Active and Contemplative Religious Sisters and Brothers

The goal of a sister or brother is not the achievement of personal advancement but carrying out the mission of the community and serving the church and God. Even so, a religious may over time assume greater responsibility, such as filling a supervisory role. For example, an active sister may oversee the work of all nurses at a particular hospital, or an active brother may serve as his community's accountant. The highest authority of each community is the superior, a position of grave responsibility. Religious do not actively seek to become superiors; they are appointed by the community.

Both active and contemplative religious sisters and brothers can advance in the form of continuing education. They can also expect to grow spiritually through retreats and by working with their spiritual director, who may be their chaplain or confessor.

There is also the possibility of moving from an active religious life to a contemplative religious life. However, moving between religious orders is a complicated process and must be approved by the Vatican.

Nuns are supposed to live their entire lives in service of their faith after they take their final vows. Nuns study their religion's teachings throughout their lives and may end up mentoring junior nuns in their order or monastery. Some nuns go on to lead their monastery, abbey, or convent, setting the example for the other nuns.