What is consecrated religious life?
“The Consecrated Life, deeply rooted in the example and teaching of Christ the Lord, is a gift of God the Father to his Church through the Holy Spirit. By the profession of the evangelical counsels the characteristic features of Jesus—the chaste, poor and obedient one—are made constantly “visible” in the midst of the world and the eyes of the faithful are directed towards the mystery of the Kingdom of God already at work in history, even as it awaits its full realization in heaven.” — Pope Saint John Paul II, Vita Consecrata #1
In Poverty, consecrated persons live a radical dependence on Christ for their material needs.
In Chastity, consecrated persons give witness to their special and unique bond with Jesus Christ.
In Obedience, consecrated persons sacrifice their own will to become God’s instruments in the world.
Meet the men and women religious of our diocese
Celebrate the World Day for Consecrated Life! February 1, 2026
In 1997, St. John Paul II set aside the Feast of the Presentation of Our Lord, February 2, to celebrate those men and women who have devoted their lives to the Lord by living out the counsels of Poverty, Chastity and Obedience. The Presentation has traditionally been known as Candlemas Day, when candles are blessed to represent Christ the Light of the World, and those consecrated men and women who are bringing His light to all people. In 2026, the feast will be celebrated the weekend of February 1 in the U.S.
Pray for the consecrated men and women of our diocese
There are currently 152 men and women religious working in our parishes and schools, as well as in cloistered orders, and 50 men and women from our diocese in formation with religious orders all over the world.
Order our new poster featuring the 50 men and women in formation.
Contact the Office of Vocations, [email protected]
or call 703-841-2514.
Receive a prayer calendar to pray for one of these men or women each day!
Join the St. Therese Vocations Society and receive a quarterly calendar with names of future priests, sisters and brothers. There is no cost or commitment to join, just a promise of prayers.
If you or someone you know might be called to explore their vocation to priesthood or religious life, contact Father Noah Morey, [email protected] or 703-841-2514.
