Opus Dei is a Catholic institution founded by Saint Josemaría Escrivá. Its mission is to spread the message that work and the circumstances of everyday life are occasions for growing closer to God, for serving others, and for improving society.
“May they all be one, as you, Father and I are one, so that the world may believe that you have sent me.” (John 17:21) The last words and Testament of Jesus particularly struck their attention and became the program of their lives. Chiara and her friends understood that Jesus had died on the cross to bring this unity. The spirituality that developed was to be a collective spirituality, a way to go to God together.
The movement is made up of persons of all ages, races, vocations, and now it is spread in over 100 nations. It is articulated in various branches and structures. Focolare means “Hearth”, “family fireside” in Italian.