Studia et Documenta (Mar 2023)
El Opus Dei en Estados Unidos (1957-1961): la región de Chicago / Opus Dei in the United States (1957-1961): The Chicago Region
Abstract
Opus Dei began its apostolic activities in the United States in 1949 but in November 1957 a new chapter in the history of Opus Dei in the United States commenced with the establishment of two distinct circumscriptions: the Chicago region and the Washington region. This article covers the early years of the Chicago region, from the point of view of the male members of Opus Dei, from 1957 to 1961. The timeline, geography, demographics and some institutional dimensions are presented. Special attention is given to the relationship with the American hierarchy. During these four years, Opus Dei grew from approximately sixty-five members in 1957 to two hundred in 1961, in the Chicago region alone. The article also discusses the establishment of two new centers, one in Gary, In. and the other, alongside the University of Notre Dame, which were added to those already existing in Chicago, Madison, Milwaukee and St. Louis. And finally, the article outlines the first steps that would lead to the launch of the Shellbourne Conference Center in 1962.
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