What is the Difference Between Nun and Sister?

The terms "nun" and "sister" are often used interchangeably, but there are significant differences between the two roles within the Roman Catholic Church:

1. Lifestyle: Nuns lead a contemplative life in a monastery, which is usually cloistered (or enclosed) or semi-cloistered. Their ministry and prayer life is centered within and around the monastery for the good of the world. On the other hand, sisters live, minister, and pray within the world, engaging in various works of mercy and sustaining these works through prayer.
2. Vows: Nuns take solemn vows of poverty, celibacy, and obedience, while sisters take simple vows of poverty, celibacy, and obedience.
3. Prayer and Work: Nuns are more focused on the contemplative life of prayer, while sisters are dedicated to an active life of work sustained by prayer.
4. Self-Identification: While people may use the term "nun" to refer to both nuns and sisters, most sisters prefer to be called "sisters," and many use the term "sister" interchangeably in their daily lives.

In summary, nuns are more focused on a contemplative, cloistered life of prayer and work within their monasteries, while sisters are more engaged in active works within the world, often serving people in great need. Both are women religious and offer their lives to God through vows of poverty, celibacy, and obedience.

Comparative Table: Nun vs Sister

The terms "nun" and "sister" are often used interchangeably, but there are some differences between the two roles within Roman Catholicism. Here is a table summarizing the differences:

Both nuns and sisters are addressed as "Sister" and belong to the church life form of Religious Life. They share common aspects, such as taking vows to God, living in community, and giving themselves entirely to God for life.