Although consecrated virginity lived in the world is the oldest form of consecrated life in the Church, it is also one of its most hidden treasures. However, since the Second Vatican Council called for the renewal of this vocation, increasing numbers of women have sought to discover whether the Lord is calling them to become His mystical bride, and the number of consecrated virgins continues to increase worldwide.

Aside from some formation books and scattered sources, such as the Church Fathers' writings, little information specific to consecrated virginity has been available for dioceses and discerners -- until now. Specifically addressing consecrated virginity lived in the world, this book is an invaluable and timeless resource for gaining greater clarity on this beautiful, ancient vocation for women discerning and in formation, bishops, formators, and even the already consecrated. It covers topics including:

• The nature of vocation and unique aspects of various vocations in the Church
• The charisms of celibacy and virginity in the history of the Church and now
• The Holy See's instruction on consecrated virginity in Ecclesiae Sponsae Imago
• The prophetic role in the Church of the vocation of consecrated virginity lived in the world
• The Marian nature of this vocation and the call to live in imitation of Our Lady
• The essence of brideship and spousal love, and the gift of spiritual maternity

Espoused to Christ provides both a theological framework for understanding this vocation and real-life applications that illustrate how to live it, with helpful Scripture passages and reflection questions at the end of each chapter.

This gem of a book reveals that while the vocation of consecrated virginity is ancient, it is also ever new and that these brides of Christ in the world are helping to renew the Church by the lived witness of their love for Christ.