Secret History of Opus Dei

A comprehensive reference guide to Opus Dei, lavishly illustrated with 200 color photographs and illustrations

Investigates the secret world of Opus Dei from its beginnings in Spain nearly 80 years ago to its unique status as a powerful autonomous entity at the very heart of the Catholic Church today

Uncovers the background of the characters involved in Opus Dei, such as its founder Josemaria Escriva, General Franco and Pope John Paul II

Reveals the true relationship with the Vatican and explores the many conspiracy theories and criticisms surrounding the organization

OPUS DEI is perhaps one of the most controversial religious organizations of our time For many years, there was little information about its history and development More recently, attempts have been made to make its structure and organization much more transparent. For some, however the organization is seen as a powerful and shadowy institution with wealth, influence and many dark secrets. This reveling book aims to find out the truth behind the myths and the speculation, and examines the faces and personalities behind the institution. The book begins by explaining the beliefs of the Catholic Church and Opus Dei''s relationship with the Vatican and the pope. It shows how the members of Opus Dei aim to adhere to the teachings of the Church by following a daily plan that consists of spiritual practices such as Mass, reciting the rosary, spiritual reading, and prayer To the most committed, this includes a vow of celibacy, a life of penance and the practice of bodily denial, sacrifice and self-mortification.

It then sets out to discover the practices, ideology, goals, and structure of the organization and to uncover its roots it shows how Opus Dei sees itself as committed to creating a deeper spirituality in our world today and details its positive involvement in charity work on a worldwide scale. It explorers the areas where the organization has been criticized---for its fundamentalism, religious intolerance, conservation, anti-feminism and recruitment methods---but also discusses how the organization is moving forward and looking to the future. Beautifully illustrated with over 200 stunning images, it is essential reading for all seekers of truth.