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Publication of the National Service Committee of the Catholic Charismatic Renewal PENTECOSTToday Summer 2019

in one place · Pentecost 2019 CHARIS Photo from

New life in Christ through the power of the Holy Spirit Chairman’s Editor’s Corner Desk ...... by Ron Riggins by Sr. Mary Anne Schaenzer, SSND

in the unity of those who believe in Christ (Eph 4:11-16). hen I read the word “sandals” in In Pursuit of Unity Ron Riggins’ article concerning the CHARIS captures the unity preached Winauguration of CHARIS, and sandals esus prayed for our unity: “that they by Jesus and later by St. Paul, as Pope spiritually symbolizing readiness to serve, I may all be one” (Jn 17:20-21). And Francis sees in the Holy Spirit recalled a quote regarding sandals: “Put Jin the we profess as an opportunity for the whole Church. them on and wear them like they fi t.” Or as our belief that the Church is one. He expects those of us who have ex- Ron calls the NSC, Boots on the Ground. The motto in Alexandre Dumas’ novel perienced this current of grace to work CHARIS (Catholic Charismatic Renewal The Three Musketeers reflected a commit- together, using our diverse gifts, for International Service) inaugurated by Pope ment to unity: un pour tous, tous pour un unity in the Renewal and ecumenically Francis, is “marked by communion between (“one for all, all for one”). But then in the Body of Christ for the benefit of all the members of the charismatic family, in Frank Sinatra sang what seems to be the whole Church. which the mighty presence of the Holy Spirit today’s motto: “I did it my way.” A is manifested for the good of the entire So here’s our challenge: Let’s commit Church” (p 10). casual glance reveals the cost of today’s to the spirit of unity, embracing the self-focus—a critical spirit, unwilling- Prayer of St. Francis. More articles directly referring to CHARIS: ness to agree, verbal abuse, and disunity. Chairman’s Corner (p 2); before CHARIS Lord, make me an instrument of and now (pp 4-5, Gloria Coyne and Fr. The “culture of disunity” has even per- your peace: Anthony Ouellette); How the Covenant of meated the and the where there is hatred, let me sow love; Understanding paved the way in the US for larger Body of Christ. St. Paul addressed where there is injury, pardon; participating in the CHARIS vision (p 7, Fr. divisions among the Corinthians, encour- where there is doubt, faith; Bob Hogan, BBD). aging them to be of the same mind and where there is despair, hope; Other articles taking up the theme of Unity purpose (1 Cor 1:10). He encouraged where there is darkness, light; are: The mission of The Ark and The Dove, the Ephesians to use spiritual gifts for where there is sadness, joy. “to foster unity…” (p 3) Johnny Bertucci, Unity: the building up of the Body of Christ so unexpected fruit of baptism in the Spirit (p 6) that the Church could grow in fullness Lord, let unity begin with me.  Paul Dinolfo, and Our unity with the Trinity (p 11) Jane Guenther. Fr. John Marcucci lays out the work of Vatican PENTECOSTToday Council II, in asking the Council Fathers to Volume 44 Number 3 For Your Information see the role of the Holy Spirit not simply as a “guarantor” of what Christ had completed Executive Director The mission of Pentecost Today is to serve Walter Matthews and be a voice for the National Service in the Church, but as a “co-operator” with Editorial Board Committee’s mission “to foster the dynamic Christ in the life of the Church bringing sal- Jimmy Archer grace of baptism in the Holy Spirit.” We do vation to all people (Lumen Gentium, p 9). Matthew Bourgeois this by publishing articles that instruct and Editor give practical wisdom, with a particular At the Bishops’ with Fr. Raniero Can- Sr. Mary Anne Schaenzer, SSND emphasis on strengthening leaders and talamessa (p 13) Bishop Peter Smith. Production Manager leader formation, in a visually appealing and inviting format. Sharon Fox Transitions, a time of prayer and discern- A limited amount of advertising space is ment (p 8). © 2019 National Service Committee available. For information, contact Sharon of the Catholic Charismatic Renewal Fox at [email protected]. Fifty years ago and fi fty years from now (p of the United States, Inc. Not to be Advertisements for events not sponsored by 14) Walter Matthews. reproduced without permission. the National Service Committee do not imply endorsement by the NSC/Chariscenter USA. Sensing the Move of the Spirit—across continents (p 15). 

2 PENTECOSTToday Summer 2019 www.nsc-chariscenter.org YOU SHALL BE MY WITNESSES Pentecost Today! The Ark and The Dove by Johnny Bertucci

“…[I]n the second month, on the seventeenth day of the month, on that day all the fountains of the great deep burst forth, and the windows of the heavens were opened. And rain fell upon the earth forty days and forty nights” (Gen 7:11b-12 RSVCE).

his scripture describes the great Dove, home of baptism in the Holy Spir- Renewal worldwide to proclaim the love fl ood that began as Noah waited it—we seek to foster unity with those who of God through his Son Jesus Christ in Tobediently in the ark. When these have received this outpouring and to extend the power of the Holy Spirit. verses were spoken as a prophetic word that grace for generations to come. during the 50th anniversary celebration The Lord spoke through a given of the Duquesne Weekend on that very Our mission is two-fold: to foster unity during last year’s anniversary celebration day, February 17th, something quick- and to pass on the grace of baptism in saying: “This is not a museum of what I ened in my spirit. They brought to mind the Holy Spirit. have done in the past. I am doing new things, to empower my church for this time, a different ark: a retreat center called The The Ark and The Dove seeks to foster Ark and The Dove where, on the week- the ending times. I am empowering you, unity; this is our clarion call: unity within and I send you to empower my church.” end of February 17, 1967, the fountains the Renewal, unity within the Church, of the great deep burst forth, and the ecumenical unity. For those who profess Individuals and groups from around the windows of the heavens were opened, baptism in the Holy Spirit, this is your world are making pilgrimages to The Ark and the Spirit of God fell upon a small home. has reminded the and The Dove to pray and be refreshed. group of college students. This event Renewal of its ecumenical roots. The Intercession is being offered daily in the began a current of grace called Catholic Ark and The Dove, at the time of the historic chapel. Schools of praise, heal- Charismatic Renewal. That current now Duquesne Weekend, was staffed by the ing, and worship are being offered. courses through the whole world. Ladies of Bethany, a group of nuns from This is your home. Come by to pray Holland invited by the Bishop of Pitts- As Mary, Ark of the Covenant, Spouse and be refreshed. Come by to study and burgh specifi cally to minister to the poor of the Holy Spirit, waiting in the Upper learn more about this grace we call bap- on the streets of Pittsburgh and fos- Room with the disciples, received the tism in the Holy Spirit. Come by to read ter ecumenical encounters. Today, The outpouring of the Holy Spirit at that about our history. Come by and visit, Ark and The Dove is administered by fi rst Pentecost, one can only wonder not as a guest, but as a member of the the fi rst religious order of nuns to come at the role she played in this new Pentecost. family coming home.  Just as, through the gift of tongues, people out of the Renewal, the Disciples of the of many different languages were united Lord Jesus Christ (DLJC). Johnny Bertucci is Chair- man of The Ark and by the power of the Holy Spirit as the The Ark and The Dove seeks to extend The Dove, Inc. and past disciples proclaimed Jesus as Lord 2,000 to all the grace of baptism in the Holy Chairman of the NSC. years ago, so that same call to unity Spirit. We are blessed to house a fi rst- is now an integral part of the mission of class relic of Blessed Elena Guerra, this modern-day Ark, as is evidenced by Apostle of the Holy Spirit, a gift from our vision statement: the Brazilian Renewal. The Ark and The Through reclaiming the historic site of the Dove, the very birthplace of the Re- “Duquesne Weekend”—The Ark and The newal, seeks to be a rallying point to the

www.nsc-chariscenter.org Summer 2019 PENTECOSTToday 3 BORN TO BE A CURRENT OF GRACE

Born to Be a Grace for Unity by Gloria Coyne and Fr. Anthony Ouellette

“How good and how pleasant it is, when brothers dwell together as one!” - Psalm 133

n January 1, 1901, Pope Leo Unitatis Redintegratio (the Decree on on the powerful role charismatic renew- XIII consecrated the 20th ). Pope St. John XXIII al has to unite all Christians, regardless Ocentury to the Holy Spirit and had stated in the opening address of of denominational differences. prayed for a new outpouring of that the Council, “The Catholic Church, same Spirit upon the whole “church” therefore, considers it her duty to work great ecumenical enthusiasm while ironically overshadowed by actively so that there may be fulfilled grew as all Christians started Bernini’s rendering of that same gift, the great mystery of that unity, which Asharing in this common current in the form of a dove, in the Vatican’s Jesus Christ invoked with fervent of grace. All of the denominational Basilica of St. Peter. At the same prayer from his heavenly Father on the posturing and suspicions formed over time in Topeka, Kansas, there was eve of his sacrifice.” In other words, a centuries of disunity, brokenness, an outpouring of the Holy Spirit world unified by a united . and war were now being shaken and among students at the Bethel College tested by this new experience of grace. and Bible school. They were Shortly after the close of the Council, We glimpse the Father’s heart for ec- praying and fasting for a Pentecost-like we know of another group of young umenical unity during this moment encounter with the Holy Spirit as the college students, having already re- as we hear the prophetic words spo- Apostles had in the Upper Room. ceived Baptism and Confirmation, ken in Kansas City in 1977, “Come From these hungering hearts, divid- who prayed and longed for a deeper before me with broken heart and a ed by distance, culture, and language, experience of the Holy Spirit in their contrite spirit…with tears and mourn- but united in prayer and petition, lives. Again, God answered their ing…turn from the sins of your came the birth of the Pentecostal and prayers by the outpouring of the Holy fathers… (for) the body of my Son . The Holy Spirit in a very powerful way. These is broken.” How incredibly powerful Spirit’s fire spread rapidly through- early days of the Catholic Charismatic was this invitation to turn from our out the United States and the world. Renewal were ecumenical in nature sin and divisions and to have our based on the common experiences of hearts broken over the brokenness of Fast forwarding to Vatican II, follow- the love of God, baptism in the the body, the Church, and they wept. ing the promptings of the Holy Spirit, Holy Spirit, and the use of the the stage was set for a new spirit of charisms. Cardinal Suenens spoke at Covenant communities, unlike many ecumenism in the Church with great length in the Malines documents other elements of the Renewal, were

4 PENTECOSTToday Summer 2019 www.nsc-chariscenter.org somewhat successful in keeping asks us, as one of his objectives, to ivisions have been with us since this flame of ecumenism alive, focus on “Unity in the Body of Christ.” the beginning of time and unity but eventually, disunity began to Dis fragile. We might fail in our appear, and this ecumenical hopeful- Each of these steps have built upon attempts, but we must start again. ness began to erode. Divine warnings and enhanced the plans that God has Jesus Christ fell several times on his of holding on too tightly to control for his Church to draw us back to way to the cross, but he got up again went unheeded and as sin always him and to serve united with each and again. We, too, must never give does, divisions again began to form other in love. up getting up. God desires unity anew, incredibly even among those for his Church, and it is necessary united in and by this one current Pope Francis isn’t merely responding for us to recognize that we have of grace. to our thoughts about unity, CHARIS ONE shared salvation in Christ’s is a papal initiative requiring us to death upon the cross. In recent years, we have begun to see be successful. a renewed invitation towards unity. Baptism in the Holy Spirit is a bridge, At Pentecost this year, as leaders stood a common experience that allows di- s the NSC was preparing for overshadowed by that same Holy alogue and relationships to grow with the 2017 Jubilee year, a 5-year Spirit window where Pope Leo XIII our Christian brethren. These rela- Aplan was proposed in which prayed for a new outpouring of that tionships can be nurtured by sharing the year 2015 was set aside to same Spirit, we recognized that we something as simple as a meal. Uniting focus on Unity. At that same time, were receiving a renewed mandate to together for service to the poor and a “Covenant of Understanding” was bring baptism in the Holy Spirit to works of charity allows us to set developed by which an agreed-up- the whole Church, for all to be joined aside denominational differences. We on statement of purpose was hoped together once again, in an ecumeni- are saying here what has been said to once again stir to flame the for- cal unity. How do we do this? How before, but the Holy Spirit makes all mer embers of unity: it reads in part, do we even begin this huge task? things new! “…a spiritual expression of unity, strengthening our communion with nity always begins with us. Not As Cardinal Mercier wrote on the oc- God and enhancing communion only does it apply to us as indi- casion of the famous “Conversations among groups dedicated to the fos- Uviduals, but also in how we relate of Malines” (unrelated to the Malines tering of “baptism in the Holy Spirit, to our roles in the Renewal in general. documents about the Renewal): the exercise of charisms, and a re- We must first search our hearts and repent for those times when we have • We have to encounter one another newal of the full role of the Holy in order to know one another, Spirit in the life of the Church.” Fur- missed opportunities to act in love. thering our objectives found in the Did we become “addicted” to our own • To know one another in order to NSC Vision and Mission Statement, way of doing things? Were there love one another, in 2018, the NSC restructured its times when we acted out of jeal- • To love one another in order to Foundational and Strategic Priorities ousy, or fear or pride? Any sincere unite.  prayer of repentance should quickly to create one priority whose sole pur- pose is “Enhance Unity.” And now in be followed by a resolution to make 2019, we see again this renewed em- amends, to right the wrong. phasis present in the Statutes of the With a clean heart and mind, we are recently created CHARIS and Di- ready to receive the guidance and rectives from Pope Francis himself. promptings of the Holy Spirit. We are CHARIS uses the language of a recognizing once again that we must “Service of Communion,” or in other pray for humility, not just ecumenism, words, Unity of Service. Pope Francis but for the entire CHARIS initiative Gloria Coyne Fr. Anthony Ouellette to be fruitful. NSC and DLSC Members

www.nsc-chariscenter.org Summer 2019 PENTECOSTToday 5 BUILDING COMMUNITY

hen St. Peter saw Cornelius is descending into moral darkness, we and prais- will need to stand and work together. Wing God, he recognized that the He told us we need to do this with other Spirit had been poured out on a Gen- Christians and Christian groups. I be- tile, just as the Spirit had been given to Unity: lieve this word applies to the whole Jewish believers. At that moment Peter charismatic renewal. experienced a paradigm shift. For the The Unexpected Fruit of first time he recognized a Gentile as his Baptism in the Spirit Pope Francis has been speaking a similar brother in Christ (Acts 10:44-48). message. Pope Francis established CHARIS to unify the Catholic Charismatic Re- Many of us have had a similar experi- by Paul Dinolfo newal, to foster evangelism and baptism ence in charismatic renewal. Catholics, in the Spirit, and to promote Christian Protestants and Orthodox have experi- Unfortunately, the unity of the Renewal unity. The challenge for us is to find tan- enced genuine unity despite our differ- did not last. For many reasons the Re- gible ways to respond to this call. ences. This experience of unity is one newal fragmented in the 1980’s. There of the most remarkable (and unexpect- were divisions between the prayer groups Some Ways We ed) fruits of baptism in the Spirit. and covenant communities, and be- Might Respond tween the covenant communities. There Christian unity was an unexpected fruit We can start by getting to know each was a general retreat from ecumenism as of the first Pentecost. The Holy Spirit other better. We can seek to build rela- many Catholics focused on Catholic did more than transform individuals. He tionships with those who represent dif- Church and renewal, and many began a profound work of unity. Jews ferent expressions of the Renewal (e.g., Protestants began forming new char- from throughout the Roman Empire prayer groups, covenant communities, ismatic churches. While some of these were brought into unity. Those first ministries; Catholic, Protestant, and ec- developments produced good fruit (e.g., Christians lived together as a family-like umenical). I know we are all busy; nev- church and parish renewal, new char- community (Acts 2:42-47). ertheless, we must place a high priority ismatic churches and ministries), the on building unity. Acts is the story of how this unity was overall affect was to weaken ecumenism extended geographically (i.e., from Jeru- and charismatic renewal in the USA. We can look for ways to support each salem to ) and culturally (i.e., Jews, other. We can pray for each other. We can Samaritans, God fearers, pagans). This What the Lord speak well of each other. We can pro- work of unity is at the heart of God’s Is Doing Today mote the good things others are doing. We can look for ways to work together. purpose in sending the Holy Spirit. This Through repentance, forgiveness, and should be no surprise as Jesus’ last prayer reconciliation the Holy Spirit is working I believe our efforts to build unity will was for unity (John 17), and God’s ul- to restore the unity that was lost in the benefit us in ways we could never predict, timate plan is “to unite everything in 1980’s. In recent years the Lord has re- because we will be in harmony with the heaven and on earth together under one stored good relationships among many will of God, who desires that we be one head, even Christ” (Eph 1:10). of the covenant communities. The Lord as he is one. Holy Spirit make us one!  has also been working through the Na- The early days of the Renewal were tional Service Committee and the Gath- Paul Dinolfo is the senior marked by a powerful experience of ering of National Leadership Groups to coordinator of the Work of Christian unity. Many of the first prayer Christ Community, an ec- restore and build relational unity among groups and covenant communities were umenical covenant commu- leaders from throughout the Catholic ecumenical. The Renewal worked close- nity (Catholics, Protestants, Charismatic Renewal. ly with the Renewal in other churches. Eastern Orthodox) in East This led to large ecumenical charismatic Lansing, Michigan. Paul Many years ago, the Lord spoke to my served from 2008 to 2016 conferences in the 1970’s, and it con- community, the , as president of the North tributed to the rapid spread of the Re- about coming together to be a bulwark. American region of the Sword of the Spirit, an newal throughout the world. He told us that if we are to stand as international ecumenical association of covenant Christians and reach out to a world that communities.

6 PENTECOSTToday Summer 2019 www.nsc-chariscenter.org MISSION OF EVANGELIZATION AND SERVICE

POPE FRANCIS AND

THE COVENANT OF UNDERSTANDING by Fr. Bob Hogan, BBD the Church. We believe that the fruit of this groups, covenant communities, evangeli- ope Francis has called Charismatic grace for the good of the Church will be zation ministries, youth ministries, healing Renewal “a current of grace of the deepened through a greater sense of unity ministries, deliverance ministries, ministries PHoly Spirit” being poured out for the (communion) among us.” In 2015 we sent to the poor, and all individuals and groups renewal of the Church in our time. I have the document to many groups associated that have been touched by this “current of been involved with charismatic renewal for with charismatic renewal, and sought to make grace,” and baptism in the Holy Spirit, hear 49 years in 6 cities with prayer groups, personal contacts with groups and leaders. what the Spirit is saying. May we live covenant communities, various ministries, the call of St. Paul, “If there is any encour- Pope Francis has also seen that charismatic charismatic centers, liaisons, and the agement in Christ, any solace in love, any renewal is a “current of grace of the Holy National Service Committee. I have been participation in the Spirit, any compassion Spirit,” and there is a need for greater unity saddened when individuals, groups, and and mercy, complete my joy by being of the (communion) in promoting this grace. Under ministries that had a new birth in the Spirit same mind, with the same love, united in his initiative CHARIS (Catholic Char- through charismatic renewal went in their heart, thinking one thing” (Phil. 2:1-2).  ismatic International Service) has been own direction, and did not stay connected erected by the Holy See as the interna- Fr. Bob Hogan, BBD is a with the wider charismatic renewal. We tional service organism for all expressions former member and chairman have forgotten at times that this is a “current of Catholic Charismatic Renewal. The Stat- for the National Service of grace,” and we all need to stay connected utes of CHARIS approved by Pope Francis Committee for Charismatic together with this current. Certainly there state: “CHARIS promotes and strengthens Renewal, and a member of can be varieties of manifestations of this communion among all Charismatic real- the NSC Council. current, but I have seen that our lack of ities, fostering a sense of the worldwide understanding it as one current, and the family of Catholic Charismatic Renewal.” need for a clear sense of unity, has hindered Since CHARIS has been erected by the this current of grace “for the renewal of Holy See, through the “Dicastery for , the Church in our time.” Family and Life,” it has the right and calling Prayer Card In 2011 when I was chosen to be the chairman “To help deepen and promote the grace for the National Service Committee of baptism in the Holy Spirit throughout Enhancing Unity (NSC), I presented to the NSC a draft of a the Church…To promote the exercise of document called “A Covenant of Under- charisms not only in Catholic Charismat- standing” that I believed the Holy Spirit ic Renewal but also in the whole Church.” “Rather, living the truth in had been leading me to write. The NSC CHARIS is a wonderful affirmation be- love, we should grow in every then shared this with the National Leaders yond our hopes (God is always bigger Group for Catholic Charismatic Renewal. than our hopes) of what we were sensing way into him who is the head, This group formed a committee to develop in our efforts to promote the Covenant Christ, from whom the whole the document further, and implement it. of Understanding. body, joined and held together A section of the document states, “In this It is not essential that you know the history Covenant of Understanding we want to rec- of the efforts in developing the Covenant by every supporting ligament, ognize more clearly the common heritage of Understanding, but if you truly want to with the proper functioning and spiritual bond that we share as disciples see the Church strengthened through of Christ through the grace of “baptism baptism in the Holy Spirit, the full use of of each part, brings about the in the Holy Spirit”. We believe that this charisms, and the full role of the Holy Spirit, body’s growth and builds itself grace of “baptism in the Holy Spirit” will we need to understand ourselves as one up in love.” be fostered and deepened, if there is a “current of grace” that needs unity (com- greater sense of spiritual connectedness munion) to manifest its full power. Let us and unity (communion) among us. We pray and work with CHARIS as it develops Ephesians 4 15-16 therefore seek a greater unity in this calling, International, Continental, and National which we have from God and from “Services of Communion.” Let prayer

www.nsc-chariscenter.org Summer 2019 PENTECOSTToday 7 NEWSBRIEFS

NSC ANNOUNCES TRANSITIONS AND SEARCH

he National Service Committee Laity, Family and Life. We are working In his message to CHARIS Conference of the Catholic Charismatic Re- with the other Leadership Groups in just prior to Pentecost a few weeks ago, Tnewal (NSC) announces that their the US to form a National Service of Pope Francis said, “As I told you at the longtime Executive Director, Walter Communion (NSoC), as called for by the Circus Maximus [in 2017 at the 50th Matthews, will retire as of December CHARIS Statutes, whereby the NSC Jubilee celebration], what is new can be 31, 2020. Walter has faithfully served will support the Renewal in an expand- destabilizing. In the beginning, there is the NSC and the Renewal in the US for ed capacity. a sense of uncertainty about the chang- over 35 years since May, 1984, and as es that newness brings. …Our God is Executive Director since January, 1993. As the NSC prepares for this period of the God of newness. The new things of Through his devoted leadership, the transition, the Service Committee has God are always a blessing because they NSC is well positioned to embrace the entered a period of sustained prayer and flow from his loving heart….It is the expanded role for the Renewal that the discernment. We strongly believe that Lord who says: ‘I make all things new.’” Catholic Church is now requesting. the Holy Spirit will continue to lead us in this time of transition and we are seeking The bottom line in this CHARIS mo- The NSC is excited about our expand- to be docile to the Spirit’s guidance. As ment and when Walter has announced ed role in this “new season” for the a first step, we are beginning a search for his retirement is that the NSC is not Renewal with the establishment of an Administrator whom we hope to going away. Exactly the opposite is true. CHARIS (Catholic Charismatic Re- hire by year end to work alongside the We will continue to work in unity with newal International Service) under the Executive Director for a year until his others to foster the grace of baptism in oversight of the Vatican’s Dicastery for retirement. We will continue to evaluate the Holy Spirit in the whole Church, as a replacement for Walter. Pope Francis has commissioned us to do. We will continue to do what we do As we have been communicating over now, but at an intensified level being Please pray with the NSC the past year, we believe that the Service open to the newness that the Lord brings. for the following intentions: Committee’s Strategic Plan is highly aligned with the CHARIS Objectives. Let us pray together… We ask for your prayer as both Walter We are seeking to fill this new position and the NSC begin this transition—and • For the Leaders’ and Ministries’ of Administrator with a person who will passionately serve the NSC in Conference, that all participants shares our vision as we move forward implementing our Plan and fulfilling would be ready to humbly welcome as “boots on the ground” in continuing our CHARIS commission. Come, Holy the Holy Spirit in power and truth. to implement our Plan and work collabo- Spirit!  ratively in this new CHARIS season to • For all wounded by the humanity bring baptism in the Holy Spirit to the of the Church, that our faith whole Church. and hope may rest fully on Jesus Christ and his eternal promises to his Bride.

• For a courageous response to the CHARIS initiative in our nation, that we may truly be healed of all wounds, brokenness, and divisions.

• For anointed encounters with fellow Christians, that would begin intentional relationships of friendship and collaboration.

8 PENTECOSTToday Summer 2019 www.nsc-chariscenter.org THEOLOGICAL POINT OF VIEW

TheFROM Role GUARANTOR Of The TO CO-OPERATOR Holy Spirit

by Fr. John Marcucci neumatology, the study of the role understanding of the Church since now Fathers. Right from its outset in the of the Holy Spirit in the life of the both the hierarchy and laity were consid- debates and discussions on the document PChurch, took on a new dynamism ered with charisms given to each by the Lumen Gentium the Fathers continuously with the coming of the Second Vatican same Holy Spirit. The Council Fathers referred to the vision of the Pope as they Council. Previous to the insights of the were now asked to see the role of the challenged each other in the creation bishops at the Council, the Holy Spirit Holy Spirit not simply as a “guarantor” of chapter two of the document. Almost was seen in the subdued role of “guar- of what Christ had completed in the as an irony in itself, the Holy Spirit was antor” in safeguarding the truths of the Church, but as a “co-operator” with inspiring the Fathers in their discussion Catholic Faith. The Council Fathers Christ in the life of the Church bringing about the role of the Holy Spirit, who changed this perspective by presenting salvation to all people. was guiding them in their discussion. For the Holy Spirit as a reciprocal “co-op- them Pentecost was not simply an origi- erator” with Christ in the action of the This Dogmatic Constitution on the Church, nating event in the Book of Acts, or just Church for the salvation of all believers. approved at the Vatican Council, begins a Solemnity on the Liturgical Calendar; with the first chapter entitled “The but it was an opening of their hearts to Those who have studied the mind of Mystery of the Church” manifested in receive the message of the Holy Spirit the Council Fathers are aware of this the indwelling of the Holy Spirit. The whose cooperative effort with Christ shift in pneumatology with the opening second chapter with its emphasis on would give all believers a share in the life discussion of the first document entitled “The People of God” refers to the total of the Church. We have seen a dramatic The Dogmatic Constitution on the Church community of the Church. Paragraph shift in the role of the Holy Spirit in the (Lumen Gentium). The original schema 17, the final paragraph of chapter two, daily life of the laity. “Lay Ecclesial Min- had placed the paragraph on the reveals the cooperative effort of Christ istry” has become a byword in the every- “People of God” in the third chapter and the Holy Spirit when it ends with day life of a Catholic Parish Family in a under the title of the Laity. Early these words: “….that the whole world way that would have made the Fathers on in the debating that took place on the may become the People of God, the at the Vatican Council very proud. No Council floor, Cardinal Leo Suenens, Body of the Lord, and the Temple of doubt they laid a solid foundation for Primate of Belgium, delivered a very the Holy Spirit…” All three presented aggiornamento in the Church of the important address on the central role as one and the same—uniting the role twenty-first century!  of charism in the life of the Church. of Christ and the Holy Spirit under the The heart of his biblically-based speech title People of God! Fr. John Marcucci is a re- presented the Holy Spirit as bequeath- tired priest of the Diocese ing charism to both the hierarchy and Pope Saint John XXIII set the standard of Pittsburgh, who re- to the laity in a co-operating manner of for the Second Vatican Council when mains in active ministry mutuality. he set as its guiding principal the Italian as a substitute to celebrate word aggiornamento (“bringing up to liturgy whenever needed. Inspired by the perception of Cardinal date”) for the future work of the Council Suenens whose episcopal motto was in spiritu sancto the Coordinating Commis- sion of the Council removed the para- graph on the “People of God” from the third chapter of the schema and brought it forth as a new and separate SECOND chapter in itself. Thus this second chap- ter was a lead into the third chapter on the hierarchy and the fourth on the laity. This striking change affected the entire

www.nsc-chariscenter.org Summer 2019 PENTECOSTToday 9 CHARIS

with charis’s inauguration, the nsc serves as “boots on the ground” By Ron Riggins

in the Church; (2) to serve the unity of the our neighbor in love, to lay down our lives body of Christ using the diverse charisms for others and bring the Gospel to life. that are harmonized in unity by the Holy Spirit; and (3) to serve the poor, In obedience to the Holy Father and in the both physical or spiritual, evangelizing spirit of CHARIS, the NSC has already through the witness of love. begun working in unity with other Leadership Groups to form a National Four NSC representatives were blessed to Service of Communion (NSoC), to ex- charis inauguration be among the 650 invited leaders from pand the Renewal’s capacity to fulfill the 69 countries at this historic conference. We three-fold expectations…while retaining at pentecost came to better understand the CHARIS our current organization and charisms ope Francis has inaugurated commission through talks by Pope and using our infrastructure. Our Stra- CHARIS (Catholic Charismatic Francis, Cardinal Kevin Farrell (Prefect tegic Plan is aligned with the CHARIS pRenewal International Service) to of the Dicastery of the Laity, Family objectives, including working in build on the Renewal’s trailblazing the and Life), Jean-Luc Moens (CHARIS communion with others to bring this last 52 years, recognizing it as “a great Moderator), and from the first CHARIS current of grace to the whole Church, opportunity for the Church.” At the 1st eNewsletter, and other International promote greater unity in the Body of International Conference of CHARIS in Service of Communion (ISoC) members. Christ and encourage service to the poor. Rome, leading up to Pentecost, the Holy Father emphasized that this new stage nsc as “boots In our deployment as “boots on the ground,” we are implementing four is “marked by communion between all on the ground” the members of the charismatic family, strategic priorities: (1) evangelization, by in which the mighty presence of the erhaps you have heard the extending baptism in the Holy Spirit to Holy Spirit is manifested for the good NSC’s recent branding in this the whole Church; (2) strengthening the of the entire Church.” CHARIS under- pCHARIS season as “boots on Renewal, by increasing resources; (3) en- scores that baptism in the Holy Spirit is the ground.” “Boots on the ground” is a hancing unity in the Renewal, within the not just for the Renewal but a current military phrase referring to the de- Church and ecumenically; and (4) em- of grace for the whole Church. ployment of ground troops in military powering young adults, to extend this operations by their commanders to ensure current of grace to other generations. Describing CHARIS as a “new and victory and prevent successful enemy Examples of our “boots initiatives” in- unique service of communion,” Pope operations. This phrase is embraced by clude holding our first family retreat so Francis exhorted the Renewal to serve in others since its imagery captures the that all ages may experience this current unity, work with others in communion, essential work of those engaged in a of grace, assembling materials for prayer and be open to the newness that the campaign to accomplish established ob- groups to strengthen the use of charisms, Lord brings rather than clinging to old jectives. In politics this phrase describes engaging in further ecumenical dialogue ways. Reiterating earlier calls to enlarge mobilized volunteers performing the in formal and informal ways, preparing our tent and encouraging working in daily work of phone calling, knocking for a national year of prayer in support communion with other Renewal re- on doors and distributing leaflets. of CHARIS, and using social media to alities, Pope Francis referenced Saint invite others to experience this current We too have been commissioned. Jesus Paul’s teaching that each member of the of grace. body needs all other members (cf. 1 Cor commissioned his disciples to go preach 12:12-26). the Gospel. We are dismissed from Mass Join us as we put on to “Go and announce the Gospel of the our boots and hit the Pope Francis set forth three primary ex- Lord.” And now with CHARIS, Pope ground!  pectations for the Renewal, summarizing Francis has given us a three-fold com- the CHARIS objectives: (1) to share mission. In Scripture sandals (boots) Ron Riggins is the baptism in the Holy Spirit with everyone symbolize being ready to faithfully serve Chairman of the NSC.

10 PENTECOSTToday Summer 2019 www.nsc-chariscenter.org PRAYER AND TRANSFORMATION

as stated in John 17. At the recent Unity with the Triune God, Father, Son and Holy Spirit and with Others in Prayer CHARIS International Conference in by Jane Guenther Rome, the Holy Father invited the ith all wisdom and understanding, he experience is the exuberant joy we all express Founder of the John 17 Movement from Wmade known to us the mystery of his in prayer. The inheritance is believing we are Brooklyn, New York to speak to us.“The will according to his good pleasure, which he “marked in him with a seal, the promised John 17 Movement exists to inspire, develop, purposed in Christ, to be put into effect Holy Spirit.” Together we talk about how this and display love and unity among all of when the times reach their fulfillment—to touch of the Holy Spirit, which manifests in his followers,” said Joseph Tosini. bring unity to all things in heaven and on tongues of praise, has really unified us. Brooklyn Auxiliary, Bishop James Massa earth under Christ… And you also were in- praised renewed dialogue. “We need cluded in Christ when you heard the message Our culture has succumbed to the devil’s tactic something more relational, a way for leaders of truth, the gospel of your salvation. When of division and so now more than ever we are from the different Christian communities you believed, you were marked in him with in need of understanding our personal calls to come together to share their best prac- a seal, the promised Holy Spirit, who is a to unity. As we enter into prayer, paying tices and ministry.” John 17:21 describes deposit guaranteeing our inheritance until attention to the God who loves us, we are profound unity between Father, Son and the redemption of those who are God’s called to the broader Christian unity God’s chosen.  possession—to the praise of his glory (Eph 1: 8b-10, 13-14). The Community of the Trinity speaks to this beautiful communion of persons: God the Father, making known his good pleasure purposed in Christ and sealed in the Holy Spirit. How much do we believe that God’s love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us (Rom 5:5)? In this giving the Father, through Christ, has imparted to us his Spirit of Love so that we might love our brothers and sisters. Prayer at its essence is an availability to be with one another, bringing about a change for the better. If petition being filled with hope, if thanksgiving being filled with joy, and when called deeply into the communion of the Trinity - “Prayer is at root, simply paying attention to God” (The Fulfillment of All Desire, by Dr. Ralph Martin, p 121). The writer of Ephesians stresses “with wisdom and understanding” inviting us to seek the gifts of the Spirit especially those of wisdom and understanding so that we might better pay attention to all that God desires to reveal, share and impart to us for his glory. If indeed the sanctifying gifts of the Spirit are our pathway to holiness we should be ‘striving eagerly’ to receive them. Ephesians 1 speaks powerfully to a call to unity in the Triune God to be with others in prayer. Over a year and a half ago the Ec- umenical Office in our Archdiocese ap- proached me to join with them on gathering other Christian charismatic Pastors with the leaders of our Catholic Charismatic Renewal. We began meeting and the element of unity we possess together as a group is shar- ing teachings on prayer and praise. What I

www.nsc-chariscenter.org Summer 2019 PENTECOSTToday 11 Impressions from the CHARIS Conference

CHARIS Moderator His Holiness Jean Luc Moens Pope Francis

Sr. Lucy David Peterman, Lukasiewicz, Christian DLJC, Community of NSC Member God’s Delight

When I think of the My overall impres- days leading up to Gloria Coyne, sion was that we Pentecost in Rome NSC and DLSC had witnessed a with 650 leaders from 69 countries Member paradigm shift in the Holy See’s gathered together at Pope Paul VI approach to providing guidance I was struck by Audience Hall, I think that indeed and encouragement to the Catholic all of the emo- God is on the Move. Charismatic Renewal. It was a tions surrounding move from an institutional attempt I accompanied our Superior, Mother the Conference. to protect the catholicity of Catholics Juana Teresa, to the CHARIS event. As we began, there was great an- to a new way of understanding the We met many leaders from France, ticipation and excitement. As the Renewal as a “current or stream of Gibraltar, Malta, Qatar, Poland, to meetings continued, I observed 3 grace” for the entire Church. name a few and I found my heart distinct groups of people: those fi lled with deep gratitude for those that thought, “this will never work,” It also accomplished a reset of all who served in ICCRS and the Cath- some that said, “it could work, but Renewal leaders’ relationships to olic Fraternity and all that transpired had hesitations,” and those that the Church and to one another. This by their obedient “Yes” to now an embraced these changes with joy. was a resourcement, a return to the excitement and hope with CHARIS. sources like the Malines docu- Later in prayer, I heard the word, — ments and a Spirit-led openness to I recorded on a smart phone Father “abandon.” There was a vison of a ecumenism and service. Cantalamessa encouraging us to child, joyful and happy, running and pray over Pope Francis singing Spirit jumping into a swimming pool. I felt It was also an aggiornamento, a of the Living God. It was sung in Jesus wants us to not just surren- bringing all elements of the Re- many languages at the same time der to him but to surrender to him in newal back to the present realities followed by singing in the Spirit. this new work with “abandon.” and challenges to fulfi ll its calling Heaven came down to earth. to serve the renewal of the whole This looks like a huge undertaking, Body of Christ. Pope Francis asked us to do three but we need to do what we can as things: to share “Baptism in the humans and the rest is up to the Holy I left Rome with a solid confi dence Holy Spirit” with everyone, to return Spirit. May we continue to praise that the Renewal was once again to our ecumenical roots working to- and thank God that he has found us unifi ed and alive to the grace of the wards unity, and to serve the poor. worthy to do this work for him and Holy Spirit working through the Holy God is moving! Alleluia! his Church at this time in history! Father’s prophetic vision. 

12 PENTECOSTToday Summer 2019 www.nsc-chariscenter.org Bishops’ Retreat with Fr. Cantalamessa

by Bishop Peter Smith He also emphasized greater openness to the Holy Spirit, sharing his own story of n early January, the US bishops being baptized in the Spirit many years were on retreat with Fr. Raniero ago while visiting the US. This began ICantalamessa, Preacher to the Papal transforming his life, ministry, and ser- Household. Pope Francis called for the vice as a priest. He gave many examples of retreat and its focus on personal the Holy Spirit guiding him in differ- conversion as part of dealing with the ent situations and working through current crisis in the Church. He directed his prayers. Fr. Cantalamessa to lead the retreat. He something he never did, and the chal- is 84 and no longer travels much beyond The conferences were Intimacy with lenge was to love and embrace this. Italy, but willingly came. Christ, Staying with Jesus in Conversion, With Jesus in Celibacy, With Jesus in Poverty, Another very moving reflection was Je- The venue was Mundalein Seminary Sharing Jesus’ Prayer for Unity, With Jesus sus’ call to live the new commandment. near Chicago. The idea of being near in Gethsemane, the Law of the Spirit, We The Beatitudes are essential to this and Chicago in mid-winter was not appealing Preach Christ, Through the Holy Spirit, Tend- are the new law of the Spirit. The Holy to many, but the weather turned un- ing the Flock, and Witnesses of the Resur- Spirit is therefore essential to new life seasonably warm just for the week we rection. The homilies were on the Word, in Christ. The power, presence, and wis- were there. It was an added blessing for Consecration, Communion, Epiphany, dom of the Holy Spirit is how we live over 300 bishops who attended. and Mary. this daily. He concluded by leading us all in a prayer of deeper commitment and The retreat had eleven conferences, five He shared how intimidating it was when openness to the Holy Spirit for our lives Mass homilies, and one Penitential Service. he would give the retreats to Pope John and ministry. Fr. Cantalamessa used the Veni Creator Paul’s household. Sitting in the front Spiritus as a basic framework beginning row taking notes was Cardinal Joseph The retreat was a great blessing and we each talk reflecting on a line of the Ratzinger from the Congregation for the were grateful to Pope Francis and to Fr. prayer. Some of it was drawn from his Doctrine of the Faith. Cardinal Ratzinger Cantalamessa for this blessed time. Hav- book Veni Creator Spiritus. Then he re- never took issue with anything he said ing the papal preacher speak of being flected on different aspects of the life and retained him as papal preacher baptized in the Spirit and how it trans- and ministry of bishops. Throughout when he became pope. formed his priestly life and ministry was it all, his love of God, openness to the a great witness. The retreat has contin- Holy Spirit, humility, and prayerfulness Since the election of Pope Francis, Fr. ued to bear good fruit in my own life shone through. Cantalamessa has spoken more clearly and hopefully for all who attended too. and strongly about the importance of The focus of the conferences was deeper the Holy Spirit in the lives of Catholics. Let us keep Pope Francis and Fr. Canta- conversion in Christ. The homilies fo- Pope Francis appointed him as Eccle- lamessa in our prayers as they continue cused on deeper experience of Christ in siastical Assistant to the newly formed to serve the Lord and the Church.  the Mass. Fr. Cantalamessa was personal CHARIS for the Catholic Charismatic Bishop Peter Smith, born and humorous in his reflections. He Renewal. commented that while papal preachers and raised in South Af- normally have five year terms, he has be- One of the most moving moments was rica, is Auxiliary Bishop ing doing this for 39 years, and the reason when Fr. Cantalamessa reflected on being of the Archdiocese of was that God had shown Popes John Paul with Jesus in Gethsemane. Jesus’ greatest Portland, Oregon and II, Benedict XVI, and Francis that this challenge at that moment was to freely the North America and was how he could do the least damage bend his humanity to the will of the Fa- the Caribbean represen- to the Church. ther. He was about to suffer and die for tative serving CHARIS.

www.nsc-chariscenter.org Summer 2019 PENTECOSTToday 13 From the Executive Director ...... by Walter Matthews Why? As he states at the very beginning, people, the movement is identified with “If the [Renewal] is a current of grace people who do healing prayer or exor- for the whole Church, we have a duty to cisms; for still others, it is a Protestant ourselves and to the Church to explain and Pentecostal “infiltration” into the what this current of grace consists of Catholic Church. At best, the Charismatic A LUNAR WALK and why it is intended for and necessary Renewal is seen as a movement whose ecently we have remembered with for the whole Church.” members can be relied on to do many thanksgiving and with awe Neil things in the parish but with which it is He continues, “We have to admit that best not to get too deeply involved.” RArmstrong’s lunar walk and icon- until now we have given the Church ic words, “One small step for man, ideas and portrayals of the Charismatic “After fifty years of existence and one giant leap for mankind.” So too do Renewal that have been different and at experience, and on the occasion of the I believe that those who will be alive in times contradictory. We only need to inauguration of the new service organi- 2069 will look back on the formal es- make brief inquiries of the people who zation, CHARIS, perhaps the moment tablishment of CHARIS this past Pen- live outside of it for us to become aware has come to attempt a reinterpretation tecost and, in particular, the talk given of the current confusion with regard to of this movement and to define it, by Fr. Raniero Cantalamessa, “The the identity of the Charismatic Renewal.” even if any definition cannot be Catholic Charismatic Renewal: A definitive since its path is far from Current of Grace for the whole Church,” Who among us has not encountered such over.” (Emphasis added.) as worthy of being remembered with confusion? We have not communicated thanksgiving and awe. effectively because we have often placed He continues, “I believe that the essence the emphasis in the wrong place(s). of this current of grace is providentially Fr. Cantalamessa’s talk was exceptional enclosed in its name, ‘Charismatic Re- and needs to be read, studied and Cantalamessa: “For some people it is a newal,’ provided one understands the taught. It is available on our website movement of ‘enthusiasts,’ … the Alle- true significance of both these words.” www.nsc-chariscenter.org. In fact, I have luia people with their hands raised who been sharing it with our small Prayer pray or sing in an incomprehensible The rest of his talk is a gift to the Re- Gathering over the last three meetings. language: in brief, an emotional and newal for years to come. I think it is that important. superficial phenomenon…. For some

FRIENDS OF THE NSC Director during his year of transition in 2020—so that e thank all of you who have given one or more the work of moving forward with bringing baptism in donations this year. As of June 30, our Fund the Holy Spirit to the whole Church, implementing the WRaising donations exceeded our projected Service Committee’s Strategic Plan in key areas, and Budget by about $5,500. But as you may know, more being “boots on the ground” in the US for the CHARIS than 60% of our donations come in during the second objectives will not only continue but expand. Please half of the year, principally from our appeal for Pente- prayerfully consider how you can be extra generous cost Today (just after Labor Day) and our Christmas/ in your second half of the year giving. End of the Year Appeal (early December). And don’t forget our Legacy of Fire Planned Giving by Our goal this year is not just to reach our Budget naming the NSC in your will and in other ways. Projections so as to support the current projects and mission of the NSC, but also to begin to raise the Finally, thank you to the donors who sent in gifts in additional funds that will be needed to hire an Admin- Memory of Aggie Neck, a deceased Member and istrator by the end of the year to assist the Executive Chairman of the NSC. 

14 PENTECOSTToday Summer 2019 www.nsc-chariscenter.org SENSING THE MOVE OF THE SPIRIT

Pentecost and the Call to Unit

In short it is about “being” before “do- Strengthen the bond of unity between the faithful and the ing”, about holiness and sanctification pastors of your people, together with Francis our Pope…. before charisms of all types: “the surest (Eucharistic Prayer...The Church on the Path to Unity) sign of the presence of the Spirit of Christ is not charisms but the ‘fruit of by Sr. Mary Anne Schaenzer, SSND the Spirit.’”

We prayed for “a new Pentecost.” What y brothers and sisters, we want the intensity of participation as if it was the does it mean? “It cannot consist only in “MHoly Spirit to enter us, to transform most natural thing to be doing, at times a new flowering of charisms, ministries, us, to make us radiate his love. That has even singing in the Spirit. and signs and wonders as a breath of to be our prayer.” These were the words fresh air on the face of the Church. of Archbishop Bernard Hebda of the During the prayer that followed (the These things are just the reflection and Archdiocese of St. Paul and Minneapolis Church was still packed) we continued the sign of something more profound. in his homily at the Mass for the Vigil to experience an intense delight in A new Pentecost…must renew the of Pentecost. This Mass was celebrated praising and worshipping God. Indi- heart of the Bride, not just her dress.” at St. Peter’s, the oldest parish in the viduals had words to share. These were Archdiocese, in Mendota, Minnesota in sorted by discerners. Some were given As we said 29 years ago in Fanning the publicly. Others were set aside for the Flame: “A life baptized in the Holy anticipation of an Archdiocesan Synod Bishops to reflect upon and discern as Spirit is marked by both an experience to be held over Pentecost weekend in they listen for the direction of the Spirit. of dynamic union with God and by an 2021. “I’m confident that he [the Lord] experience of charisms given by the will send his Holy Spirit upon us if we I was among the discerners back by the Spirit.”  ask him…I’ve called you here this eve- wall so not in the midst of the prayer, ning to help me do just that.” but once in a while I had a moment to just look out and take it all in. It was All people of the Archdiocese were such a joy to see so many generations The National Service Commitee/ invited: over 1000 showed up. Two united in the Spirit. And as I was aware Chariscenter USA is a 501(c)3 nonprofit representatives each of five groups, the organization. Contributions to defray the of what was taking place with CHARIS cost of this publication are gratefully Catholic Charismatic Renewal Board, in Rome for the purpose of unity in the accepted and are tax deductible to the , St. Paul’s Outreach, Renewal, I could not help but rejoice. extent allowed by law. Please mail to: Community of Christ the Redeemer I sense that the Holy Spirit is inspiring National Service Committee / (Sword of the Spirit), and Emmanuel Chariscenter USA shared in the planning for the Mass and unity and healing of divisions on many PO Box 628, Locust Grove, VA 22508 prayer meeting that followed. Leadership fronts upon the earth and throughout Tel. (540) 972-0225 was provided by the Archdiocesan the universe. Let us pray that we might www.nsc-chariscenter.org Offices of Evangelization and Worship. find ourselves caught up in the embrace National Service Committee members: of the Holy Trinity, surrounding the Ron Riggins (Chairman) I have long hoped that the various groups universe with prayer that springs from Jimmy Archer in this area, birthed in the Renewal, the desire of our hearts to be led by the Jim Beckman could come together in prayer and Matthew Bourgeois Spirit of God, to be promoters of unity, Gloria Coyne worship. It was Archbishop Hebda and and conduits of God’s love within the John Hutchins Bishop Cozzens who made the decision Current of Grace that is the Renewal Sr. Lucy Lukasiewicz, DLJC to call us together for the purpose of and throughout all of creation. Peace! Bill Marcotte calling down the Holy Spirit upon the Fr. Anthony Ouellette Synod preparation process. Part of Sr. Mary Anne Schaenzer is the editor for Deacon Ralph Poyo Pentecost Today. Jorge Samaniego what made this particular celebration Casey Sprehe of the Eucharist so beautiful was the

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