What is Opus Dei and what practices do they practise?

[Average_Joe17]

I noticed the title “Opus Dei” somewhere online. I found it so interesting that I decided to dive deeper in it. I was searching up definitions and such but i couldn’t find a clear answer. What do they believe? What are some practices they do? Thank you for any responses

 

[catholic03]

Opus Dei means ‘the work of God’. It is the Church’s only Personal Prelature, led by a prelate.

It was founded by St Josemaria Escriva around 90 years ago. It’s an admirable organisation.

 

[Lara]

The wikipedia entry is good.

 

[OldCAFMember]

Why not just visit their website?

 

[commenter]

Why not just visit their website?

True. But I can see why some are suspicious of an agency’s own website. Many that claim to be “fully Catholic” are compromised, or “in Communion” with the Church, are not, or not fully.

Opus Dei is like a diocese without geographic boundaries. They have their own priests. But other priests who are incardinated in a Diocese can affiliate with them as well.

They have Laity, at different levels of commitment, for whom this is their “diocese”, and the Opus Dei prelate is their bishop ordinary. But there are other Laity, who choose to participate in some activities.

They are not just “in Communion with” the Church, they are part of the actual fabric of the Church itself.

So yes, I would go to their website.

 

[tafan2]

I am not a member. I have a couple of very good friends who are members. I also try to attend a monthly men’s Recollection they do for members and non-members. When I make it, its one of the highlights of my month.

They are very good in my opinion. Most of the 9nlune criticism is way over the top and completely unfounded imo.

 

[tafan2]

I would add that John Allen’s book on Opus Dei is an excellent resource. Very objective. Presents a good duscription if how they work, their history, and both sides of the common criticisms.