As the charismatic renewal continues to grow, priests find it necessary to respond to the presence of prayer groups in their parishes. IN HIS FOOTSTEPS offers help in understanding what the charismatic renewal is and how priests can minister to charismatic groups. Drawing on many resources Richard J. Pettey traces the history of the Catholic charismatic renewal. He describes the renewal in a theological-doctrinal framework, explaining spiritual gifts, prayer meetings and such terms as "baptism in the Holy Spirit." He also presents a summary of the Catholic Bishops' and Pope Paul VI's statements on the charismatic renewal.
The Catholic priest's role in the Church community, as seen in Vatican II's Decree on the Ministry and Lite of Priest’s, involves proclaiming the Gospel, forging unity and teaching. Pettey shows how this priestly ministry can function in the charismatic renewal and suggests practical ways in which a priest can give sound pastoral guidance, helping the prayer group become a source of renewal rather than division. IN HIS FOOTSTEPS will help both priests and laypersons to clarify their expectations of the relationship between priests and those involved in the charismatic renewal.