Institute (Religious)

A religious institute is a society of consecrated life in which the members pronounce public vows (often poverty, chastity, and obedience) and lead a fraternal life in common (CCC 925).

Living in Community

Unlike secular institutes or diocesan clergy, members of religious institutes live in community under a specific rule of life (such as the Rule of St. Benedict or St. Augustine). They give public witness to the Gospel through their communal life, liturgical prayer, and specific apostolates (CCC 925–927).