Why do nuns change their names?

There are a variety of customs across religious congregations as to how a religious name was assigned. Some new sisters were allowed to suggest their name preference but it was ultimately up to the superior of the community or another leader to decide upon the name. read more

In congregations that are named after Mary, it was common that all the names include “Mary” as the first part of a sister's religious name.Sisters might also suggest as their preference a favorite saint or the saint that their parish was named after or the name of a parent (if it were also a saint’s name). read more

A name change indicates a new life. Some nuns change their names, others do not, depending on which religious orders they enter. The more traditional and/or contemplative orders have women take on a new religious name and wear a new habit, indicating a new life in Christ. read more

Convents or “Orders”of Nuns or “Sisters” usually change the names of the members to depict the change that has happened in their lives. Since formerly they were living in a secular state, these celibate Christians (like the apostles who’s names were changed by Jesus) now wish to take on a new identity as Christ-followers. read more