Public profession of the three vows of chastity, poverty and obedience expresses the offering of each sister's gift of self to God and her desire to follow Christ closely throughout her life. The vows affect all our relationships - to God, to one's self, to one's congregation, family, friends and to the world. They "bear on" the three fundamental coordinates of human experience - sexuality and human relationships, material goods and ownership, freedom and power.

• We speak of consecrated chastity as a gift of God which involves a choice for God alone, centering our hearts in Christ and opening our hearts to the human family. Chastity is about learning to love well ... all-inclusively.

• We speak of consecrated poverty as a gift which calls us to follow Christ, poor in spirit, emptied of self, aware of our need for God. It involves an ongoing detachment from material things - not deprivation, but a simple life style. Material goods are shared in common, a source of equality in community. We are called to use resources responsibly, to share with those in need, and to work for a just society.

• We speak of consecrated obedience as a gift which frees us to take on the mind and heart of Christ, seeking to be in tune with God's desires for us and for the world. We agree to follow the Martha way of life, and to be actively engaged with the leadership of the congregation in discerning and responding to cries for Gospel hospitality.