CHARIS l REDEMPTIVE SUFFERING l DELIVERANCE AND HEALING l GRACE

Summer 2018

PENTECOSTPublication of the National Service Committee of the Catholic TodayCharismatic Renewal Shutterstock.com

New life in Christ Jesus through the power of the Holy Spirit Chairman’s Editor’s Corner Desk ...... by Ron Riggins by Sr. Mary Anne Spirit more to the Church. These Schaenzer, SSND foundational priorities support the four strategic priorities of evangelization, strengthening the Renewal, enhancing writes “To be he last 12 months have been unity and empowering young adults, Mary Healy (pp 4-5) baptized in the Holy Spirit is to receive a an exciting period for the NSC as we work to extend the grace of life-changing personal revelation of the as we have entered the new baptism in the Holy Spirit. T risen Lord Jesus, who is truly alive and season following our inspiring Jubilee who heals and sets people free today Celebrations. We have completed some The Holy Spirit was clearly at work as just as he did in his earthly ministry.” Dave reorganization to align the interests we intensively worked on our strategic VanVickle (p 3) writes of the mystery of of the NSC Council with the Service plan over the past year, as our strategic suffering in his family and of persevering Committee, added some dynamic priorities closely “dovetail” with the in prayer and the desire for healing. Mark members to both entities, spent the objectives of the CHARIS initiative Nehrbas (p 11) writes of his experience of past year formulating our newly- announced earlier this year. redemptive suffering and healing. adopted strategic plan and began Jesus went about healing and teaching. collaborating with other entities in the US We look forward to this new move of Dave Nodar (p 6) writes of his call to in response to the CHARIS Initiative. the Holy Spirit, working in unity with evangelization and how he carries that other entities proclaiming baptism in out. He ends by writing, “Be open to the We are excited about our comprehen- the Holy Spirit. We look forward to new things the Lord is doing! He wants sive strategic plan which features your input and collaborating with you to use you.” Fausto Franco (p 15) two foundational priorities and four in this new season as the Renewal is challenges us to “…be bearers of light in strategic priorities, and each of these recognized by the Church in a new way the darkness…”. priorities has multiple strategies. with a clear commission from the Holy Pope Francis (p 10) challenges us to The foundational priorities focus on Father to earnestly work in unity to holiness. (You are encouraged to pick making the NSC more effective in this build the Church. up the entire document, Gaudete et new season and more fully utilizing Exsultate.) “May you come to realize media to reach a broader audience It is a time of commission! It is a time of what that word is, the message of Jesus as we execute our overall vision and unity! It is a time of empowerment! It is that God wants to speak to the world by mission to bring baptism in the Holy a time of grace! Come, Holy Spirit! t your life.” Casey Sprehe (p 12) encourages connectedness among generations in sharing the reality of baptism in the Holy PENTECOSTToday Spirit. Volume 43 Number 3 For Your Information More about CHARIS (pp 12-13), an The mission of Pentecost Today is to serve acronym for Catholic Charismatic Renewal Executive Director and be a voice for the National Service International Service. Walter Matthews Committee’s mission “to foster the dynamic Editorial Board grace of baptism in the Holy Spirit.” We do We remember some pioneers in the Jimmy Archer this by publishing articles that instruct and Renewal (p 9), those who have gone Tom Mangan give practical wisdom, with a particular before us: Jim Byrne and Fr. Tom Forrest. Editor emphasis on strengthening leaders and Sr. Ana Chiara (p 8) also shares the Sr. Mary Anne Schaenzer, SSND leader formation, in a visually appealing and religious community experience of the Production Manager inviting format. Sharon Fox death of the foundress of the Disciples A limited amount of advertising space is of the Lord Jesus Christ, a Franciscan available. For information, contact Sharon © 2018 National Service Committee Charismatic Religious Community of Fox at [email protected]. of the Catholic Charismatic Renewal Advertisements for events not sponsored by Diocesan Rite. of the United States, Inc. Not to be the National Service Committee do not imply reproduced without permission. As we walk the journey, may we carry the endorsement by the NSC/Chariscenter USA. message, “Jesus is alive!” t

2 PENTECOSTToday Summer 2018 www.nsc-chariscenter.org YOU SHALL BE MY WITNESSES

by Dave VanVickle

s a charismatic evangelist I know how important signs and wonders Acan be for someone who does not believe in Jesus. I have witnessed many healings and miracles over the years and I still pray regularly for signs and wonders An Opportunity of Grace to draw someone to God. Truthfully, in my own life, it has been the unanswered We are a family who firmly believe in life. I was praying in Louisa’s room and prayers that have brought me closer to miracles. We have been to hundreds of I remember the Lord just clearly saying, Jesus, those things left unhealed that healing services and we pray over our “Why are you so worried? You are in show me the depth of his love. children every day, so in faith we began the center of the palm of my hand.” WiuffFreeImages.com/Anders to pray for a miracle while our daughter I knew I had to stop the worrying and In 2016 we already had two children was still in the womb. We asked others to surrender the fear to the Lord. The with serious medical conditions. My pray and at one point it seemed like the whole situation, even in the darkest son Max has cerebral palsy and while whole world was praying for a healing times, seemed dripping with grace, but that’s not life threatening, it seriously in utero for our daughter, but it did not I just could not feel it at all. God’s affects our life and we have watched come and when our daughter was born, presence was there, but it felt like he was him struggle with pain and muscle tone she was rushed into surgery and it was keeping me at an arm’s length. for seven years. Our daughter, Josie, has determined that she would have no use an extremely rare genetic condition that of her legs at all. During this time one of the principles caused a stroke at age one and puts her from Fr. Jacques Phillipe’s books that saved at high risk for another stroke. When we The Spirit was leading us into the desert my soul and changed my perspective of found out we were having another baby, once again. It was the most difficult this entire situation was the idea of asking like with all the others, we were thrilled time in our life, but God was there in what rather than why. In the midst of for another gift from God. Then at the Louisa’s hospital room and I heard him suffering it is only natural to ask God 18-week ultrasound the doctor found speaking clearly each day. We were why, but there is grace in suspending the something troubling and subsequent surrounded almost constantly by our question of why and asking God what ultrasounds revealed that our new priest friends. We had Christmas Mass instead. What am I to do in this situation? daughter, Louisa, would have Spina in the hospital waiting room with Fr. How can I love you best? It expresses an Bifida which was caused by a genetic Dave Pivonka, and like the Nativity incredible trust in God to not ask why. It disorder affecting her bone structure. story, God was clearly coming into the also turns a situation of despair into an We were devastated. To witness another mess of our lives even though we were opportunity of grace. This was the key child struggle while her brothers, sisters, devastated, worried about our future and for me. I was now seeing the Holy Spirit cousins and friends run and play freely even at times angry that he allowed this move and could feel God’s incredible was an unbearable thought. Even the to happen. providence and love even in the midst of doctors had a hard time dealing with the desert. t it. I remember one doctor awkwardly Worrying about my wife and kids searching for the right words to say became a daily obsession. I was missing Dave VanVickle is a when confronted with a family with work, I was already getting behind on member of the NSC three completely unrelated, but very medical bills, our kids were staying with and the Director of serious medical conditions; he said it my in-laws for an extended period of Evangelization for a would be mathematically impossible, time and I remember thinking that I am parish in Pittsburgh. “like winning power ball twice in a row!” worried about every single thing in my

www.nsc-chariscenter.org Summer 2018 PENTECOSTToday 3 BORN TO BE A CURRENT OF GRACE

Healing and Deliverance by Mary Healy

few decades ago, if you had asked Healing ministries began to arise Pioneers like Fr. Rufus Pereira and someone whether healing and as certain individuals, such as Fr. Miles Dempsey developed the ministry A deliverance ministry is offered in Emiliano Tardiff and Francis MacNutt, of deliverance and helped place it on a their parish, you would probably have discovered that they had received a sound footing. met with a blank stare. But today in charism of healing that the Lord was many parts of the world, such a question using to powerful effect. The pioneers Why has the Lord raised up these is becoming common and, thankfully, of this ministry usually had to learn ministries in our time? Despite modern sometimes the answer is “yes”! One by trial and error, not having received medical progress, we live in an era when of the ways the Charismatic Renewal is any prior formation in how to pray vast numbers of people are suffering

FreeImages.com/Asif Akbar fulfilling its mission to be a current of effectively for healing. deeply from physical or emotional grace in the Church is by normalizing afflictions. Some of the contributing ministries of healing and deliverance. Deliverance ministries soon followed, factors are the rise of a hedonistic as it became clear that some people and narcissistic culture, the resulting It was not accidental that healing and needed not only healing but also breakdown of the family, and the deliverance ministries arose in the deliverance from various forms of traumas of persecution, terrorism, context of the Charismatic Renewal. To demonic affliction. Previously, Catholics or mass migration. The absence of be baptized in the Holy Spirit is to receive had viewed liberation from evil spirits God in much of western culture has a life-changing personal revelation of mainly in the context of exorcism, a left many people in a state of spiritual the risen Lord Jesus, who is truly alive liturgical rite of the Church used only orphanhood, not knowing who they and who heals and sets people free today in the relatively rare cases of demonic are, what their life is about, or whether just as he did in his earthly ministry. At possession, and carried out only by a they have any intrinsic value. the same time, the Holy Spirit brings a priest authorized by the bishop. But deeper sensitivity to the activity of evil there are also lesser forms of demonic In this cultural situation, the rise of spirits and the need to be liberated from oppression, which are often linked healing and deliverance ministries is a their influence. with inner wounds in need of healing. sign of the mercy of God, who created

4 PENTECOSTToday Summer 2018 www.nsc-chariscenter.org us for the fullness of life and who join the Church, even in the midst One danger in the wide dissemination of wants us to experience the freedom that of persecution. Thus healing and these ministries, however, is the risk of belongs to sons and daughters of the deliverance today are not something reducing them to a method or formula. King. Healing and deliverance is thus an novel, but rather a rediscovery of what Because healing and deliverance are a essential part of the Church’s work of belongs to our heritage as Christ’s work of the Holy Spirit, they should evangelization, just as it was at the center followers. The form is different (since only be carried out by those who are of Jesus’ own ministry, as summed up healing and deliverance today are usually filled with the Holy Spirit and have by St. Peter: “God anointed Jesus of in the context of specific ministries that learned to be sensitive to the Spirit’s Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and with involve training and pastoral oversight, promptings. Training and models are power. He went about doing good and whereas in the past they were more important, but they can never substitute healing all who were oppressed by the spontaneous and ad hoc), but the for the inner leading of the Holy Spirit, devil” (Acts 10:38). object is the same. In a society that has who knows every human heart and what each person most needs. Indeed, when Jesus first commissioned “Training and models are his disciples to continue his own The Doctrinal Commission of ICCRS mission, he made healing and important, but they can has published two books on this topic: deliverance an intrinsic part of their Guidelines on Prayers for Healing task: “Preach as you go, saying, ‘The never substitute for the (2012) and Deliverance Ministry kingdom of heaven is at hand.’ Heal (2017). Both are the fruit of several the sick, raise the dead, cleanse lepers, inner leading of the Holy years of study and consultation with cast out demons” (Mt 10:7-8). In theologians and experts in ministry. other words, proclaim the good news Spirit, who knows every Their purpose is to offer sound of the kingdom both in words and human heart and what theological and pastoral principles for in supernatural deeds by which I, carrying out these ministries in accord the Lord, will confirm the truth of each person most needs.” with Catholic faith, and to help the the words! The gospel is good news wider Church understand what healing precisely because it comes with divine and deliverance are and why they are power. Without power, it would not be urgently needed today. Deliverance good news. Imagine going into a prison Ministry also clears up some common where people are sitting in darkness, misunderstandings regarding the role chained up, dirty, sick and miserable, rejected God and his ways, there are of lay people in deliverance. It was and saying to them, “Listen, everybody, many casualties, but Christians are here vetted by the Congregation for the I have good news. There is a Savior who to humbly care for the wounded and Doctrine of the Faith and received has come to set all prisoners free, to enable them to experience personally an enthusiastic preface from Cardinal heal the sick and liberate the oppressed. the mercy and grace of God. Kevin Farrell, prefect of the Dicastery I just wanted you to know that. Have for Laity, Family and Life. Both these a nice day.” And then you walk out the One of the most noteworthy aspects books are recommended resources door, leaving them all locked up. What of healing and deliverance today is for those who practice healing and kind of good news would that be? the involvement of lay people in this deliverance in the Church today. t ministry. Baptism in the Spirit awakens The early Christians understood this lay people to their full dignity as baptized Mary Healy is a well, and as they evangelized they also believers and their call to share fully in professor of Scripture did works of healing and deliverance the mission of the Church. Through at Sacred Heart Major with bold faith and deep compassion. these ministries lay people experience Seminary in Detroit and The Church Fathers speak of ordinary the joy of being an instrument of God’s the chair of the ICCRS Christians frequently healing the sick mercy to others—along with the travail Doctrinal Commission. and casting out demons—a major and suffering that sometimes go with reason why pagans were flocking to outreach to the wounded.

www.nsc-chariscenter.org Summer 2018 PENTECOSTToday 5 MISSION OF EVANGELIZATION AND SERVICE Jesus Changed My Life and He Can Change Yours! by Dave Nodar

n 1971 a friend of mine, who wasn’t raised Christian, ex- Behold I am doing something new! hibited a radical change in his life. When he joyfully told me In the late 1980’s, St John Paul II prophetically proclaimed Iabout it, he concluded by saying, “Dave, Jesus changed my that the times we are living in could be a spring time of ap- life and he can change yours.” A few months later, I called ostolic fervor, if we respond with generosity and prompt response to him on the phone and asked if I could come talk with him. I the impulse of the Holy Spirit. I had the growing conviction that told him I wanted what he had but didn’t know how to get it. I could make a small contribution to the Church’s mission of When I arrived at his home, he told me to get down on my evangelization. I met with our Archbishop in 1995, to tell him knees and tell Jesus out loud what I wanted. I thought, “Okay, I would like to start a ministry of evangelization. Cardinal do I say the Our Father or a Glory be?” He simply said speak William Keeler was so thrilled that any Catholic was actually out loud to Jesus and tell him what you want. From my guts, evangelizing and wanted to help others to share Christ that I prayed, “Jesus help me!” he established ChristLife as an apostolate of the Archdiocese of Baltimore. Since that time, we have used the wonderful gifts The result was a tremendous outpouring of the Father’s per- the Lord has poured out on you and me, to develop a relation- sonal love for me, the forgiveness of my sins, and a certainty al process to begin making missionary disciples in our parish- that he was giving me power to change. I thought, “This is es and small groups. ChristLife is an evangelization process to so incredible, why isn’t everyone Christian?” Though raised reach anyone and everyone: young and old, baptized and un- Catholic this personal encounter with God was something baptized, to discover, follow, and share Jesus Christ as Lord. utterly new and life changing. As we conduct training conferences around the world, many Jesus changed my life! The fruit was evident in the following of my friends in the Renewal ask, ”Dave how is it possible days, months, and now over many years. I desired to pray, that ChristLife is being used in so many parishes?!” The to be with him in the hidden life of friendship with God. simple answer is that what the Lord has given us, baptism in I sensed him speaking to me through the Scriptures. The the Holy Spirit, he is making available to his Church, in new Sacraments became an essential means of grace in reality! ways. St. John Paul II called us to a new evangelization that is I searched for others who wanted to live for Jesus and I new in ardor, methods and expressions. We who have come hungered to tell everyone this good news of knowing the to know the ardor of the Holy Spirit have a great opportunity, merciful love of the Father and the empowering presence if we are teachable, humble and open to the new things the of the Holy Spirit in the Lord Jesus! Lord is doing.

Power to be Jesus’ witnesses Evangelization is one of the fruits of the new Pentecost that As you know this same power to evangelize has been expe- you and I have experienced. The Lord is looking for laborers rienced by millions of Catholics who have called upon the for his harvest. Be open to the new things the Lord is doing! Lord to be baptized in the Spirit. In the Renewal this spirit of He wants to use you. evangelizing was a key reason for the growth of the Renewal, and still is today in some regions of the world. “I tell you, lift up your eyes, and see how the fields are already white for harvest.” (Jn 4:35). t Yet for many the fire for evangelizing has died down. This key element of the Renewal is desperately needed by the Dave Nodar is founder and Director of ChristLife, Church today to help the next generation become missionary Catholic ministry for evangelization and co-author disciples. We who have grown older in the Renewal have the of Share Christ. See www.christlife.org potential today to cry out, “From my youth you have taught me... even in old age...may I proclaim your might to generations to come!” (Ps. 71:17,18).

6 PENTECOSTToday Summer 2018 www.nsc-chariscenter.org BUILDING COMMUNITY

Personal Observations and Reflections on the International Conference of the Catholic Fraternity June 29-July 1, 2018, Augusta GA by Paul Dinolfo Prayer Card b c was invited to attend and speak at the (e.g., training of the twelve, the seventy, the Catholic Fraternity Conference as a leader great commission), he always linked preach- I in the Sword of the Spirit, an international ing the gospel with the charisms, especial- Enhancing Unity ecumenical association of covenant com- ly healing and deliverance. This confirmed munities. I am also an Evangelical Protes- what I hear the Lord saying in many places. tant. I wasn’t sure what to expect as this was We need to connect the charismatic gifts “I pray not only for them, my first Fraternity conference. However, as with mission. but also for those who soon as we began to worship the Lord at the opening session, I felt very much at home. Emphasis on Christian Unity: There was will believe in me through a very strong emphasis on Christian unity The worship throughout the Conference throughout the Conference. Anglican Bishop their word, so that they was very rich and lively. The Lord was very Sean Larkin was invited to share deeply may all be one, just as present in our praise and word gifts. There from his heart about our call to unity. Peter were several opportunities to hear the Lord and Sharon Poppleton shared about their you, Father, are in me, and pray for those around us. My wife, Mar- collaboration with Emmanuel Community cia, also attended and during one of the to bring the John 17 Christian Unity Movement and I in you, that ministry times she experienced the Lord to Paris, France. As an Evangelical Protestant they also may be in us, work though her in a new way. living in an ecumenical community I was very encouraged to see this. Truly the Catholic that the world may believe I was struck by several things the Lord did Fraternity has embraced the message of that you sent me.” at the conference, which I believe are part Pope Francis that baptism in the Spirit is an of what the Lord is doing across the whole ecumenical grace for the whole church, in- John 17:20  Body of Christ. tended to draw us into spiritual unity.

Emphasis on Mission: There was a strong Unity Within the Renewal: The Lord has the breadth of God’s work in the Catho- emphasis at the Conference on renewing our been moving in recent years to restore and lic Fraternity throughout the world. It was commitment to mission. Jean Luc Moens, bring about greater unity within the Renew- wonderful to reconnect with leaders whom from Emmanuel Community, observed that al. CHARIS has been formed by the Vatican I had not seen in many years, as well as to some communities spend so much time to unify the Renewal in all its diversity (e.g., form many new relationships. forming their members in preparation for prayer groups, renewal centers, mission or- mission that they never get around to doing ganizations, covenant communities), and to Finally, I would like to highly commend Al- the mission. He encouraged us not to sep- reaffirm the role of the Renewal in fostering leluia Community, the host community. This arate formation from mission, but to form spiritual ecumenism. was my third visit to Alleluia in the last two our members while also engaging them years. Each time I have experienced their in mission. In a similar way the Lord has been drawing warm hospitality and been very inspired by networks of covenant communities (which their community life. I cherish the personal We also heard testimonies from several Fra- had been separated for many years) back relationships I have developed with many ternity leaders who shared about the mis- into relationship with each other. Our desire of their members. t sion of their communities. I was especially is to love and support each other as broth- inspired by the witness of brothers and sis- ers and sisters, to share resources and work Paul Dinolfo is the senior ters who shared from China, Uganda, Bra- together wherever we can, while respecting coordinator of the Work of zil, and Malaysia. our distinctive natures and callings. My be- Christ Community, an ing invited to speak to the Catholic Frater- ecumenical covenant community Emphasis on Charismatic Renewal and nity is a fruit of the restoration of relation- (Catholics, Protestants, Gifts: There was a strong emphasis on the ship between the Fraternity and the Sword Eastern Orthodox) in East importance of baptism in the Spirit and of the Spirit. Lansing, Michigan. Paul charisms for mission. Dr. Mary Healy spoke served from 2008 to 2016 about the connection between the charis- I was very encouraged by the warmness as president of the North American region of the matic gifts and mission. She observed that with which I was received at the confer- Sword of the Spirit, an international ecumenical whenever Jesus trained others in mission ence. I grew as well in my appreciation for association of covenant communities.

www.nsc-chariscenter.org Summer 2018 PENTECOSTToday 7 RELIGIOUS COMMUNITIES

Please pray with the NSC HONORING Mother John Marie for the following intentions: by Sr. Ann Chiara Richardson, DLJC was with Mother John Marie during the getting started) she would shower me with Let us pray together… last 12 hours of her life. Other than “payment” – a myriad of “thank you’s,” t For the Leaders’ and Ministries’ I answering the questions of the E.R. a handful of M&M’s and more blessings, Conference, that the Lord would staff, the last really meaningful words she prayers and compliments than I deserved. renew and strengthen us in the spoke were, “Thank you, She would even kiss my power and presence of the Michael.” Michael was the hands after I reached down Holy Spirit. EMT who responded to our to hug her goodbye. 911 call when Mother report- Among the many virtues t For all people who share in this ed a sudden and excruciat- that marked Mother John “current of grace,” baptism in the ing headache. Immediately Marie’s life, gratitude was Holy Spirit, that we may foster peace preceding the ambulance the one that impressed and charity throughout the Church. ride to Amarillo, Michael me the most. Even on the witnessed Mother John Marie’s reception morning of her burial, as I reached down t For wisdom that reflects the heart of of the last rites. When our chaplain gave to touch her cold hands one last time, I Jesus as we share the Good News the plenary indulgence available to those heard her whisper in my heart, “Thank of salvation with others. at the point of death, “I forgive you for you, thank you, thank you.” I can only the sins of your whole life…” Moth-

 imagine the gratitude that sprang up in t For CHARIS, the new coming er cried out, “Oh wow! Really?” Father her heart when she finally saw her be- together for all of the expressions of smiled and the Sisters gathered around loved Jesus face to face. Catholic Charismatic Renewal, that her laughed to hear her childlike wonder they would be inspired as they lead and see her eyes sparkling with gratitude. Early on the morning of May 26th, as us into this “new season of grace.” the Church celebrated the memory of St.

Sr. MarySr. Anne Schaenzer “Thank you too much,” was one of Philip Neri, we chanted Morning Prayer Mother’s catch phrases. And being one in Mother’s hospice room; it would be Life is changed, of the privileged souls who was blessed the last Divine Office of her earthly life. to care for her in her final years, I can tes- And the reader’s voice broke as she not ended. tify that she really did thank me too much! read the Scripture from the Common (Preface for Christian Death I) Every Monday morning, after I cleaned of Pastors: “Remember your leaders her room (and sometimes when I was just who spoke the word of God to you; consider how their lives ended, and imitate their faith…” Mother John Marie, for the witness of your life: Thank you too much! t

Brothers of the Beloved Disciple 1701 Alametos St. San Antonio, TX 78201 (210) 734-6727 www.brothersofthebeloveddisciple.org The Brothers are a Marian and charismatic religious community of priests and brothers. Disciples of the Lord Jesus Christ P.O. Box 64, Prayer Town, TX 79010-0064 (806) 534-2312 www.dljc.org This is a Franciscan and charismatic religious order of sisters, contemplative with evangelistic apostolates.

8 PENTECOSTToday Summer 2018 www.nsc-chariscenter.org IN MEMORIAM Fr. Tom Forrest, CSsR 1927-2018

hat Fr. Tom has preached to witnessed. This request was technically granted. Much work hundreds of thousands in about of evangelization has happened in China since. T120 nations, and has led many thousands of youth, nuns, married The second story: I was hosted in Europe with Fr. Tom for couples, priests, and bishops to a closer afternoon tea. The hostess told Fr. Tom that his tea already relationship with the Lord, is no news. He is one of the most had sugar in it, but that he could add more. He started sipping respected Catholic evangelists of our time. I would like to the tea. Suddenly, the hostess, in panic from the kitchen, called highlight two simple yet profound lessons I received from Fr. out to Fr. Tom. “Stop drinking!” she said. By mistake, she Tom. Both illustrate his love and passion for God and for had placed salt instead of sugar in the tea. Fr. Tom, however, his people. continued the conversation as if nothing happened. Shortly after, he whispered to me, “I knew it, but of course one I invited Fr. Tom to accompany me to China. His response should never embarrass anyone, particularly if the person is was, “If this means that I preach Jesus, I am in.” He preached the host!” A lesson I took to heart. in China on three different occasions. There, he struck a relationship with a top government official. Fr. Tom wasted Fr. Tom, thank you. Though you reached the masses, you no opportunity to witness to him. Fr. Tom spoke of his never missed the person. Pray for us, as we continue on our relationship with the Lord and spent time praying with him, journey to make Him known to all. but he also shared about Mother Teresa and asked the official to grant the nun’s request to bring the Missionaries of Charity Fr. Tom was a member of the NSC, 1975-1978. to China as this would be good for “charity in truth” to be - Henry Cappello, President: Caritas in Veritate- CiV

IN MEMORIAM Jim Byrne 1945 – 2018

y husband, Jim Byrne was a man Jim believed that if the Charismatic Renewal were to be valued of faith, integrity, and excellence. within the Catholic Church, it would require a strong national MHe passionately loved God, our leadership team. And so he became one of the founding family, and everyone around him. Jim members of the National Service Committee in 1970 and was was a wonderful husband for 45 years. a member for three years. Our four adult children felt deeply loved by Jim, and our four grandsons have told us they will miss Grandpa. Jim was a law professor and attorney for 35 years. He authored 60 books on law, founded a non-profit institute, and Jim encountered the Holy Spirit on a retreat around 1967 sponsored 185 professional conferences, which were attended while a student at Notre Dame. Baptism in the Spirit had by the largest 25 international banks in the world. He chaired a profound impact on him. Consequently, Jim changed his a U.N. delegation to write trade laws. Yet no matter how career goals to remain at Notre Dame to evangelize and successful he became, Jim remained humble, approachable, serve the students. He dedicated himself to a life of worship, and encouraging. service, and evangelization, built a covenant community on campus, and helped to found the Notre Dame Charismatic Since his cancer diagnosis in June 2017, Jim had many Conferences that began in 1967. He also wrote the books meaningful encounters with the Lord. His faith never wavered, Threshold of God’s Promise and Living in the Spirit. and he was hopeful to the end. He would often say “Maria, be peaceful. We are in God’s hands.” And so we are. - Maria Byrne

www.nsc-chariscenter.org Summer 2018 PENTECOSTToday 9 MISSION OF EVANGELIZATION AND SERVICE Pope Francis: On the Call to Holiness in Today’s World

Quotes from Gaudete et Exsultate (Editor’s note: This is not meant to summarize what Pope Francis wrote but to foster a desire to reflect on the entire document.)

y modest goal is to repropose he Beatitudes are like the [112-121], Joy and a Sense of Humor the call to holiness in a practical Christian’s identity card….In the [122-128], Boldness and Passion [129- Mway for our own time, with all its risks, BeatitudesT we find a portrait of the 139], In Community [140-146], and In challenges and opportunities. For the Master, which we are called to reflect in Constant Prayer [147-157]. Lord has chosen each one of us “to be our daily lives. [63] holy and blameless before him in love” od is eternal newness. He impels (Eph 1:4). [2] he word “happy” or “blessed” us constantly to set out anew, to thus becomes a symbol for Gpass beyond what is familiar, to the FreeImages.com/Steve Matthews FreeImages.com/Steve would like to insist primarily on “holy”.T It expresses the fact that those fringes and beyond. [135] the call to holiness that the Lord faithful to God and his word, by their Iaddresses to each of us, the call that he self-giving, gain true happiness.” [64] rue enough, we need to open also addresses, personally, to you: “Be Tthe door of our hearts to Jesus, holy, for I am holy” (Lev 11:44; cf. 1 who stands and knocks (cf. Rev Pet 1:16). [10] 3:20). Sometimes I wonder, though, Let us ask the Holy if perhaps Jesus is already inside us e shape by many small gestures and knocking on the door for us to the holiness God has willed for Spirit to pour out upon let him escape from our stale self- us,W not as men and women sufficient centeredness. In the Gospel, we see unto ourselves but rather “as good us a fervent longing how Jesus “went through the cities stewards of the manifold grace of to be saints for God’s and villages, preaching and bringing God” (1 Pet 4:10). [18] the good news of the kingdom of greater glory, and let us God” (Lk 8:1). After the resurrection, ach saint is a mission, planned by when the disciples went forth in all Ethe Father to reflect and embody, encourage one another directions, the Lord accompanied them at a specific moment in history, a (cf. Mk 16:20). This is what happens as certain aspect of the Gospel. [19] in this effort. [177] the result of true encounter. [136] llow the Spirit to forge in you the et us ask the Lord for the grace personal mystery that can reflect not to hesitate when the Spirit JesusA Christ in today’s world. [23] L et us allow his words to unsettle calls us to take a step forward. Let us ay you come to realize what us, to challenge us and to demand ask for the apostolic courage to share that word is, the message of La real change in the way we live. [66] I the Gospel with others and to stop MJesus that God wants to speak to the would like to mention a few signs or trying to make our Christian life a world by your life. Let yourself be spiritual attitudes that, in my opinion, museum of memories. [139] transformed. Let yourself be renewed are necessary if we are to understand ach community is called to by the Spirit, so that this can happen. the way of life to which the Lord calls create a “God-enlightened space [24] us. [110] …five great expressions of Ein which to experience the hidden love for God and neighbor that I presence of the risen Lord”. Sharing o not be afraid of holiness. It will consider of particular importance in the take away none of your energy, the word and celebrating the Eucharist D light of certain dangers and limitations together fosters fraternity and makes vitality or joy. On the contrary, you will present in today’s culture. [111] become what the Father had in mind us a holy and missionary community. It when he created you, and you will be Titles of these five sections include: also gives rise to authentic and shared t faithful to your deepest self. [32] Perseverance, Patience and Meekness mystical experiences. [142]

10 PENTECOSTToday Summer 2018 www.nsc-chariscenter.org PRAYER AND TRANSFORMATION

Redemptive Suffering Quotes from Gaudete et Exsultate by Mark Nehrbas “Apart from the cross there is no other suffering or not. I chose, with God’s God! I felt very strongly that God had ladder by which we may get to heaven.” grace, to embrace it. honored my suffering and heard the cry - St. Rose of Lima of this father’s heart for his son to come My wife, Carol, and I had moments of home. The question is, will we suffer well and tears and clinging to each other when with the right attitude? we first got the news. I was scheduled for a new round of treatments in May of this year. My r. Jacques Philippe is a renowned Friends from near and far began to pray oncologist informed me, when I French spiritual director in the for my healing. God was at work. returned from a trip to Lourdes, that FCommunity of the Beatitudes. He my tumor markers were in the normal helps steer us to the right attitude about I never felt sorry for myself, I never range, my recent PET scan was negative, acceptance of the unexpected. More asked, Why me? The grace I had received and therefore, he was canceling the often than not, suffering comes to us from being baptized in the Holy Spirit treatment plan because he couldn’t unexpectedly. He wrote, “Perhaps the nearly 40 years earlier, the support find any evidence of cancer! I attribute highest and most rewarding exercise of of a vibrant charismatic community, this wonderful healing news to the freedom is assenting to things we haven’t and the sacraments of the Church many prayers from brothers and sisters chosen, welcoming in trust realities that had prepared me to trust in God and in the Body of Christ and Our Lady of transcend us.” (Magnificat, Vol 20, No.5, embrace suffering. I learned that if we Lourdes. July 2018, p.102) Redemptive Suffering are faithful in small things like our daily is certainly a reality that transcends us. duties and the crosses of normal life, There is tremendous value in suffering. then God will give us the grace for the However, that doesn’t mean we should St. Paul wrote in Colossians 1:24, “In big crosses he permits in our lives. pray for it. St. Therese of Lisieux my flesh I complete what is lacking in discourages us from doing that. What Christ’s afflictions for the sake of his I was cancer free for four and one-half we should do is pray for God’s grace body.” This is a key scripture that helps years when the cancer returned in March when suffering comes our way assenting us to understand redemptive suffering. of 2017. After a second major surgery “to the realities that transcend us” with We are given an opportunity by the last May I underwent chemotherapy for great trust in the Lord, confident that he Lord to offer up our suffering united a second time. has a plan. God will provide every grace with him on the cross for what needs we need to climb the ladder to heaven to be completed in the Body of Christ. One of the many wonderful things I and help to bring as many people with learned about suffering is that it is the us as possible! t I had a fairly basic and (I thought) good “money” in the economy of salvation. understanding of redemptive suffering Yes, our suffering will help us get to Mark Nehrbas and until five and half years ago. Without heaven but we can also offer it up for his wife Carol reside warning one Monday morning in 2012 the salvation of others. I offered up my in Steubenville, Ohio results from a test came back showing suffering for one of my adult children and have nine children that I had a tumor in my stomach the who left the Church. He was in his late and 14 grandchildren. size of a peach. Two days later it was 20’s and hadn’t been to the sacraments A past Franciscan confirmed that I had adenocarcinoma, for eight years. Last March my oldest son University employee, a serious and aggressive form of cancer. invited him to attend a men’s conference he has administered Two days after that my entire stomach in Philadelphia. I prayed days before Fire Rallies and led summer conferences. was removed. Within two months the event that my prodigal would go to He currently serves on the leadership team of that I began chemotherapy and Confession. He did, and then attended for ChristLife in his parish and is on the radiation treatments that lasted another Mass and received the Eucharist! Praise Advisory Board for The Ark and The Dove. two months. I was thrust into embracing

www.nsc-chariscenter.org Summer 2018 PENTECOSTToday 11 Young Adult Ministry ...... “Been There, by Casey Sprehe Done That.”

Why? I don’t think it’s because we, as personal baptism in the Holy Spirit, then young adults, don’t care about what “50 years ago” suddenly becomes part his phrase is often used to describe God did 50 years ago. I don’t think of a 30-something’s story. It’s a personal a technique that’s been tried, a it’s because we aren’t the lead roles in fulfillment. That peaks interest; that Tmilestone that’s been reached, or a the story. I propose it’s the lack of grabs attention. That invites people into situation that’s been overcome. There’s connectedness among the generational a story they are helping write by their a primary focus on “the now and the stories that causes us to lose interest. own experience. not yet” that portrays “the past” as irrelevant and unimportant. As this has An analogy might be helpful. I can tell Let’s share the grace of baptism in the become a generational norm, massive a friend about the Exodus story and it Holy Spirit with others by sharing the groups of people have begun to suffer remains just that: a story of God using historical story, then our story, then from a historical amnesia of sorts. Moses to lead his people out of slavery inviting them to add their story. This is Forgetting the past to forge the future and bondage into freedom through how the torch is passed on. This is how merely produces what George Santayana the waters of the Red Sea. It isn’t until the story remains living and active and predicted: “Those who cannot learn that friend sees her story in light of not a history book on a shelf. t from the past are doomed to repeat it.” the Exodus story that it takes on personal significance. It then becomes a Casey Sprehe is a member of the NSC. She It’s important to know where we have forerunner to her story of God using is a lay evangelist who desires to bridge the been to see where we are going. Christ to lead her out of the muddy generational gap within the Renewal. She and her husband Kevin have 4 children. Often, among the younger generations waters of sin and darkness into freedom in the Renewal there seems to be an and eternal life through the waters of almost allergic reaction to the reference baptism. The story didn’t change; the of yesteryear. It’s a dangerous reaction connection in her life was made. Now U.S. Ad Hoc Committee because knowing the roots of the “The Exodus story” becomes “Her See Newsbriefs, page 13 Renewal is essential for continued growth. Exodus Story.” However, when an audio, talk or video Andrés Arango and Jane Guenther, When Pentecost is connected to the present members of the International opens with: “In 1967 . . .” the article is Duquesne Weekend and then to one’s Catholic Charismatic Renewal put down, the tab is closed. Services Council; Bob Canton, representing the National Filipino Alliance; Chuck Hornsby, representing the Catholic Fraternity of Charismatic Covenant Communities and Fellowships and the Alleluia Community; Fr. Anthony Ouellette, representing the National Association of Diocesan Liaisons; Ron Riggins and Walter Matthews, representing the National Service Committee; and Msgr. Joseph Malagreca, the chairperson of the Gathering Committee (see 13) as well as the representative of the Haitian and Hispanic National Committees.

12 PENTECOSTToday Summer 2018 www.nsc-chariscenter.org DIOCESAN LIAISONS

Newsbriefs CHARIS Initiative Speaks to Liaisons CHARIS Update by Fr. Anthony G. Ouellette

n the Spring issue, we introduced the CHARIS initiative of Pope Francis he Association of Diocesan local Ordinary, his Chancery staff, and I(See p 8). CHARIS is the new name Liaisons (ADL) reflects the great the local Renewal, leads the work of for a “single service for the one current Tdiversity of “liaisonship” that the representative body and any other of grace” for all the expressions of the exists throughout the United States and larger representative bodies, as well Catholic Charismatic Renewal. The Canada, differences in titles, structures, as visits and serves local realities as Catholic Charismatic Renewal is not communication, organization, and assets. needs arises.The Ecclesiastical Assistant being renamed. Rather CHARIS, is This is the reason why “associating” accompanies all the activities of the an acronym for Catholic Charismatic with each other has been so mutually Catholic Charismatic Renewal from a Renewal International Service. beneficial for many of us to see doctrinal and spiritual point of view, possibilities and gain insights into this guarantees the faithfulness of all actions In anticipation of the formation in complex work. undertaken, takes part in meetings of the U.S. of a National Service of the representative body, as well as in Communion as invited by the CHARIS The CHARIS initiative in Rome speaks to any other activities where his presence Statutes, an Ad Hoc Committee (See us as liaisons and provides a possible is deemed helpful or necessary. shaded box on p 12) was formed to template for diocesan service as well. The help all of us in the U.S. respond to key “players” of the CHARIS structure As a liaison, depending on whether this CHARIS initiative. The goal of the are the Holy Father, the Dicastery for you are a lay person, deacon, or priest, National Service of Communion will Laity, Family, and Life, an International appointed, confirmed, paid, or volunteer, be to bring about greater communion Service of Communion representative you will find yourself identifying with between our diverse expressions, body of 18, an Office, a Moderator, and at least some of these activities, if not so that this current of grace might an Ecclesiastical Assistant. A “Diocesan all. Could your work be complemented be experienced in a greater way Service of Communion” could mirror by a Moderator or by an Ecclesiastical throughout the Church. this, the Local Ordinary, the Chancery, Assistant? Do you currently have a body a diocesan representative body, and that is representative of all parts of the We have met three times to date. We an office. But, it’s the positions of Renewal in your diocese? If we use the have mailed the CHARIS documents the Moderator and the Ecclesiastical CHARIS structure as a mirror, then to all the bishops in the U.S. with a Assistant that both connect with the we may find ourselves inviting others cover letter and received a number of lived experience of ADL members. to accompany us, not only to create a positive replies. We are in the process greater service of communion for our of widening the tent of the Gathering Understood in diocesan terms, the diocese, but insight into what CHARIS of National Leaders Groups: Catholic Moderator promotes and develops the means for us nationally, continentally, Charismatic Renewal, which has been Catholic Charismatic Renewal as a and internationally. t meeting for over 25 years and have current of grace, promotes work for invited about 40 additional key leaders unity in the Body of Christ, ensures For information on the Diocesan Liaison ministry and ministries to the Gathering in good communication between the go to www.associationofdiocesanliaisons.org. Tempe, Arizona next February. Our purpose will be that together we may discern how to realize and bring to a group of eighteen people. He will also CHARIS as a Public Association of fulfillment the Holy Father’s goal in appoint the first CHARIS Moderator. the Faithful with juridical personality. the U.S. Pope Francis will do this as an aid to the transition. Future Councils and Pray for all of this. We are all very On the International level, the Holy Moderators will be elected, according excited that our Holy Father has placed Father will personally appoint, on to the Statutes. On Pentecost 2019, baptism in the Holy Spirit and the December 8, the first CHARIS Council, the Holy Father will formally establish Renewal in the heart of the Church. t

www.nsc-chariscenter.org Summer 2018 PENTECOSTToday 13 From the Executive FRIENDS OF THE NSC Director Finally, the third 50th Anniversary I want to note is that of a document written by ...... e are grateful to a little over Blessed Paul VI, entitled by Walter Matthews Humanae Vitae. 700 individuals, couples, In the words of Cardinal Daniel DiNar- prayer groups, communities, do, President of the USCCB, “In it, he W ministries and other Renewal reaffirmed the beautiful truth that a hus- entities who have given one or band and wife are called to give them- more gifts in 2018. This compares selves completely to each other. Marriage to the over 5,000 recipients of reflects the love of God, which is faithful, 50th Anniversaries Pentecost Today. If you value generous, and life-giving. Through their Pentecost Today for yourself or arlier this summer, my high school vocation, spouses cooperate with God by your group please consider a gift class celebrated our 50th anniversa- being open to new human life.” today: by mail or by using our ry on our graduation date, June 16, E secure website. the traditional feast of St. John Francis In 1968, when Blessed Paul VI wrote I Regis, for whom the school is named, a would have none of it. I was off to col- To date we are ahead in our Fund 17th century French Jesuit known for his lege to have “fun”. Even after my return Raising, in part because of the zealous missionary efforts and his care to the Church and being baptized in the generosity of Ramona Thompson for the poor and marginalized. In 1997 Holy Spirit in 1972, and for several years who, we noted last fall, left us 5% Pope St. John Paul II commemorated the after, I was still unsure where I was with of her residual estate. Without her fourth centenary of his birth, by honoring this “teaching of the Church.” It was only bequest we would not be doing him as a “lofty figure of holiness” and an when Claire and I were approaching mar- as well. This type of Planned example for the Church in our day. riage did I have to come to grips with “the Giving is essential in support of encyclical’s emphasis on the ‘inseparable our mission as we go forward, For four years we lived, failed and tried connection’ between the ‘unitive and the as is our new Sustaining Partner again to live the Jesuit motto, ad majorem procreative’ qualities of married love.” Pledge Program. Please consider Dei gloriam (to the greater glory of God). (Catholic News Service article) including both in your giving. I will be forever grateful for the op- portunity to attend Regis, survive and As many writers have noted, many reject- Required Minimum Distribution graduate, and to serve to the greater ed the encyclical immediately and many (RMD): If you are 70 ½ and older, glory of God as a “man for others” in continue to reject it. Yet, as one author you can make a gift transfer of the footsteps of St. Ignatius Loyola and has written, “After 50 years of attacking some or all of your RMD directly to St. John Francis Regis. ‘Humanae Vitae,’ the opponents need to the National Service Committee. address this question: In view of the My wife and I made a decision to Another 50th anniversary was recent- cheapening and coarsening of sex in this do this earlier this year. ly celebrated for the restoration of the time, the rise of the hookup culture, the Even if you choose the now permanent diaconate and the men who vulgarization of popular entertainment increased standard deduction for serve as deacons in our Church (and their and much else, is it possible “Humanae 2018, you can reduce your taxes. wives), “pioneers of the new civilization got it right?” To say it in another Vitae” Because this gift does not provide of love,” in the words of Pope Francis. way, is it not time for a “culture of life” to you a charitable deduction, it is a I want to acknowledge all deacons in the triumph over a “culture of death”? way for non-itemizers to reduce Renewal. I want especially to acknowledge taxable income and support the those deacons who have served on the My high school alma mater song has these ministry of the NSC as we respond NSC through the years: Kevin Ranaghan, words, “May ours be the noble heart, to this New Season and Pope Paul DeCelles, Dean Condon, Bill Bren- strong to endure, daring ‘tho’ skies be Francis’ CHARIS Initiative. nan, Ron Ochner, and Dan Guinaugh, as dark and roadways unsure, may ours be well as the many who served on the Advi- the heroes part ready to do.” May it be so Finally, we would like to thank the sory Committee/NSC Council, including for all of us as we continue to serve the donor who sent a Memorial gift in Dan Pudvah, Dan Foley and Ralph Poyo, Lord, the Church and this great Renewal memory of Fr. Al Carney. May he current members. Blessings. in our day and into the days ahead. t rest in peace. t

14 PENTECOSTToday Summer 2018 www.nsc-chariscenter.org SENSING THE MOVE OF THE SPIRIT Be Bearers of Light in the Darkness by Fausto Franco

response of the Spirit through the live in love and truth. How we can Church. We also have the witness of accompany our brother and sister in St. Mother Teresa of Calcutta. They their suffering but also speak the truth he Spirit of God is actively at responded to God’s call to be love and and more importantly live that truth.t work in the Catholic Church and truth. They taught the Gospel message Tthe world that is in need of God. that every single person has value and Fausto Franco, one of the panel speakers My sense is that God is ever making should be treated with dignity because at the NSC Jubilee Conference, is past himself available to us as the pursuit God dwells within that person. Coordinator for the Hispanic Catholic for “truth” continues. Jesus tells us in Charismatic Renewal for the youth and sacred scripture, “But when he comes, I believe that God in His infinite young adults in the USA and Canada. the Spirit of truth, he will guide you to wisdom through the Church has all truth” (Jn 16:13). There are those raised these two and many others in within the world who are attempting the recent years to be a guide for the to live in a world where God does not world. That with the Spirit’s assistance play part. We can see this by some of we too can be bearers of light in the the current world affairs in parts of the darkness that tries to envelope the world like Nicaragua where there has world. This light is love and truth. The been attacks on clergy and christians. Spirit is calling for those who have had There is the ever pressing movement an encounter with and relationship of governments pushing a culture with God in three Persons to share of death. that light with the world. Those of us who have had the grace to know the Planned Giving Program In my opinion I believe this is the light of love and truth do not have the “Legacy of Fire” most blatant attack on the Christian duty to just share it but to also become faith. The Spirit, I believe, is moving that light through the power of the Your planned gift to the NSC will the faithful to respond with love. This Holy Spirit. bless others and extend the legacy response can be seen by some of the of your baptism in the Holy Spirit for generations to come. We ask men and women who have recently St. Mother Teresa of Calcutta and you to please consider a gift to the been canonized by our Church. The Blessed Oscar Romero serve as National Service Committee when upcoming canonization of Blessed guides for the world as to how we can you make your will or update it. Oscar Romero is an indication of this open ourselves to the Holy Spirit to Making a gift to the NSC can be as simple as adding a codicil to your existing will or estate plan.

The National Service Commitee- National Service Committee members: You may use this or a similar Chariscenter USA is a 501(c)3 nonprofit Ron Riggins (Chairman) statement: “I/we bequeath $______organization. Contributions to defray Jimmy Archer (or % of my residual estate) to the the cost of this publication are gratefully Jim Beckman National Service Committee of the accepted and are tax deductible to the Matthew Bourgeois extent allowed by law. Gloria Coyne Catholic Charismatic Renewal of Please mail to: John Hutchins the United States, Inc. P.O. Box 628, National Service Committee Sr. Lucy Lukasiewicz, DLJC Locust Grove, VA 22508-0628.” Chariscenter USA Tom Mangan Please let us know if you have PO Box 628 Bill Marcotte included us in your will so that we Locust Grove, VA 22508-0628 Fr. Anthony Ouellette Tel. (540) 972-0225 Casey Sprehe can properly thank you. www.nsc-chariscenter.org Dave VanVickle

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