Consecrated Virginity

IN THE CATHOLIC CHURCH

What is a "Consecrated Virgin"?

Click on the links on the left for information regarding consecrated virgins in the Catholic Church

The Code of Canon Law

Can. 588 §1 In itself, the state of consecrated life is neither clerical nor lay.

Can. 599 The evangelical counsel of chastity embraced for the sake of the Kingdom of heaven, is a sign of the world to come, and a source of greater fruitfulness in an undivided heart. It involves the obligation of perfect continence observed in celibacy.

Can. 604 §1 The order of virgins is also to be added to these forms of consecrated life. Through their pledge to follow Christ more closely, virgins are consecrated to God, mystically espoused to Christ and dedicated to the service of the Church, when the diocesan Bishop consecrates them according to the approved liturgical rite.

§2 Virgins can be associated together to fulfill their pledge more faithfully, and to assist each other to serve the Church in a way that befits their state.

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