what is a charism of the Holy Spirit?

Here’s the dictionary definition:

an extraordinary power given to a Christian by the Holy Spirit for the good of the Church

What is a charism in the Catholic Church?

The dictionary definitions is an extraordinary power given to a Christian by the Holy Spirit for the good of the Church.

Etymologically, the word “charism” comes from the Greek charis, meaning grace or free gift.

The word “grace” expresses the gift that allows Christians to participate in the divine life in Christ through the Holy Spirit.

It is what makes a baptized person a child of God and a member of the Body of Christ. We're officially in the family - we don't have to earn it. This is why our approach to charisms hinges on understanding our personal identity, which you can learn more about here.

Essentially, charisms are unique gifts we are each given in our baptism, and additional outpourings of grace throughout our lives, to build the Church and empower us to play our specific role. Just as in biology, our charisms help us understand what kind of cell we are in the larger Body.

The Role of Sacraments in Receiving Charisms

Sacraments play a crucial role in the transmission of grace, serving as a foundational element in the journey of receiving charisms. Baptism, in particular, is highlighted as the starting point for everyone in their relationship with charisms. It marks the initial "yes" to God, setting the stage for a life enriched by spiritual gifts.

While sacraments are a surefire way to receive grace, it's important to recognize that God's ability to bestow grace is not limited to these moments. Grace and charisms can be given at various moments outside of the traditional seven sacraments, according to God's will.

Charisms of groups and families

Individuals have charisms, but larger groups within the Church, such as families and religious orders, can also have charisms that direct the unique way they serve the body of Christ together.

You have likely heard of religious communities speaking about their "charisms," and this is the most common context in which Catholics typically encounter this word. These charisms vary from order to order, including hospitality, work, and prayer for Benedictines; teaching, service, and missionary work for the Carmelites; teaching for the Ursulines; and knowledge and preaching for Dominicans.

Orders also may take unique vows that contribute to their understanding of their order's charism, and that charism might not be something explicitly mentioned in our list of charisms that an individual might receive.

An often-used analogy for the charisms of religious orders is the idea of holiday traditions. We may all celebrate Christmas or Easter, but each family does it in their own way. In the same way all religious orders seek to evangelize and grow in closeness with God, but their charism directs the unique way that they do that.

There has been much less study and discussion about charisms in families, but there is evidence that specific individual charisms can run in families, and as we know, God does nothing by accident. There is no official theological teaching about whether or not families have charisms, but it does make sense that the unity of the family can pour out in a unity of purpose through common charisms.

There are dozens, if not hundreds, of lists of the charisms on the Internet, and most are different. Why is this?

In a nutshell, it is because the church has never made an official ruling on the exact list of charisms it teaches.

But, if you closely examine all the lists, you'll find that rather than being very different, most lists draw their dividing lines differently - one list perhaps grouping all charisms that relate to creating expressions of the transcendentals together under a "Creative" or "Creating" charism, other lists divide up this into more specific expressions like craftsmanship, music, and writing.

Here at Many Parts we use a list of 26 gifts. The 26 charisms we refer to are:

writing

craftsmanship

encouragement

giving

helps

music

prophecy

discernment of spirits

service

administration

knowledge

pastoring

wisdom

faith

leadership

teaching

intercession

celibacy

evangelization

hospitality

healing

voluntary poverty

mercy

missionary

tongues

interpretation of tongues

We help people discern all of these except for speaking in tongues and interpreting tongues, as those charisms do not typically fly under the radar the way the other 24 can.

We have come to this list we use through careful study of Scripture and church teaching, as well as reflection after walking with thousands of clients through charism discernment focusing on two questions: What is it most evident that the Holy Spirit is empowering people to do, and what divisions are most helpful and clarifying for people trying to discern?

How many charisms are there?

What is the difference between charisms and gifts of the Holy Spirit?

Understanding the difference is crucial as it provides context for viewing charisms as our role within the broader body of Christ. We'll clarify the gifts first.

The Seven Gifts of the Holy Spirit

These seven gifts are foundational elements in Christian theology, originating from the book of Isaiah, specifically Isaiah 11. These gifts have been a significant part of church history and theological discussions, notably explored by Thomas Aquinas in his work, the Summa Theologica. The gifts are derived from the translation in the Vulgate and include:

Wisdom

Understanding

Counsel

Fortitude

Knowledge

Piety

Fear of the Lord

These gifts are often confused with charisms, as some, like wisdom and knowledge, appear in both categories, which can make it a challenge to distinguish between the two.

The Charisms

The charisms listed above differ from the gifts of the Holy Spirit in that which gifts are given vary from person to person and are unique to them, complimenting their natural inclinations and personality. You have access to all the gifts as a baptized Christian, but you most likely have only been given a portion of the charisms suitable to the role you are called to play in the Church.

Also, the gifts of the Holy Spirit are, in one sense, gifts we have been given to keep, while charisms are gifts we are given to give away.

Biological and Familial Analogies

In understanding the difference between charisms and spiritual gifts, it's essential to have a holistic view of how these elements fit together within the body of Christ. The analogy of the body of Christ is a natural one, reflecting the idea that "there are many parts and all one body." This concept is foundational to understanding the diversity and unity within the Christian community.

Body of Christ Analogy

The body of Christ analogy is rooted in the idea that, just as a body has many parts, so does the community of believers. Each part has a unique role and function, contributing to the overall health and operation of the body. This analogy helps to illustrate how spiritual gifts and charisms function within the church.

Gifts as Baptismal Graces

The gifts of the Holy Spirit are described as baptismal graces, akin to presents received on Christmas morning. These gifts, such as wisdom, understanding, counsel, fortitude, knowledge, piety, and fear of the Lord, are universally given to all believers at baptism. They are the foundational attributes that signify the presence of the Holy Spirit in a person.

Charisms as Specializations

Charisms, on the other hand, are specialized gifts given to individuals. They are not the same for everyone and can include gifts like wisdom, encouragement, or administration. These charisms are akin to the specialized functions of different cells in the body. Just as a skin cell and a liver cell have different roles, so do individuals within the body of Christ, each equipped with unique charisms to fulfill their specific purpose.

Cellular Biology Metaphor

The metaphor of cellular biology is used to explain this concept further. All cells in the body share certain structures and systems, just as all believers share the gifts of the Holy Spirit. However, the specific function and location of a cell determine its unique attributes, similar to how charisms work within the body of Christ.

In summary, while the gifts of the Holy Spirit are universal and foundational, charisms are specialized gifts that enable individuals to serve specific roles within the body of Christ. This understanding helps to appreciate the diversity and unity within the Christian community.

1. Understanding the Importance

Understanding the Process of Charism Discernment

Discerning charisms is a vital process for many believers, allowing them to understand and articulate the unique gifts bestowed upon them by God. A charism is defined as a free gift or grace given to us through the sacraments. It is through these sacraments that we primarily recognize the reception of these divine graces.

God, in His infinite wisdom, is not confined to the sacraments alone. He can bestow His grace in various ways, including through a deepened relationship with Him or being baptized in the Holy Spirit. However, the journey of receiving God's grace begins with baptism. It is at this moment that one tangibly receives the grace of God.

According to Catholic teaching, as outlined in the catechism, all individuals baptized in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, including Protestants, have received at least one charism. These charisms are intended for the building up of the church, and it is common for individuals to possess more than one.

The process of discerning these charisms involves identifying and naming the gifts that already exist within us. It is not about acquiring new charisms but understanding and acknowledging the ones we have been given.

Practical Steps of Charism Discernment

Charism discernment is a vital process for understanding and utilizing the gifts bestowed upon us by the Holy Spirit. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate this journey effectively.

The catechism emphasizes the necessity of discerning our charisms, as we are accountable for how we use these gifts. This responsibility is akin to the parable of the talents, where individuals are expected to steward their gifts wisely.

2. Starting with an Assessment

Begin by taking an assessment to narrow down the list of twenty-four charisms to a manageable few. This helps focus your discernment process and reduces overwhelm. We have a great one available here.

3. Engaging in Prayer and Reflection

Prayer is crucial in charism discernment. You can sit down with your Bible and the list of charisms to start a meaningful dialogue with God about your gifts.

"You can sit down in your prayer time with your bible and the list of all twenty four charisms and begin a beautiful, fruitful, charism discernment process."

4. Seeking Feedback from Others

Begin by taking an assessment to narrow down the list of twenty-four charisms to a manageable few. This helps focus your discernment process and reduces overwhelm. We have a great one available here.

5. Testing Charisms in Real-Life Situations

Apply your potential charisms in real-life scenarios to see how they manifest and impact others. This practical application is essential for confirming your gifts.

Benefits of Knowing What Your Charism Is:

Discerning your charisms is a profound journey that offers numerous benefits. Understanding your charisms doesn't create them; rather, it allows you to engage with them more intentionally and with greater awareness of how they manifest in your life.

Understanding the Movement of the Holy Spirit

One of the primary benefits is gaining insight into how the Holy Spirit moves within you. This understanding is incredibly powerful, as it helps you recognize how God communicates with you.

Knowing Where to Plug into the Church and Your Parish

Discerning your charisms also guides you in finding your place within the church. It provides clarity on how and where you can contribute most effectively, aligning your unique gifts with the needs of the community.

Unique Combinations of Charisms and Their Expressions

Each person has a unique combination of charisms, leading to different expressions and roles within the body of Christ. Although there is a finite list of charisms, the combinations and expressions are as diverse as the individuals themselves. This diversity allows for a rich tapestry of contributions to the church and the world.

By discerning your charisms, you uncover your unique mix of gifts, which can guide you to roles and opportunities where you can thrive and contribute meaningfully. For example, if you have a charism for music and leadership, you might find fulfillment in leading musical initiatives within your community.

Receiving Charisms Throughout Life

Charisms, or spiritual gifts, are not limited to specific moments like baptism or confirmation. They can be received at various times throughout one's life. This page explores how charisms can be bestowed beyond these traditional sacraments.

God can give us grace in any way and at any time he decrees.

Charisms may appear to be given randomly, not confined to specific life events. While sacraments are assured channels of grace, they do not restrict God's ability to grant grace in other ways. This means that charisms can be received unexpectedly, much like a surprise gift. Whenever they come, charisms remain a powerful channel of God's love and must be stewarded faithfully.

God's Timing in Bestowing Charisms

The Parable of the Talents

The parable of the talents from the New Testament serves as an analogy for receiving and using charisms. In the parable, those who wisely nurture their gifts are entrusted with more. Similarly, individuals who steward their charisms well may find themselves receiving even more gifts from God.

The people that were given a lot are given even more when they steward it well.

Continuous Reception of Charisms

Charisms can be received both sacramentally and through a deepening relationship with God. While baptism is a significant moment for receiving charisms, they can also be granted at any time as God sees fit. This ongoing reception of charisms highlights the dynamic nature of God's grace in our lives.