Harry C. Koenig
Charismalic Renewal and the Spiritual Li{e. The author offers sorne reflections on the Cameli article in light of the charismatic experience. While highlighting the chansmatie concerns which surface in the general study of spirituality, Msgr. Koenig gives a concise description of the charismatic movement. Reading Cameli's deep theological analysis of !ife in the Spirit, many Catholics will ask the question: How does ·thé Roly Spirit opera te existentially in the world today? Sorne, such as Cardinal Suenens will answer that we are experiencing a New Pentecost. Especially in the Unites States, a new phenomenon called the Catholic Charismatic Movement or Renewal is growing rapidly. Frayer groups are mushrooming throughout our nation as weil as in Canada, Europe and South America. These prayer groups trace their origin to a faculty group at Duquesne University in Pittsburgh who began praying together in 1966. Frayer in these groups can be described as spontaneons, biblically oriented, acknowledging Jesus as Lord, giving adoration and praise to the Father. Many of these prayer groups meet weekly for an hour at the minimum. They enthusiastically read Roly Scripture, sing joyfully, man ifest a spirit of union and friendship which is contagions. Led l:u·gely by lay men and women, they seek clerical guidance. Sorne groups are totally Catholic; while others are ecumenical and welcome Protestants to join in their prayer. Catholic Charismatics manifest a love for the Church and the sacraments. Many prayer groups climax their meetings with the Eucharist. In Charismatic prayer meetings the spiritual gifts mentioned 87