By Charles Igwe
Pope Francis has sent a message to Charis, the Catholic Charismatic Renewal International Service, ahead of its Jubilee pilgrimage to Rome, emphasizing the Church’s role as a renewed and united community.
Extending his best wishes for the pilgrimage, which takes place from April 4 to 6, the Holy Father described the journey to Rome as a moment of deep spiritual reflection. He encouraged participants to use this time to offer “an intense prayer of intercession” for both the Church and the world.
However, the Pope reminded those taking part that the pilgrimage is not solely for their personal benefit. Rather, he urged them to see it as an experience to be shared with others as “a source of hope and peace.” He called on them to be “witnesses and artisans of peace and unity, always striving to build communion, beginning with your groups and communities.”
Drawing an analogy, Pope Francis likened the mission of Charis to “the beating heart, pumping blood throughout the body.” He explained that just as the heart sustains life, Charis is deeply rooted in the Church while also embracing its universal mission.
Highlighting the role of the Holy Spirit, which is central to the Catholic Charismatic Renewal, the Pope described it as “the source of communion, harmony, and fraternity.” He stressed that this is the essence of the Church itself—“a new and reconciled humanity.”
Concluding his message, Pope Francis urged members of Charis to foster unity within their communities. He expressed his hope that “the regard you show to your leaders never become an occasion of conflict.” Instead, he encouraged them to remain open to cooperation, particularly with their parish communities, assuring them that “the Lord will bless you with abundant fruits.”
