“Charisms are a type of grace which God gives to individuals for ministry, for service. As such, they are not so much given to the individual for the individual’s sake, but for the sake of others. St. Thomas calls the charisms gratia gratis data. (grace freely given). These graces given ‘freely’ in the sense that they are not given to the individual on account of some merit, or as some personal reward that God bestows. Rather, God bestows these gifts ‘freely’ on certain individuals, for the sake of the wider community, and for that benefit, rather than because the individual receiving the grace particularly deserves it.”
In a recent commentary, Monsignor Charles Pope (pastor of Holy Comforter-Saint Cyprian Parish, Washington, DC) reflected on charisms and on why it is important to properly use the ones the Lord has given to us.
To access Msgr. Pope’s complete post, please visit:
Msgr. Charles Pope: A Little Primer on Charisms as seen in an animated video (10 MAY 13)
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