A Change of Habit

“A Change of Habit follows the arc of Sister Monica Clare’s career with irreverence and sincerity… . Her book [confirms] the warmth—and fragility—of her new community.”—The New York Times“[Sister Monica Clare is] honest, funny, and—one gets the feeling as the pages turn—true. This is a book to remind you that it is never too late to be the person you are meant to be.”—Spirituality & Practice“An inspiring and hilarious tale of joyful transformation, A Change of Habit will make you laugh, cry, and think deeply about your life. You probably won’t become a nun, but Sister Monica Clare’s remarkable story will show you how to face your struggles, access your courage, and find meaning in life’s most unexpected turns.”—Lori Gottlieb, New York Times bestselling author of Maybe You Should Talk to Someone“Sister Monica Clare’s A Change of Habit is a surprising, compelling memoir that will reaffirm your faith in people—and maybe even yourself. With humor, warmth, and deep reverence for the power of that little voice inside, Sister Monica Clare shows us how everyone’s journey might be different, but if you keep the faith and keep listening to yourself—and God—you will arrive at the proper destination. I recommend this book to anyone who feels like a fish out of water or who needs a little love, and a little faith, right now.”—Sister Helen Prejeanaa“A Change of Habit is a boon for all readers who can relate to the feeling of life not turning out as they’d wanted. Clare’s overall message of hope, resiliency, and determination, along with trusting God, resonates regardless of personal beliefs. Poignant, and at times genuinely funny, her story will inspire hope and strength while reminding us that it’s never too late to get where we need to be.”—Booklist“In A Change of Habit, her inspiring, detailed memoir, Sister Monica Clare … describes her circuitous, determined path to the convent, from her Southern Baptist roots through years of detours that never derailed her dream… . Her open and often humorous memoir concludes as she joyfully anticipates achieving the next steps in living her faith.”—Shelf Awareness, starred review“[Sister Monica Clare’s] memoir is a testimony of both her steadfast commitment to God and her long, hard struggle to conquer her own demons. A forthright tale of pain and healing.”—Kirkus Reviews“A poignant and good-humored account of [Sister Monica Clare’s] path toward nunhood … This tender autobiography offers encouragement for any reader who’s struggled to find their place in the world.”—Publishers Weekly

Sister Monica Clare is the Sister Superior at the Community of St. John Baptist, an Episcopal convent based in New Jersey, and a spiritual counselor specializing in religious trauma, mental illness, and addiction. Before becoming a nun in 2012, she worked as a photo editor in L.A. and performed in an acoustic rock duo and an improv comedy troupe.