Consecrated Life

What does the Church mean by the term "consecrated life"?

In the Catholic Church, consecrated life (also called religious life), typically refers to those who have joined religious orders (also called religious institutes, religious congregations or religious communities).

Members of these orders generally live in community under a common rule and take vows of poverty, chastity and obedience.

Style notes:

Members of female religious orders are generally called sisters or nuns. There is a subtle difference between the two terms, so it is best to ask the members themselves whether one term or the other should be used.

Some members of male religious orders may be ordained priests, while others may not be. Various orders use names like "brother," "friar," or "monk" to describe their members; it is best to ask the members themselves which terms should be used.