Opus Dei: Misconceptions and Realities

Introduction

Opus Dei, a personal prelature of the Catholic Church, has often been shrouded in mystery and misconceptions. As a Catholic scholar, it is crucial to dispel myths and present the realities of Opus Dei, guided by accurate references from the Catechism of the Catholic Church and Scripture.

The Nature of Opus Dei

Defining Opus Dei

Opus Dei, Latin for “Work of God,” was founded by St. Josemaría Escrivá in 1928. It is a personal prelature, a unique structure within the Catholic Church, as outlined by the Code of Canon Law (cc. 294-297). This means it operates under the jurisdiction of its own prelate, appointed by the Pope, and serves the faithful through its specific mission.

The Mission of Opus Dei

The core mission of Opus Dei is the sanctification of work and daily life. St. Josemaría Escrivá taught that “we must sanctify our work, sanctify ourselves in our work, and sanctify others through our work” (paraphrase). This teaching aligns with Colossians 3:17: “And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.”

Misconceptions about Opus Dei

Misconception: Secretiveness

One common misconception is that Opus Dei is secretive. However, this perception conflicts with its public activities, such as retreats, educational endeavors, and social projects.

Misconception: Political Agendas

Another misconception is that Opus Dei has political ambitions. The Catechism states, “The Church…is not to be confused with the political community and is not bound to any political system” (CCC 2245). Opus Dei, as part of the Church, adheres to this principle.

The Spiritual Life in Opus Dei

The Universal Call to Holiness

Opus Dei emphasizes the universal call to holiness, as Vatican II articulated: “All the faithful, whatever their condition or state, are called by the Lord to that perfection of sanctity by which the Father himself is perfect” (Lumen Gentium 11).

Practices of Piety

Members engage in daily Mass, prayer, and spiritual reading, reflecting the Church’s teaching that “prayer is the life of the new heart” (CCC 2697).

Opus Dei and the Laity

The Role of the Laity

Opus Dei uniquely focuses on the laity’s role in the Church’s mission. The Second Vatican Council highlighted the laity’s importance in “seeking the Kingdom of God by engaging in temporal affairs and directing them according to God’s will” (Lumen Gentium 31).

Secular Engagement

Members of Opus Dei live fully in the world, embracing secular professions and family life. This approach mirrors Jesus’ prayer for His disciples: “They are not of the world, just as I am not of the world” (John 17:16).

Theological Foundations

The Sanctification of Work

Opus Dei’s focus on sanctifying daily work is rooted in the Genesis account of creation, where work is seen as inherently good (Genesis 2:15).

Personal Freedom and Responsibility

Opus Dei teaches personal freedom and responsibility, resonating with Galatians 5:13: “For you were called to freedom, brothers. Only do not use your freedom as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another.”

Opus Dei’s Structure and Membership

Numeraries and Supernumeraries

Opus Dei has two main types of members: numeraries, who commit to celibacy and often live in Opus Dei centers, and supernumeraries, who usually marry and live in their own homes.

Cooperators

Cooperators are non-members who support Opus Dei’s activities. This concept is in line with the Church’s teaching on the communion of saints and the participation of all in the Church’s mission.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Opus Dei’s teachings and practices are deeply rooted in Catholic doctrine and the universal call to holiness. Misconceptions arise from misunderstandings or lack of information. As a personal prelature, Opus Dei contributes uniquely to the life and mission of the Church, exemplifying the integration of faith and daily life.