In a unique blend of faith and innovation, the Sisters of Notre-Dame des Neiges have launched a line of eco-friendly cleaning products to support their abbey financially, seeking a delicate balance between tradition and the demands of modern business. Facing a significant decline in donations, the nuns turned to entrepreneurship, garnering strong public support for their resourcefulness and adaptability.

This project aligns with a growing trend among faith-based communities worldwide, as they work to maintain their spiritual identity while adapting to today’s financial realities. Many religious orders have historically relied on the sale of goods—from rosaries and religious articles to fruitcakes and specialty soaps—as a way to sustain their communities and mission. For example, Trappist monks are known for their artisanal foods, while Benedictine sisters create handmade soaps and lotions. The Sisters of Notre-Dame des Neiges are now part of this legacy, but with an innovative, eco-conscious twist.

In the Catholic tradition, the vow of poverty, one of the evangelical counsels alongside obedience and chastity, calls religious communities to live simply and hold goods in common. Living out this vow does not imply destitution but rather a life modeled after Christ’s humility. As Pope Francis stated to the Norbertine Order in 2022, “Economic activity serves the mission and fulfillment of the charism: It is never an end in itself but oriented toward a spiritual purpose.” He urged religious orders to consider the broader impact of their economic activities, asking how they affect the local community and the poor.

Despite the need to secure funds for basic necessities—such as utilities and technology that were non-existent in medieval times—religious communities remain committed to their mission. While adapting to financial pressures, they strive to avoid what Pope Francis called the “idolatry of money,” remaining focused on service and simplicity in line with their vows.

The eco-friendly cleaning products by the Sisters of Notre-Dame des Neiges exemplify how faith communities can balance financial needs with their core values, providing a model for other religious groups facing similar economic challenges.

Photo: The Sisters of Notre-Dame des Neiges proudly display their eco-friendly cleaning products, an entrepreneurial venture supporting their abbey’s financial needs while staying true to their mission of faith and simplicity. © The Guardian