We are pleased to share with you a summary of the unprecedented event that CHARIS, International Service for the Catholic Charismatic Renewal, organized last April. Hundreds of people from the Catholic Charismatic Renewal from many countries around the world had the opportunity to participate in this event on April 3.

This meeting included many of the participants from the “Training for the Worldwide Network of Intercessors” meeting, organized by CHARIS through the Intercession Commission, which took place from March 31 to April 4. Also present were many of those who would participate in the “First World Meeting of Prayer Groups” on April 4-6.

During this event in the heart of the Church in the Vatican, intense moments of prayer were experienced in the Patio of San Dámaso, next to the Apostolic Palace, where intercession was offered for the Church throughout the world. This was followed by a pilgrimage through the Vatican Gardens, teachings in the Paul VI Hall, and, after passing through the Holy Door, a heartfelt Eucharistic celebration at the Altar of the Chair in St. Peter’s Basilica, concelebrated by more than 65 priests, including several bishops.

We were honored by the participation of several leaders of the Charismatic Renewal, including Bishop Joseph Armando Espaillat of the Archdiocese of New York and Fr. Hayden Williams, O.F.M. Cap., itinerant preacher of Maltese origin. We were also honored by the presence of His Eminence Cardinal Matteo Maria Zuppi, president of the Italian Episcopal Conference.

Although Pope Francis was unable to attend due to poor health, he sent a letter that was read by Pino Scafuro, moderator of CHARIS, at the beginning of the meeting. (Read the letter here)

It was a deeply enriching day of spirituality, praise, fraternity, and gratitude to the Lord for once again pouring out the Holy Spirit on the current of grace that is the Catholic Charismatic Renewal, and for granting us such a special day in the heart of the Church.

You can relive some of the key moments through the following video: A day of the CCR in the heart of the Church