Who are the Servites - Servants of Mary?
The Servites, or Order of the Servants of Mary (OSM), is a Roman Catholic religious order founded in 1233 in Florence, Italy, by a group of seven merchants drawn together by a profound desire to deepen their faith. With a strong devotion to the Virgin Mary, particularly her sorrows, the Servites seek to embody her compassion and love, guiding their members to a life of prayer, community, and service. Their spirituality is rich and mystical, inviting individuals to encounter God through contemplative prayer and the shared support of a nurturing community. Engaging in diverse ministries, Servites strive to bring hope and healing to the world, embodying the belief that through serving others, they reveal the presence of Christ.
Who are the Secular Servites?
​Secular Servites are laypersons who choose to live out their Christian faith inspired by the spirituality of the Servite Order.
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Here’s what this typically involves:
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Secular Servites integrate these elements into daily life, seeking to embody a life of service, community, and compassion, deeply rooted in the Gospel and Servite spirituality.
Affiliation with the Servite Order:
Secular Servites are lay members who share the charism of the Servite Order. This Order was founded in the 13th century with a deep devotion to Mary, the Mother of Sorrows, emphasizing her examples of compassion and selfless service.
Spiritual Commitment:
Their spiritual life is guided by the Secular Servite Rule of Life, which emphasizes prayer, community, and service. This involves regular prayer, participation in the liturgical life of the Church, and embracing a lifestyle that reflects Gospel values.
Community Involvement:
Secular Servites are part of a community. They meet regularly for spiritual formation, community bonding, and collective mission activities. This sense of community provides mutual support and encourages spiritual growth.
Service and Outreach:
Faithful to the Servite mission, Secular Servites are committed to service. They engage in various charitable activities, focusing on aiding those in need and contributing to social justice efforts. Their mission is to live a life of service reflecting the compassion and mercy of Mary.
Devotion to Mary:
Central to their identity is a profound devotion to the Virgin Mary, particularly under the title of Our Lady of Sorrows. This devotion inspires their practices of compassion, meditation on her seven sorrows, and emulation of her virtues in their lives.