That general submission which religious vow to God, and voluntarily promise to their superiors, in order to be directed by them in the ways of perfection and in labors of zeal according to the purpose and constitutions of their order. It is composed of three elements: the sacrifice offered to God of the individual's independence in the generality of his actions, at least of such as are exterior; the motive, namely, personal perfection, and, as a rule, also the performance of spiritual or corporal works of mercy and charity; the express or implied contract with an order which accepts the obligation to lead him to the end for which he accepts its laws and direction.
This dictionary contains not only definitions and explanations of every subject in Religion, Scripture, tradition, doctrine, morals, sacraments, rites, customs, devotions and symbolism, but also accounts of the Church in every continent, country, diocese; missions, notable Catholic centers, cities, and places with religious names; religious orders, church societies, sects and false religions. It has brief articles also on historical events and personages, on the Old Testament and New, and on popes, prelates, priests, men and women of distinction, showing what the Church has done for civilization and correcting many errors which have hitherto passed for history.Wikipedia
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