A personal prelature within the Catholic Church, known for its emphasis on the universal call to holiness and practice of self-harm.
Religion: Christianity
Denomination: Roman Catholic
Founder: Josemaría Escrivá
Founded: 1928
Location: Global (headquarters in Rome, Italy)
Other Names: Prelature of the Holy Cross and Opus Dei
See also: Flagellants (similar practices)
Opus Dei, Latin for “Work of God,” is a personal prelature within the Roman Catholic Church, emphasizing the universal call to holiness and apostolate in the daily lives of its lay members and priests. Founded in Spain in 1928 by St. Josemaría Escrivá, Opus Dei’s mission is to foster a deeper spiritual life among its members by encouraging them to strive for Christian perfection in their ordinary activities. This organization operates worldwide, with a membership exceeding 95,000, comprising mainly lay people as well as secular priests under the governance of a prelate elected by its members and appointed by the Pope.
Opus Dei was established in Spain, amid a period of social and political upheaval. The Spanish Civil War and the subsequent global conflicts of World War II initially hampered its expansion. However, Escrivá’s perseverance saw the organization eventually spread across the globe. The foundational years were marked by significant milestones, including the first diocesan approval in 1941, the formation of the Priestly Society of the Holy Cross in 1943 to ordain priests within the organization, and eventually, gaining pontifical approval in 1947 and definitive approval in 1950, which expanded its reach to married individuals and secular clergy.
The organization’s structure is unique within the church: in 1982, Opus Dei was designated a personal prelature by Pope John Paul II, a status that highlights its global mission and the direct governance by its own prelate, enhancing its ability to operate within the diverse contexts of the modern world. This structure supports its mission to spread the Christian message that every aspect of one’s life can be sanctified.
Opus Dei’s teachings emphasize the sanctification of everyday activities, particularly through work. St. Josemaría espoused a vision where daily labor and life’s mundane moments could be imbued with deep spiritual significance. This ethos seeks to integrate faith into every facet of life, from professional endeavors to personal duties, encouraging a form of spirituality that is accessible and relevant to all, regardless of their state in life.
However, Opus Dei has not been without its critics. It has faced controversies over its practices, including the use of corporal mortification among its celibate members—a practice that, while having historical precedence in Catholicism, is seen by some as outmoded and extreme. Allegations have also surfaced regarding aggressive recruitment strategies, excessive control over members, and a culture of secrecy surrounding its operations and membership. These criticisms have fueled debates about the place and influence of Opus Dei within the Catholic Church and the broader public perception.
Despite these controversies, Opus Dei continues to have a significant impact on the Catholic Church and its followers. It operates numerous educational and charitable projects worldwide, striving to embody its core message of finding God in everyday life. The canonization of Josemaría Escrivá in 2002 underscored the Vatican’s acknowledgment of his contributions to the church’s understanding of lay spirituality and the universal call to holiness.
image via Crisis Magazine
