Each Called by Name

When we think of the various spiritualities in the Church we can easily compare them on a superficial level of structure, of founders or of nationalities. I think one of the easiest is to explain the differences by the primary underlying experience of God in each one. Obviously, such a description is not going to be extensive, but it sheds light on the variations throughout that spirituality. I admit I may not have a perfect grasp of each spirituality mentioned, but I hope these help. 

Carmelites: Configuration with the crucified Christ

Opus Dei: The experience of God as Father – we are beloved children of God 

Jesuits: The emptiness of the world and the fullness in Christ – the meditation of the two ways: Christ or the world 

Missionaries of Charity: Christ present in the poor and suffering – whatsoever you do to the least of my brothers, that you did unto me: a daily living of Matthew 25 

Charismatic renewal: The experience of the Holy Spirit active in our lives today 

Dominicans: Christ present in the community – or as one Dominican put it: we are about corporate holiness, you are only as holy as your community 

Franciscans: The poverty, humility and simplicity of Bethlehem and Nazareth – go, sell what you have and follow me 

Regnum Christi and the Legion: The call of Christ to be an Apostle – Christ’s charity urges us on 

Even if Regnum Christi became a personal prelature tomorrow it would not be Opus Dei, a Christ-centered and Father-centered spirituality have a difference at the root. Hopefully this difference at the base helps you understand the more visible differences.

About Fr Matthew P. Schneider, LC

In 2001, I traveled from Calgary, Canada to join the Legion. Since then I’ve been all over North America and spent some time in Rome. I currently reside in Washington doing a bunch of writing and taking care of the community while studying my Licentiate in Theology (between Masters and Doctorate). I’m most well-known on Instagram and Twitter where I have about 6,500 and 40,000 followers respectively.
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