Join us for this special Mass honoring the men and women religious who serve in the Diocese of Charlotte. Instituted by Pope John Paul II in 1997, World Day for Consecrated Life is marked in conjunction with the Feast of the Presentation of the Lord, also known as Candlemas Day, commemorating the coming of Christ, the Light of the World, through the symbolic lighting of candles. Similarly, consecrated men and women are called to spread the light and love of Jesus Christ through their unique witness of selfless service – such as caring for the poor, the contemplative work of prayer, or through their professional careers.