17th World Day for Consecrated Life, February 2/3, 2913

We should never forget that consecrated life, before being a commitment of men and women, is a gift which comes from on high, an initiative of the Father "who draws his creatures to himself with a special love and for a special mission" (Vita Consecrata,17). This look of special love profoundly touches the heart of the one called, who is urged by the Holy Spirit to place himself or herself in the footsteps of Christ, in a particular way of following him, by means of assuming the evangelical counsels of chastity, poverty, and obedience. A stupendous gift!

Virgin Mary, Mother of Christ and of the Church, look upon the men and women whom your Son has called to follow him in total consecration to his love: may they always let the Spirit guide them; may they be tireless in giving of themselves and in serving the Lord, so as to be faithful witnesses to the joy that flows from the Gospel, and preachers of the Truth that leads human beings to the springs of immortal life. Amen!

~Bl. John Paul II, 2/2/00