From November 10 to 14, 2025, members of the CHARIS International Service of Communion (CISC) gathered in Marija Bistrica – Zagreb, Croatia, for its Annual Meeting.
It was an intense week, rich in spirituality, prayer, discernment, and international collaboration, which allowed for a deepening of communion and clarification of the mission entrusted to the current of grace in the world.
A Week of Prayer and Discernment
From the very first day, the Program focused on the guidance of the Holy Spirit, with morning prayers and daily Eucharistic celebrations. The work sessions took place in an atmosphere of deep mutual listening and listening to the Church.
The key topics addressed included:
- Reports from the continents and Commissions.
- Key proposals for the 2026-2027 biennium.
- Formation initiatives (Leadership Course, School of Charisms).
- Preparations for the 60th anniversary of the Catholic Charismatic Renewal (CCR).
- CHARIS publications, projects, and financial aspects.
- Moments of discernment on the current mission of CHARIS.
Particularly Significant Experiences of Grace
Although the entire week was an experience of grace, two moments left a deep spiritual mark on all participants: the night of prayer experienced together with the National Service of Communion Croatia and the pilgrimage to the tomb of St. Simeon in Zadar.
Night of Prayer with the National Fellowship of Croatia
The prayer meeting on Thursday evening with the Catholic Charismatic Renewal (CCR) of Croatia was a real highlight. We were welcomed with remarkable warmth and joy, in a space where lively and heartfelt worship allowed leaders from around the world to pray and intercede freely for the nations. Testimonies, songs, and silence created a beautiful mosaic of unity. It was a true encounter: with God, with others, and with the living fire of the Spirit. Many participants left visibly moved, renewed, and strengthened for the mission.
Pilgrimage to the Tomb of St. Simeon
Another unforgettable experience was the morning pilgrimage to the Church of St. Simeon in Zadar. Standing before the relics of the Saint who held Jesus in his arms and proclaimed him “light for the revelation to the nations” was deeply moving. This moment of prayer reminded everyone that the mission of CHARIS today is to bring that same light to the world, especially in these times of confusion and spiritual hunger.
At the end of the Program, participants took home a renewed unity, clarity of mission, and a deeper sense of belonging to the global CCR family.
The two most grace-filled moments, the night of prayer and the pilgrimage remain as lasting reminders that the heart of our service is always rooted in prayer, communion, and encounter with the Lord.
May the fruit of this week in Zagreb continue to bring abundant blessings to CHARIS and to the whole Church.
Come, Holy Spirit!
Andrés Arango
