Charisms for the Mission of the Church: United in one commission

By Josh Low

Representatives of 25 ecclesial communities and movements from across Australia recently met with several bishops to strengthen bonds and to dialogue about the future of the Church.

Held at Mary MacKillop Place in North Sydney from 21 to 22 August, the two-day gathering was  hosted by the Bishops Commission for Evangelisation, Laity and Ministry (BCELM) and centred on the theme ‘Charisms for the Mission of the Church’.

Among them was Glenorchy parishioner Sean Werapermall, who was representing Catholic Charismatic Renewal International Service (CHARIS) Tasmania.

He said leaders from the various ecclesial movements and communities came together for the event in a spirit of prayer, collaboration, and openness.

He added that it was a time of encouragement, connection, and hope for the journey ahead.

“The conversations were rich and energising,” he said.

“Over the two days we explored evangelisation, the many charisms present in the Church, and our shared responsibility for mission.

“Most importantly, we looked ahead with hope, asking how we can continue to walk together on this journey of faith.”

Sean said it was a blessing to have been involved in the process, which he found encouraging.

“I was able to contribute by sharing some of our unique Tasmanian experiences and the charisms our community brings, while also gaining a wider perspective on all that is happening across Australia through the many ecclesial movements and new communities.

“What struck me most was that, even though each group looks and sounds different, at the core we all share the same mission: to bring the Gospel to the ends of the earth.

“That shared purpose in evangelisation filled me with hope and reminded me that we are not alone – we are united in one commission.

“A big part of this is learning to use our unique charisms in collaboration with one another. For example, we might call on intercessory groups to pray for a program or conference, combining their gift of prayer with other ministries in action.

“I believe this ongoing dialogue between charismatic groups, ecclesial movements, new communities, and the Church leadership will be a great blessing.”

Commission chair and Archbishop of Canberra-Goulburn, Christopher Prowse, said the gathering was a momentous occasion for those present.

“It was wonderful to be able to spend time learning about the diverse and varied movements and communities that are active in Australia,” he said.

“I am hopeful that the enthusiasm and commitment of the participants will lead to a stronger sense of co-responsibility between movements and communities moving forward.”