Opus Dei says its activities open to all

From page 1 Paul II."
One of the most unusual aspects of The Times report, which is said to have taken more than a year to compile, is that it gives no hint of the views of present leaders or members of Opus Dei.
The London Secretariat of Opus Dei in Britain said: "In an article which claims to be a 'detailed investigation' of Opus Dei relying on 'many sources and papers'. it is curious to note that a newspaper like The Times should not consider Opus Dei itself as a suitable source, since neither of the authors approached us for information."
This week it was still unknown if Dr Roche was in touch with opponents of Opus Dei abroad. A statement for the association, which first became well-known as a champion of the idea of sactity for ordinary laity, said: "It is not in any way seeking a unique or privileged position in the Church. Opus Dei has had the approval and the blessing of all the Roman Pontiffs: Pius XII, John XXIII, Paul VI, John Paul I and John It went on: "The activities of Opus Dei are open to people of all religious beliefs and none, and their aim is to draw everyone who comes to them closer to God whether or not they are called by God to Opus Dei.
"Opus Dei is in no way involved in political or business affairs, whether in Spain or anywhere else. Secrecy is abhorrent to Opus Dei. Anyone who wishes to find out about its activities has only to ask."
One of the most arresting features of The Times feature was a large illustration of a cilice, a smaller spiked-chain version of the instrument of penance worn by Paul VI and displayed after his death. An Opus Dei spokesman said its use was not obligatory and was common in the Church. Its use is mentioned by the association's founder, who died in 1975 in his book of points for meditation, The Way, published in 1939.
Opus Dei was founded in 1928. A good explanation of its ideas is given in the profile of its founder by Salvador Bernals,