RELIGIOUS OBEDIENCE IN THE CONSECRATED LIFE: IMPLICATIONS FOR THE LITURGICAL LIFE OF THE CHURCH

Abstract

This paper discusses the Message for the Year of the Consecrated Life by Pope Francis against the backdrop of religious obedience in the era of rampant liturgical disobedience. Religious obedience is a dominant concern of the modern society which has great liturgical implications. The article is not just scratching at the surface of filial obedience expected of all worshippers. It takes one right into the deepest recesses of one's person as a consecrated man or woman. It adopts exploratory cum narrative approach as a method of achieving this objective. The work gives a working definition of terms used and the theological basis of religious obedience. It is established in the work that the implication for the liturgical life of the Church is anchored on the filial obedience to the liturgical norms and laws. It is discovered that the Church and modern society really need the consecrated men and women in order to follow Christ closely especially with regard to obedience. If the consecrated persons in the Christian families of worshippers take seriously their vow of obedience, their lifestyle and example will facilitate their obedience to the liturgical norms thereby setting examples for others to follow. It further argues for the enrichment of African cultural values of obedience in the light of respect for elders and authority. The consecrated person should integrate these cultural values to their religious vow and live them out in the liturgical life of the Church.