The Role and Function of Charism in the Theology of Yves Congar

This book reveals the ecclesiological values of charisms in the context of the growing values of personalism in the Church. Yves Congar understands charisms in the light of pneumatological christology. The study discovers that Congar’s concept of charisms mirrors the values of the arrangement of the first three chapters in Lumen Gentium. The role of charism is most intensive when Congar combines it with the concept of the people of God. His ecclesial diagrams bring out the complementary roles of hierarchy and laity. Thanks to charisms, the Church is neither a pyramid nor is she ready-made. She is always on the process of being built-up by God. Congar exalts the priesthood of the faithful and advocates prophecy of the whole Church without departing from the apostolicity of the Church.