Living a traditional religious life through total consecration to the Immaculate Heart of Mary. Promoting the reign of Jesus Christ in all things.

Community

The Sisters of Saint Benedict Center, Slaves of the Immaculate Heart of Mary is a canonically recognized religious congregation in the Diocese of Worcester, Massachusetts.

We wear a traditional black habit and veil as a sign of our consecration to Christ and a testimony to our commitment to visibly preserving traditional Catholic values in the twenty-first century. We have adapted the rule of Saint Benedict to suit the demands of our apostolate, maintaining a blend of contemplation in our monastic surroundings with apostolic labors.

We have been the indult center for the Latin Tridentine Mass in the Diocese of Worcester.

The Community was specifically founded for the teaching and preservation of the Holy Catholic Faith. Any young lady who has any questions about religious life or feels she may have a calling to our life please feel free to contact either Sister Cecilia or Sister Margaret Mary anytime.

Eligibility Requirements

1. Any Catholic woman between the ages of 18 and 40 is eligible. She must be of good mental and physical health and be free from any canonical impediment.

2. Evidence of having received the sacraments of Baptism and Confirmation, as well as certificates attesting to a candidate’s physical and dental health.

3. Two or three letters of testimony from a priest, employer, or similar individual.

4. At least a high school education.

5. In most cases, two or three years of “real world” work experience. More mature women are welcome regardless of work experience.

Formation

• The postulancy period is between six months and one year in length.

• The novitiate period is two years in length, and includes intensive study of the religious life and preparation for simple vows.

• The juniorate period – during which annual vows are taken – is three years in length.

• Final vows are taken after five or six years.