For many Americans, nuns and sisters are the face of the Catholic Church. Far more visible than priests, Catholic women religious teach at schools, found hospitals, offer food to the poor, and minister to those in need. Their work has shaped the American Catholic Church throughout its history. McGuinness provides the reader with an overview of the history of Catholic women religious in American life, from the colonial period to the present.

Organizing to serve -- Service to a growing Catholic community -- Serving through education -- Serving the sick -- Serving those in need -- Praying for the world -- Redefining sisterhood -- Serving today.