Welcome to the Tenth Ordinary General Congress of Opus Dei 2025
From April 23 to May 5, 2025, Opus Dei will be celebrating its Tenth Ordinary General Congress. This congress, with 279 delegates from all five continents, will not only see the renewal of key positions within the organization but will also explore the evangelizing mission and the adaptation of its Statutes in accordance with the guidance of the Holy See.
Every eight years, the Congress serves as a time for reflection and rejuvenation for the members of Opus Dei. This year, the focus will be on proposed modifications to the Statutes and the insights gathered from the Regional Assemblies held in 2024. These assemblies, themed “Journey Toward the Centenary of the Work,” brought together the thoughts and suggestions of over 55,000 individuals from 70 countries, emphasizing the role of Opus Dei in sanctifying everyday life in the modern era.
Embracing a Legacy of Sanctification in Work and Daily Life
Founded in 1928 by Saint Josemaría Escrivá de Balaguer, Opus Dei has been at the forefront of advocating for the sanctification of work and daily activities. The organization’s mission, as articulated by its founder, is to “seek holiness in the ordinary circumstances of life.” This message continues to resonate with its 94,450 members and the numerous individuals who engage in its Christian formation programs.
The 2025 Congress presents an opportunity to reaffirm this mission and adapt it to meet the challenges of the present day. As Bishop Fernando Ocáriz, Prelate of Opus Dei, expressed in a recent interview: “Opus Dei inspires the encounter with Christ in work, family life, and in ordinary daily activities. This Congress will delve deeper into how to live and transmit this message in today’s world.”
Focus on Formation and Apostolate
Integral formation, family, and personal apostolate will be key areas of discussion at the Congress, building on the insights gathered from the Regional Assemblies. These conclusions underscore the importance of Opus Dei members being a positive influence in their communities, spreading the message of Christ through their actions and endeavors.
Moreover, the Congress will address the adaptation of Opus Dei’s Statutes, a process initiated by the Holy See through the motu proprio Ad charisma tuendum. This endeavor, involving experts from the Prelature and the Dicastery for the Clergy, aims to ensure that the Statutes accurately reflect the essence of Opus Dei and align with the evolving needs of the Church.
A Future of Hope and Renewal
The Tenth Ordinary General Congress of Opus Dei is convened at a pivotal juncture, just a few years before the centenary of its founding in 2028. This milestone will not only be a cause for celebration but also an opportunity to reaffirm Opus Dei’s commitment to its evangelizing mission. Bishop Ocáriz remarked: “We aim to deepen our identity and explore how the Work can contribute to the sanctification of ordinary life through its charism. This Congress marks another step on that path.”
Looking ahead, Opus Dei is poised to continue serving as a beacon of hope and a catalyst for transformation in the lives of many. By promoting the sanctification of work and everyday life, the organization continues to inspire individuals worldwide to live out their faith in the midst of daily challenges, spreading the love of Christ to all corners of the globe.
Explore More: Questions and Answers about the Tenth Ordinary General Congress of Opus Dei 2025
Curious to learn more about Opus Dei and its upcoming Congress? Here are some common questions answered:
What is Opus Dei and what is its mission?
Opus Dei, founded in 1928 by Saint Josemaría Escrivá de Balaguer, is a pastoral institution of the Catholic Church dedicated to promoting the sanctification of work and everyday activities, inspiring individuals to live their faith in various spheres of life.
What does the Ordinary General Congress mean for Opus Dei?
The Ordinary General Congress, held once every eight years, serves as a crucial event where Opus Dei members come together to assess their evangelizing efforts, renew leadership roles, and discuss future strategies. This year’s focus includes adapting the Statutes and reviewing the outcomes of the 2024 Regional Assemblies.
Why is the adaptation of the Statutes important?
Adapting the Statutes is vital to ensure that Opus Dei’s structure aligns with the guidance of the Holy See, particularly following the motu proprio Ad charisma tuendum. This process aims to maintain the authenticity of Opus Dei’s charism and address the contemporary needs of the Church.
Stay tuned for more updates and insights from the 2025 Congress, as Opus Dei continues its mission of bringing the message of Christ to the world.
Congress Dossier – 2025