In the Catholic Church, there are several forms of consecration, each with its own unique characteristics and a specific role in the Church’s mission. The Code of Canon Law recognises various types of institutes of consecrated life. If you are wondering what paths are available to dedicate your life to God, here is an overview of the main forms of consecrated life in the Church

Religious Institutes

Religious institutes are characterised by a communal life and the profession of the evangelical counsels of poverty, chastity, and obedience through public vows. Each institute follows a particular charism, a specific mission within the Church and the world.

Religious Orders
Religious orders are marked by solemn vows. These vows involve a deep commitment to consecrated life, often within a contemplative context. Among religious orders, we find the Benedictines, Cistercians, and Carmelites. These communities focus on prayer and contemplation.

Religious Congregations
Religious congregations are communities where members take simple vows and are often devoted to apostolic work. Their mission may include education, healthcare, and missionary work. The Jesuits, Salesians, and Sisters of Charity are well-known examples of congregations engaged in apostolic activities.

Secular Institutes

Secular institutes are a distinct form of consecrated life. Unlike religious institutes, members of secular institutes live in the world rather than in a community. They commit to the evangelical counsels of poverty, chastity, and obedience, often through vows or other sacred bonds. Their mission is to sanctify the world from within, in their daily lives.

Societies of Apostolic Life

Societies of apostolic life consist of individuals who do not take religious vows but live in community with a common apostolic mission. They dedicate themselves to specific works, such as helping the most needy, education, or missionary endeavours.

Consecrated Virgins and Widows

Consecrated virgins and widows are individuals who, while living in the world, dedicate themselves to God through a rite of consecration. They lead a secular life but are committed to prayer and service to the Church, offering their dedication to God without entering into community life.

Multi-vocational Communities

Today, there are also multi-vocational communities where consecration can be lived in a unique way, in collaboration with people of different vocations within the same community. For example, our community welcomes consecrated men and women, families, and laypeople, all engaged together in the service of the mission. These communities are an expression of the communion of states of life and unity in the diversity of commitments; they allow each person to contribute according to their talents and calling.

A Diversity of Charisms for a Common Mission

Each form of consecrated life is a gift to the Church and contributes to its mission in the world. This diversity enriches the Church and enables it to meet the spiritual and material needs of people in a unique and valuable way.