Hierarchical and Charismatic Gifts: the Primacy of Communion in the Historical-Spiritual Journey of the Focolare Movement in the Light of the Letter Iuvenescit Ecclesia Cover Image

Doni gerarchici e carismatici: il primato della comunione nel cammino storico-spirituale del Movimento dei Focolari alla luce della Lettera Iuvenescit Ecclesia
Hierarchical and Charismatic Gifts: the Primacy of Communion in the Historical-Spiritual Journey of the Focolare Movement in the Light of the Letter Iuvenescit Ecclesia

Author(s): Lucia Abignente
Subject(s): Christian Theology and Religion, Theology and Religion, Systematic Theology
Published by: Towarzystwo Naukowe KUL & Katolicki Uniwersytet Lubelski Jana Pawła II
Keywords: Chiara Lubich; criteria of ecclesiality; ecclesial movements; Focolare Movement; charism of unity

Summary/Abstract: In the light of the criteria of ecclesiality indicated by the Letter Iuvenescit Ecclesia for the discernment of new movements and communities, the essay goes through the historical events of one of the most well-known and widerspread ecclesial realities of our times: the Focolare Movement (or Work of Mary). Dwelling upon the period in which it was being studied by the Holy See, one can understand how the charism of Chiara Lubich made its way in a difficult and arduous manner. From the documents – of high spiritual value – what emerges clearly are two indispensable characteristics of an authentically ecclesial reality: the unconditional adhesion to the cross and the strong communion with the Church.

  • Issue Year: 65/2018
  • Issue No: 5
  • Page Range: 107-120
  • Page Count: 14
  • Language: Italian