Ecclesial Movements And New Communities: Between institution and charism

Abstract

The ecclesial movements and new communities are ecclesial realities bearing charisms that the Holy Spirit gives for the common good of the Church, in order to contribute to the holiness not only of a specific group of the faithful, but of all the members of the people of God. The ecclesial movements and new communities, most of whose members are lay faithful, find their origins in the ecclesiology of communion that characterises the magisterium of the Second Vatican Council, and are a reason for hope in the evangelisation of our times. Deeper reflection on the last ecumenical council’s ecclesiology has brought to light the co-essentiality of hierarchical and charismatic gifts in the Church’s divine constitution, an aspect that has been elevated to the category of theological principle. Recent Popes have expressed their esteem for these new ecclesial realities, establishing criteria for discernment and giving general indications to facilitate their harmonious integration in the Particular Churches where their members are found, contributing to the process of missionary conversion in which the whole Church is engaged.