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On a beautiful Saturday, April 12, 2025, something special happened in the Diocese of East Anglia. Clergy and representatives from all over the diocese gathered at the stunning Cathedral of St John the Baptist for a historic event – the first-ever Gathering of the Charismatic Family. This momentous occasion was marked by a Mass celebrated by Bishop Peter Collins, followed by a time of sharing, reflection, and connection. It was an opportunity for Bishop Peter to meet and encourage the dedicated members of Charismatic ministry teams, prayer groups, and communities who serve in the diocese. As Pam Smith reports, the gathering was a response to the growing communion between the Catholic Church and the worldwide Catholic Charismatic Renewal.
The event was a celebration of the Charismatic movement, which has been a powerful force for renewal and spiritual growth in the Church. Bishop Peter’s homily was a highlight of the day, as he reflected on the importance of prudence and courage in living out our mission as Christians. He reminded us that prudence is not about hesitation, but about discerning wisely and acting with care, while courage means responding to God’s call even when we feel unequipped, trusting in His provision and stepping out in faith. These virtues are essential for the Charismatic movement, which seeks to empower believers to live out their faith with boldness and conviction. As Bishop Peter emphasized, “Nothing happens within the diocese in isolation,” and it is essential for Charismatic groups and ministries to work together in unity and communion.
The establishment of CHARIS (Catholic Charismatic Renewal International Service) in 2019 marked a significant moment for the global Charismatic movement. CHARIS was created to serve the Church, not to govern it, and to recognize the Charismatic Renewal as a “current of grace” for the Church. Locally, the Charismatic Diocesan Service of Communion (CDSC) operates under the authority of the Bishop, with the goal of promoting unity and mission among Charismatic groups and ministries. As the Coordinator of the CDSC, Pam Smith is committed to serving as a point of reference for all Charismatic groups and ministries, ensuring that they adhere to diocesan policies and safeguarding practices. The vision of the CDSC and CHARIS is threefold: to unify, to serve, and to share the grace of our baptism in the Holy Spirit.
The afternoon was a time of sharing and connection, as representatives from various Charismatic ministries introduced themselves and shared their stories. Transform Ministries UK, Littleway Healing Ministries, Couples for Christ, and Unbound Mother of Good Counsel were among the groups that shared their richness and mission. It was a powerful reminder of the diversity and vibrancy of the Charismatic movement in the diocese. Bishop Peter spoke candidly about the journey ahead for every parish in the diocese, as we seek to renew our missionary purpose. He emphasized that the Charismatic Renewal is a significant part of our spiritual journey, and that it must be integrated into the life of the diocese, serving the mission of the Church.
As the diocese looks to the future, plans are underway to redesign the diocesan website, with new pages dedicated to the Charismatic Renewal. The website will provide information about CHARIS, the Catholic Charismatic Renewal, and Pope Francis’ vision for this movement. A diocesan directory of Charismatic prayer groups and ministries will also be included, along with links to national and international resources. The next Charismatic Family Gathering is already being planned, and all are encouraged to attend. It is through this shared witness and unity that the diversity of our ministries becomes a strength for the whole Church. As Pam Smith requests, please keep her in your prayers as she seeks to serve both the Diocese of East Anglia and the CHARIS vision with prudence, courage, and love.
The day ended on a high note, with a sense of hope and excitement for the future. The Pentecost Vigil “Outpouring” will take place on Saturday, June 7, at 7:30 pm, and all are welcome to come and “be filled with the Holy Spirit” (Ephesians 5:18). For more information about the Catholic Charismatic Renewal in the Diocese of East Anglia, please contact Pam Smith at [email protected]. The event was a powerful reminder of the importance of unity, communion, and mission in the Church, and we look forward to seeing the fruit of this gathering in the years to come. As we move forward, let us remember the words of Bishop Peter: “Walk with care, souls are fragile,” and let us seek to serve the mission of the Church with prudence, courage, and love.
