From 11 to 15 May, Linda Ward (Pioneer International Leader) and I attended the International Charismatic Consultation in Rome.
Towards the end of the twentieth century, the Vatican recognised that there were many Catholic Charismatics, but also that there were a growing number of New Charismatic Churches (NCCs) – estimated at around 780 million worldwide. Thus, they decided to begin a dialogue between the two, recognising that it is a sin of division not to work towards unity. Such consultations have been happening every two years ever since (with the exception of a break for COVID) and gather charismatics of all kinds from across the world.
The subject under discussion for the 2026 consultation was ‘Apostolic Leadership’. One of the outcomes of the discussions was the recognition that for Catholics, this notion is institutional, whereas for NCCs it is functional. There was also an open conversation about the New Apostolic Reformation (NAR). (For background: NAR is a term coined by C. Peter Wagner, who taught that the “Second Apostolic Age” began in 2001, claiming that God had restored the biblical offices of modern-day apostles and prophets to govern the Church. He promoted the theology of “taking dominion” over society, which encourages Christians to influence the seven major spheres of culture (such as government, media, and education) to align with biblical values.)
The week also included a gathering at the Vatican’s Dicastery for Promoting Christian Unity and a meeting at the ecumenical research centre the Centro Pro Unione. In addition, many of us went on a tour of the crypt of St Peter’s Basilica.
Amongst all the discussion there were some wonderful times of worship during which it was impossible to tell the Catholics from the NCCs. This all culminated in a foot washing service on the Thursday evening which was a very precious indicator of our humble unity in the Spirit. It was a privilege to be part of this consultation.
Find out more about the International Charismatic Consultation.
Photo credits: Richard Bradbury