Societies of Apostolic Life are religious communities within the Catholic Church that focus on a specific mission or apostolate while not taking formal religious vows like traditional religious orders. Members live together and share a common life, often engaging in various forms of ministry, such as education, social work, or missionary activities. These societies are distinct from congregations and orders because their members do not profess the evangelical counsels of poverty, chastity, and obedience in the same way. Instead, they commit to their mission and community life, contributing to the Church's outreach and service in diverse ways.