Holy Family Secular Institute
It was only in 1947, when they were approved by Pope Pius Xll, that secular institutes became a recognised form of consecrated life in the Catholic Church. However, in response to the desire of a group of women who were unable to become Religious but who felt called by God to practise the vows of celibacy, poverty and obedience, Fr. Noailles formed the Society of the Ladies of the Holy Family with their own particular rule in 1824.
It is now the Holy Family Secular Institute, recognised as a secular institute of Diocesan Right by the Archbishop of Bordeaux.
A Holy Family Secular Describes this Vocation
“As Consecrated Seculars of the Holy Family, we live fully the charism of Pierre Bienvenu Noailles in the heart of the world. In the diversity of our personal vocations, we follow Jesus and welcome him with Mary and Joseph in the simplicity of a life which, exteriorly, is like that of others, but interiorly is consecrated by the Spirit.
We make no changes to our way of life. We continue to live alone or with our families, working in different professions and sharing in the parish, social and political life of the locality. By our consecration our whole life becomes apostolic. We make our own the mission of the Founder, Fr. Noailles, by our commitment to live his charism.”
For a personal testimony, click here…
