Frequently Asked Questions

Who was St. Josemaria Escriva?

St. Josemaria Escriva (1902-1975) was a Catholic diocesan priest who received the inspiration from God to found the organization Opus Dei. For more information visit our St. Josemaria Escriva biographical page.

What is Opus Dei?

Opus Dei is a Catholic institution founded in 1928 by St. Josemaria Escriva. Its mission is to help people turn their work and daily activities into occasions for growing closer to God, for serving others, and for improving society.

As the Second Vatican Council noted, every baptized person is called to follow Jesus Christ, by living according to the Gospel and making it known to others. The aim of Opus Dei is to contribute to that evangelizing mission of the Church, by promoting among Christians of all social classes a life fully consistent with their faith, in the middle of the ordinary circumstances of their lives and especially through the sanctification of their work.

For more information about Opus Dei visit www.opusdei.org.

Do I have to join Opus Dei to practice the spirituality of St. Josemaria?

No. To join Opus Dei a person must have a specific calling from God to Opus Dei. There are many people around the world who do not have a specific vocation to Opus Dei but who still live St. Josemaria's spirituality to varying degrees and benefit greatly from his teachings. Some of these people are cooperators of Opus Dei, people who partake in Opus Dei activities but are not members.

What is the relationship of the St. Josemaria Institute and Opus Dei?

St. Josemaria was the founder of Opus Dei. His teachings are the basis of the mission of the St. Josemaria Institute. As such, the messages of the two organizations are intertwined. However, the St. Josemaria Institute hopes to promote St. Josemaria's valuable teachings to the general public regardless of people's relationship to Opus Dei.

How can I help the St. Josemaria Institute in its mission?

The St. Josemaria Institute offers many helpful resources online. Please take advantage of the resources and promote them among your family and friends. You can also subscribe to your newsletter, follow us on social networks, send us your comments, and make a donation.

How is the St. Josemaria Institute funded?

The St. Josemaria Institute depends of your generosity. We offer our services free of charge and ask that you help us continue to spread this important message of faith and hope.

How can I make a donation to the St. Josemaria Institute?

We have made giving to the Institute as secure and easy as possible, simply click on the Support button. You can also mail your donation to:

St. Josemaria Institute
1420 Davey Road
Woodridge, IL 60517
USA

Is my donation tax deductible?

The St. Josemaria Institute is a registered 501c3 charitable organization. Donations to the St. Josemaria Institute are tax deductible as allowed by the law. Donors receive a year-end summary of their donations for tax purposes.

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