All vocations are important! Today’s spotlight is on the religious vocation of two 
sisters right here in our own community! You see them at our Masses, you see them running our Faith Formation programs but how much do you know about Sister Kathleen and Sister Anna? Have you wondered what congregation they are with? Well, let us introduce you to the Sisters of the Curé of Ars in their own words! 

We are a community of Catholic women who have been established as a private association of the faithful by a Decree of Approbation received from the bishop of the Diocese of Portland, Maine in 2011. Being a private association of the faithful is the first step in becoming a religious congregation. The statutes of the Sisters of the Curé of Ars were approved for women who wish to become vowed members and live in community and also for women who live alone or with family and who become promised members of the Sisters of the Curé of Ars. Women who become vowed members take the three vows of poverty, chastity and obedience. and wear a traditional habit.
 

It was after visiting the shrine of the Curé d’Ars in France that Sister Kathleen and Sister Anna were led by God to pray for priests as their main charism (a spiritual gift or grace). But what, or rather who, is the Curé of Ars?  The word curé is a French word meaning pastor. And Ars is a village in France. The title “Curé of Ars” was given to St. John Marie Vianney who was the priest or the pastor in charge of the village church in Ars from 1818-1859. When he first arrived, there was little religion or love in the village, and it would be his job to bring both. And he did! After working tirelessly for over forty years (including attempting to leave once or twice), and after hearing confessions for some 16-18 hours a day, the village was indeed transformed and became devout and full of love. He finished his earthly life in 1859 and was raised to sainthood in 1925. The Curé’s untiring love for God and God’s people became a model for parish priests and in1929 he was designated the patron saint of all parish priests. Then, in 2010, he was named as the patron saint of all priests by Pope Benedict XVI.
 
In addition to praying for priests as their main work, Sisters Kathleen and Anna--the Sisters of the Curé of Ars--are active in our parish in Faith Formation and in the Bucksport parish as well. They invite you to join with them in praying for an
 increase in holy and courageous priests and also for consecrated women and men who serve the Church as vowed Sister and Brothers.  The Sisters would love to meet you so don’t be shy about introducing yourself when you see them at Church!