What is the difference between a Nun and a Sister?

Nuns and Sisters are women who have chosen to live vowed religious life within the Catholic Church. There are a number of different orders, each with its own charism or special character. For centuries, Nuns, robed in black veils and long sleeved and full length dresses called "habits," have given their lives to help others in the name of Jesus Christ. We live our lives totally dedicated to God, and we offer ourselves in service to others as an expression of our relationship with God.

While both Nuns and Sisters are called "Sister," there is a distinction made in the Catholic Church which is generally not made by the public. Nuns take solemn vows and are cloistered, that is, they reside, pray and work within the confines of a monastery. Sisters take simple vows and live a life governed by the particular mission, vision, and charism of the respective Orders or Congregations of Sisters. Sisters embrace ministries that take them out to serve the people in hospitals, schools, parishes, social services, and the like.

Founding Congregations: Sisters of Divine Providence; Sisters of Charity of the Incarnate Word, Houston; Sisters of the Incarnate Word and Blessed Sacrament; Sisters of Charity of the Incarnate Word, San Antonio; and Dominican Sisters of Houston.