Dear brothers and sisters in Christ, I wish you all a Happy and Blessed New Year! As we begin this new year, I invite you to reflect on a topic that is vital for the future of the Catholic Charismatic Renewal (CCR): Supernatural Leadership.
What do we mean by “Supernatural Leadership”?
The word charismatic comes from the word ‘charism’—a supernatural grace given by the Holy Spirit. Therefore, a charismatic leader is expected to go beyond human capability and operate through divine empowerment.
1. Leadership as a Gift of the Holy Spirit
Many people see leadership as a personality trait, skill, or natural talent. These are important, but Scripture teaches that leadership is ultimately a charism, a spiritual gift (a service charism).
“He who leads, let him lead with zeal.” — Romans 12:8
Christian leadership does not originate in human intelligence or experience. Its source is in God, and its fruitfulness depends on the Holy Spirit. A leader can have excellent skills; yet, without grace, he cannot shepherd the people of God effectively. Supernatural leadership becomes possible when we surrender our abilities and allow the Holy Spirit to guide, strengthen, and inspire us.
2. Are All Called to Leadership?
In a natural sense, every human being exercises influence—at home, in school, in workplaces, and in social life. Leadership is influence, and we influence people every day. But in the spiritual dimension, God specifically calls some people to lead His people, just as He chose:
These biblical leaders did not rely on personal talent alone. They were formed, purified, and guided by God. Similarly, the CCR requires leaders who understand that their call is divine, not merely organizational.
3. Natural vs. Supernatural Leadership
Many people lead from their own strength, emotions, and ambitions. But a charismatic leader must lead by the power of the Holy Spirit—exercising not only charisms but also the fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23).
Below is a clear contrast:
Natural / Human-Centered Leadership | Supernatural / Christ-Centered Leadership |
Pride | Humility |
Power-focused leadership | Servant leadership |
Holding grudges | Forgiving heart |
Self-centered | Others-centered |
Attached to position | Detached and willing to let go |
Trusting own ability | Trusting God completely |
Disobedience to authority | Obedience to Leaders |
Playing politics | Seeking God’s will, dying to self |
Leading from hurts | Leading with inner freedom |
Not a team player- One man Show | Collaborative and encouraging |
Hiding mistakes | Admitting mistakes with humility |
Emotional decision-making | Discerned decisions |
Criticizing others | Loving and affirming others |
Poor emotional control | Spirit-filled emotional maturity |
Neglecting charisms | Exercising charisms responsibly |
Holding on to positions | Forming next-line leaders |
This comparison shows that supernatural leadership is not about power or performance, but about character and Christ-likeness.
4. Why CCR in India Needs Supernatural Leaders Today
The core nature of the CCR is to renew the whole Church by helping the faithful in the parishes to experience the Baptism in the Holy Spirit (BHS) and grow spiritually through weekly prayer meetings.
Currently, we observe a challenge:
It is the need of the hour to go back to the roots of the CCR and focus on renewing the parish through parish-based prayer groups-the key to renewal for the whole Church.
God is raising leaders in the Catholic Charismatic Renewal to focus on this mission. Parish prayer groups, diocesan ministries, regional leadership teams, and national ministries all need leaders who:
The Renewal does not need leaders who depend on title, position, or influence. It needs leaders like:
Revival begins when leaders become supernatural. Supernatural leadership is God's plan for the Catholic Charismatic Renewal. It is not a special option for a few but a calling for all who lead God’s people.
As we begin this new year, let us pray: “Lord, make me a supernatural leader. Fill me with Your Spirit, purify my heart, and use me to build Your Kingdom.”