The Consecrated Life

The Church celebrates the World Day for Consecrated Life, and at the behest of Pope Francis, the Year for Consecrated Life.  We will be taking time to honor those whose vowed life still gives strong witness to the Gospel, as well as taking time to explain this way of life and encourage others to enter it.  50 years ago with thousands of Catholic Schools, Sisters, Brothers and Priest Religious, Religious Life was very apparent and an integral part of Catholic life.  Any explaining that needed to be done was part of inviting the many young people who willingly "gave it a try" or who actually became devoted and dedicated members of religious congregations.  The term, "consecrated life", came about to clarify the call for all men and women to be "religious", that is dedicated to living a total Christian life, but with some vowing publicly to do so for the rest of their lives in community with others.  They consecrate their lives to God in communion with others.  With dwindling numbers of Catholic Schools, Sisters, Brothers and priests, it has become necessary to educate the faithful to this way of life, as well as to invite them to join.  These slices of bread go across the globe and reach all levels of people in Russia, the Czech Republic and Bangladesh, so nothing can be taken for granted.  We are all called to follow Jesus in his prayerful relationship with his Father, to live according to his teachings, to bring healing and forgiveness through our presence, and above all, the truth of how much God the Father, Son and Holy Spirit love us.  This is what it means to be a Christian;  those of us who are "consecrated", profess this mission as our main goal, our main purpose of our lives.  It is truly our "Profession," our life, till death take us to our heavenly union with God.
Bro. Rene