Rome recently became a spiritual hub for thousands of believers as the city hosted a powerful gathering of prayer groups from around the world.
This event was part of the broader Jubilee of Hope, and it brought together members of the Catholic Charismatic Renewal for a weekend filled with learning, prayer, and deep spiritual connection.
From April 4th to 6th, participants from over 70 countries came together to reflect on the power of “prophetic intercession,” a practice rooted in listening to the Holy Spirit and praying with spiritual insight.
It wasn’t just a conference—it was a heartfelt celebration of faith, unity, and the mission of service.
The Heart Behind CHARIS and Its Global Mission
At the center of this international gathering was CHARIS, which stands for Catholic Charismatic Renewal International Service.
Cathy Brenti, the executive secretary of CHARIS, took time to speak with ACI Prensa, explaining the roots and purpose of this global movement.
Back in 2017, Pope Francis expressed his vision for a unified service that could support and coordinate the worldwide Charismatic Renewal.
That dream became a reality in 2019 with the official launch of CHARIS, under the guidance of the Vatican’s Dicastery for the Laity, Family, and Life.
Unlike traditional Church associations, CHARIS doesn’t operate as a public organization of the faithful.
Instead, it’s an entity directly established by the Holy See, giving it a unique place in the Church’s structure and mission.
A Mission Inspired by Pope Francis
Pope Francis has entrusted CHARIS with a powerful three-part mission—one that’s both spiritual and deeply practical.
As Brenti recalled, it all began during the Pentecost celebration in 2019, when the Pope addressed the movement’s participants in the Paul VI Audience Hall at the Vatican.
His call to action focused on:
- Spreading the baptism in the Holy Spirit throughout the entire Church.
- Promoting unity within the body of Christ, while honoring its rich diversity.
- Serving the poor and most vulnerable, whether they face physical or spiritual struggles.
Evangelization, Unity, and Service at the Core
Brenti highlighted how these three pillars—evangelization, unity, and service to the poor—aren’t just goals, but the very heartbeat of CHARIS.
The organization exists to remind the faithful that the Charismatic Renewal is more than just a movement—it’s a “stream of grace” flowing through the Church.
As this recent meeting in Rome showed, CHARIS is helping believers live out this calling in vibrant, impactful ways across the globe.
And with each gathering, it continues to spark renewal not just in individuals, but in communities and cultures all over the world.