Within and Beyond Borders

This chapter focuses on and describes the multiple pathways Catholic international sisters take to the United States. Some immigrate to the United States as children, teens, or adults and then enter religious life; others enter religious life in their home country and are then sent here for formation, education, or short-term or long-term ministry. The chapter analyzes the most common patterns for arrival of international sisters to the United States, comparing the international sisters according to their ethnic/cultural background and year of arrival. The role of U.S. institutes of women religious in hosting international sisters and providing assistance is also examined.