CHARLOTTE — All are invited to come out and say “thank you” to all the consecrated men and women who serve in the diocese during the annual Mass for World Day for Consecrated Life. Bishop Peter Jugis will offer the Mass at 11 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 4, at St. Vincent de Paul Church, 6828 Old Reid Road, Charlotte.
Established by then-Pope John Paul II in 1997, this annual celebration is held in conjunction with the Feast of the Presentation of the Lord, also known as Candlemas Day, commemorating the coming of Christ, the Light of the World, through the symbolic lighting of candles.
Similarly, consecrated men and women are called to spread the light and love of Jesus Christ through their unique witness of selfless service.
The World Day for Consecrated Life was celebrated by the universal Church on Feb. 2, and parishes across the diocese will celebrate over the weekend of Feb. 4-5 in order to highlight the work and legacy of consecrated men and women in the western half of North Carolina.
Bishop Jugis also will recognize consecrated men and women who are celebrating milestone, or “jubilee,” anniversaries in 2023. Jubilarians this year include Trappist
Sister Genevieve Durcan (Order of Cistercians of the Strict Observance) and Franciscan Sister Jane Russell (Sisters of the Third Order of St. Francis), who are both celebrating 60 years of professed religious life.
— SueAnn Howell
Prayer for religious brothers and sisters in the diocese
For those consecrated to God by the vows of chastity, poverty and obedience, that they may seek to live their baptismal promises more intensely and have the grace to persevere in their commitment to the Lord and serve with open hearts and willing spirits. Amen.