Opus Dei

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Personal prelature of the Catholic Church

Opus Dei
File:Opus Dei cross.svg
Formation	N/A
Type	Personal prelature
Headquarters	Vatican City
Membership	N/A
Language	N/A
Leader title	Prelate
Leader name	Fernando Ocáriz
Website

Opus Dei, formally known as the Prelature of the Holy Cross and Opus Dei (Latin: Praelatura Sanctae Crucis et Operis Dei), is a personal prelature of the Catholic Church that emphasizes the universal call to holiness and the belief that ordinary life is a path to sanctity. It was founded in Madrid, Spain, by Josemaría Escrivá on October 2, 1928.

History

Opus Dei was founded by Josemaría Escrivá in 1928. Escrivá's vision was to promote the idea that everyone is called to holiness and that ordinary life is a path to sanctity. The organization received approval from the Holy See in 1950 and was established as a personal prelature by Pope John Paul II in 1982.

Structure

Opus Dei is unique within the Catholic Church as it is a personal prelature, meaning it has jurisdiction over its members regardless of where they live. The head of Opus Dei is known as the Prelate, who is appointed by the Pope. The current Prelate is Fernando Ocáriz.

Membership

Opus Dei has two main types of members: numeraries and supernumeraries. Numeraries are celibate members who often live in Opus Dei centers, while supernumeraries are usually married and live with their families. There are also associate members who are celibate but do not live in Opus Dei centers.

Teachings

Opus Dei emphasizes the sanctification of work and the belief that everyone is called to be a saint. It promotes the idea that ordinary life, including work and family life, is a path to holiness. Members are encouraged to practice daily prayer, attend Mass, and receive the sacraments regularly.

Controversies

Opus Dei has been the subject of various controversies and criticisms, including allegations of secrecy, elitism, and aggressive recruitment practices. However, the organization maintains that it operates transparently and that its practices are in line with Catholic teachings.

Influence

Opus Dei has a significant influence within the Catholic Church and has been associated with various educational and social initiatives. It operates numerous schools, universities, and hospitals around the world.

See also

• Josemaría Escrivá
• Personal prelature
• Catholic Church
• Fernando Ocáriz
• Pope John Paul II