Vocation Discernment


We warmly welcome single Catholic women who wish to journey with us in living a Gospel life and mission that can powerfully impact others. The formation of a Franciscan Sister of the Sacred Heart is the journey of a lifetime. Stages of discernment and formation precede vowed membership. 




Visits to St. Francis Woods may be arranged with complimentary accommodations. Vocation companioning is offered for discerning God's call. To learn more, contact Sr. Maria Brizuela (815.464.3873; maria.brizuela@fssh.net) or Sr. Nancy Roberta Schramm (815.464.3848). Below are additional vocation resources.

Vocation Resources

The following resources may be helpful in discerning your particular walk in life, as you seek to live the joy of the Gospel more fully.

  • JAVA

    Joliet Area Vocation Association (JAVA)

    JAVA's goal is to foster a vocation culture in the Church by providing education and discernment opportunities including vocation talks, vocation fairs, discernment retreats, retreats, etc.

  • CAVA

    Chicago Archdiocese Vocation Association (CAVA)

    CAVA’s twofold purpose is to promote general vocation awareness and to invite young men and women to discern a vocation to consecrated life. If you need discernment help or want to host/organize a vocation awareness event, CAVA can help!


  • Young Adult Ministry (Joliet Diocese)

    Visit the Joliet Young Adult Ministry Office website for information on all young adult events and opportunities.

  • Spirit and Truth (Illinois)

    Spirit & Truth of Illinois is a community of Catholic young adults ages 18 to 39. S&T's mission is to bring young adults into relationship with Christ through worship of Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament, study of Church teachings, Sacred Scripture and celebration of Catholic traditions while forming a community of life-giving relationships. For more information about Spirit & Truth, click here.


  • Vocation Network

    Vocation Network is a resource for young people seeking God's will in their life. A helpful feature is "Vocation Match," a survey designed to match you with various communities. Visit Vocation Match: http://www.vocation-network.org/match