Official Website of the
Catholic Diocese of Little Rock
Day for Consecrated Life to be Feb. 6-7
Published: February 1, 2016
In 1997, Pope John Paul II instituted a day of prayer for women and men in consecrated life. This celebration is attached to the feast of the Presentation of the Lord, Feb. 2. This feast, traditionally called Candlemas Day, is celebrated 40 days after Christmas and recalls when Mary and Joseph presented Jesus to God in the temple. During this Mass, candles are blessed symbolizing Christ, the light of the world. So too, those in consecrated life are called to reflect the light of Christ to all people.
The celebration of World Day for Consecrated Life is transferred to the following Sunday to allow the whole Church to celebrate the gift of religious life. This year, it will be celebrated Feb. 6-7. If you think you may be called to religious life, learn about religious orders in Arkansas. To learn more about this event, visit the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops. This year's observance brings the special Year of Consecrated Life to a close.
Prayer for Consecrated Persons
Please join us in praying for all religious on this day and thank them for their dedication and commitment. The following prayer, courtesy of the USCCB Secretariat of Clergy, Consecrated Life And Vocations, can be found on the back of the prayer card for the World Day for Consecrated Life (right).
God our Father, we thank you for calling men and women to serve in your Son’s kingdom as sisters, brothers, religious priests, consecrated virgins, and hermits, as well as members of secular institutes. Renew their knowledge and love of you, and send your Holy Spirit to help them respond generously and courageously to your will. We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.
