Welcome
Welcome to the Saint Teresa’s Beaconsfield Called and Gifted Web page.
Our Program is based on the program that stems from the Catherine of Siena Institute and the Catholic Diocese of Portsmouth.
Called and Gifted Process
There are three stages of Called and Gifted. Here is the outline from the Called ad Gifted UK Webpage. Please do not register or book from any of the links from the Called and Gifted UK pages.
Stage 1: The Teaching
Learning about charisms has never been easier. Teaching is now available online in a self-paced, self-study, digital bundle which can be accessed via a passcode when you register. This opens up charism discernment to the whole of the UK where you can expect energy, joy, surprises and great results!
Stage 2: The 1-1 Discernment Conversation
After completion of stage 1 and the spiritual gifts inventory you will be given an invitation via Zoom to speak with a team facilitator about your inventory results. The facilitator is trained at helping you unlock your story; seeing where and when you feel most fully alive.
Stage 3: The Experimentation
Following stage 2, the team facilitator will arrange a Zoom launch meeting to kick-start stage 3 with a group of discerners who have completed stage 2. Whilst charism discernment is personal between you and the Holy Spirit, we have found that fellow discerners meeting at regular intervals are invaluable.
Here is a recording of Gerry Penfold explaining more to parishioners who were able to join a Zoom call on Friday 10 January 2025.
Key Characteristics of Catholic Charisms
In Catholic theology, charisms are special gifts or graces given by the Holy Spirit to individuals or groups within the Church. These gifts are not given for personal benefit but are meant to build up the Church, to serve others, and to glorify God. The word “charism” comes from the Greek charisma, meaning “gift” or “favour.”
Key Characteristics of Catholic Charisms:
- Divinely Bestowed: Charisms are supernatural gifts freely given by the Holy Spirit.
- For the Common Good: They are intended to benefit the community, particularly the Parish of the Church, and not just the individual.
- Diverse and Varied: Charisms are numerous and diverse, ranging from ordinary abilities enhanced by grace to extraordinary manifestations of the Spirit.
- Discernment is Required: The Church encourages discernment to ensure that a charism is genuine and being used in accordance with God’s will.
Scriptural Basis:
Charisms are discussed in several New Testament passages, particularly:
- 1 Corinthians 12: Explains the variety of gifts and their purpose in building up the Church.
- Romans 12:6-8: Describes different charisms, such as prophecy, teaching, and mercy.
- Ephesians 4:11-12: Highlights roles like apostles, prophets, evangelists, and teachers as gifts for the Church.
Role in the Church Today:
Charisms are central to the mission of the Church. They empower laypeople, religious, and clergy alike to participate in God’s work. Recognizing and using charisms responsibly fosters spiritual growth, strengthens communities, and enhances the Church’s mission in the world.
Gifts and Charisms of the Holy Spirit
As explained on the Called and Gifted UK website, the gifts of the Holy Spirit are also known as charisms or spiritual gifts.
There are many instances in the Bible where the gifts of the Holy Spirit are mentioned, for example in Acts 2, 1 Corinthians 12, Romans 12 and Ephesians 4, covering a broad range of charisms. These charisms are listed below and include a mixture of testimonies, videos and stories that showcase not only how these gifts were discerned, but also how they’re been useful for others.
There are 23 Charisms of the Holy Spirit – click on the links below to find out more details about each.
If you would like to receive more information on our program, please contact the Parish Office on:
+44 (0)1494 673018 or via email: parish.stteresabeaconsfield@northamptondiocese.org.