Some years ago, Pope John Paul set February 2nd as the day to celebrate CONSECRATED LIFE. In the "olden" days, we used to call it religious life: sisters, religious brothers, and religious priests...Franciscan, Jesuit, Dominican, Benedictine priests.
CONSECRATED LIFE is our life committed to God via our vows of CELIBATE CHASTITY, POVERTY, and OBEDIENCE. In this commitment to God we dedicate our lives also to the Church, the people of God, in service, through our VARIOUS ministries of today. In the "olden" days, our service took the shape of education and health care, primarily. Today you find us wherever there is an unmet need.
Also in the olden days we had lots of women and men joining our ranks. It was the only way of service in the church. Today, we have numerous ways women and men can serve outside the CONSECRATED LIFE.
Remember, however, that CONSECRATED LIFE is not primarily about DOING. It is first of all about BEING.
If you are still searching for your future, and if you feel an attraction for CONSECRATED LIVING, ask the Holy Spirit's help. Seek out information. We will NEVER try to talk you into joining us. That is the work of the Spirit! I wish you the Spirit.
For those of you already in your chosen vocation of the single life, or diocesan priesthood, or marriage...blessings to you and fidelity in your vocation. Please keep us in the CONSECRATED LIFE in your prayers.
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