Feast of Consecrated Life: consecrated people from all over the world gather in Rome
Consecrated life, a wealth at the heart of the world
Last Feb. 2, the Catholic Church celebrated the Presentation of Jesus at the Temple as well as the Feast of Consecrated Life. On this occasion, from Feb. 1 to 4, 2024, Rome was the stage for an international gathering of consecrated persons from more than 60 countries around the world. More than 300 representatives of the different forms of consecrated life came to Rome for this event. Each country was represented by a religious, a religious woman, a member of a secular institute, and a consecrated woman from the Ordo Virginum, highlighting the diversity and richness of consecrated life around the world.
Reflections on peace in a world in search of Hope
Responding to Pope Francis’ call, this meeting was an opportunity for deep reflection on the urgent need for peace, a pressing necessity for our turbulent times. The event was attended by Father Paulin Batairwa Kubuya, Undersecretary of the Dicastery for Interreligious Dialogue, and Sister Alessandra Smerilli, Secretary of the Dicastery for the Service of Integral Human Development, who brought their perspective to this crucial discussion.
Preparation for the Jubilee of Consecrated Life in 2025
Cardinal João Braz de Aviz, Prefect of the Dicastery for Consecrated Life and Societies of Apostolic Life, urged consecrated persons to fully embrace this event as a collective pilgrimage in preparation for the Jubilee of Consecrated Life, which will be held in Rome Oct. 8-9, 2025, with the theme “Pilgrims of Hope, on the Way of Peace.” Consecrated persons have been called to embody these essential values of hope and peace and to share them with the world around them. They have been called to turn their hearts and minds toward a future of reconciliation and light, carrying with them the promise of a better world.