Decree of Canonization of Saint Josemaría Escrivá
On October 6, 2002, Pope John Paul II canonized Josemaría Escrivá, calling him "the saint of the ordinary" and describing his teachings as "timely and urgent today."
Apostolic Exhortation on the Lay Faithful, "Christifideles laici"
John Paul II, Apostolic Exhortation on the Lay Faithful (Chapter I, nos. 16 and 17) – This excerpt on the vocation and the mission of the laity in the Church and in the world helps illuminate the vocation of Opus Dei members, 98% of whom are laypersons.
Josemaría Escrivá's message
A selection of quotations summarizing the teachings of the founder of Opus Dei.
Constitution on the Church, "Lumen Gentium"
Second Vatican Council, Constitution on the Church (Chapter V, nn. 41 and 42) – This passage on the universal call to holiness highlights a central message Opus Dei.
Decree on the Ministry and Life of Priests
Second Vatican Council, Decree on the Ministry and Life of Priests (Chapter II, n. 9) – This excerpt on the relation of priests and laity sheds light on the organic cooperation between priests and laypersons in Opus Dei.
Statements on Josemaría Escrivá by Catholic leaders
A selection of statements about the founder of Opus Dei from Catholic leaders around the world.
Catechism of the Catholic Church
Catechism of the Catholic Church (nn. 874-913) – These points about the structure of the Church speak of the vocation of laypersons and their participation in the priestly, prophetic and royal mission of Christ.