Charism
The word charism describes the fundamental identity of religious life. The charism of a religious community determines its identity, way of life, spirit, spirituality, structures and mission in the Church. A charism is a special gift for a way of life or for a specific ministry in the Church. It is a gift, originating in the Holy Spirit, for the renewal and development of the Church.
Initially, the charism is given to the founder or foundress of a religious community. This gift enables that person to discern God’s will and to perceive the needs of the people whom he or she is called by God to serve and to respond to those needs. The effectiveness of the person’s work is brought about by the power of God working in and through him or her. When a newly founded religious community is approved by the Church, the existence and authenticity of its specific charism is officially and publicly recognized. The charism, in turn provides the dynamic which defines the new community as well as a certain “constancy of orientation” as the community adapts to changing circumstances.
The foundress’ or founder’s followers in an approved religious community also receive the charism of the respective community. This gift of the Spirit is exercised when the community comes together, especially to discern the needs of the people whom they are called to serve and to respond to those needs in an appropriate ways. In discernment and decision-making, the community is to remain faithful to the charism of the founder or foundress.
---Adapted from Selected Works of Joseph Cardinal Bernardin: “Reflections on Religious Life, March 1986”
Personal Thoughts
I truly desire the very best for each person who comes to this website. It thrills me to know that you are longing to find the path that God has marked out for you before you were even conceived in your mother’s womb. It is a privilege to walk with you, either personally or through the richness of all we offer you on www.albanyvocations.org. My prayers remain with you each day, knowing that the One Who calls you, knows you well and knows your present needs and desires.
Surrendering your life for God and others as a religious is an awesome gift and invitation. The Church needs people to continue to live the charisms of religious communities which the Holy Spirit has poured out upon us through the ages. If you are considering this way of life, be not afraid! The One Who has begun this good desire within you will bring it to perfection. All that is needed is your openness, your courage and your “Yes.”
