Opus Dei, a personal prelature within the Catholic Church, has been the subject of various analyses and reflections in recent times, especially in light of the reforms promoted by Pope Francis and the evolution of ecclesial structures. To understand the current situation of Opus Dei, it is crucial to examine normative changes, the Pope’s messages, and future perspectives on its role within the Church.
Structure and Number of Members
Opus Dei is structured around a personal prelature, which means that its jurisdiction is not delimited by geographical territories, but rather encompasses all persons who join it anywhere in the world. This structure includes both priests and lay people, who work together to promote the mission of the prelature. Opus Dei has approximately 93,400 members worldwide, of whom the vast majority are lay people, including married and single people. In addition, there are about 2,100 priests who are part of the prelature. This composition reflects the diversity and global reach of Opus Dei, which operates in numerous different countries and cultural contexts.
Governance of Opus Dei
The governance of Opus Dei is in the hands of a prelate, who is appointed by the Pope. The current prelate is Msgr. Fernando Ocáriz, who assumed office in January 2017. The prelate is responsible for the spiritual and administrative direction of the prelature, working in collaboration with the General Council and the Central Advisory Board, which are consultative bodies made up of priests and lay people. These bodies assist the prelate in making decisions and in implementing Opus Dei policies and guidelines. This governance structure ensures a coherent and coordinated management of the prelature’s activities on a global level.
Reforms of Personal Prelatures
Pope Francis has promoted significant reforms in personal prelatures, which directly includes Opus Dei. These reforms are intended to better align the Church’s structures with current pastoral needs and ensure greater cohesion and synergy within the various forms of consecrated life and lay associations. In his recent message, the Pope stressed the importance of adapting the prelatures to contemporary realities, highlighting the flexibility and dynamism necessary to fulfill their mission (Exaudi).
Message from Pope Francis
Pope Francis has expressed his esteem for Opus Dei on multiple occasions, recognizing the positive impact of its work on the lives of many faithfuls. In a message addressed to the members of Opus Dei, the Pope stressed his gratitude for the “great good” they do and his personal closeness to the prelature (ACI Prensa). This papal endorsement reaffirms the importance of Opus Dei within the ecclesial structure and its role in evangelization and Christian formation.
Harmony between Pope Francis and Opus Dei
The relationship between Pope Francis and Opus Dei is characterized by a harmony based on mutual recognition and respect for each other’s mission. Despite the reforms and structural adjustments, the Pope has maintained a position of support and appreciation towards the prelature, highlighting the need to continue working in communion with the rest of the Church. This harmonious relationship is fundamental to understanding the current context and future prospects of Opus Dei (Exaudi).
Future Perspectives
Opus Dei is currently immersed in the reform of its statutes, and is working on them with the Dicastery for the Clergy, to which it has become dependent since the motu proprio Ad Charisma Tuendum of July 22, 2022.
One of the essential points of the charism of Opus Dei is the unity of vocation and the organic cooperation of priests and lay people. According to the canonists we have consulted, one of the dilemmas is whether this can fit within the framework of personal prelatures or whether it would be more appropriate to add another legal figure.
This debate is part of the search for greater flexibility and openness within the Church, adapting to current realities without losing its essence and charisma (Vatican News).
The Legacy of St. Josemaría Escrivá
The legacy of St. Josemaría Escrivá, founder of Opus Dei, remains a cornerstone for the prelature. His teachings and vision on the sanctification of work and daily life continue to inspire thousands of people around the world. The Popes have consistently recognized his contribution to the spirituality and mission of the Church, underlining the relevance of Opus Dei in the contemporary context (Vatican).
The current situation of Opus Dei reflects a moment of adaptation and renewal within the Catholic Church. The reforms promoted by Pope Francis and the continued support of the Pontiff highlight the importance of the prelature in modern evangelization, and the reform of its statutes opens new perspectives and challenges, ensuring that Opus Dei continues to be a vital and relevant force in the life of the Church and in the Christian formation of the faithful.
For more information: https://opusdei.org/es-es/
