The Special FAQ Session for Nuns
The golden morning sunlight filtered through the tall stained-glass windows of the church, casting colorful patterns on the polished wooden floor. The atmosphere was solemn yet expectant as the young nuns gathered once again in the lecture hall. A few days had passed since the last special session, and in that time, murmurs of curiosity and unresolved questions had spread among the sisters.
Sister Rose Francis, recognizing the need for clarity, had arranged for this special FAQ session to address the doubts and concerns that had arisen. Today's class would not be a structured lecture but rather an open discussion, allowing each nun to voice her thoughts without fear of judgment.
Maria entered the hall with Catherine by her side, finding their usual seats. Around them, the other nuns were engaged in hushed conversations, their faces reflecting both anticipation and unease.
At precisely nine o'clock, Sister Rose Francis walked in, her presence commanding attention. She set her books down on the podium and looked at the gathering with a warm yet serious expression.
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Opening the Session
Sister Rose Francis:
"Good morning, my dear sisters. Today's session is different from our usual teachings. After our last discussion, many of you expressed doubts and questions regarding various topics. It is natural to have questions, for faith is a journey of understanding. This is a safe space where you can ask anything, and I will do my best to provide clarity."
She looked around the room, waiting for someone to speak. After a moment of hesitation, Teresa raised her hand.
Teresa:
"Sister Rose, in our last class, we spoke about the perception of menstruation in Christianity. I understand the historical context, but why do some churches still discourage women from participating in certain religious activities during their cycle? Shouldn't this belief have changed by now?"
Sister Rose nodded, as if she had anticipated this question.
Sister Rose Francis:
"That is an important point, Teresa. While many modern churches no longer enforce restrictions, there are still traditional sects that hold onto old interpretations. The challenge is that religious customs evolve at different paces in different cultures. However, let me be clear—there is nothing in the teachings of Jesus that suggests a woman is spiritually impure due to a natural bodily function. Any practice that alienates a woman based on menstruation is rooted more in tradition than in divine command."
Teresa nodded in understanding, though she still seemed deep in thought.
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The Role of Nuns in Society
A nun named Judith, who often remained quiet, cautiously raised her hand next.
Judith:
"Sister, I have been struggling with understanding our role as nuns. We dedicate our lives to serving God, but at times, I feel that society sees us as women who have simply given up on having a normal life. Some even say we are wasting our youth. How should we respond to such views?"
A ripple of murmurs spread through the class. Many of the nuns had heard similar comments before.
Sister Rose took a deep breath before responding.
Sister Rose Francis:
"That is a painful reality, Judith. The world often measures a woman's worth by her marriage, her children, and her role in a family. But our calling is different. Being a nun is not about giving up life—it is about choosing a different kind of fulfillment. Jesus himself said in Matthew 19:12, 'Some have renounced marriage for the sake of the kingdom of heaven. The one who can accept this should accept it.' Our path is one of deep devotion, and not everyone will understand it. But remember, our worth is not defined by the opinions of others, but by our faith and service."
Maria nodded in agreement. She had heard similar remarks before and had always struggled to explain her decision to become a nun-in-training.
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The Question of Faith and Doubt
Maria hesitated before raising her hand.
Maria:
"Sister Rose, you said that faith is a journey of understanding. But what if someone finds themselves questioning certain teachings? Is doubt a sin?"
A few of the nuns exchanged glances, clearly interested in the question. Sister Rose smiled gently.
Sister Rose Francis:
"Doubt is not a sin, Maria. In fact, it is a sign that you are truly thinking about your faith, not just following it blindly. Even some of the greatest saints struggled with doubt. Saint Teresa of Calcutta, for example, experienced years of spiritual dryness. Doubt becomes dangerous only when we stop seeking answers and let it turn into despair. If you ever find yourself questioning, do not be afraid—seek knowledge, ask questions, and pray for guidance."
Maria felt a deep sense of relief. She had often wrestled with questions, especially after her discussions about Christianity and Islam.
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The Comparison Between Christianity and Islam
Another nun, Sister Eleanor, spoke up.
Sister Eleanor:
"In our last session, Maria mentioned Islam's perspective on menstruation, and in previous discussions, she has also brought up differences between Islam and Christianity. Sister Rose, should we be comparing our faith to other religions? Isn't that dangerous?"
The room grew tense. Everyone knew that Maria often referenced Islamic teachings, and while some appreciated her insights, others were uncomfortable with it.
Sister Rose Francis sighed before responding carefully.
Sister Rose Francis:
"It is natural to compare, Eleanor. Throughout history, scholars of different faiths have debated and discussed theological differences. However, we must be mindful of our intentions. Are we comparing to learn and understand, or to argue and prove superiority? If our goal is knowledge, then we must not fear comparison. But if our goal is division, then we must be cautious."
She turned to Maria.
Sister Rose Francis:
"Maria, you have a deep curiosity for knowledge, and that is commendable. But you must also be aware that not everyone is comfortable discussing interfaith matters in a class meant for Christian theology. I appreciate your insights, but let us tread carefully."
Maria lowered her gaze, feeling both acknowledged and subtly warned. She understood Sister Rose's point, but she also knew that her questions would not simply disappear.
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Closing the Session
As the session neared its end, Sister Rose Francis looked around at the thoughtful faces before her.
Sister Rose Francis:
"My dear sisters, today's discussion has shown me that you are all thinking deeply about your faith, your roles, and your journey. That is a good sign. Faith is not about blind obedience—it is about seeking, learning, and growing. If you ever have more questions, do not hesitate to ask. Remember, God is not afraid of your questions. He welcomes your search for truth."
The class slowly stood, the atmosphere charged with unspoken thoughts and lingering curiosity. As Maria left the hall with Catherine, she whispered to her friend.
Maria:
"I feel like every question answered today has only given me more to think about."
Catherine: (smiling)
"That's the nature of faith, Maria. The more you seek, the more you realize how much there is to understand."
Maria sighed, looking up at the towering stained-glass windows. She was on a path of knowledge, but she could feel that she was approaching a crossroads—one that she wasn't sure she was ready to face just yet.