Institute of the Holy Family
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The Institute of the Holy Family is the first secular institute begun exclusively for married and widowed Catholics. Members take solemn, public vows of poverty, chastity and obedience and make a solemn promise of fidelity to the Pope and the Magisterium of the Roman Catholic Church. These vows are adapted according to the conditions of the married state and the normal requirements of family life. The Institute was begun in 1960 and received full approbation from the Holy See in 1996.
Until recently, only Sisters and Brothers were allowed to enter into this "spousal" relationship with Our Lord. However, the Constitutions of the Holy Family Institute were drawn up with the direct input of married couples. This makes it possible for Institute members to follow Jesus' special call to live the evangelical counsels (vows) while continuing to live a traditional Catholic married life.
The Holy Family Institute is a part of the Pauline Family; one of 10 Religious Orders, begun by Blessed James Alberione early in this century.
