The Code of Canon Law, c. 573 §1, states that “life consecrated through profession of the evangelical counsels is a stable form of living, in which the faithful follow Christ more closely under the action of the Holy Spirit and are totally dedicated to God, who is supremely loved. By a new and special title, they are dedicated to seek the perfection of charity in the service of God’s Kingdom, for the honor of God, the building up of the Church and the salvation of the world. They are a splendid sign in the Church, as they foretell the heavenly glory.” Consequently, the Church recognizes consecrated life as a precious gift of the Holy Spirit that belongs intrinsically to her life, holiness, and mission. Through the profession of the evangelical counsels of poverty, chastity, and obedience, consecrated men and women dedicate themselves entirely to God and strive to follow Christ more closely, becoming visible signs of the Kingdom of God and witnesses to the Gospel. By their lives of prayer, fraternal communion, and apostolic service, they seek the perfection of charity, contribute to the building up of the Church, serve the needs of humanity through various ministries, and inspire all the faithful to pursue holiness and eternal communion with God.

While all consecrated persons share the common call to follow Christ more closely through the evangelical counsels of poverty, chastity, and obedience, each institute receives from the Holy Spirit a particular charism, or spiritual gift, that expresses its unique identity and mission in the Church. These charisms are manifested in diverse forms of service, including contemplation, evangelization, missionary activity, education, healthcare, care for the poor and marginalized, social outreach, and other apostolic ministries. The richness and diversity of these charisms contribute to the life and mission of the Church, revealing the many ways in which the Holy Spirit continues to inspire consecrated men and women to serve the People of God and bear witness to the Gospel. Through their distinct spiritual traditions and ministries, they enrich the Church and become living signs of God's love and the coming of His Kingdom.