Posted March 22, 2017

Archbishop Charles J. Chaput celebrated the Solemn Mass of Consecration to the Life of Virginity of Jennifer Lynn Settle on the feast of the Presentation of our Lord, Feb. 2, 2017 at the Cathedral Basilica of SS. Peter and Paul. The Mass was preceded by a holy hour in the chapel.

The Rite of Consecration, one of the oldest rituals in the Catholic Church, is a recognized vocation apart from religious life, marriage, the lay state, or ordained clergy. By the virtue of chastity, the virgin preserves her virginal state so that she may be totally for Christ and in Christ for others.

Learn about Settle and consecrated virginity here. (Photos by Sarah Webb)

 

 

  • Jennifer Settle prays during holy hour before Mass.

  • Jen makes the sign of the cross as the Eucharist is elevated during benediction prior to Mass.

  • Jen processes into the cathedral Basilica of SS. Peter and Paul for Mass carrying an unlit lantern that will be lit before her profession.

  • Archbishop Charles Chaput, celebrant for the consecration Mass, leads a prayer.

  • Father Ken Brabazon lights Jen’s lantern before she makes her promise of virginity.

  • Friends pray along with Jen Settle.

  • Jen lays prostrate during the singing of the Litany of the Saints.

  • Jen kneels before Archbishop Chaput.

  • Archbishop Chaput places the ring on Jen’s finger.

  • Archbishop Charles Chaput places a veil on Jen Settle as she takes her promise to live as a consecrated virgin. (Sarah Webb)

  • Archbishop Charles Chaput gives the Liturgy of the Hours, the daily prayer of the church, to Jennifer Settle during the liturgy at which she was consecrated to perpetual virginity.

  • Archbishop Charles Chaput offers a sign of peace to the newly consecrated virgin Jen Settle, as her priest friends look on. (Sarah Webb)

  • Other consecrated virgins from across the United States congratulate Jen after the consecration Mass.

  • Jen’s priest and deacon friends in attendance extend their hands in prayer over her.

  • Jen will wear the same wedding ring that was given 65 years ago by her late father, Howard Settle, to her mother, Donna, who has passed it on to her.