Vita Consecrata

by Pope John Paul II

Publisher:

Libreria Editrice Vaticana

, 1996

The Apostolic Constitutions and Exhortations of John Paul II and Benedict XVI (51 vols.) contains the most important writings of the two pontiffs, next to their encyclical letters. The papal office holds the highest teaching authority in the Catholic Church, and the popes realize this office through a number of channels and through the promulgation of a variety of documents. The most famous of these are the papal encyclical letters, which express the pope’s mind normally on matters of faith and morals. Apostolic exhortations often concern similar topics but do not define doctrine and are normally directed at encouraging certain groups within the Church to certain activities. In recent decades apostolic exhortations have most often been issued at the conclusion of synods of bishops and have served as the popes’ summations and interpretations of those synods’ conclusions. Apostolic constitutions, however, are more juridical in nature. They are formal papal decrees and carry the highest authority. Apostolic constitutions can deal with the structure of the Church, but also the liturgy, pastoral, or dogmatic concerns. Together with encyclicals, apostolic exhortations and constitutions are the most important documents produced by the Holy See, touching all matters of ecclesiastical government and doctrine.

Contents

Top Highlights

“The path to holiness thus involves the acceptance of spiritual combat. This is a demanding reality which is not always given due attention today.” (source)

“the need for fidelity to the founding charism and subsequent spiritual heritage of each Institute” (source)

“the Transfiguration is not only the revelation of Christ’s glory but also a preparation for facing Christ’s Cross” (source)

“always a life ‘touched’ by the hand of Christ, a life where his voice is heard, a life sustained by his grace” (source)

“The Church has always seen in the profession of the evangelical counsels a special path to holiness” (source)

Product Details

• Title: Vita Consecrata
• Author: Pope John Paul II
• Series: Apostolic Exhortations
• Publisher: Libreria Editrice Vaticana
• Print Publication Date: 1996
• Logos Release Date: 2012
• Language: English
• Resources: 1
• Format: Digital › Logos Research Edition
• Subjects: Monastic and religious life › Papal documents; Catholic Church › Clergy--Religious life--Papal documents
• Resource ID: LLS:VITACONSECENG
• Resource Type: Monograph
• Metadata Last Updated: 2024-03-25T21:05:50Z

About Pope John Paul II

Pope Saint John Paul II, born Karol Józef Wojtyła (18 May 1920–2 April 2005), reigned as Pope of the Catholic Church and Sovereign of The Holy See from 16 October 1978 until his death on 2 April 2005. He was canonized along with Pope John XXIII on April 27, 2014.