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A brother is a man committed to living the Consecrated Life in response to a call from God. Brothers are engaged in a variety of ministries in keeping with the charism of their congregation and model the person of Jesus through the relational manner in which they serve. Many religious brothers work in the Archdiocese of Los Angeles and serve in diverse ministries such as: parish administration, detention ministry, evangelism, liturgy, missions, parishes, retreats, social work, spiritual direction, teaching, and the like.
Religious brothers take vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience and live in community. Two types of religious orders exist for brothers. Some communities are composed solely of brothers, like the Christian Brothers de La Salle, the Irish Christian Brothers, or the Brothers of the Sacred Heart. Other religious orders accept men who wish to be brothers or priests, like the Jesuits, Franciscans, Holy Cross Brothers, or Benedictines. Brothers are not ordained.
The different orders of brothers are varied in mission, focus, and lifestyle. For example, Mother Teresa's Missionaries of Charity Brothers minister directly to the very poor and live simple lives in community. Brothers in other communities may teach at a university or counsel troubled youth. The variety of ministries is as rich and diverse as the talented brothers who serve them.
Brothers live in communities where they pray together and support each other. Having time to relax and enjoy leisure is also part of community life. Brothers gather for retreats together, meetings and to plan their future contribution to the Church.
Prayer is an integral part of the brothers' life. Both private and communal prayer is part of the religious life. The way the community prays together is part of the spirit of the order and differs from one community to the next.
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