Ep 2. Brides of Christ

Brides of Christ – Our America with Lisa Ling Season 3 Episode 2

In this episode of Our America with Lisa Ling, the Emmy-winning journalist explores the world of religious sisters in the United States. The episode goes beyond the stereotypes and misconceptions people hold about nuns and convent life to reveal the realities of these women's experiences.

To better understand the life of religious sisters, Ling visits the Missionaries of Charity, a congregation founded by Mother Teresa, in Calcutta, India. There, she meets Sister Mary Prema, the Superior General of the order, who shares her insights into the spirituality and sacrifices involved in such a life.

Back in the United States, Ling visits the Dominican Sisters of Mary, Mother of the Eucharist, who are based in Ann Arbor, Michigan. Here, Ling has the opportunity to experience firsthand how the sisters pray, study, and live on a daily basis. She explores the challenges they face in balancing their spiritual lives with their obligations to society, and the joys and rewards of being a religious sister.

Ling also meets with Sister John Mary, a lawyer who's part of a mission to help former prostitutes escape their former lives. Sister John Mary shares her insights into the inner workings of Divine Providence, an organization that's helping these women start anew, and the role that faith plays in their recovery.

The episode also features interviews with young women who are considering becoming religious sisters, offering a glimpse into their motivations and how they struggle with the idea of giving up a normal life to serve God.

Throughout "Brides of Christ," Ling brings a deep empathy and respect to her interactions with the sisters. She shares their joys, sorrows, and struggles, while offering a nuanced view of their religious calling. The result is a captivating and enlightening exploration of the world of religious sisters, offering a deeper understanding of their lives and the spiritual journeys they have embarked upon.