Pope Francis calls consecrated religious to be ‘bearers of light’ amid modern challenges

CNA Newsroom, Feb 1, 2025 / 17:00 pm

Pope Francis urged consecrated men and women to become “bearers of light” in today’s world through their faithful witness of the evangelical counsels as he celebrated first vespers for the World Day for Consecrated Life in St. Peter’s Basilica.

Speaking to thousands of religious on Saturday evening, the pope outlined how poverty, chastity, and obedience can transform society through God’s love, drawing from the biblical theme “See... I have come to do your will, O God” (Heb 10:7).

The World Day for Consecrated Life, celebrated annually on Feb. 2, takes on special significance this year as the Church prepares for the Jubilee of Consecrated Life scheduled for October. The celebration coincides with the feast of the Presentation of the Lord and is marked by the symbolism of light.

In his homily, the pope emphasized how evangelical poverty liberates religious from worldly attachments, enabling them to become “a blessing for others” by embracing “simplicity, generosity, sharing, and solidarity.” He warned against the dangers of “selfishness, greed, dependence, and violent use” of material goods.

“What a balm it is for the soul to encounter religious women and men capable of a mature and joyful relationality of this kind!” Francis said during the evening prayer service. He compared consecrated persons to a “Bride before her Spouse... surrounded by his light.”

The Holy Father noted that consecrated chastity, rooted in the Trinity, offers a powerful witness in a world often marked by “superficial relationships and selfish affectivity.” Religious communities must provide ongoing formation to help members fully live this gift without “unhealthy expressions of dissatisfaction,” he added.

Regarding obedience, Francis highlighted its role as an “antidote to isolated individualism” in an age dominated by ceaseless words and images but little listening. This counsel fosters “active listening” and helps people discover their purpose in “God’s greater plan,” he said, particularly in families, workplaces, and social networks.

The pope concluded by calling consecrated men and women to return to the origins of their vocation through renewed Eucharistic adoration. “We are too practical, we want to do things, but ... adore,” he urged. “There must be the capacity for adoration in silence.”

Catholics worldwide are invited to pray Sunday for vocations to consecrated life.