Consecrated Life has a long history. Over the centuries a variety of forms evolved most often in response to historical changes. The 1800's were a particularly difficult time historically as new nations came into being but it was a rich time for religious. Many congregations came into existence in that century. They gave a new thrust to the mission of religious reaching out the elements of society most in need of physical and spiritual care.

In general there are two main types of religious or consecrated life: Apostolic and Contemplative. Apostolic Congregations are those whose mission includes ministry such as social work, health care, teaching and pastoral work. Contemplative Congregations are those for whom prayer is the heart of their daily life.

There is a more subtle difference among religious institutes that is drawn from the particular charism of a founder whose experience of God led them to start a new institute often to meet a particular need. A charism is a special gift of God for the benefit of the individual founder but it remains as a legacy for the those who follow and adapt the charism to changing times.