Baptism in the spirit : a study of it meaning as contemplative experience

Abstract

The Catholic Charismatic Renewal is one of the ecclesial movements that emerged in the Catholic Church in the period following the Second Vatican Council. Central to the Catholic Charismatic Renewal (and all the other branches of Pentecostal Christianity) is the experience commonly referred to as "baptism in the Spirit". From the beginning of the Catholic Charismatic Renewal, baptism in the Spirit was recognized as its distinguishing feature. Many Catholics all over the world claim that through this experience their life has been touched by the Lord and assert that they came in contact with his divine presence. This study attempts to examine the theology of the baptism in the Spirit and see how it is being received, lived and disseminated within the same movement. This will be done by examining its interpretation by eight persons from different backgrounds, status and age, who are all involved in the Catholic Charismatic Renewal. Furthermore, this study will examine the connection between baptism in the Holy Spirit and Christian contemplation and how its elements and dynamics contribute to a deeper union with God. It analyses its significance from the viewpoint of the Christian contemplative tradition, and attempts also to see how this affects the life of individuals and whether it helps them to develop and sustain a contemplative experience. Finally, this study will offer reflections and recommendations on how the Pentecostal grace of baptism in the Spirit may continue to be received as a living grace and lived among Catholics, both as individuals and in groups.