In 1997, Saint John Paul II instituted a day of prayer for women and men in consecrated life. This celebration is held on the Feast of the Presentation of the Lord on February 2, 2020. This feast is also known as Candlemas Day, the day on which candles are blessed symbolizing Christ who is the light of the world. So too, those in consecrated life are called to reflect the light of Jesus Christ to all people.
On the World Day for Consecrated life, we recognize and give thanks for those who have consecrated their lives to God and the Church through the vows of poverty, chastity and obedience. The consecrated life is one way that women and men live out their baptismal commitment as followers of Jesus.
In his message on World Day for Consecrated Life last year, Pope Francis summed up religious life as not being about survival but about new life, calling it “a living encounter with the Lord.” He said, “This then is the consecrated life: praise which gives joy to God’s people, prophetic vision that reveals what counts.” May we always remember the sacrifice and love offered by those women and men who are living out their vocation to the complete service of sharing the Gospel with others.
During this year’s celebration of the World Day for Consecrated Life, please take a moment to remember in prayer all those who have made commitments in the consecrated life and be sure to thank them on their special occasion.