About Consecrated Virginity

A virgin living in the world is consecrated by her diocesan bishop.  She is betrothed mystically to Christ and dedicated to the service of the Church. These women live in the world, supporting themselves through a variety of careers according to their gifts. Each gives witness to the love of Christ for His Bride, the Church, through a life of prayer. Her vocation is lived individually, under the direction of her diocesan bishop.

“Once my heart was open, God took it and ran with it. He filled my heart with the delightful love of a romantic relationship. He conversed with me throughout the months of discernment, leading me and teaching me in ways I never thought possible. He demonstrated the fullness of such a life. He undermined my initial notion that it would be a life of loneliness. The life of a consecrated virgin is a full life, because He truly makes Himself present. He behaved as any suitor would, providing delightful gifts which seem trivial, but their very triviality shows the tender care God has for us.” -Anne Therese Stephens, OV

“I’m giving myself in a way that I can’t take back. It’s total, it’s complete, it’s a public confession. This is what my role is in the Church. … My hope is for greater faithfulness in living the Christian life and surren