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Gerard Dlima wrote:

Hi, guys —

  • What is the Church's view on Charismatic Catholics?
  • Have the gifts of the Holy Spirit ceased or are they still relevant today?

Gerard

  { What is the Church's view on Charismatics and have the gifts ceased or are they still alive today? }

John replied:

Hi, Gerard —

Thanks for your question.

The Church recognizes that the Holy Spirit gives various members of the Church different gifts and charisms. Some (emphasis on some) of those gifts include the gifts listed by St. Paul in first Corinthians 12.

The word Charismatic simply means gifted so on one level, the Church itself is Charismatic by definition. The Church could not function without the Holy Spirit. It is the Holy Spirit that acts in the Sacraments. It is only by the power of the Holy Spirit that we can say Jesus is Lord and believe it with the supernatural faith that saves.

On another level, some Catholics call themselves Charismatics because they have received and make use of the more phenomenal manifestations such as:

  • tongues
  • prophecy
  • word of knowledge
  • and healing

The Church embraces these Catholics just as She embraces Catholics that follow other spiritualities. These gifts are still for today and shall not cease until the Lord returns.

That said, Charismatics (and I consider myself Charismatic) must be careful that (the pursuit and use of the extraordinary gifts) doesn't become a form of idolatry. St. Paul makes it clear that there is a time and place for the use of these gifts.

The Mass, for example, is not structured for the use of these particular gifts. A prayer meeting and praise service on the other hand is a perfect place for these gifts to operate and serve the community.

John

Mike replied:

Hi, Gerard —

I've appended similar questions with answers to the one you have asked. You may want to try our search engine next time. It's a quick way to find answers fast.

Hope this helps,

Mike

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