St. John The Baptist Ukrainian Catholic Church in Newark NJ

Charism of Redemptorists

“Strong in faith, rejoicing in hope, burning with charity and zeal, humble of heart and persevering in prayer, the Redemptorists as apostolic men and genuine disciples of St. Alphonsus follow Christ the Redeemer with hearts full of joy; denying themselves and always ready to undertake what is necessary, they share in the mystery of Christ and proclaim it in evangelical simplicity of life and language, that they may bring to people plentiful redemption.” (Constitution #20)

The charisma of the Redemptorists has a clear missionary character which is directed toward the poor and most abandoned. The sermon of Good Tidings must be simple and adaptable to simple people. The goal of a sermon is to convert people to the loving God. Despite complex historical circumstances, the Redemptorists are called to be faithful to God in their charisma. A Redemptorist should strive to be present where the need is greatest and where there are the materially or spiritually poor, and attuned to the sounds of the times should be ready for various forms of missionary work.

Basically, the charisma of the Redemptorists is divided into three parts:

  1. Living together

    Through the example and experience of living together the Redemptorists proclaim the Good Tidings to those who thirst for the word of God and life in Christ.

  2. Missions

    The Church is holy but constantly needs cleansing. Whereas it also has sinners, it always follows the path of penance and renewal. A mission is a very important means of attaining this goal….That is why the Redemptorists proclaim the teachings of Christ the Redeemer through the example of their spiritual life.

  3. Retreats

    Through their own experiences and preaching the Redemptorists try to lead the people to a spiritual awakening and the radical choice in life – of accepting Christ and following Him.