The charismatic movement within Anglicanism emerged as an expression of spiritual renewal within the Church’s historical tradition. This movement began to gain momentum in the 20th century, influenced by revivals and charismatic renewal in various traditional denominations.
Roots and Development
The charismatic renewal in Anglicanism is marked by the 1960s when leaders like Rev. Dennis Bennett, then rector of St. Mark’s Episcopal Church in Van Nuys, California, experienced the baptism in the Holy Spirit. His boldness in sharing these experiences paved the way for many Anglicans to rediscover spiritual gifts such as prophecy and healing.
The movement found support from influential leaders of the Anglican Communion, such as Anglican Archbishop Michael Ramsey, who stated: “The charismatic renewal is not a break with tradition but a reminder that the Church is animated by the same Spirit that inspired the apostles.”
Liturgical and Spiritual Impacts
The charismatic movement introduced dynamism into Anglican worship. Services began to include contemporary music, moments of spontaneous prayer, and spiritual manifestations, without abandoning the rich and historical liturgy of the Book of Common Prayer.
Anglican theologian John Stott observed: “The Church needs both form and fire. The charismatic movement brought a renewed sense of vitality, reminding us that orthodoxy must always be accompanied by vibrant spiritual life.”
Global Presence
Today, the Anglican charismatic movement has a global expression, especially in African and Asian contexts, where the combination of historical liturgy and spiritual fervor has found fertile ground. Organizations like the Anglican Renewal Ministries and the Society of St. John the Evangelist have worked to integrate charismatic values into Anglican life.
The presence of the charismatic movement in Anglicanism has brought new energy to discipleship and worship, reaffirming that tradition and renewal are not opposites, but parts of the same movement of the Spirit. As Anglican evangelist Michael Green stated: “The charismatic movement is an invitation to live fully in the power of the Spirit, without forgetting the riches of our tradition.”
Dom F. Caldas
Diocesan Bishop