In "Longing for the Holy," RENEW International takes select ideas from "The Holy Longing" and presents them in a format which is ideal for small community faith sharing or personal refection. It is comprised of twelve sessions which explore different aspects of spirituality through sharing questions, reflections, prayers, and real-life anecdotes from the faithful. Readers of this material from RENEW International learn how to channel their longings as they realize the obstacles which may prevent the realization of their desires. "Longing for the Holy" explores the themes of church community, sexuality, justice, and the conduct of truly spiritual people. It presents these Christian concepts in contemporary terms which have helped many gain greater understanding of their faith and acheive deeper peace.
Sunday, November 29, 2009
RENEW International Publishes “Longing for the Holy”
In "Longing for the Holy," RENEW International takes select ideas from "The Holy Longing" and presents them in a format which is ideal for small community faith sharing or personal refection. It is comprised of twelve sessions which explore different aspects of spirituality through sharing questions, reflections, prayers, and real-life anecdotes from the faithful. Readers of this material from RENEW International learn how to channel their longings as they realize the obstacles which may prevent the realization of their desires. "Longing for the Holy" explores the themes of church community, sexuality, justice, and the conduct of truly spiritual people. It presents these Christian concepts in contemporary terms which have helped many gain greater understanding of their faith and acheive deeper peace.
Saturday, November 21, 2009
RENEW International Explains…Why Catholic?
RENEW International makes it easier to gain this insight through their four-part series on the Catechism called, "Why Catholic? Journey through the Catechism." These four books present the core teachings of the church by analyzing scripture and connecting it to direct quotations found within the Catechism. Among the information, the series examines the Liturgy, and discusses the significance of all of the sacraments. In conjunction with the materials, RENEW International also offers faith formation workshops centered on Christ's presence in the Liturgy and a retreat for Catholics that further explores the sacred sacrament of the Eurcharist."Why Catholic?" is an easy-to-use reference tool for individuals or faith-sharing material communities can read and pray over. RENEW International has used this rich literary resource in their efforts to bring faith to communities and people in need all around the world. Catholics everywhere have held these teachings in their heart. They have become even more spiritually fulfilled by their wisdom and through their everlasting faith in Jesus Christ.
Monday, November 16, 2009
RENEW International and Its Commitment to Latin America
Many of those which were helped by Dr. Chavez were poor young people who were strongly in need of a positive focus in their lives. They had been plagued by gangs, ravaged by civil war, and existed in a disordered society where people no longer helped one another. RENEW International's leadership training had a tremendous impact on these at-risk youth. They were taught new job skills through craftsmanship programs. These young adults were encouraged to support themselves while helping their families and greater community. RENEW International gave them a feeling of pride in themselves and the confidence and comfort which comes from knowing God's love.
When news of the success RENEW International was having in El Salvador spread to Honduras, Father Delio Diaz reached out to them for similar help. Father Diaz, along with three other priests, had to administer to the spiritual needs of over 220,000 parishioners. Dr. Chavez went to Honduras and where she helped establish smaller Christian communities within the parish. The materials of RENEW International were used to help the faithful better understand how to apply the principals of Catholicism to their daily lives. Their programs also reached those spiritually in need, renewing their faith and enabling them to bear witness of Christ among them.
Today RENEW International continues its work in Latin America and other countries. The organization is committed to helping people all over the world create an environment where people can experience the glory of God's presence and support one another in a true Christian community. Through their members, materials, and programs, they are assisting struggling Catholics become happier, more productive people who can better help themselves by strengthening their relationship with God.