Celebrating Consecrated Life: Gift to the World

Founders and foundresses are inspired and guided by God to establish an identifiable group of individuals who will live and offer this gift—this charism—to those they encounter in community and service. This charism is the life-blood of a congregation, the Spirit that enlivens and guides decisions affecting all aspects of the members’ lives. It is the treasure that each generation guards, nurtures and shares with the next generation entering the congregation.

Charism is the gift planted in the heart of the young woman or man, drawing her or him to the congregation with that same gift. The process of discernment, the purpose of the initial formation of the candidate is very specific. Both congregation and candidate must verify that the candidate is 1) called to consecrated life; 2) called to live consecrated life in this congregation; and 3) able to live this call at this time. In other words, does this candidate share the same gift or charism as the congregation? And is she or he ready to live it?

Often discussion of charism includes two essential elements: spirituality and mission. These aspects are so intimately intertwined that it is difficult to speak of them separately. A congregation’s charism centers its members’ spirituality, serves as the heart of their prayer life and encourages certain characteristics in their response to God in their lives. Because true prayer blossoms into good works, or service to others, a congregation’s charism is expressed in its stated mission. That mission or purpose for existence often guides community life and directs service to those with particular needs.

When a new congregation is being formed, its charism is a major element of interest. Because the Holy Spirit continues to nurture and guide the Church in its life and growth, Church leadership is responsible to recognize, welcome and foster any new gifts—or religious congregations—being formed within the Church. So when a new group asks for formal recognition, some questions that may be asked are: What is their charism? Is this a new gift being offered to the Church and the world? What need in today’s world is being addressed?

The Diocese of Corpus Christi is blessed with members from 19 different religious congregations of women and five congregations of men—each with a distinct charism. Members of different congregations may have the same ministry and serve the same needs within the diocese. Yet those who know them, who have shared their prayer, who have experienced their service, can tell you that the flavor of each is unique.

(To find out more about the congregations in our diocese, visit diocesecc.org/consecratedlife.)