Since the beginning of his pontificate, John Paul II has not ceased to recall, during his voyages, on the occasion of special events or meetings with the representatives of religious Institutes, the essential importance of religious consecration for the life of the Church. This work, which includes the principal Allocutions and Letters presented by the Pope to consecrated persons during 1981-1982, places within their reach a clear and authentic teaching, without ambiguity. Christ desired that Peter be the vital center of the
Church, that he confirm his brothers in faith. To remain faithful to the Spirit, his disciples must live the message that Peter does not cease to transmit to them. The Synopsis, which precedes the pontifical texts in this book, facilitates a systematic and thorough study of this message. It throws light on the thought of John Paul II concerning religious life, "destined to manifest to the world the profundity of Christian life in a special consecration, lived in a continuous Eucharist of offering and thanksgiving" (J. Beyer).