I am increasingly concerned about the ongoing investigation of institutes of religious women in the USA. Sisters are concerned that the outcome has already been determined, and the secrecy of the process seems in tension not only with the Gospel, but with core American values. More than any other nation, the church in the US was built through the sacrifice and creative leadership of amazing women, whose legacy is lived out today in hundreds of dynamic communities. Now, that contribution is shadowed by confusion as to what judgments may be coming. Sisters have dealt with opposition before. Mother Theodore Guerin, canonized last year, was once excommunicated by the local bishop in Indiana. Saint Frances Cabrini was met at the dock by the bishop of New York who told her she was not welcome: she said she was there at the behest of the pope and she wasn’t going anywhere. Almost all American communities have similar stories. Yet, sisters wonder why men’s communities, often with quite similar history of foundation, renewal, and ministry, are not being scrutinized. They wonder too what support they have, both prayer and practical support, from the Catholic faithful. There may well come a day when, in conscience, priests and faithful will have to come to the defense of the sisters in support of their heritage, their selfless contribution, and their ongoing ministry and witness at the heart of the church. In the meantime, why not tell a sister you know how much she is loved and her ministry valued?