Charism
Overview
Charism comes from the Greek word (charis) used in the New Testament for ‘favour’ or ‘freely given gift’ from God. So charisms, or spiritual gifts, are gifts given through the grace of the Holy Spirit to enable followers of Jesus to become powerful channels of God’s love and presence in the world.
Gifts that build others
When we talk of charisms, we talk of gifts that build others up and are a powerfully positive sign of the church in the world. (These kinds of gifts are highlighted in Romans 12, 1 Cor 12 and Eph 4).
Prayer resources linked to charisms
Eight charisms have been identified as particular gifts to be seen in the person and vision of Jesus: Love; Service; Hope; Compassion; Reconciliation; Courage; Justice; and Peace.
Prayer resources linked to each of these Charisms can be found here:
Charism Prayers
Charisms of traditions and religious orders
Across the ages in the story of the Church, we have been able to identify in the saints and religious founders, a very particular grace or charism that reflects brightly the life of the Spirit.
These founding charisms belong to the church – to all of us, as a spiritual energy that is constantly reincarnated and adapted to different times, places and people.
Going Deeper Prayer Resources
Each prayer opportunity includes:
- A brief look at the history and charism of a Catholic religious order or group and its link to one of the eight identified charisms of Jesus (see above)
- A reading and personal reflection, with space to write
- A prayer suggestion which links to the different prayer styles.
Benedictine Spirituality - walking in love
Sisters of Mercy - walking in service
Presentation Sisters - walking in hope
John Baptist de la Salle - walking in compassion
Ignatius of Loyola - walking in compassion
Sisters of St Joseph - walking in reconciliation
Franciscans - walking in courage
The Missionary Society of St Columban - walking in justice
An Aboriginal Spirituality - walking in peace