World Day for Consecrated Life observance in 2004 set for Feb. 8

Published: 2004-01-21

WASHINGTON (CNS) -- "They Left Everything and Followed Jesus" is the theme for the 2004 World Day for Consecrated Life, to be observed in a variety of ways in U.S. parishes Feb. 8. Plans for celebrating the work and lives of men and women vowed religious and members of secular institutes include special liturgies and dinners, broadcasting the Mass for consecrated life day on diocesan TV channels, and articles in diocesan newspapers focusing on consecrated life. In Chicago, for example, more than 30 priests, brothers and sisters from religious communities in the archdiocese will speak at Feb. 8 Masses; each parish in the archdiocese received a liturgy planning guide, general intercessions, bulletin announcements and homily notes for the World Day for Consecrated Life services. Cardinal Francis E. George of Chicago was to celebrate Mass at the city's Shrine of Our Lady of Pompeii, followed by a panel discussion on the challenges and rewards of consecrated life. He is a member of the Oblates of Mary Immaculate religious community.

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