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Hi - I was surfing the web tonight and came upon your web page. Several years ago I met a member of Opus Dei through a friend, and subsequently met more members of OD and became a frequent participant in social gatherings, Bible studies, and various activities. The people whom I met were very gracious, caring, fun-loving and seemed sincerely interested in my spiritual growth and all aspects of my life. I was touched by my conversations with many of them and thankful for the generosity they demonstrated many times. I maintained strong connections with Opus Dei for over two years and very much valued my friendships with its members. Throughout this time, they steadily and delicately attempted to pursuade me to join the Catholic faith (though I shared many beliefs with the Catholic faith, I was not and still am not Catholic). I was of the belief that my friendships with those at Opus Dei was based on our common values as well as the respect and trust we shared with each other over time. Unfortunately, there came a point where their invitations ceased....I believe when they utimately realized that I would not convert. I was intrigued by your comments on the tactics of Opus Dei recruitment, as I certainly was taken in by the sincere way that many of them seemed to care about me as a person. As noted in your web page, I probaby fit their profile as an attractive potential recruit - 1) I was fairly new in the area and welcomed friendships of depth 2) Though I consider myself of only average physical appeal, I am tall, slender and am told I present myself well 3) I am a respected professional in my career and in their eyes most likely represented income 4) I am reasonably intelligent and relate well with a wide variety of people 5) I enjoyed discussing spirituality and was open to discussing Catholicism. During the time I was connected with OD, I was made very much to feel like a member of the OD family. I gave of my time and money freely and learned much from those whom I met. However, when our interactions trailed off and ultimately ended, I was inquisitive and hurt. I questioned the basis for the friendships which I thought had formed and came to the painful conclusion that, from the viewpoint of Opus Dei, the motive for all of our interactions was my conversion. Though I do not mind the motive, as I understand they were only pursuing what they thought was right, I do feel mislead. Needless to say, as an organization, Opus Dei has lost its credibility with me. I hope that others tread carefully when becoming involved with Opus Dei.
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