What Is the Catholic Charismatic Renewal?

The Catholic Charismatic Renewal (CCR) is a vibrant movement within the Catholic Church that emphasizes the transforming power and presence of the Holy Spirit, just like at Pentecost. It is not a separate denomination, but a fully Catholic expression of faith that encourages believers to live a deeper, Spirit-empowered Christian life.

Here in the Archdiocese of San Antonio, the Renewal is alive and growing—especially through youth and young adult outreach such as Youth Staying Connected (YSC), an initiative empowering the next generation to live Spirit-filled lives faithful to the Church.

• Jesus is Lord – A personal relationship with Jesus Christ is at the center.
   
• Baptism in the Holy Spirit – A powerful awakening of the graces received in Baptism and Confirmation.
   
• Charisms (Spiritual Gifts) – Welcoming gifts like healing, prophecy, tongues, discernment, and more (1 Corinthians 12).
   
• Evangelization – Sharing the Good News boldly and joyfully.
   
• Praise and Worship – Joyful and expressive worship rooted in Scripture and Tradition.
   
• Community – Prayer groups, retreats, and discipleship rooted in the Catholic Sacraments.

 The Catholic Charismatic Renewal began in 1967 when a group of Catholic students at Duquesne University in Pittsburgh experienced a profound outpouring of the Holy Spirit during a retreat. What began as a small prayer gathering quickly spread to college campuses and parishes across the U.S. and the world.

Today, the Renewal is present in over 200 countries, with millions of Catholics experiencing the fruits of this “current of grace” in their lives.

 The Charismatic Renewal is welcomed and affirmed by the Church’s Magisterium:

• St. Paul VI (1975):
   "The Renewal is a chance for the Church and for the world."
  
   
• St. John Paul II:
   Called it “a grace for the Church” and encouraged it to remain rooted in Catholic identity.
  
   
• Pope Benedict XVI:
   Highlighted its fruits in prayer, evangelization, and holiness.
  
   
• Pope Francis:
   “The Charismatic Renewal is a current of grace destined for the whole Church.”
   

In 2019, Pope Francis established CHARIS (Catholic Charismatic Renewal International Service), the Vatican-recognized body that coordinates Charismatic communities globally.

 The Catholic Charismatic Center for Renewal of the Archdiocese of San Antonio was previously led by Bishop Thomas Flanagan, a longtime supporter and advocate of the movement.

The Renewal—including ministries like YSC (Youth Staying Connected)—continues to be fully approved and supported by Archbishop Gustavo García-Siller, M.Sp.S.

The current Director of the Catholic Charismatic Center For Renewal of the Archdiocese of San Antonio is Fr. Bob Hogan, BBD, who brings years of experience, spiritual wisdom, and a deep commitment to fostering Spirit-filled discipleship across the Archdiocese.