Caroline, thank you so much for these videos. I'm discerning a cloistered vocation and I've been a little scared about if it doesn't work out. Obviously I have to trust in Jesus and I plan on everything going well! But your videos give me hope that if I discern out during postulancy, everything will be fine. 🙂 Thank you!
Hi Kayla, thank you so much for your kind comments and sharing your journey. 😀Yes, absolutely - it is trusting in Jesus as you said and He will always provide for you, whatever path you ultimately decide on. Keep open, and if you have any questions about cloistered life I’d be happy to try and help. Blessings. C
Hi Caroline, thanks for sharing this! I was wondering if you are still discerning this vocation (I’ve subbed to your channel but haven’t seen the rest of your videos) and what is the process? I think God is drawing me into this vocation but I found there isn’t a lot of resources out there. I also live in the Diocese of East Anglia (down south) so I was incredibly grateful to stumble upon your UA-cam channel. ❤
I know a woman from the ordo virginum and I love her sm. I'm discerning a consacration in the world as well. I'm drawn to focolari movement founded by Chiara Lubich. Please pray for me 🙏🏻
This is the most radiant I have ever seen you, Caroline. I wish you well. It would be helpful to hear more of what it means to live a contemplative life. Good wishes… Filip
This is fascinating. Being Anglican myself I only know of the Anglican nearest equivalent which is Single Consecrated Life. Is there a 'network' for consecrated virgins in the Roman Catholic church? Are there other consecrated virgins you can meet with to help you in your discernment, and that could give you a sense of fellowship with others living out a similar vocation? x
Hi again, yes there is a network for the consecrated virgins. This video was back in January, and I’m actually not pursuing this now, but it was a wonderful exploration and listening to the Spirit through those months. I’m similar to you in that I watched a lot on UA-cam to learn as well. 😀C
Here in the States, we have a massive network (I am a Consecrated Virgin); the vocation is exploding in numbers, and there are many groups that have formed. Our national organization (USACV) also holds regur meetings and an annual convocation to enhance fellowship and connectivity amongst the virgins. We are also not "single"...we are married, to Christ, which is why the entire Liturgy includes elements of a nuptial- the Ring and the Veil. Sponsa Christi-- we are married to Christ (it's actually formally annotated on our baptismal certificate afterwards, which is why one is never eligible for sacramental marriage once this consecration is bestowed. We are indissolubly married to Christ). A celibate, however, is an *unmarried/single* chaste individual who gives up marriage/relations for the Kingdom. Celibacy (unlike consecrated virginity) does NOT require the never-impeded physical gift of virginity.
This is fascinating Caroline.I did not think there were many woman who would choose this way of life these days. You could do all those things you mentioned as a secular person without having to make it official. I was wondering why you feel the need to take this a step further. I have found your talks very interesting and often listen to them before I go to work as they have a calming effect. You are doing so much good since you left Quidenham so thank you very much!
Hi, thank you so much for your comments. It was wonderful to read that you’re watching my talks, thank you.🙏Yes, at the moment I’m just seeing where the Lord is taking me in this exploration. I’ve had this path on my mind/heart for quite some time now, so I’m giving it a few months to really see if it is for me, or as you say it may turn out not needing to be so official, or it may. Let’s see! ✝️🙏😀C
@@deirdregillespie6764 but isn't God's grace abundant and overflowing with every breath we take, every step we make, whatever and wherever God calls us to be? I wonder if consecration is more about a vocation to a special visible dedication, ministry and gift of one's life within the Church? Others might feel called to a single life of prayer and / or ministry but in a more hidden less official way? I'm not sure, just sharing thoughts as it's really interesting.
I'm discerning this vocation as well. For me it's that I want to be "married" to Jesus. I've had for years the longing for Christ as Bridegroom. It's something I can't really explain, it's a kind of grace, but at the same and time feels most natural to me. I'm not feeling the appeal of any other evangelical counsels that are in cloistered life etc., as much as I can appreciate the beauty of it, it just doesn't "speak" to me. In the end, it comes down to discerning this most inner call and inner longing.
Hello, and thank you so much for your message. It’s a tough one really, I feel, as you can see the reasons behind his choice, but it has left many people frustrated. I don’t think it’s being banned completely, just restricted in certain areas and needs permission first etc. I know many people enjoy the Latin Mass online if not able in person. C
I wonder whether the option of being a consecrated virgin in the Church in the world is distinguished from a woman who is asexual. ... and maybe that's not a bad thing.
Holy Spirit is coming to the world to clean it and give every men their wifes. Dont be surprised but i m jesus wife. You have a great calling. Good job.
does a consecrated virgin have to stay in the diocese she is living in when consecrated for the rest of her life, or can she move somewhere else if she wants?
Hi, thank you for your comments. Usually, they stay in the one diocese. I’ve not heard much of moving around etc. But I imagine it must happen sometimes depending on the circumstances. C
@@carolineleightonthey can move since they aren’t incardinated into their diocese such as a priest. It is customary for the bishop of the Diocese the virgin in leaving to send a letter of introduction to the bishop in the diocese she is moving to and for a meeting to be arranged.
It definitely happens, and there is a process in place for it. Several of my friends who are also CVs have moved secondary to ailing family, etc.@@carolineleighton
I suggest you read the latest in Canon Law and get advice from a wise priest. I asked myself the same question. I think it would be less confusing if it were called “consecrated celibacy”. It is not closed to converts who have lived past sinful lives, and sometimes out of ignorance of Christianity.
I am a Consecrated Virgin and have been since 2016, so I went through the formation and instruction; this is discussed at length. You absolutely must have physical virginity to offer; it's not merely symbolic, as corroborated by the fact that what is being consecrated to Jesus IS your virginity. A Bishop cannot consecrate what no longer exists, because that physical matter is not there (similar to trying to "consecrate" a cornbread square into the Eucharist. It won't occur because the form/matter is not there). However, there are a diversity of vocations in Holy Mother Church! Celibacy is a different state of life, and open to all (even those who are not virgins physically). This one (as upheld by the traditions of our faith since the time of the Church Fathers, and as early as 300 A.D. where virgins were martyred for their refusal of marriage/conjugal relations to an earthly spouse) requires physical (material) virginity. Please read the traditions of the Church, as well as the handbook/formation packet put together by the USACV, which further expands upon this. Celibacy, however is a vocation open to anyone, regardless of their past lives.
Incorrect. I am a Consecrated Virgin and this is an important formative aspect that is discussed at length before a woman enters into discernment/formation; the vocation of consecrated virginity absolutely requires the physical continence, and is the only vocation in our Church which does (your virginity itself is what is being consecrated...God cannot consecrate what you no longer may have to give him. Read the lives of the earliest virgin martyrs- it was their virginity itself that led to their martyrdom). Our Mother Mary was and is the Exemplar of Consecrated Virginity; her uncorrupted state was not merely symbolic- she was and is an actual physical virgin, which is the entire charism of this vocation. It's absolutely named correctly to reflect the state and what our charism is (virginity). Celibacy is absolutely different and distinct as state of life from virginity. Celibacy does not require this never-corrupted physical continence and anyone (including those who have converted from perhaps a life lived apart from chastity) are certainly able to discern and pursue the celibate life. @@wendyfield7708
Consecrated virginity is not a life of celibacy (unmarried, chaste state); these are different, distinct states of life in both Canon law and in the theology of our Church....and cannot be conflated. CVs are married to Christ; we are not celibates by definition, and unlike celibacy, consecrated virginity absolutely requires the never-corrupted physical continence (the very definition of virginity). Women who wish to live chaste lives but no longer have the gift of virginity are eligible and welcome to discerning Religious life (in an Order), a secular institute or a private vow of celibacy etc. but are not eligible by Canon law for the consecration of virgins. The form and matter (virginity) that is consecrated no longer exists..how can it be consecrated to God? . @@wendyfield7708
Caroline, thank you so much for these videos. I'm discerning a cloistered vocation and I've been a little scared about if it doesn't work out. Obviously I have to trust in Jesus and I plan on everything going well! But your videos give me hope that if I discern out during postulancy, everything will be fine. 🙂 Thank you!
Hi Kayla, thank you so much for your kind comments and sharing your journey. 😀Yes, absolutely - it is trusting in Jesus as you said and He will always provide for you, whatever path you ultimately decide on. Keep open, and if you have any questions about cloistered life I’d be happy to try and help. Blessings. C
Hi Caroline, thanks for sharing this! I was wondering if you are still discerning this vocation (I’ve subbed to your channel but haven’t seen the rest of your videos) and what is the process? I think God is drawing me into this vocation but I found there isn’t a lot of resources out there. I also live in the Diocese of East Anglia (down south) so I was incredibly grateful to stumble upon your UA-cam channel. ❤
I know a woman from the ordo virginum and I love her sm. I'm discerning a consacration in the world as well. I'm drawn to focolari movement founded by Chiara Lubich. Please pray for me 🙏🏻
Do I have to be virgin from birth to be consicreted
This is the most radiant I have ever seen you, Caroline. I wish you well.
It would be helpful to hear more of what it means to live a contemplative life.
Good wishes…
Filip
Hello, thank you so much and definitely more videos will be coming! 🙏C
Hi Caroline 💝 thanks for sharing! I have a question, can a consacrated virgin keep the blessed sacraments at home and build up a little altar? 💝
This is fascinating. Being Anglican myself I only know of the Anglican nearest equivalent which is Single Consecrated Life. Is there a 'network' for consecrated virgins in the Roman Catholic church? Are there other consecrated virgins you can meet with to help you in your discernment, and that could give you a sense of fellowship with others living out a similar vocation? x
Hi again, yes there is a network for the consecrated virgins. This video was back in January, and I’m actually not pursuing this now, but it was a wonderful exploration and listening to the Spirit through those months. I’m similar to you in that I watched a lot on UA-cam to learn as well. 😀C
Here in the States, we have a massive network (I am a Consecrated Virgin); the vocation is exploding in numbers, and there are many groups that have formed. Our national organization (USACV) also holds regur meetings and an annual convocation to enhance fellowship and connectivity amongst the virgins. We are also not "single"...we are married, to Christ, which is why the entire Liturgy includes elements of a nuptial- the Ring and the Veil. Sponsa Christi-- we are married to Christ (it's actually formally annotated on our baptismal certificate afterwards, which is why one is never eligible for sacramental marriage once this consecration is bestowed. We are indissolubly married to Christ). A celibate, however, is an *unmarried/single* chaste individual who gives up marriage/relations for the Kingdom. Celibacy (unlike consecrated virginity) does NOT require the never-impeded physical gift of virginity.
@@SailorRDNcould I sent you a private message?
This is fascinating Caroline.I did not think there were many woman who would choose this way of life these days. You could do all those things you mentioned as a secular person without having to make it official. I was wondering why you feel the need to take this a step further.
I have found your talks very interesting and often listen to them before I go to work as they have a calming effect. You are doing so much good since you left Quidenham so thank you very much!
Hi, thank you so much for your comments. It was wonderful to read that you’re watching my talks, thank you.🙏Yes, at the moment I’m just seeing where the Lord is taking me in this exploration. I’ve had this path on my mind/heart for quite some time now, so I’m giving it a few months to really see if it is for me, or as you say it may turn out not needing to be so official, or it may. Let’s see! ✝️🙏😀C
Well, maybe because the consecration will bring bucketfuls of grace ? So that her life will bear more fruit?
@@deirdregillespie6764 but isn't God's grace abundant and overflowing with every breath we take, every step we make, whatever and wherever God calls us to be? I wonder if consecration is more about a vocation to a special visible dedication, ministry and gift of one's life within the Church? Others might feel called to a single life of prayer and / or ministry but in a more hidden less official way? I'm not sure, just sharing thoughts as it's really interesting.
I'm discerning this vocation as well. For me it's that I want to be "married" to Jesus. I've had for years the longing for Christ as Bridegroom. It's something I can't really explain, it's a kind of grace, but at the same and time feels most natural to me.
I'm not feeling the appeal of any other evangelical counsels that are in cloistered life etc., as much as I can appreciate the beauty of it, it just doesn't "speak" to me.
In the end, it comes down to discerning this most inner call and inner longing.
@@joane24it’s the same for me!
May God continue to bless you on this journey. Your story is very similar to mine.
Hello, and thank you so much for your message. It was lovely to read that we have a similar path. 🙏C
I wonder if you have seen some of the ceremonies of this rite on UA-cam. I have forwarded one to you on Messenger. Quite moving.
This is wonderful..thank you..
Sooo wonderful.. God bless you
Please Pray For Bryan LaHaise. I am a Canidate, for a Monastic Way of Life, known as a Benedictin Oblate.
Hello, and thank you so much for getting in touch. Yes, of course I will pray for you, and blessings for your journey. 🙏C
@@carolineleighton Are Ypu A Consecrated Virgin? That Is Such a Beautifull Vocation.
@@carolineleighton I made Final Oblation, for Saint Johns Abbey Oblates on Wednsday Of Holy Week.
I will pray the Augustinian Corona of Our Lady of Consolation for you.
What are your thoughts on Francis banning the TLM ?
Hello, and thank you so much for your message. It’s a tough one really, I feel, as you can see the reasons behind his choice, but it has left many people frustrated. I don’t think it’s being banned completely, just restricted in certain areas and needs permission first etc. I know many people enjoy the Latin Mass online if not able in person. C
What was the name of the Consacrated Virgin you were reading about?
Hi, Julian of Norwich is a favourite of mine. 😀
I wonder whether the option of being a consecrated virgin in the Church in the world is distinguished from a woman who is asexual. ... and maybe that's not a bad thing.
Most Beautiful Lady i have ever seen
Holy Spirit is coming to the world to clean it and give every men their wifes. Dont be surprised but i m jesus wife. You have a great calling. Good job.
does a consecrated virgin have to stay in the diocese she is living in when consecrated for the rest of her life, or can she move somewhere else if she wants?
Hi, thank you for your comments. Usually, they stay in the one diocese. I’ve not heard much of moving around etc. But I imagine it must happen sometimes depending on the circumstances. C
@@carolineleighton Thanks for your helpful reply!😀
@@carolineleightonthey can move since they aren’t incardinated into their diocese such as a priest. It is customary for the bishop of the Diocese the virgin in leaving to send a letter of introduction to the bishop in the diocese she is moving to and for a meeting to be arranged.
It definitely happens, and there is a process in place for it. Several of my friends who are also CVs have moved secondary to ailing family, etc.@@carolineleighton
My hope is that you find where Our Lord is leading you. The prayer I love to direct to Our Lady is the Memorae She will help guide you .❤
Hi, thank you so much for your kind comments. Blessings and prayers to you. 🤗🕊️💗C
What if you’re not a virgin…
I suggest you read the latest in Canon Law and get advice from a wise priest. I asked myself the same question. I think it would be less confusing if it were called “consecrated celibacy”. It is not closed to converts who have lived past sinful lives, and sometimes out of ignorance of Christianity.
I am a Consecrated Virgin and have been since 2016, so I went through the formation and instruction; this is discussed at length. You absolutely must have physical virginity to offer; it's not merely symbolic, as corroborated by the fact that what is being consecrated to Jesus IS your virginity. A Bishop cannot consecrate what no longer exists, because that physical matter is not there (similar to trying to "consecrate" a cornbread square into the Eucharist. It won't occur because the form/matter is not there). However, there are a diversity of vocations in Holy Mother Church! Celibacy is a different state of life, and open to all (even those who are not virgins physically). This one (as upheld by the traditions of our faith since the time of the Church Fathers, and as early as 300 A.D. where virgins were martyred for their refusal of marriage/conjugal relations to an earthly spouse) requires physical (material) virginity. Please read the traditions of the Church, as well as the handbook/formation packet put together by the USACV, which further expands upon this. Celibacy, however is a vocation open to anyone, regardless of their past lives.
Incorrect. I am a Consecrated Virgin and this is an important formative aspect that is discussed at length before a woman enters into discernment/formation; the vocation of consecrated virginity absolutely requires the physical continence, and is the only vocation in our Church which does (your virginity itself is what is being consecrated...God cannot consecrate what you no longer may have to give him. Read the lives of the earliest virgin martyrs- it was their virginity itself that led to their martyrdom). Our Mother Mary was and is the Exemplar of Consecrated Virginity; her uncorrupted state was not merely symbolic- she was and is an actual physical virgin, which is the entire charism of this vocation. It's absolutely named correctly to reflect the state and what our charism is (virginity). Celibacy is absolutely different and distinct as state of life from virginity. Celibacy does not require this never-corrupted physical continence and anyone (including those who have converted from perhaps a life lived apart from chastity) are certainly able to discern and pursue the celibate life. @@wendyfield7708
Consecrated virginity is not a life of celibacy (unmarried, chaste state); these are different, distinct states of life in both Canon law and in the theology of our Church....and cannot be conflated. CVs are married to Christ; we are not celibates by definition, and unlike celibacy, consecrated virginity absolutely requires the never-corrupted physical continence (the very definition of virginity). Women who wish to live chaste lives but no longer have the gift of virginity are eligible and welcome to discerning Religious life (in an Order), a secular institute or a private vow of celibacy etc. but are not eligible by Canon law for the consecration of virgins. The form and matter (virginity) that is consecrated no longer exists..how can it be consecrated to God? . @@wendyfield7708
@@SailorRDN
The church changed the rules on this in 2005 saying physical virginity was no longer essential. Have you not read that?