Reception Year: 1979

From: St. Louis, MO

Current Ministry: Attorney at Law for the Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet

Sister Amy Hereford has been in religious life for over 30 years.  Amy said her initial call to religious life began “with a deep God experience.”  She recounts the moment.  “In my last year in college, I had the experience of feeling a sense of call.  It took time to figure out what that meant and how to follow it.”  She describes her entrance into the Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet as, “powerful, awesome, irresistible.”

Sister Amy received her degree in Biochemistry from Truman State University and her Master’s in Communication Theory from Boston University.  She also has degrees in theology, as well as in civil and canon law. She has used her skills in service in a variety of ministries, including education, administration and communication.  This background also helps her assist religious institutes with their legal needs, and help those who are making important choices about the future of their institutes.  Amy has been admitted to practice in Missouri, Massachusetts and before the US Tax Court. She is a member of the Canon Law Society of America where she has contributed articles and presentations and has served on the Consecrated Life Committee.

When asked about advice she would give to someone considering religious vocations, she said, “Religious life is an amazing gift and adventure.  Sometimes people focus on their sacrifices, and honestly, those are present in any choice we make.  It is also completely breathtaking to give your whole self to God, community, and mission.”  Sister Amy’s passion and love for God fuels her in her everyday life to serve her community wholly and genuinely.  Amy finally said about the Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet, “This is the place where I feel like I can give my all, my time, my gifts, my energy, my love.”