Order of Widows

   Thanks to a recent Decree issued by Bishop Douglas Deshotel, the Diocese of Lafayette has joined others throughout the country in reviving the "Order of Widows".  The vocation is open to widows over the age of 60 who feel called to be in a consecrated life. 
The Catholic Church's Order of Widows (Ordo Viduarum) is a growing vocation for women who are widowed. They dedicate their lives to prayer, service, and consecrated continence (not remarrying) in honor of Christ. It involves a public pledge to a life of prayer and spiritual works.
 
Key Aspects of the Order of Widows:

• Biblical Roots: Based on 1 Timothy 5, St. Paul advises enrolling widows, over the age of 60, into a unique role within the Church.
• Consecration:  A consecration by a bishop upon a person is a solemn act by which the Church sets that person apart for God in a permanent and sacred way. It is more than a blessing—it establishes a new identity and mission within the Church.
• Purpose: Members are focused on constant prayer for the church, priests, and bishops, often engaging in community service, especially seeking to console those suffering and in sorrow. 
• Formation: An inquirer, after an assessment and approval, could become an applicant. An applicant during their time of formation is an aspirant for a minimum of 3 years. A widow may be consecrated after 3 years of formation and approval of the bishop. 

Lifestyle: While not necessarily living in a convent, consecrated widows do live by an approved Rule of Life. This Rule of Life creates means by which their life is ordered towards intimacy with Jesus and service to His Church. It includes regular prayer, service, study and community involvement.

• Click on the document below to read Bishop Deshotel's official decree establishing the Order in the Diocese of Lafayette and to find out the conditions for admission to the Order.