Scottish Catholic Observer

This week’s SCO carries a special section on Catholic Charismatic Renewal, as it celebrates it’s 50th anniversary. Through the words of many of the people involved with the movement it seeks to explain a part of the Church that can be mysterious to many.

As ever, it is worth turning to the words of St John Paul II who had this to say

“At this moment in the Church’s history, the Charismatic Renewal can play a significant role in promoting the much-needed defense of Christian life in societies where secularism and materialism have weakened many people’s ability to respond to the Spirit and to discern God’s loving call. Your contribution to the re-evangelisation of society will be made in the first place by personal witness to the indwelling Spirit and by showing forth His presence through works of holiness and solidarity.”

High praise indeed, and this revival of enthusiasm that many associate with the Charismatic Renewal is a great weapon for the Church in the fight against evil. One of the great strengths of the Church is its diversity; Charismatic Renewal are one of the many movements that offer something unique within the Church. They are a bright and heady melody in the great symphony of Catholicism.

The remarkable story of Mgr Peter Smith (above) in this week’s SCO is one worth heeding. First let us say that though he remains ill, his remarkable recovery when the doctors’ thought his race was run, is something to give great thanks for.

The fact the Blessed Margaret Sinclair may have intervened would be a wonderful if verified, in which case it would surely move her closer to Sainthood. We sorely need another Scottish Saint in these troubling times, but we cannot lose hope—miracles happen, sometimes closer than you think.