Publication of the National Service Committee of the Catholic Charismatic Renewal PENTECOSTToda y January/February/March 2002 Volume 27, Number 1
In the midst of the storm ...... 3 LEADERS FOCUS NSC Executive Director Walter Matthews re- flects on recent national events and suggests Stirring the vision into flame...... 9 ways which the Lord seems to be inviting us to Deacon Bill Brennan writes that the con- respond. nection between baptism in the Holy Spirit and sacramental baptism can provide lead- The new springtime ...... 4 ers with a clear vision for the Charismatic Cardinal Ivan Dias shares his insights on how Renewal. the Charismatic Renewal can embody Pope John Paul II’s call to holiness and communion in Newsbriefs ...... 11 Novo Millennio Ineunte. Faith-sharing, sponsors and small groups “Do you not perceive it?” ...... 6 in the New LSS ...... 12 Fr. Raniero Cantalamessa challenges the Char- The New Life in the Spirit Seminars use faith- ismatic Renewal to have “eyes to see” what the sharing with sponsors, small groups and wit- Lord is doing in this new springtime. nessing to help participants recognize the Holy Spirit’s action in their lives. Spiritual Formation Forgiveness ...... 7 While the secular world discovers the joy of for- Chairman’s Corner 2 giveness, Christians are called to acknowledge its power in our lives. Dorothy Ranaghan of- From the Director 14 fers some insights on this vital aspect of spiri- tual growth. Ministry Update 15 www.comstock.com Renewing the grace of Pentecost in the life and mission of the church. ○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○ PENTECOSTToday Chairman s
Executive Director
○○○○○○ Corner○○○○○ derstand the depth of the communal nature Walter Matthews by Fr. Patsy Iaquinta of baptism and Eucharist, there will always Editorial Board 2001 be division in the body. Fr. Art Cooney, OFM Cap. Dr. Michele Greischar Even in the early community, people wanted Virginia King to do their personal, private thing. Paul writes We’re all in this Editor to the Corinthians: “Whenever someone says, Ron Ryan ‘I belong to Paul’ and another, ‘I belong to together Apollos,’ are you not merely human?” (1 Cor. Production Manager 3:4). The body of Christ becomes divided. Jean Beers by Fr. Patsy Iaquinta Paul further says, “For anyone who eats and For Your Information drinks without discerning the body, eats and This is a publication of the National e have been called to holiness, to drinks judgment on himself” (11:29). All that Service Committee of the Catholic be like Jesus, to be the image we say and do affects every member of the Charismatic Renewal of the United Wof God. The Baltimore body of Christ. We truly are one body, indi- States, Inc. The mission of the NSC is Catechism’s question, “Why were you to stir into flame the grace of Pentecost vidual members with a variety of gifts, but within and beyond the church, to made?…to know, love and serve God…” can- one body. God’s gifts, given through us, are broaden and deepen the understand- not be understood in the narrow, invidualistic to be used for the common good. ing that baptism in the Holy Spirit is the Christian inheritance of all, and to sense. Jesus invites all of us into the life of the ○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○ Trinity, the community of persons, the com- Can we really comprehend the Chris- strengthen the Catholic Charismatic munion of God. Through our baptism we tian truth that we are responsible for Renewal. share in the communion with all the baptized, one another? The National Service Committee- and there is only one baptism in which we Chariscenter USA is a 501(c)3 non- participate. There is only one bread, one cup. In our society we have placed such an over- profit organization. Contributions to The Catechism of the Catholic Church tells us: emphasis on individual rights that, to a great defray the cost of this publication are “The ultimate purpose of mission is none gratefully accepted and are tax deduct- extent, we have lost the sense of community— ible to the extent allowed by law. Please other than to make men [sic] share in the that we are all in this kingdom together. In- mail to: communion between the Father and the Son ternational tragedies call us to realize that we NSC-Chariscenter USA in their Spirit of love.” are one global community. Can we really com- PO Box 628 prehend the Christian truth that we are re- Locust Grove, VA 22508-0628 To be like Jesus moves us from his hidden life Tel. (540) 972-0225 sponsible for one another? Are our individual www.nsc-chariscenter.org of thirty-plus years to the gospel stories of his whims and wants satisfied at the expense of public life. He spent the night in prayer be- the basic needs of brothers and sisters? When National Service Committee fore choosing disciples. John 17 lets us listen one eats and another is hungry, do we not eat members: in on his private prayer to our Father; the syn- and drink condemnation? Fr. Patsy Iaquinta (Chairman) Dcn. William Brennan optic accounts of the Garden of Gethsemane Josephine Cachia describe Jesus praying alone. I tend to believe To be like Jesus is more than offering prayers Fr. Art Cooney, OFM Cap. that Jesus did this throughout his life, even to our Father. It also includes welcoming Dr. Michele Greischar before he began public ministry. If all holds strangers to become a part of who we are (bap- Rosbel Hernandez true to form, it was surely this private prayer tism and the RCIA process). It includes giv- Virginia King Aggie Neck that lead Jesus to public ministry. ing food and drink to the hungry (Eucharist, Mark Nehrbas in the fullest sense, is off the table and out to Rudy Pruden In Luke 4 as Jesus begins his public life, we the street). It includes visiting the lonely and find him going to the synagogue “according imprisoned (reconciliation). To be like Jesus © 2002, National Service Committee of to his custom.” Jesus obviously shares his re- is to instruct and counsel, to correct and for- the Catholic Charismatic Renewal of the United States, Inc. Not to be reproduced lationship with the Father with all. His pri- give, to comfort and heal. We are to love the without permission. vate prayer and devotion is different from his world so much that we are willing to die for communal life. As Jesus shares this commun- others to bring them the message and minis- A limited amount of advertising space ion and as he gathers others around him, these try of Jesus. ◆ is available. For information call Jean persons become bonded in love. They are so Beers, (360) 331-4860. vastly different, yet share the one Spirit. The Fr. Patsy Iaquinta is chairman of the National Advertisements for events not spon- mission of the church (Jesus and his body) Service Committee. He is pastor of Sacred Heart sored by the National Service Commit- moves from prayer to service. Until we un- Parish in Bluefield, West Virginia. tee do not imply endorsement by the NSC/Chariscenter USA. 2 PENTECOST Today January/February/March 2002 In the midst of the storm
by Walter Matthews
he headline of the Houston Chronicle of Sunday, June 10, 2001, was meant to be descriptive, but perhaps it was also sadly pro- T phetic. “Rain of Terror” it declared. Tropical Storm Allison had hit the Houston area on Friday, June 8, with a vengeance.
In this issue we had in- spite of the rain and flood, participants. His whole tended to tell the story of the Lord was present in life was touched by what how the Lord had turned tangible ways. While, he experienced. He has the “rain of terror” into a sadly, lives were lost in the returned to the church “reign of glory.” For, in the wake of the floods and and was asked by his pas- Prayer for the Nation midst of water, storm and power outages, other lives tor to share his story at his chaos, the 2001 National were being transformed, parish’s Sunday Mass. Our Father and our God, Catholic Charismatic Re- changed and renewed. newal Conference was There are many more sto- We praise you for your goodness to our held. It will be long-re- One of the volunteer ries to tell. We had in- nation, giving us blessings far beyond membered as the Confer- workers shared the story tended to share them in what we deserve. ence that “endured.” about her husband who this issue with the articles had been away from the from talks given by Car- Yet we know all is not right with America. It will also be remembered church for thirty-five dinal Ivan Dias, Fr. We deeply need a moral and spiritual by those who attended as years. He was drafted into Raniero Cantalamessa renewal to help us meet the many the Conference where, in helping with transporting and Deacon Bill Brennan. problems we face. hen came the horrific events of September 11, an even more Convict us of sin. devastating and frightening “terror.” It has engendered many Help us to turn to you in repentance and heart-warming stories of heroic action in planes, in the World faith. Set our feet on the path of your T righteousness and peace. Trade Center and on the ground.
We pray today for our nation’s leaders. What perspective can be “Peace is what I leave with “For we are not fighting Give them the wisdom to know what is brought to the present you; it is my own peace against human beings, right, and the courage to do it. moment from what was that I give you. I do not but against the wicked experienced and what was give it as the world does. spiritual forces in the You have said, “Blessed is the nation proclaimed in Houston? Do not be worried and heavenly world, the rul- whose God is the LORD.” May this be a upset; do not be afraid” ers and authorities, and new era for America as we humble First, be at peace. The (Jn. 14:27). cosmic powers of the ourselves and acknowledge you alone as Lord is in charge. Fear— dark age” (Eph. 6:12). our Savior and LORD. the natural response to the Second, recognize that we terrorists’ acts—is useless. are in a battle—not so Who can defeat such an We pray this in your holy name. Amen. Asleep in the boat, Jesus much a battle or war against enemy? “Only the per- was awakened by the ter- terrorism, but against prin- son who believes that Composed by Rev. Billy Graham for the rified disciples. Having cipalities and powers. Jesus is the Son of God” 50th Anniversary of the National Day of calmed the storm, he Whatever leads people to (1Jn. 5:5). And how shall such an enemy be www.comstock.com Prayer last May. chastised them, “Where is fly planes into populated your faith?” (Lk. 8:25). buildings is not of God. defeated? By prayer, by © 2001 Billy Graham Evangelistic Association Such hatred does not come love and by faith. from a loving God. See Storm p. 13
January/February/March 2002 PENTECOST Today 3 TheTheTheThe newnewnewnew springtime:springtime:springtime:springtime:
The world needs a spirituality of communion where unity blossoms amidst diversity
where all sectors of Christian community become more actively involvedinvolved inin proclaimingproclaiming the good news of Jesus Christ.
by Cardinal Ivan Dias
Our Holy Father notes in the apostolic letter, This quest for holiness means that all the trea- The second treasure is the blessed Virgin Novo Millennio Ineunte, two important words sures which the Lord has given to his church Mary. I want to tell you three phrases which for the new springtime. The first is that God must be beautified. They are like gems in the St. Louis de Montfort, a great lover of Mary, is renewing his universal call to holiness. And crown of the church. The more they are made had to say. And these are coming true as a the second is that what the world needs to- to shine, the more the crown shines. We have part of the New Springtime. “As Jesus came Oday is a spirituality of communion. so many precious treasures. I would like to the first time through the mediation of Mary, mention three main ones. so he will come the last time through Mary.” The Holy Father says: “The gift of holiness is Mary will prepare the way for Jesus’ second offered to all the baptized. But the gift in turn The first treasure is the most blessed Eucha- coming. He also said, “Mary is the compass becomes a task which must shape the whole rist—God himself present, body, blood, soul which points always to Jesus.” And the third of Christian life: ‘This is the will of God, your and divinity in our midst. This should be the statement is, “Mary is the magnet that attracts sanctification’ (1 Thes. 4:3). The time has center of our spiritual life because Christ is the Holy Spirit.” We pay attention to this be- come to re-propose wholeheartedly to every- the source of all sanctity. In our Renewal, if cause all of us want to be Spirit-filled and one this high standard of ordinary Christian we want to be really filled with the Holy Spirit, Spirit-led. living: the whole life of the Christian com- we must not only go to the word of God, but munity and of Christian families must lead to see that the word of God and our prayer The third treasure is our Holy Father, the Pope. © Bill Brooks/Wonderfile in this direction” (no. 30, 31). life lead us to God himself. I thank God for having kept his magisterium,
4 PENTECOST Today January/February/March 2002 aa callcall toto holinessholiness andand communioncommunion
We must enlarge our hearts to make them as large as the heart of God himself. someone who speaks with authority in his name deacons and the religious, to proclaim to- and gives his teachings. I suppose you know this gether and forcefully the good news of Jesus story but I will repeat it. Christ. Let us all take stock of our responsi- bility and say “yes” to this call to communion. There was a battle ship on the high seas, on a in the largest country in the world can re- very dark night. As it was sailing on the sea, main powerless when the electricity goes out. I have a dream that the church in this nation, the watchman noticed a light that was com- But I think the Lord is telling us, precisely in which is so vibrant and so blessed by God in ing straight towards the ship. So he raised the view of this new springtime, “See what the so many ways, will respond generously to alarm. The captain came up immediately and world has come to when you have switched God’s universal call to holiness and maintain saw this light coming in his direction and in- off the power of God the Holy Spirit.” a harmonious blend between charismatic and dicated to the signal officer to send a signal, institutional dimensions, both of which are “I am the captain. Alter your course ten de- Finally, my dear brothers and sisters, the co-essential in the church of Jesus Christ. I grees starboard.” The reply came, “I’m only a church tells us that the new millennium must pray with expectant faith and with the help second officer. Alter your course ten degrees be a millennium of communion. The world of God’s Holy Spirit that this dream will come starboard.” So the captain was angry and told needs a spirituality of communion. What does true and will enter into a new Pentecost in his signal officer to send another message. “I’m that mean? It is a communion where unity the United States of America and will make a battleship, so change your course ten de- blossoms amidst diversity; a communion it a light to the nations and the glory of God’s grees starboard immediately.” And promptly where all sectors of Christian community— holy people. God bless America! ◆ the reply came, “I am the lighthouse.” bishops, clergy, religious, lay faithful—be- come more actively involved together in pro- This article was adapted from Cardinal Dias’ Let us thank God that he has kept his light- claiming the good news of Jesus Christ. Fi- homily at the closing session of the 2001 Na- house in our midst, the one who can tell us nally, a communion where charisms and in- tional Catholic Charismatic Renewal Confer- when we are right and when we are wrong, stitution blend together harmoniously for the ence in Houston. The audio recording of the and what is our direction. greater glory of God. homily is available for $8 (includes shipping) from Resurrection Tapes, 2719 E. 42nd, Min- I always think of ourselves as light bulbs, We cannot live separately as communities of neapolis, MN 55406 or www.resevents.com. because we are supposed to be the light of persons for ourselves. We must live for God, the world. But as you know, every bulb has for the Father who is Father of all—the good Cardinal Ivan Dias has served as archbishop wires inside that are inter-connected. And and the naughty, the just and the wicked. We of Mumbai (Bombay), India, since 1997. He then they are connected to the transformer must enlarge our hearts to make them as large previously worked in the and the generator. As Catholics, we must as the heart of God himself. That is a chal- diplomatic service of the have all these wires well placed, united with lenge for us. If we keep our hearts tightened, Holy See and with the the transformer which is the church and the new springtime will be aborted. Vatican Secretariat of through the transformer to the divine gen- State in Rome, where he erator which is God himself. Today the Lord has quickened many lay pio- was first involved in the neers, associations, communities, movements Catholic Charismtic Re- Yesterday (in the aftermath of tropical storm like Catholic Charismatic Renewal, and has newal in the 1970s. Allison in Houston) we learned how a big city put them by the side of the bishops, priests,
January/February/March 2002 PENTECOST Today 5 was subject to the passing of time: 12 years old, 20 years old, 33 years old; he could grow old. The risen Jesus, no, he lives “according to the Spirit.” It is the Holy Spirit who makes “ Do you not Jesus always new. The Holy Spirit does not make new things (new sacraments, new rev- elations); he makes things new! perceive it?” The special contribution of the Char- ismatic Renewal could well be keep- ing alive the wonder of being in the presence of God.
In his letter Novo Millennio Ineunte the Pope speaks of a “new springtime” and launches the church into the new millen- nium with the bold cry, “Put out into the deep!” But then he dedicates the central part of his letter to “starting afresh from Christ” (n. 29). He invites us to contem- plate “the face of Christ”—the face of sor- row, the face of glory, the Son’s face.
The Charismatic If the new springtime is already here, what, then, depends on us? The answer is: to be- Renewal and the come aware of it. We have a beautiful word in Italian to say this: accorgersi, which means new springtime to perceive with the heart, to bring something anew into the heart (ad-cor), to become at- of the church tentive. In English you say to realize, to make something real, to conceive as real.
“Do you not perceive it?” To be able to per- ceive, this is the problem. To help others to do the same is the task. The same was true when Jesus first preached the kingdom, by Fr. Raniero Cantalamessa “Blessed are the eyes that see...” (Lk. 10:23). The only problem with the light is “Do not remember the former things, nor The kingdom of God preached by Jesus is whether or not there are eyes to see; the consider the things of old. Behold, I am do- the absolutely new thing on earth. Through- only problem with music is whether or not Ding a new thing; now it springs forth, do you out all his life, and especially at the begin- there are ears to listen. not perceive it?” (Is. 43:19). The “new thing” ning of his public ministry, Jesus seems to be Isaiah had in mind was the new exodus, the proclaiming those words of Isaiah: “Do not Now the prerogative of the Charismatic Re- coming back from the exile in Babylon. But remember the former things... Behold, I am newal in its beginnings was precisely this sense these events—the exodus from Egypt and the doing a new thing; now it springs forth, do of amazement, astonishment at seeing God return from Babylon—were “new” in a rela- you not perceive it?” After Easter this “new acting among his people. The same as on the tive and provisional sense. One day there thing” has a proper name. It is no longer an day of Pentecost: “Each one was would be an absolutely “new” thing, after event but a person: Jesus, the risen Lord! bewildered...they were amazed and which there could not be other new things: astonished...and said to one another, ‘What the “new and eternal covenant” that God was But this newness has a special quality in it- is this?’” (Acts 2:6-12). You have a special going to make in the fullness of time, in self: it never becomes old, outdated. It is a word in English to express this feeling stirred “those days” (see Jer. 31:31-33). perennially new newness. The earthly Jesus by the presence of God, a word which I can-
See Perceive page 13
6 PENTECOST Today January/February/March 2002 Spiritual Formation FORGIVENESS by Dorothy Garrity Ranaghan
omputers have changed the way we as we forgive those who trespass against us.” speak and act. Keeping up with the Ouch. Our pride and our sensitivities rebel Cchanges is a constant challenge, as against that option. But forgiving those I discovered a few years ago while trying who have offended us is the key to per- to arrange for a summer course in typing sonal freedom and joy and to any possibil- for our youngest daughter. My attempt to ity of unity in the body of Christ. Yet Chris- register her for the class had me giggling tians often ignore this truth and wonder as I heard this response to my request: “I’m why they feel weighed down. Our own sins sorry, we don’t offer a ‘typing’ class in the Forgiving those who contribute to our heaviness. If our anger summer anymore; however, we do offer a have offended us is flares, we see clearly that we have made ‘keyboarding’ class—will that do?” “That the key to personal everyone in the room uncomfortable. We will be even better,” I said, and meant it. freedom and joy and to can’t just go away and later ask God to for- give us. There is a social reality at work, As one who helped with the daunting task any possibility of unity and we need to ask forgiveness of all who of typing my husband’s long doctoral dis- in the body of Christ. sertation in the dark ages before home bore the consequence of our sin. The words computers were commonplace, I remem- “I’m sorry” may stick in our throats, but ber all too well the tedious consequences of making even in saying them we restore order, peace and joy, and we lift a small mistake. Typing and typewriters involved carbon the oppressive atmosphere. paper for preserving our originals, and various forms of “white out” to correct our imperfections. Though an im- eavier still is the burden of failing to forgive those provement over parchment, quill pens and ink eradica- who have offended us or those we love. I once read tors, typing tools were nonetheless best used by those H“to forgive is to set a prisoner free and discover whose skill neared perfection. that the prisoner was you” (Lewis Smedes). Feeling bur- dened or bound up? Forgive. The world is catching on to Computers were invented for the “far from perfect” rest this truth. Recently while surfing the internet, I discov- of us. With simplicity, the backspace (delete) key stroke ered “The Apology Room of the Forgiveness Web.” It is eliminates our goofs, and the edit (undo) ability enables an anonymous forum where one can post a notice “con- us to restore wholeness to a document as we reconsider fessing” those things for which one is truly sorry. It exists and remove potentially damaging lines, paragraphs, even because the realization has dawned upon many in the aca- whole pages. The mercy in these “new-fangled” mechani- demic, psychological and political worlds that forgiveness cal restoration tools reminds me of the power of forgive- helps individuals, families and communities to restore ness and reconciliation. Typos may have been messy and healthy emotions, rebuild relationships, and establish inconvenient, but they never hurt anyone. My many sins, more peaceful communities. There is an entire “forgive- however, deeply offend God my Father and my brothers ness movement” spearheaded by the work of Elaine Glusac and sisters. The damage and its consequences would be and Robert Enright of the University of Wisconsin-Madi- permanent were it not for the mercy of God who taught son. They publish on the subject “a scientific approach to us about the delete key of forgiveness and who recon- forgiveness.” There is a Stanford Forgiveness Training Pro- ciled us to himself with the “undo” power of Jesus’ death gram in health and healing, and there are forgiveness and resurrection. groups for addiction recovery and for families of victims of murder, rape and incest. There are even global and There is one little hitch in this merciful forgiveness busi- worldwide alliances of forgiveness. ness. We can only ask our Father to “forgive us our sins ▼ www.comstock.com
January/February/March 2002 PENTECOST Today 7 Spiritual Formation
We who call ourselves Christian should “get who hurt us may not “feel” better right away; with it.” Forgiveness is “in,” yet the reality of but the wound has been sealed, and resent- Christian forgiveness involves much more ment cannot breed infection within us. It is a Forgiveness than just “feeling” better. The profound truth cleansing, a deletion, an “undo” that lets the of forgiveness is not simply a psychological healing start. Like the initial attempt to learn tool for feeling whole, although feeling right to use a computer, learning to receive and to TEACHING OUTLINE is a good benefit. Forgiveness actually restores offer forgiveness may seem more difficult than A. Computer analogy (forgive- the unity that is broken with God and oth- rewarding. Yet both skills are well worth learn- ness/delete key; reconcilia- ers. It is possible because of the unity of Christ ing—even if the effort requires “seventy times tion/undo key) with his Father, and because Christ lives in us. seven” times each day. ◆ Forgiveness is the work of Christ in us and Dorothy Garrity Ranaghan B. We will be forgiven as we for- through us now, which is what gives it its power. is a founding member of give others. the People of Praise Com- e who seek to build the kingdom munity. A former member C. Forgiveness is the key to joy of God in this world—that king- of the National Service and unity. dom of peace and joy and love all W Committee and former long for—have seen the power of this tool of editor of the Chariscenter C. Forgiveness is necessary forgiveness. We need to exercise it more of- USA Newsletter, Dorothy because sin has a social ten by being “kind to one another, tender- currently does writing and dimension. hearted, forgiving each other, just as God in retreat work. She and her husband, Kevin, Christ also has forgiven” us (Eph. 4:32). live in South Bend, Indiana, and have six D. The secular world has dis- When we are deeply hurt, forgiving the one children and seven grandchildren. covered the benefits of forgiveness.
New Life in the Spirit Seminars Team Manual: E. The power in forgiveness is Catholic Edition 2000 not in our own feelings, but in th Now in its 4 printing, this newly revised seminar the power of Christ within us has been enthusiastically received and imple- who forgives and restores mented across the US. The dynamism of the original unity with his Father. format is preserved in the updated seminar which incorporates a Catholic understanding of the F. We need to exercise forgive- sacraments of initiation and baptism in the Spirit. ness early and often. Order a manual today and plan a New Life in the Spirit Seminar for your parish. $9.95 plus s/h DISCUSSION QUESTIONS If the sacrament of penance takes Order from Chariscenter USA 1-800-338-2445 away my sin, why should I also seek to be forgiven by anyone but God? Correction What are the similarities and dif- We apologize for the error that ap- ferences between a therapeutic Open Wednesday peared in the Statement of Ac- Open“Open Wednesday” Wednesda facilitates y understanding of forgiveness and countability in the October/No- parents to prepare children the Christian understanding? for the Sunday Mass Readings. vember/December 2001 issue of Pentecost Today, page 13. The How is Christ involved when we last line that began “Excess” http://welcome.to/openwed seek or accept forgiveness? should have read “Excess of Pub- There are links lic Support and Revenue Over to art and craft projects Expenses.” pertaining to the Readings
8 PENTECOST Today January/February/March 2002 LEADERS FOCUS
Stirring the vision into flame by Deacon Bill Brennan
’m an average, ordinary guy who, on May is “the one who is to come.” John is not one We have received the same commission that 4, 1973, had a most extraordinary en- hundred percent sure that Jesus is the mes- the first disciples received, to go and to do counter with the risen Christ and the fire siah. Jesus replies: “Go and report to John what Jesus was doing, and to recognize that it Iand the power of the Holy Spirit, which what you have seen and what you have heard. isn’t we who do it—it is Jesus. If we ever get turned me around, upside down, inside out. The blind see, the lame walk, lepers are confused and think that it is we who are do- It put a fire in my heart which burns to this cleansed, the deaf hear, the dead are raised to ing it, we are in trouble. Sooner or later we day. I’m an average ordinary guy whose life life and the poor have the good news pro- will fall. It is Jesus who does it. We simply completely changed. claimed to them.” Jesus came to proclaim the lend him our hands and our feet. The church good news of the Father’s kingdom. All the tells us that this goes back to our baptism. God has done something truly spectacular in miracles, the signs and wonders were there to We were baptized to be his instruments. our lives by giving us the grace of baptism in authenticate Jesus as the messiah. The things the Holy Spirit. If your experience was any- that they were seeing and hearing were the t Vatican II, the church said, “It is thing like mine, everything in things that would happen the obligation of every baptized your life changed. Everything God has given us this when the messiah came. This believer to reveal the new man and came alive. Prayer came alive. gift to bring to life the was the evidence that John A new woman who has come alive Scripture came alive. The grace of our baptism, the Baptist was waiting for. in baptism and the power of the Holy Spirit” church came alive. And the so that we can get on (Ad Gentes, n. 11). This is an obligation, not most amazing thing to me per- with doing what we The second scripture that I a wish or a pious thought. The word used for sonally was that Jesus came were baptized to do. want to bring to your atten- “power” is from the same root as our word alive in ways that I had never tion is John 14:12: “Amen, “dynamite.” It is a power that explodes. It is a known before. Over time, I amen I say to you, the person power that makes things happen. Change oc- began to discover that what had really come who believes in me will do the works that I curs. That is the kind of power that we have alive was my sacramental baptism. do and even greater.” This is one of the most been given through the grace of baptism in incredible promises made in the whole gos- the Holy Spirit. You are probably familiar with Prov. 29:18: pel, and it is so filled with implications for us “Without a vision, the people perish.” God is that many of us treat it as if it is too good to The church affirms that charismatic gifts are inviting us to stir into flame the vision of the be true. But it is not just a pious thought. an integral part of this Christian life. In Lu- Charismatic Renewal. What we are experi- Jesus is really serious. men Gentium, n. 12, we read, “These encing in this Renewal is not just to make us charisms, whether they be the most outstand- feel good at a conference or prayer meeting. Jesus has given us the Holy Spirit for the pur- ing or the more simple and widely diffused, It is not just so we can raise our hands and pose of fulfilling this promise, to empower us are to be received with thanksgiving and con- sing joyful songs when we gather with others to do what Jesus did. I would say to anybody solation, for they are exceedingly suitable and who have had the same experience. God has in ministry: if you view your ministry as a useful for the needs of the church.” given us this gift to bring to life the grace of job, you will burn out. If you view your min- our baptism, so that we can get on with do- istry as a blank spot on a roster that needs to In the Decree on the Apostolate of the Laity we ing what we were baptized to do. be filled, a dirty job but somebody has to do read, “From the reception of these charisms it, you will become disillusioned. You will or gifts, including those which are less dra- There are two scriptures which we need to probably die on the vine. But if you see your matic, there arises for each believer the right hold in our hearts because they are key to the ministry as doing the works of Jesus, you and duty to use them in the church and in vision of “doing what we were baptized to do.” will see the glory of God. You will see the the world” (n. 3). If we are baptized believ- Luke 7:18-23 tells the story of John the power of the Holy Spirit manifested as God ers, and if we are not using our charisms in Baptist’s disciples questioning whether Jesus reaches out through you and touches the the church and in the world, then we are not people you are serving. doing what is our right and our duty. ▼
January/February/March 2002 PENTECOST Today 9 LEADERS FOCUS
believe with all my heart that God has us. We are empowered to do what Jesus does. Deacon Bill Brennan is a member of the Na- given us the gift of baptism in the Holy That is the vision we need to be sharing. ◆ tional Service Committee and serves as liaison Spirit so that we can be a teachable mo- for the Charismatic Re- Iment for the church. Part of that teach- This article was adapted from Deacon Bill newal in the Diocese of able moment is to be the evidence that the Brennan’s presentation at the Day for Clergy and Stockton, California. power of the Holy Spirit is not just theoreti- Leaders at the 2001 National Catholic Charis- cal. It is not just something we declare to be matic Renewal Conference in Houston. The au- true, a statement of faith. It is, as Pope Paul dio recording of the presentation is available for VI called it, “that certain lived experience of $8 (includes shipping) from Resurrection Tapes, Pentecost.” It is the lived experience of the 2719 E. 42nd, Minneapolis, MN 55406 or Holy Spirit, alive and burning like fire within www.resevents.com.
Day of Prayer and Fasting
Friday, February 8
At the January 2001 meeting of national leadership groups in Al- exandria, Louisiana, under the leadership of Bishop Sam Jacobs, Chairman of the Bish- ops’ Ad Hoc Committee on the Catholic Charismatic Renewal, it was decided to establish the Fri- day before Ash Wednesday, Feb- ruary 8, as a Day of Prayer and Fasting. (See Pentecost Today, April/May/June 2001, p.11.)
In light of the events of Septem- ber 11, the Day of Prayer and Fasting takes on a special poi- gnancy. The original purpose was to pray for the Catholic Charis- matic Renewal in the United States and, more especially, for the church in the US, that it be- come inflamed with the fire of Pentecost.
By choosing one day to proclaim a fast we can strengthen the unity in the Renewal and communion in the church. Our fast acknowl- edges the “weaknesses of the past” and calls us forward in hu- mility and “in hope” (Novo Millennio Ineunte, n. 58).
10 PENTECOST Today January/February/March 2002 LEADERS FOCUS
NEWSBRIEFS
International for healing.” Archbishop Bertone FINANCIAL UPDATE colloquium on healing stated unequivocally that one of convenes in Rome the reasons for the Instruction Due in part to the economic downturn last year and com- The Pontifical Council for the was to counter a certain rational- pounded by the events of September 11 (which prompted Laity in cooperation with the In- ization affecting some Catholic an outpouring of generosity to those working directly with ternational Catholic Charismatic communities, leading to a neglect victims and families of the terrorist attacks) donations to Renewal Services (ICCRS) con- of prayer for healing and visiting the National Service Committee were significantly down vened an international collo- the sick. Such rationalizing has re- from last year. As of this writing, income was $100,000 quium entitled Prayer for Heal- moved the possibility of God’s below expenses. ing and the Charismatic Renewal intervention in human life by in the Catholic Church, Novem- healing of illness through prayer This shortfall depleted the Service Committee’s cash re- ber 10-13, at the Sanctuary of and the intercession of the saints serves, and we have been living month to month. Our Lady of Divine Love in and Mary. Rome. About one hundred In late November we launched a new initiative called Fan- twenty participants from The colloquium was led by Car- ning the Flame Partners to help motivate our higher-end throughout the world gathered to dinal James Francis Stafford, the donors to give more generously. The results of this effort discuss the experience of healing President of the Pontifical Coun- will not be known until after the first of the new year. in the Catholic Charismatic Re- cil for the Laity. Eleven bishops newal and in the church today. and over thirty priests were If you have not been asked and you can make a pledge of present. Twenty of the partici- $300, $500 or $1000 a year or more for five years, we Speakers included both church pants were from the US, includ- would like to hear from you. authorities and experts in certain ing Bishop Sam Jacobs of Alex- fields (e.g. Scripture) as well as andria, Louisiana, Chairman of However, even with this effort, we need everyone’s those from the Charismatic Re- the US Bishops’ Committee on support. If the readers of Pentecost Today each send newal with experience in the heal- the Catholic Charismatic Re- $10, $15 or $25 and, if prayer groups across the country ing ministry. There was a general newal, and Walter Matthews, Ex- could take up a collection and send $50, $100 or more, affirmation of the importance of ecutive Director of the National we could close the gap resulting from the economic down- prayer for healing as a constitu- Service Committee of the Catho- turn. ent part of the new evangeliza- lic Charismatic Renewal. tion, the proclamation of the We need your help. We beg for it. Gospel, and of the loving care of In brief: God for his people. The Comité Nacional de Servicio Here is what one of our top donors wrote to us recently: Hispano (CNSH, the Hispanic The colloquium also discussed NSC in the US) held its second Several years ago we felt that the Holy Spirit was ask the Vatican document Instruction national conference in late Octo- ing us to re-prioritize our charitable giving and to di- on Prayers for Healing, issued last ber in Chicago. Two thousand rect a much larger portion of our tithe to support the year by the Congregation of the people attended. The CNSH will work of the National Service Committee. We are Doctrine of Faith. Archbishop convene a conference within the deeply grateful for the blessing of charismatic renewal Tarcisio Bertone, the Secretary of 2002 National Catholic Charis- for our own lives and appreciate the dedication of the the Congregation of the Doctrine matic Renewal Conference in NSC in fostering this gift in the Catholic Church. of Faith, was present to give a Pittsburgh, September 13-15. background to the document and If you share a common vision with the NSC for spiri- an orientation to its doctrinal In late September the Association tualrenewal in the church, we challenge you to points and disciplinary norms. of Diocesan Liaisons convened prayer fully consider how you can increase your fi- their annual theological sympo- nancial support so this important work of the Holy The Instruction asserts in part sium in Albuquerque. “The Re- Spirit can continue. that, “prayer for the restoration newal at 35—Bridging Memory of health is…part of the church’s and Vision” addressed aspects of Thank you for your support. experience in every age including the Renewal including the Holy our own…These healings are Spirit in the Gospel of John, heal- signs of his (Jesus’) messianic ing the roots of religious culture, p mission…It is licit for every mem- and reclaiming the prophetic di- ber of the faithful to pray to God mension of the Renewal. ◆
January/February/March 2002 PENTECOST Today 11 LEADERS FOCUS
New Life in the Spirit Seminars
Catholic Edition 2000
○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○ Faith-sharing, sponsors and small groups in the New Life in the Spirit Seminars
he New Life in the Spirit Seminars: Catholic Edi- his or her sacramental preparations. In much the same tion 2000 is grounded in the gospel message and way, when a person completes the missing pieces of TGod’s ongoing invitation to receive the Spirit. their spiritual formation through the Life in the Spirit Teachings about the Christian life and the sacraments Seminars they often need a guide to help them explore of initiation build on this invitation, but the real and describe ways that God can work in daily life. power to accept God in new ways often hinges on the team’s ability to share their faith and to offer he sponsor’s role is one of the keys to effective personal examples of God’s presence. Jan’s conver- evangelization and spiritual growth. A sponsor sion at a Marian shrine, Connie’s healing at a prayer Toffers support and encourages sharing as a par- meeting, or John’s baptism in the Spirit while read- ticipant explores his or her response to the gospel mes- ing Psalm 23 are effective because we know Jan, we sage. Some of this happens naturally in the small groups, see Connie every week, and we admire John’s ability through informal conversations and through phone to listen. Their lives become prophetic. calls. The sponsor is not a personal counselor, teacher, The New Life in the or even a spiritual director; but a listening friend. All Spirit Seminars Faith-sharing is an important tool, a prism for God’s that is required is a confidence in God’s presence and a Team Manual: presence. As Sr. Nancy Keller and Sr. Justin Wirth willingness to affirm the participant’s religious experi- Catholic Edition write in Faith Sharing in Small Groups, faith-sharing ences. Sponsoring is almost like being a personal guide 2000 sells at $9.95. can be defined as “telling another person how God on a treasure hunt who has a bit more experience in is working in my life, what a Scripture passage means spotting God’s hand in daily life. Advice is not usually A bulk discount of 30% is available for to me, how God has answered prayer or taught me a helpful, just encouragement. The sponsor can also
purchase of five spiritual truth.” Faith-sharing demonstrates practi- offer individual, spontaneous prayer as a natural copies or more cal applications of the gospel without emphasis on outcome of faith-sharing. Prayer leads Christians (shipping and hand- personal conclusions. Faith-sharing is like connec- “little by little to acquire a contemplative view of ling extra). For more tive tissue, or glue, that links our daily lives and the reality, enabling them to recognize God in every information, call actions of God’s Holy Spirit. The Spirit awakens faith moment and in every thing; to contemplate God in Chariscenter USA at as we talk about God’s activity among us. Faith-shar- every person; to seek his will in all that happens” 1-800-338-2445. ing gives ordinary people hope about God’s loving (Pope John Paul II, Ecclesia in America, n. 79). touch in everyday life. The third setting for faith-sharing is the small group. The seminar provides three deliberate opportunities for This weekly gathering provides an introduction to the faith-sharing: the witnesses given after each talk, a church as a large community made up of small com- participant’s one-to-one relationship with a sponsor, munities. Pope John Paul II emphasizes this vision of and the weekly small sharing groups. The weekly wit- church in his exhortation, Ecclesia in America. He says: nesses are an opportunity for the whole group to hear “It seems timely therefore to form ecclessial communi- about the long-term effects of God’s interven- ties and groups of a size that allow for true human rela- Newly Revised Booklet! tion in a person’s life. The relationship with a tionships. This will make it possible to live commun- Faith Sharing in Small sponsor provides for one-to-one faith-sharing ion more intensely…In such a human context it will Groups: The Vision and on a more intimate basis. be easier to gather to hear the word of God, to reflect the Tools, is available for on the range of human problems in the light of this $4.95 (a 20% discount Historically, the 1979 edition of the seminar word and gradually to make responsible decisions in- until March 31; $5.95 talked about greeters (sponsors) as bridges be- spired by the all-embracing love of Christ” (n. 41). For thereafter) through tween the prayer group and the participants. practical ways to promote faith-sharing—rather than Chariscenter USA plus The new manual stresses the idea of sponsors discussion—in small groups, see Faith Sharing in Small shipping and handling. as friends and spiritual companions on the jour- Groups. It also goes without saying that a good experi- ney of faith (see pages 25-28). The word spon- ence with a small group will awaken the desire to par- sor comes from the church’s experience with ticipate in a wide variety of large and small community the sacraments of initiation (baptism, confirmation and gatherings after the seminar. ◆ Eucharist). The sponsor accompanies a person during
12 PENTECOST Today January/February/March 2002 Storm from p. 3 Third, read the fifth chapter of Paul’s First women are searching for answers. We have As Deacon Bill Brennan proclaimed in Letter to the Thessalonians. There we read, the answer in Jesus Christ who is the way, Houston, “It is the lived experience of the “All of you are people who belong to the the truth and the life, and we have a key to Holy Spirit, alive and burning like fire light…we do not belong to the night or to opening and deepening a personal relation- within us” that will enable us “to do what the darkness…encourage one another and ship to Jesus Christ in the grace of baptism Jesus does.” help one another…” in the Holy Spirit. The fire within is not just for ourselves or for those who are in And then, maybe then, the dream of Car- This was true in Houston. It has been true our circle, our family or our prayer group. dinal Dias will come true: in New York City and in the Washington, …that the church in this nation, which D.C. area. May it continue to be true The theme of the 2001 National Catholic is so vibrant and so blessed by God in throughout our world. Charismatic Renewal Conference was The so many ways, will respond generously New Springtime: Do You Not Perceive It? In to God’s universal call to holiness…and Fourth, intercede for our nation and for our the rains that nearly flooded us out, we saw that (we) will enter into a new Pente leaders. I find the prayer for the 50th Anni- signs of God’s powerful action. In the ashes cost in the United States of America, versary of the National Day of Prayer— of the World Trade Center, the damage of and will make it a light to the nations written by the Rev. Billy Graham prior to the Pentagon and the disintegrated plane and the glory of God’s holy people. the events of September 11—prophetic and crashed in the field in Pennsylvania, we are God bless America! ◆ challenging. (See side bar on page 3.) challenged to see more deeply. We are sad- dened at the terrible loss and angered by Walter Matthews is the Executive Director of Finally, let us seize this moment. There is a the madness of such acts, but as Christians, the National Service Committee. hunger in the land for God in a way that we hear the voice of our Lord challenging there has not been for years. Men and us to repentance and to witness.
Perceive from p. 6 not pronounce well but which I understand tine. The special contribution of the Charis- Marveling is the mother of faith and her well, maybe the shortest word in English when matic Renewal in view of the new springtime daughter at the same time; she generates faith pronounced: the word is awe. could well be in this field: keeping alive the and is generated by faith. We can pray with wonder of a sense of being in the presence of Psalm 119:18, “Open my eyes so that I can I was very much impressed by the account left see the marvels of your law.” Open our eyes by one of the students present at the Duquesne We cannot rely on our past charis- so that we can see the marvel of marvels, your weekend back in 1967: “Fear of the Lord matic expertise, on our own enthusi- Son Jesus Christ! welled up within us; a fearful awe kept us from asm or willingness. We need a real, looking up. He was personally present and we not an artificial, springtime. Sociologists speak of the “nascent state”—the feared being loved too much…This holy fear moment of birthing. This is the magic mo- was somehow the same as love.” St. Gregory God and his manifestations (in the sacra- ment when a relationship first appears and of Nyssa calls this “the awareness of a pres- ments, the charisms, the lives of persons). It blossoms, as in a new social grouping, an in- ence.” In those early days, this awareness filled is a prophetic contribution. What was the stitution, a religious order, a love between two the meetings, the prayers, the songs, every- main task of the prophets in Israel, if not this persons. It is usually the moment of greatest thing. “The Lord is present in his sanctuary, one? They obliged the people to live amidst strength, novelty, hope, joy, charm. Pentecost let us praise the Lord. The Lord is present in “a devouring fire and everlasting flames” (Is. was the church in its nascent state! The Char- his people gathered here, let us rejoice in the 33:14). Their favorite exclamation was, “Be- ismatic Renewal has had its nascent state and Lord.” We could feel that the Lord was really hold!” John the Baptist, the greatest of proph- many among us remember it. But then we there; what we sang was what we experienced. ets, would exclaim, “Behold, the Lamb of remember the words of Isaiah, “Do not re- God…among you stands someone you do not member the former things...” Our hope is that Will we be able to renew the miracle? Or will know” (Jn. 1:26, 29). The same exclamation in faith there is room for a new nascent state, God have to raise up new people, new cur- should resound every time we get up to speak. a new budding, a state always newly emerg- rents with the same kind of charism, new ing, a reawakening of faith. “Is there anything “waves” of the Spirit? Remember the words Where shall we find the resources to achieve impossible to God?” ◆ of Jesus, “If these keep silent the stones will this task? To whom shall we go for strength? cry out” (Lk. 19:40). We cannot rely on our past charismatic ex- Fr. Raniero Cantalamessa is preacher to the pertise, on our own enthusiasm or willing- papal household. The greatest danger is for us to become ac- ness. We need a real, not an artificial, spring- customed to God, to fall from awe into rou- time. Faith is the answer—expectant faith. January/February/March 2002 PENTECOST Today 13
From the Director○○○○○○○○○○ by Walter Matthews
Working—and praying—for the new springtime
lthough the 2001 National Catholic the mission of the NSC “to strengthen the states in Novo Millennio Ineunte, “It is Charismatic Renewal Conference was Catholic Charismatic Renewal.” important…that what we propose, with the A disrupted by the forces of nature (as help of God, should be profoundly rooted in described elsewhere in this issue) and, as a The six areas are: contemplation and prayer” (n. 15). He fur- result, the Conference was shortened, it was ◆ future National Conferences ther states: nonetheless powerful and challenging. ◆ praise and worship ◆ leadership initiative If in the planning that awaits us we com- In his remarks Cardinal Dias of Mumbai ◆ intercessory network mit ourselves more confidently to a pas- (Bombay), who had come to Houston spe- ◆ healing and deliverance toral activity that gives personal and com- cifically to experience for the first time the ◆ prayer group restoration. munal prayer its proper place, we shall be Catholic Charismatic Renewal in the US, observing an essential principle of the told us of his experience before the tomb Each working group was led by a NSC Coun- Christian view of life: the primacy of grace. of Pope John XXIII prior to his coming. cil member with a National Service Commit- When he prayed for us he said he heard the tee member as a link to the NSC as a whole. There is a temptation which perennially Lord tell him to tell us that there is a new Each group was tasked to define the need in besets every spiritual journey and pasto- springtime in the US and that we, the the area chosen, assess the available resources ral work: that of thinking that the results Catholic Charismatic Renewal, are its first of people, existing programs and money, and depend on our ability to act and to plan. fruits. Praise God. project how we, the NSC and NSC Council, God of course asks us really to cooperate might respond. with his grace, and therefore invites us to As those who are more seasonally knowl- invest all our resources of intelligence and edgeable than I know, springtime is a time “It is fatal to forget that ‘without energy in serving the cause of the king- of planting and, as Sr. Nancy Kellar is fond Christ we can do nothing.’” dom. But it is fatal to forget that “without of reminding us, of harvesting the winter Pope John Paul II Christ we can do nothing” (n. 38). wheat. Amidst the difficulties of the economy even before September 11 and Each working group then reported to the If we are to “put out into the deep,” we should certainly since, the National Service Com- whole body, received input and questions of be covered with prayer. Intercessors who mittee with its Council is hard at work clarification, and was then tasked to refine would want to be part of such a network planting and harvesting. the need. The results are under review by the should write to our office by mail or e-mail. National Service Committee, but a great Finally, while in this issue of Pentecost Today At the NSC’s recent meeting with the NSC amount of energy, enthusiasm and a sense of we reflect on the Lord’s actions and words to Council, working groups were formed in direction emerged. In future issues we will give us in Houston last June, we are already in the six areas. We firmly believe that now is not more background to each group and discuss midst of planning for the 2002 National the time to hold back, to rest or to hide, the plans that have been proposed. Catholic Charismatic Renewal Conference. but rather a time to “put out into the deep” We will gather in Pittsburgh September 13- as our Holy Father has encouraged us. I do, however, want to highlight one area, and 15 with the theme Go Forth in the Spirit! Char- that is the formation of an Intercessory Net- ismatic Renewal Jubilee 35. We look forward The working groups were and are more than work. While such networks exist in some dio- to seeing you there as we continue to put out discussion groups or advisory groups. The work- ceses and for some ministries, we have never into the deep for a catch and foster a new ing groups will continue to operate between attempted to draw folks into such a network springtime in the church. ◆ meetings to foster a number of areas following on a national level. We would all agree that prayer is a necessity. As Pope John Paul II
14 PENTECOST Today January/February/March 2002 Ministry
Update ○○○○○○○
by Aggie Neck
Renewal in the midst of tragedy
In the span of a four-month period, our faith has been tested, and as I see it, it and blessed with sincere and loving fellow- has come forth like gold purified in the fire, like silver in the crucible. It is in ship. I believe it was a key event to prepare us difficult times we prove that we believe what we say. This issue’s column will for what was going to happen. take a look at how the Charismatic Renewal, its leadership, and its people were While driving to work at the Charismatic Re- there for each other and for others. newal Office on Tuesday, September 11th, I was reflecting on the great weekend experience when National Conference, Houston, moment of “holy pride” in the Renewal and I noticed the sky filling with smoke. I turned on June 8-10, 2001 the people of God. the radio and the rest is history. It started off like any other conference— people gathering to hear teachings, to praise Reflections Our office is just a few blocks away from both God and to enjoy the fellowship of other These reflections are from the evaluations sub- the Manhattan and Brooklyn Bridges and just brothers and sisters in the Renewal. As we all mitted at the National Conference in Houston. across the street from St. James Cathedral left the convention center on Friday night, it Basilica. As people were coming away from was raining very hard. We laughed as we scur- “This Conference signified a strengthening the World Trade Center area, they walked over ried to our cars. Little did we know what the of leadership within the Charismatic Re- the bridges and passed our way. Some made next day would bring! newal. It was a demonstration of a faith- their way into the church to pray, while oth- filled people and time, and it tested the ers were in a hurry to get home. We were able The relentless rain flooded buildings in the Charismatic Renewal in the United States to minister in the street, forming prayer circles downtown area as well as homes and high- as pastored by the NSC.” for those still in harm’s way, hugging those ways. Electricity was off in many areas. We who were frightened and in apparent shock. learned that many people had lost their “We must not forget the messages we learned People came streaming into the office to use homes, and some had lost their lives. from God to enable us to clarify our vision— the phone to call family members. not only asking God to bless our plans, but What happened that morning was a moment being willing to be part of God’s plan, to It was a heart-breaking day and we are still in of grace. People gathered in the convention stretch ourselves to the point of risk.” shock. So many lives changed in an instant center, in hotels and in homes where they were on that tragic day. May God and his faithful th stranded and isolated. We began to praise the New York, September 11 people continue to comfort and support all Lord for his sovereign majesty and prayed for The following was written by Josephine Cachia, those who are suffering the effects of this ter- the city of Houston and its people. We prayed a member of the National Service Committee rible tragedy. for God’s mercy and assistance. It was as if from Brooklyn. She entitles it “Loving Comfort.” we shifted into emergency mode and knew that prayer was the answer. God led the way This experience is beyond process. Only God “Our soul waits for the Lord, through many people working under an in his mercy can fully absorb this horrible who is our help and anointing of the Holy Spirit. event. Looking back to the Regional Leaders’ our shield, Gathering sponsored by the National Service For in him our hearts rejoice; The conference did continue in a modified Committee on the weekend of September 7- in his holy name we trust. form that afternoon and the next morning. 9th at Bishop Molloy’s Retreat House in May your kindness, O Lord, However, the real miracle of it all was seeing Queens, New York, I feel privileged to have be upon us the people of God undaunted in their joy, served as the coordinator for the event. We who have put our hope in you.” their praise and their ability to function in were lifted up in prayer, praise and worship. Psalm 33:20-22 the midst of difficult times. For me, it was a We were inspired with good, solid teachings
January/February/March 2002 PENTECOST Today 15 ○○○○○○○○○○ ○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○YEARS Go Forth in elebrate!elebrate!the35 Spirit: Charismatic Renewal Jubilee 35 The 35th Anniversary of Speakers the Catholic Charismatic David Lawrence Convention Center Bishop Sam Jacobs Renewal is upon us! The Pittsburgh Ralph Martin celebrationsC of our 25th Aggie Neck CSeptember 1315, 2002 September 1315, 2002 (1992) and 30th (1997) Bishop Stanislaw Rylko anniversaries were joining with the National General sessions (from the Vatican) anointed times of great Service Committee to Friday: holiness Fr. Mario Casteneda blessing and joy! The plan a momentous event Saturday: power Laurette Felix Bishops Committee, in 2002 to thank the Lord Sunday: faithfulness Bishop Donald Wuerl Association of Diocesan for 35 years. Call or visit Jim Beckman Liaisons, Ethnic Commit- our website to receive Go Forth in the Spirit! and others tees on Charismatic your invitation for our 35th website: www.nsc-chariscenter.org Renewal and others are Anniversary Conference. phone: 1-866-NSC-CONF (1-866-672-2663)
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