ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Catholic sisters and nuns in the United States

Okay kiddo, let's talk about Catholic sisters and nuns in the United States.

First, let's start with what a sister or nun is. A sister or nun is a woman who has chosen to dedicate her life to serving God and the church. They live in a special community and usually wear a special outfit called a habit.

Now, let's talk about the difference between a sister and a nun. A sister is a woman who belongs to a religious community, but may or may not take vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience (which means they promise to be poor, not get married, and do what they're told by their religious superiors). A nun, on the other hand, is a woman who has taken these vows and lives in a cloister (a place where nuns live and pray together) and devotes herself completely to a contemplative life of prayer and worship.

There are many different orders (groups) of Catholic sisters and nuns in the United States. Some of the most well-known orders include the Sisters of Mercy, the Sisters of St. Joseph, and the Dominican Sisters. Each order has its own set of beliefs, practices, and missions (what they are trying to accomplish in the world).

Catholic sisters and nuns do a lot of different things to serve their communities. Some are teachers, working in Catholic schools. Others are nurses, caring for the sick and elderly. Some work with the poor, feeding and sheltering those in need. And some are missionaries, traveling to other countries to spread the message of the church and help those in need.

In recent years, the number of Catholic sisters and nuns in the United States has declined. However, they continue to play an important role in the Catholic Church and in their communities. They are often seen as a source of inspiration and guidance for those seeking spiritual growth and guidance.