February 2nd
is celebrated as World Day for Consecrated Life. In 1997, Pope Saint John Paul
II instituted a day for women and men in consecrated life. This global
celebration is attached to the Feast of the Presentation of the Lord on
February 2nd. This Feast is also known as Candlemas Day; the day on which
candles are blessed symbolizing Christ who is the light of the world. So too,
those in consecrated life are called to reflect the light of Jesus Christ to
all peoples.
Let us pray
for all who have embraced consecrated life.
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. (U.S. Bishop's
Secretariat of Clergy, Consecrated Life and Vocations)