The contemporary definition of freedom is to be able to do whatever one wants to do as long as it does not interfere with the rights of others - freedom from responsibility. Obedience demonstrates that the most perfect form of freedom is that which makes a commitment to another person, divine or human, or a cause. Obedience enables one to truly put his or her life at the service of the Church. It is an association for single lay people who profess the evangelical counsels and follow a specific constitution for their institute. Poverty also implies discerning what is necessary for daily living.
Members provide for their own expenses in daily living and retirement.
Even though the consecrated secular members make an evangelical commitment, they are laity. The apostolate in secular institutes includes the entire lifestyle of the members through their occupations or service of others. Occasionally, members assist in parish or diocesan activities. They meet other members locally, regionally and nationally, usually for days of recollection and retreats and also tend to meet socially and at national conferences. There exists a strong communion among members of an institute.