores emphasized a broader understanding: "We look at the word vocation, with a small ‘v’." She noted that Vatican II emphasized all baptized Catholics are called “to engage our faith with our life.”

Some may feel called to deepen involvement in their parishes or consider joining a religious congregation. According to Sister Flores, "The Office of Charity Connections is intended to be a conduit" for people discerning how they might connect more deeply with the sisters' mission.

Jacqueline Rapp serves as director for the office. She described it as “the place that you come to if there’s a level of interest,” adding it focuses on fostering relationships with the Sisters of Charity of Nazareth. Rapp explained her role: “I work to help people discern which direction they want to be connected with the sisters.”

Rapp confirmed that women can still pursue vowed religious life within the congregation. More than 75 Sisters of Charity currently live in the Archdiocese of Louisville where they serve across various ministries.

Participation opportunities extend beyond traditional vows. In 2023, the congregation launched Companions of Charity—a program allowing participants to live and work alongside sisters for three months up to one year; two women have taken part so far.

Volunteer options also exist through disaster relief initiatives in America or housing projects in Belize. Another pathway involves becoming an associate—a layperson who chooses “to live the charism” exemplified by members. Associates undergo one-to-three years’ formation before making commitments lasting three years; men and women may participate regardless of Catholic affiliation.

There are presently 143 associates nationwide, including 60 based within the Archdiocese of Louisville.

Sister Flores reflected on these partnerships: “People’s desire to be of service and to be involved is just beautiful to watch.” She sees growth in lay leadership as positive for today’s church: “It’s calling us back to who we are called to be … as baptized Christians, and as members of this church, and it’s exciting to see that this is what is happening.”