For nearly 100 years, Opus Dei has inspired both faith and mistrust among Roman Catholic believers and members. It is a Catholic lay and clergy body that firmly believes that a person’s spiritual and Christian life must be 100% balanced and integrated with their work/professional, social and family life. How the group does this is unclear to non-members, but followers of Opus Dei strive to “sanctify” every aspect of their existence and daily life.
Opus Dei – meaning “God’s work” – originated in Pamplona, Spain, and was founded in 1928 by Catholic priest Josemaría Escrivá. It sided with the dictator General Franco during the Spanish Civil War and benefited greatly from it. Many of its members became political and economic leaders throughout Spain. Pope Pius XII was recognized in 1950. The Vatican officially recognizes them as both secular and religious institutions. It is a theologically conservative group that follows without question the authority and teachings of the Catholic Church and all teachings and decrees of the Holy See.
Opus Dei is not a religious body; it doesn’t have many priests, it doesn’t have nuns, and its membership is mostly made up of laypeople to help them emphasize their faith. Despite its relatively small size, Opus Dei is an extremely powerful group that has caused controversy and mistrust within the Catholic Church.
Catholic clergy have described Opus Dei as a “demonic sect” with cult-like rituals and customs. Former members have also accused them of being extremely politicized, pushing a right-wing agenda by influencing those in power. It’s nearly impossible to discover the inner workings of their team or find someone willing to share their experience as a member.
Early in the group’s history, all members of Opus Dei had to renounce obedience, chastity, and secrecy. However, since this is not an order, members cannot take an oath, but must sign a contract or pledge not to reveal any information about the group, and attend spiritual formation classes and retreats. Anyone who leaves the group faces persecution and harassment if they speak out.
Today, Opus Dei has more than 900,000 members in more than 80 countries around the world. It recruits en masse, selects the young and impressionable and pushes them in, making it difficult to leave once they’re in. It has been described as a controlling organization that demands extreme loyalty, requiring permission or permission for even everyday errands like grocery shopping or going to the movies.
Over the years, Opus Dei has expanded its influence in the Catholic Church, where it has strong supporters under its predecessors, John Paul II and Benedict. In Germany they run many schools including daycare centers and their business school IESE, while in Spain they have many members in the field of education and law
For all the controversy, Opus Dei denies all these allegations. As it approaches its 100th anniversary in 2028, it continues to enjoy the support of the Vatican, with membership steadily increasing.
Directed by: Margot Litten
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