Perfectae Caritatis

Decree on the Adaptation and Renewal of Religious Life

Second Vatican Council; solemnly promulgated by St. Paul VI1965-10-28Current

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Overview

Calls institutes of consecrated life to renew themselves through fidelity to Christ, their founders, the Church, and the needs of the age.

Why This Document Matters

It frames authentic renewal as both return to founding charisms and prudent adaptation under ecclesial authority.

Historical Context

Promulgated during Vatican II's final period amid widespread questions about the identity and renewal of religious institutes.

Authority and Status

Genre: Ecumenical Council Decree
Authority class: Ecumenical council decree
Juridical force: Doctrinal, pastoral, and disciplinary
Current status: Current
Promulgated: 1965-10-28

A decree of an ecumenical council, solemnly promulgated by the pope, setting authoritative principles for the renewal of consecrated life.

Key Points

Consecrated LifeReligious InstitutesEvangelical CounselsRenewal

Major Themes

Consecrated LifeReligious InstitutesEvangelical CounselsRenewalFormation

Related CatholicG33k Resources

Official Text

Perfectae Caritatis

The official document text is hosted by the Holy See. CatholicG33k provides contextual and educational material but does not reproduce the complete Vatican text here.

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