World Day for Consecrated Life

The 16th annual World Day for Consecrated Life will be observed in parishes in the United States this weekend, 4-5 February.

The annual celebration was established by Pope John Paul II in 1997, to be marked each year on 2 February, the Feast of the Presentation.

The U.S. bishops voted to observe the occasion the weekend following the feast, to highlight men and women religious in consecrated life as part of weekend Mass celebrations, and to enable expressions of appreciation for the service of those who have chosen the consecrated life and to pray for an increase of vocations.

Media reports:

Boston Pilot: Celebrate World Day for Consecrated Life: 'For the Sake of the Gospel' (27 JAN 12)

EWTN: US dioceses to observe World Day for Consecrated Life (15 JAN 12)

Background information:

Apostolic Exhortation "Redemptionis Donum" of His Holiness Pope John Paul II to Men and Women Religious on their Consecration in the Light of the Mystery of Redemption

Message of the Holy Father Pope John Paul II for the I World Day of Consecrated Life