Opus Dei

Opus Dei is a personal prelature of the Catholic Church founded in Madrid, Spain, in 1928 by Josemaría Escrivá.

Opus Dei is a personal prelature of the Catholic Church founded in Madrid, Spain, in 1928 by Josemaría Escrivá. It promotes the idea that ordinary work and daily responsibilities can be lived as a path to holiness. The organisation is officially known as the Prelature of the Holy Cross and Opus Dei and has an international presence, including members in Canada and the United Kingdom.

History

Opus Dei began in Spain in 1928 and later received formal approval from the Holy See in 1950. In 1982, Pope John Paul II confirmed its canonical status as a personal prelature.

Beliefs and mission

Opus Dei emphasizes sanctifying ordinary life, especially professional work and daily duties. It presents this as a way for Catholics to pursue holiness and serve the Church. The group teaches that holiness can be pursued through ordinary work, family life, and social responsibilities.

Organization

The organisation is officially a personal prelature, a structure within the Catholic Church that includes clergy and lay members. It is the only personal prelature in the Catholic Church. It is headquartered in Rome and operates internationally.

Public profile and controversy

Opus Dei is a prominent and sometimes controversial Catholic organisation. Media and critics have described it as secretive or socially conservative, while the organisation presents itself as a pastoral institution focused on spiritual formation.