WASHINGTON (CNS) — “Adopt-a-seminarian” programs to support and encourage young men studying for the priesthood are pretty common in U.S. dioceses, and programs like that for young women could help foster vocations to religious life, said Benedictine Sister Michelle Catherine Sinkhorn. Sister Michelle is co-director of vocation ministries at the monastery of the Sisters of St. Benedict of Ferdinand, Ind.

“Parishes will contact us and ask if they can adopt a sister,” said Sister Michelle. “St. Martin Church in Chrisney, Ind., was adopting a seminarian, so they decided they would also like to adopt a sister in formation. We’re more than willing to do that,” she told Catholic News Service.

While in formation, Sister Michelle herself was adopted and found it to be a valuable experience. “The people who adopt you pray for you and keep in touch. They want to hear what stage you’re at in your formation and how you’re doing. A program like this is something our community should consider initiating with local parishes,” said Sister Michelle.