Posted February 4, 2020

The World Day of Consecrated Life was observed in the Philadelphia Archdiocese Sunday, Feb. 2 as Archbishop Charles Chaput celebrated Mass in the Cathedral Basilica of SS. Peter and Paul for religious women and men in various congregations int he archdiocese. The day, celebrated throughout the Catholic Church, is intended to promote knowledge and esteem for the consecrated life by the entire people of God. (Photos by Sarah Webb)

  • Sisters Maria Madre del Redentor (left) and Anastasia Chiara Luce, of the Servants of the Lord and the Virgin of Matara, pray during the Mass.

  • Mother Incarnation, S.S.V.M., and Sister Mary Rafqa, R.S.M., present the offertory gifts to Archbishop Chaput.

  • Archbishop Charles Chaput, a member of the Capuchin Franciscan order, and Father Scott Reiloy, a Legionary of Christ, celebrate Mass at the Cathedral Basilica of SS. Peter and Paul.

  • Sisters of Life pray during Mass.

  • Brother Richard Withers, a diocesan hermit and the first hermit to be consecrated in the Archdiocese of Philadelphia, receives holy Communion from Father Dennis Gill, rector of the cathedral.

  • Sister Brenda McHugh, D.S.M.P.

  • Natalie Bruner and Lauren Bogardus, guests of the Religious Sisters of Mercy, receive holy Communion during Mass.

  • Religious Sister of Mercy Mary Rafqa (right).

  • Jennifer Settle, a consecrated virgin in the archdiocese, receives Communion from Father Dennis Gill.

  • Medical Mission Sister Rosemary Sampon, left, and Sister Ifeoma Omwudinjo, M.S.H.R., enjoy refreshments after Mass.

  • Brother Richard Withers, a diocesan hermit and the first hermit to be consecrated in the Archdiocese of Philadelphia, chats with people after Mass.