Religious order facts for kids

A religious order is a special group of people who choose to live their lives in a very dedicated way, following the rules and beliefs of their religion. These groups often have their own specific ways of living, which are usually based on the teachings of the person who started their order.

Members of a religious order might include people who are just starting out (sometimes called initiates or laity), and in some religions, they might also include religious leaders like clergy. Religious orders can be found in many different religions around the world. Many of these groups live and work in special buildings called monasteries or convents.

What is a Religious Order?

A religious order is like a spiritual family where members commit to a shared way of life. They often take special promises, called vows, such as promises to live simply, to obey their leaders, and to remain unmarried. These vows help them focus completely on their religious devotion and service.

Why Do People Join?

People join religious orders for many reasons. Some feel a strong call from their religion to dedicate their lives to God or a higher purpose. Others are drawn to the community life, where they can live with people who share their deep beliefs and support each other. Many also want to serve others and make a positive difference in the world through their religious work.

What Do Members Do?

The daily life of a religious order member often includes:

• Prayer and Worship: Spending a lot of time in prayer, meditation, and religious services.
• Community Life: Living together, sharing meals, and supporting each other in their spiritual journey.
• Work and Service: Many orders are involved in helping others. This can include teaching, nursing, caring for the poor, running hospitals, or working in missions.
• Study: Learning more about their religion and its teachings.

Types of Religious Orders

There are many different kinds of religious orders, and they can be found in religions like Christianity, Buddhism, and Jainism. In Christianity, for example, you might hear about:

• Monks and Nuns: These members often live in monasteries or convents, focusing on prayer and quiet contemplation. They usually live apart from the everyday world.
• Friars and Sisters: These groups often live in communities but are more actively involved in the world outside their homes. They might work in schools, hospitals, or charities, bringing their religious values to the wider community.

History of Orders

Religious orders have a very long history, going back thousands of years in some religions. They have played an important role in spreading religious teachings, preserving knowledge, and providing social services throughout history. For example, many of the first schools and hospitals were started by religious orders.

Images for kids

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  The Priory of St. Wigbert is a Lutheran monastery in the Benedictine tradition

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  Ebstorf Abbey continued as a Lutheran convent in the Benedictine tradition since 1529

See also

In Spanish: Comunidad religiosa para niños