On this day: the controversial Catholic order Opus Dei traces its origin
October 2, 1928 is marked as the founding date of the Catholic organization Opus Dei, considered one of the most controversial institutions within the Catholic Church.
Nearly a century ago, on October 2, 1928, the Catholic organization Opus Dei began, going on to become one of the most controversially regarded institutions within the Catholic Church.
The name Opus Dei means "Work of God" in Latin. Over the decades the organization has attracted both supporters and sharp critics, both within the Church and beyond it.
An inspiration for literature
The organization also gained wider international recognition outside religious circles, having served as an inspiration for author Dan Brown's popular novel "The Da Vinci Code," in which Opus Dei is portrayed as a secretive and influential organization.
This anniversary is a reminder of how a religious organization founded nearly a hundred years ago continues to spark debate and remain in the public eye, including through the influence of popular culture.
