Cooperators of Opus Dei are those who without being members of the
Prelature, help the apostolates of Opus Dei in different ways.
In order to be a Cooperator, a specific vocation is not required,
nor is it necessary to meet special conditions. Cooperators usually come
from among the relatives, friends, colleagues, and neighbors of those who
belong to the Prelature, or are men and women who draw or have drawn some
benefit from the apostolates or spiritual formation offered by Opus Dei.
Cooperators need not be Catholic, or even Christian.
What is involved in being a Cooperator of Opus Dei?
The essence of being a Cooperator is to help the apostolates of the
Prelature aimed at promoting at all levels of society the universal call to
sanctity, especially through the sanctification of ordinary work and of
family life.
This help can be spiritual or material. The spiritual dimension of
being a Cooperator is a commitment to offer one's prayers, daily if possible
for the Prelature and its work of apostolate. The material dimension can
take the form of alms or of a contribution of time and services for an
apostolic endeavor of the Prelature.
What benefits do the Cooperators of Opus Dei receive?
The members of Opus Dei pray daily for all who have helped the
Prelature in any way, and the priests of the Prelature on several occasions
offer the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass for the repose of the souls of deceased
Cooperators. The Holy See has granted indulgences that may be gained by
Cooperators on several days throughout the year, under the usual conditions,
and if, out of devotion, they renew their commitments as Cooperators.
How do I become a Cooperator?
The Regional Vicar of Opus Dei appoints a person as a Cooperator
upon proposal by a member of the Prelature. Once the proposal has been
approved, the person is notified and becomes a Cooperator on the date which
he or she accepts the appointment. This date is one of the dates on which
Catholic Cooperators may gain a plenary indulgence.
Each Cooperator receives a card signed by the Regional Vicar, showing
the date of appointment, and an explanation of the indulgences available to
Catholic Cooperators.
For more information call:
U.S. Information Office of Opus Dei
New Rochelle, NY
914) 235-1201.
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