Apostolic works: variety

God wants you, whether individually through your personal apostolate, or together with other people, who may be separated from God, or who may be non-Catholics or non-Christians, to plan and carry out in the world all kinds of serene, beautiful projects, as varied as the face of the earth, as diverse as the feelings and desires of those who inhabit it. They will contribute to the spiritual and material well-being of society, and will offer everyone an opportunity to meet Christ, an opportunity for holiness.

The apostolate through professional work

In any case, the great means that you have at your disposal to enable you to carry out both of those forms of apostolate – individual, or working together with other citizens – is your professional work. That is why I have so often told you that your professional vocation is an important part of your divine vocation. That is also why the Work’s apostolate in the world will always be up to date, contemporary, and necessary. For as long as there are people on earth, there will be men and women who work, with a specific profession or occupation, whether intellectual or manual. And they are all called to sanctify that work, to sanctify themselves in it, and to lead others to a simple, trusting relationship with God.

Vocations

Your work, your apostolate – which must necessarily be very proselytistic, like that of the early Christians – will attract people who want to work, who are vigorous, spirited, and resolute; who are constant rather than brilliant; who are daring and sincere; who love freedom, and are therefore capable of embracing our dedication; people who can be Opus Dei in their life and work. And all this, even though, because of the pagan surroundings they have grown up in, they may never have suspected that they can be happy in God’s friendship and lead a life of dedication and service.