Opus Dei

[GregChevalier]

How do you determine if you have a vocation in OPUS DEI?

 

[baltobetsy]

Attend the means of formation - retreats, recollections, doctrine classes - go regularly to a priest of Opus Dei for confession/spiritual direction, pray to know God’s will. If you find yourself growing closer to God in this setting and desiring to do more for Him, then perhaps you have a vocation. It will take time.

Do you have more specific questions?

Betsy

 

[LukeQ]

Hi Greg,

You have not told us whether you are talking about being a lay person or priest in Opus Dei but either way, it is a lifestyle quite different to the present.

I don’t have a calling but I do struggle with friends who “discern” whether they do or not. It is like a mental torture they go through.

For what it is worth, I believe God designs us, personality, intelligence, skills etc, to be equiped for what he intends for us. He also places in us a desire for it as it matches who we are as a person. I was once asked by a priest to discern the priesthood. The pressure he put on me was considerable but as i explained to him, me becoming a priest was like an artist being told he should be an engineer. There is no match. he now understands as i am dating the love of my life and he one day will hopefully officiate the wedding.

So, are you the engineer or the artist? Is religious life for you?

Let’s say it is. Okay, have you investigated other Orders or Diocessan options?

Does Opus Dei offer you a freedom you have never known before, something that feels so compelling that you would die if you could not join or are you feeling pressure from your spiritual director hooking fear emotions?

Are you aware of the controversies of Opus Dei and have you spoken to ex members?

May God bless you in your search,
Luke

 

[AquinasXVI]

Hey Greg:

You might not believe me but that question is the last thing you should be thinking about. Baltobetsy is right. Attend as much as you can all of the formation activities offered to you. Make friends with a numerary or a supernumerary to explain all sorts of questions you may have.

I’ve been with Opus Dei as a cooperator for over 6 years and been attending formation for 10 years. It has helped me in inumerable ways. The charism is a match with me. I’ve also been part of several of the apostolates and will continue to do so. OD has helped me practice my faith with a fighting spirit–challenging to do these days.

Remember that the CC being the household of God has many many mansions. You’ll find your charism if you seek it.

in XT

 

[Cesaria]

AquinasXVI:

Hey Greg:

You might not believe me but that question is the last thing you should be thinking about. Baltobetsy is right. Attend as much as you can all of the formation activities offered to you. Make friends with a numerary or a supernumerary to explain all sorts of questions you may have.

I’ve been with Opus Dei as a cooperator for over 6 years and been attending formation for 10 years. It has helped me in inumerable ways. The charism is a match with me. I’ve also been part of several of the apostolates and will continue to do so. OD has helped me practice my faith with a fighting spirit–challenging to do these days.

Remember that the CC being the household of God has many many mansions. You’ll find your charism if you seek it.

in XT

I’m a Cooperator too for about as long as you have. been I don’t believe I have a calling to be a “member” Super-Numerary though. Greg, you are in my prayers.