A Consecrated Virgin is a woman living in the world that has never married or lived in open violation of Chastity. Through her Consecration, she renews her resolution of perpetual virginity to God, and is set aside as a sacred person who belongs to Christ.

According to age, prudence and good character, a woman is deemed by her bishop to be suitable for dedicating herself to a life of chastity in the service of the Church and her neighbor.

The bishop of her diocese is her guardian and by virtue of her Consecration she is responsible to pray for her diocese and clergy.

The Consecrated Virgin supports herself by earning her own living. Usually Consecrated Virgins in the United States volunteer their time to their local parish, diocese or Church sponsored associations.

There is a preparation period lasting about two years and is carried out with the assistance of a spiritual director and a preparation coordinator.

For more information contact:

Sister Joyce Candidi, OSHJ
Director of the Office of Vowed Religious
Diocese of Youngstown
(330) 744-8451
sjcandidi@youngstowndiocese.org

The United States Association of Consecrated Virgins
www.consecratedvirgins.org

God first made Himself known to me through people; family, friends, teachers, and especially people who suffered the stigma of mental retardation and physical deformity. In time I came to know God both as one who loves me and as the center of all my human relationships. Consecrated virginity is a way of responding to His love and proclaiming to the world that God is really enough.

God has called me to share my life with a very special young man in the role of his "foster mother."

Eileen Rohr
Consecrated Virgin

The Order of Virgins (Consecrated Women) Living in the World

My own journey regarding a religious vocation has taken many turns. I have been a member since 1989 - in this newly restored option for women in the Catholic Church.

Long ago in my high school years at Ursuline High School, I can trace the first idea of consecrated life. I was making a retreat at the high school, probably in my senior year, and I became very aware that God loved me. Pursuing what I now regard as an initial invitation, I travelled many paths and now find myself as a proud member of the Order of Consecrated Women. Looking back, I am somewhat astounded at where I have arrived.

My ministry in the Church has always been involved with education and more specifically, with religious education - from the administrative perspective as well as practical involvement with youth and adults. But first and foremost, I believe a commitment to prayer is the essential aspect that keeps all the activity relevant, fruitful and ongoing.

Regina Oliva
Order of Consecrated Women