Learn more about Catholic nuns in Africa

African Sisters Education Collaborative (ASEC) facilitates access to education for Catholic sisters (also referred to as nuns) in Africa. While many people in the United States "remember" sisters and nuns as school teachers, nurses and more, their population is on the decline. However, in Africa, Asia and other parts of the world, the amount of women joining religious life is growing at incredible rates.

Frequently Asked Questions about Nuns and Sisters

Here are some frequently asked questions about Catholic nuns and why we are so invested in the service work of Catholic sisters.

Are nuns highly educated?

Every congregation understands the importance of education in living out its charism. Catholic sisters in the USA are known to be highly educated. However, in Africa, about 71% of Catholic nuns do not have higher education credentials. And, because of the great need for their service, they are often underqualified for the positions they hold (like teachers, nurses, bursars, etc). This is why ASEC's work is so important. Our impact

What's the difference between a sister and a nun?

The words sister and nun are used interchangeably in common speech, even among sisters themselves. Technically speaking, sister is a generic term that applies to any woman who takes vows in a religious order (including nuns). The distinction actually comes between nuns and apostolic women religious. Nuns live, minister and pray within the enclosure of a monastery and take public, solemn, perpetual vows. Sisters live an active vocation of both prayer and service, helping people in the society. Sisters take simple vows that can be can be temporary or perpetual. Learn more

Do nuns make money?

Catholic sisters dedicate their lives to service and take a vow of poverty. Many nuns in Africa serve in low or no paying jobs in very poor, rural areas. Even if a sister does earn a salary, the money goes directly to her congregation (which is financially separate from the Catholic church). Sisters are given a small stipend by their congregation to pay for personal items.

Are sisters supported by the Catholic church?

Sisters are regulated by Church law/Canon law, but orders of sisters are NOT financially supported by the Catholic church as an institution. In fact, most Catholic organizations are financially separate from the Vatican. The money that you put in the collection basket on Sunday does not go to sisters, except to pay a salary for a sister who works for your parish.

Get to Know Catholic Nuns & Sisters

Sisters from ASEC's Higher Education for Sisters in Africa (HESA) program in Kenya, pray together.

Understand the Vows of Catholic Nuns

Jul 9, 2020: [] general Catholic nuns take vows of poverty, chastity and obedience; the three evangelical counsels of perfection in Christianity. Some orders also take a fourth vow.

Left: A Catholic sister in Kenya, Africa helps to deliver a baby at her congregation's hospital. Right: Villanova basketball star Shelly Pennefather left her family, friends and basketball career to become a cloistered nun.

Sister vs. Nun - What's the Difference?

Jul 6, 2020: [] general It’s true that the words “sister” and “nun” are used interchangeably to describe women religious in the Catholic church, but there are several differences in the lifestyle, ministry and vows of nuns vs. apostolic women religious.