Opus Dei women (1930-1980): Gender, class and faith

Abstract

This article addresses a collective of women as significant as little known. The secular association created by José María Escrivá de Balaguer in 1928 did not have a feminine section until February 14, 1930. Since then, the members of "la Obra" count by thousands, although there are also many who have decided to abandon it. In these pages we will go through its history through documentary sources before reserved and bibliography. We will analyze their internal status in Opus Dei and external in secular life, through class and gender categories, trying to differentiate them from members of other similar organizations. Finally, we will consider the attractions and revulsives that “The Father”, his fundational book Camino and La Obra´s statutes or constitutions offered for them, based on their testimonies as a reference.