Defining Moments

V

Veneration of the Saints: Devotion to the saints, who are invoked in recognition of their presence before God and thus capable of intercession on behalf of the living and those suffering in purgatory.

Vigil Light: A candle burned as an act of devotion, or for a particular intention, in a shrine or before a holy image. The flame is said to “keep vigil” when the person cannot be present.

Virtue:  A good habit of the intellect or will that enables one to perform an action with ease. Some are infused – for example, theological virtues: faith, hope, charity – while others are developed by practice – for example, cardinal virtues: prudence, justice, fortitude, temperance. Virtue brings to fulfillment the powers and abilities that one possesses.

Vocation: The calling from God to follow a particular way of life. The Second Vatican Council emphasizes the universal call to holiness, that general call of God to all the baptized to a life of grace and union with Him; this vocation is the call that gives human life its destiny and meaning.

Votive Offerings: (Latin votum: wish, vow) In Christian usage, votive offerings are freewill gifts of money or other goods in light of some spiritual request. They are also the donation made when candles or vigil lights are lit to signify an intention.

Vow: A free and deliberate promise made to God concerning a possible and better good to be fulfilled by the person making it