LILOAN, Cebu — Cardinal Pablo Virgilio David of Kalookan has warned Catholic charismatic communities against the rise of “spiritual celebrities,” saying spiritual gifts must serve the Church rather than personal prestige.
Addressing the 2nd National Spiritual Direction Conference of CHARIS Philippines in Liloan town Tuesday, he said spiritual gifts should strengthen the Christian community, not elevate individuals above others.
“The Holy Spirit does not distribute gifts to create spiritual celebrities. The Spirit distributes gifts to build up the Body of Christ,” David said.
He said gifts such as preaching, healing and discernment should strengthen the community, not become tools for gaining recognition, influence or authority within charismatic groups.
“A charism is a gift of the Spirit not for the individual alone, but for the community,” David said, warning against rivalry and the pursuit of spiritual prestige.
He also urged charismatic leaders to avoid making followers dependent on their personal gifts, saying leadership should help people develop their own abilities and take responsibility for the Church’s mission.
“The purpose of leadership is not to make people dependent on leaders. It is rather to help them become mature disciples, capable of exercising their own gifts and responsibilities,” David said.
Authentic spiritual renewal, he added, must lead to concrete service, especially through greater concern for marginalized people, a commitment to justice and active participation in the Church’s mission.
The cardinal also linked spiritual growth to synodality, the Church’s emphasis on listening, shared responsibility and collective discernment, urging communities to recognize each member’s gifts and discern the Spirit’s guidance together.
The October 19 to 21 conference brought together about 165 delegates, including bishops, priests, consecrated persons and lay leaders from dioceses and charismatic groups across the Philippines.
The gathering aimed to deepen participants’ formation in spiritual direction and strengthen their involvement in the life and mission of the Catholic Church.
