Rise of Charismatic Catholicism in Latin America

The growth of Charismatic, or Pentecostal, Catholicism in Latin America has been parallel to the rise of Protestantism, but it has been overlooked by journalists and scholars. Edward Cleary offers the first comprehensive treatment of this movement, revealing its importance to the Catholic Church and the people of Latin America. The movement has acquired an indigenous Latin American character and is returning to the United States through migration. Cleary explores and analyzes the origins and expansion of the movement, bringing with it vitality and controversy.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 324 pages
Publication date: 30 May 2018
Publisher: University Press of Florida

Much has been made of the dramatic rise of Protestantism in Latin America. Many view this as a sign that Catholicisms primacy in the region is at last beginning to wane. Overlooked by journalists and scholars has been the parallel growth of Charismatic, or Pentecostal, Catholicism in the region. Edward Cleary offers the first comprehensive treatment of this movement, revealing its importance to the Catholic Church as well as the people of Latin America.

Catholic Charismatics have grown worldwide to several hundred million, among whom Latin Americans number approximately 73 million participants. These individuals are helping the church become more extroverted by drawing many into evangelizing and mission work. The movement has rapidly acquired an indigenous Latin American character and is now returning to the United States through migration and is affecting Catholicism in the United States.

Cleary has witnessed firsthand the birth and maturing of the Catholic Charismatic Renewal in Latin America as both a social scientist and a Dominican missionary. Drawing upon important findings of Latin American scholars and researchers, he explores and analyzes the origins of the most important Catholic movement in Latin America and its notable expansion to all countries of the region, bringing with it unusual vitality and notable controversy about its practices.

The Catholic Charismatic Renewal in Latin America has been a significant phenomenon in recent years, attracting both praise and criticism. On the one hand, its proponents argue that it has brought new life and energy to the Catholic Church, providing a fresh approach to worship and spirituality that resonates with many people. On the other hand, critics have raised concerns about the movement's practices, which some see as bordering on the supernatural or cult-like.

One of the key features of the Catholic Charismatic Renewal is its emphasis on the Holy Spirit and the gifts of the Spirit, such as prophecy, healing, and speaking in tongues. Participants in the movement often experience intense emotional worship and prayer, and they believe that the Holy Spirit is actively working in their lives and the lives of others. This emphasis on the supernatural has led some to question the movement's compatibility with traditional Catholic teachings and practices.

Another issue that has been raised about the Catholic Charismatic Renewal is its emphasis on personal experience and individualism. Some argue that the movement places too much emphasis on personal feelings and experiences, rather than on the broader teachings of the Catholic Church. This can lead to a lack of coherence and consistency in the movement's teachings and practices, as different individuals and groups interpret the Holy Spirit's guidance in different ways.

Despite these concerns, the Catholic Charismatic Renewal has continued to grow and spread throughout Latin America. Its proponents argue that it has brought many people back to the Catholic Church, and that it has provided a source of hope and healing for those who have been marginalized or oppressed. The movement has also been credited with promoting social justice and poverty alleviation, as many Charismatic Catholics are involved in community development and outreach programs.

In conclusion, the Catholic Charismatic Renewal in Latin America has been a complex and controversial phenomenon. While it has brought new life and energy to the Catholic Church, it has also raised concerns about its practices and compatibility with traditional Catholic teachings. It is important to approach the movement with an open mind and a willingness to engage in respectful dialogue and exploration. By doing so, we can better understand the movement's impact on the Catholic Church and the people of Latin America.

Weight: 492g
Dimension: 153 x 228 x 20 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780813064765