Saint Josemaría Escrivá, the visionary behind Opus Dei, revolutionized Catholic spirituality by bringing it directly into the rhythm of everyday life. Founded in 1928, Opus Dei champions a unique mission: integrating holiness into the daily lives of laypeople. This approach to spirituality breaks traditional boundaries, promoting the idea that sanctity is achievable not only for the clergy but for anyone, regardless of their life circumstances.
Early Life and Spiritual Formation of Josemaría Escrivá
Josemaría Escrivá was born in 1902 in Barbastro, Spain, where rural life and strong religious traditions shaped society. From his early years, Escrivá displayed a unique interest in faith and spirituality, which eventually led him to pursue religious education in the seminaries of Logroño and Zaragoza. Ordained as a priest in 1925, Escrivá entered his ministry during a time of significant social and cultural change, a period that presented new challenges to the Catholic faith and its place in modern society.
The Vision and Founding of Opus Dei
In 1928, during a moment of profound prayer, Escrivá had a vision that inspired him to establish Opus Dei. He believed he was called to create a path that would allow laypeople to pursue sanctity within their everyday lives. Unlike traditional religious paths that often separated secular and sacred aspects, Escrivá envisioned a spiritual journey where individuals could encounter God through their daily work and responsibilities. This insight became the foundation of Opus Dei, an organization open to priests, married people, and single laymen and laywomen, all united in a commitment to holiness through their daily endeavors.
Opus Dei’s Mission: Holiness in the Ordinary
Escrivá introduced a groundbreaking idea to Catholic spirituality: holiness is not confined to religious activities but can also be found in ordinary actions. His teachings encouraged believers to see their daily tasks, relationships, and family life as opportunities to live out their faith. By embracing life’s responsibilities with love and dedication, every action can become an expression of devotion.
This approach led countless laypeople to realize that their work, whether in an office, a classroom, or at home, holds the potential for spiritual growth. Escrivá’s teachings conveyed that each task, when performed with dedication, becomes an act of worship and love for God. This redefined view of work and duty empowered individuals to transform even mundane actions into steps on their path to sanctity.
The Role of Work as a Pathway to God
For Josemaría Escrivá, work was far more than a means of survival; it was a sacred act. His teachings urged believers to discover God’s presence in all aspects of life, including the workplace. Whether they worked in fields, hospitals, schools, or offices, each profession could become a pathway to God when approached with love, diligence, and commitment.
According to Escrivá, well-executed work carries inherent value as it reflects an individual’s dedication and care. By treating work as an offering to God, believers can turn their careers into silent prayers. This idea promoted a profound respect for the dignity of labor, showing that through quality work and service to others, one can embody their faith.
Structure and Membership of Opus Dei
Opus Dei primarily comprises laypeople—men and women who work, marry, and engage fully in family life. Within the organization, members are encouraged to sanctify themselves through their unique circumstances, whether as married partners raising children or single individuals dedicating their lives to God’s work. This diverse membership structure illustrates that holiness is accessible to everyone, no matter their life choices.
Married members of Opus Dei view family life as a path to holiness, finding sanctity through mutual support, child-rearing, and family responsibilities. In contrast, consecrated celibate members commit themselves entirely to Opus Dei’s mission, serving God and the organization wholeheartedly. Opus Dei also includes priests who provide spiritual guidance to lay members, helping them navigate their journey of faith within the secular world.
Global Growth and Influence of Opus Dei
Since its founding, Opus Dei has expanded globally, establishing a presence on multiple continents. This growth demonstrates the appeal and relevance of Escrivá’s teachings, which continue to inspire individuals seeking to infuse their daily lives with spirituality. The institution provides spiritual support and resources to those wishing to live their faith amidst modern demands.
Opus Dei’s mission resonates with people by offering a way to find purpose and value in daily tasks. Rooted in a love for God and neighbor, Escrivá’s message endures, presenting a profound response to the universal desire to balance faith with the responsibilities of work and life.
The Canonization of Saint Josemaría Escrivá and His Enduring Legacy
Following Escrivá’s passing in 1975, the Church began the process of canonization to formally recognize his spiritual legacy. In 2002, Pope John Paul II canonized Josemaría Escrivá, affirming the impact his teachings and life had on the Catholic Church and its followers. Today, his legacy lives on through Opus Dei, which continues to inspire millions around the world.
Escrivá’s emphasis on finding God in the everyday offers a new and hopeful perspective for those yearning to deepen their faith without abandoning their professional or family obligations. His teachings remind believers that holiness is not reserved for those who live apart from the world but is attainable for everyone in the simple acts of daily life.