Chicago, 2/26/08: Catholic Religious communities reported on average a 30% increase this past year in the number of individuals in initial formation—the period before final vows. In addition, 62% of the participating Communities reported an increase in vocation inquiries in the past year.

The positive trends in Religious vocations detected last year continue, according to the VocationMatch.com Second Annual Survey on Trends in Religious Vocation, sponsored by Vision Vocation Guide, published by TrueQuest Communications of Chicago on behalf of the National Religious Vocation conference.

The majority of those who are considering Religious life are under 30 and quite serious about choosing Religious life—about one in five plan on entering a Religious community in the next year, . . . more

The Pauline Year, called for last year by Pope Benedict XVI, will run from June 28, 2008, to June 29, 2009, and will commemorate the second millennium of the birth of Saint Paul.

Inspired by the example of the Apostle to the Nations, the Pauline Year will show “that the action of Church is credible and effective only to the extent that its members are willing to personally pay for their fidelity to Christ in every situation.”

The year’s activities aim to revitalize faith, encourage prayer, and work for Christian unity. The coining of a special medal, the issue of a stamp, and a €2 coin by the Vatican, daily ordinary and extraordinary liturgical celebrations, and publications will commemorate the Year of Saint Paul. An English language Web site for the Pauline Year is due soon . . . more

Interview by Dave Hrbacek
The Catholic Spirit
Tuesday, November 13, 2007

Nicole Bettini, 29, of St. Peter in Forest Lake became a consecrated virgin Nov. 17 during a consecration rite at St. Peter. Currently she serves as the parish’s director of youth and family apostolate and as coordinator of Confirmation. Archbishop Harry Flynn presided at the Mass

Q: What is a consecrated virgin?
A: A consecrated virgin is a woman who is a spouse to Christ, who Christ has called to be his bride. The bishop consecrates her through the Church to our Lord as his spouse.
Q: Does that mean celibacy?
A: Yes. It means everything is consecrated--one's virginity, one's entire life--that Christ is foremost. Everything in one's life is centered on Christ.
Q: Why did you choose to . . . more