The Catholic Church recognises a variety of charisms, or spiritual gifts, each given by the Holy Spirit to help individuals contribute uniquely to the Church’s mission. Charisms enable Christians to serve others and build up the Body of Christ. While the gifts can vary in expression and purpose, each charism is meant for the common good, aligning with the Church’s teachings and mission. Here are some commonly recognised charisms, along with explanations and references.
1. Wisdom
The charism often described by St Paul as the “utterance” or “word of wisdom” is a special grace that enables a person to communicate God’s wisdom in a way that brings clarity, guidance and encouragement to others. It may help individuals or communities discern God’s will in particular situations or apply the truths of the faith to complex circumstances. This should not be confused with the Gift of Wisdom, one of the Seven Gifts of the Holy Spirit, which every baptised Christian receives to help them grow in holiness (CCC 1830–1831).
References: 1 Corinthians 12:8; Catechism of the Catholic Church 799–801.
2. Knowledge
Knowledge is the charism by which the Holy Spirit gives a person particular insight into divine truth or into situations affecting the life of the Church. Those with this charism often help others understand Scripture, theology and God’s action in daily life.
Reference: 1 Corinthians 12:8, Lumen Gentium, 12.
3. Faith
Faith, as a charism, goes beyond ordinary belief and enables a person to inspire others with an unwavering confidence in God’s power and provision. Those with this charism often serve as sources of encouragement and hope, especially in difficult times, motivating others to trust in God’s promises.
Reference: 1 Corinthians 12:9, CCC 799-801.
4. Healing
The charism of healing allows an individual to be an instrument through which God’s healing power is conveyed to others. This gift may be physical, emotional, or spiritual, and it helps restore health or peace to those who are suffering, bearing witness to God’s compassion and care.
Reference: 1 Corinthians 12:9, Evangelii Gaudium, 130-131 (recognises the role of healing and similar charisms in the Church’s mission).
5. Miracles
The charism of miracles involves extraordinary acts that go beyond natural explanations, demonstrating God’s power in a way that deepens faith. This charism is rare and is meant to affirm God’s presence and authority, inspiring awe and reverence among believers.
Reference: 1 Corinthians 12:10, CCC 799-800.
6. Prophecy
The gift of prophecy enables an individual to communicate God’s message to others, sometimes providing insight into God’s will or future events. Prophets speak truthfully and often with courage, calling people to conversion and greater faithfulness. Prophecy in the Church is subject to discernment and is meant for the edification of the community, not personal gain.
Reference: 1 Corinthians 12:10, Lumen Gentium, 12.
7. Discernment of Spirits
The charism of discernment allows individuals to perceive the presence or influence of spiritual forces, helping distinguish between what is from God and what is not. This gift is valuable for guiding individuals and communities in prayer, ministry, and decision-making, ensuring that their actions align with God’s will.
Reference: 1 Corinthians 12:10, Catechism of the Catholic Church, 799-801.
8. Tongues
The gift of tongues enables a person to pray or praise God in a language they do not understand, which can be a human or angelic language. This gift, often accompanied by an interpretation, is meant to build up the faith of the community and is used in a way that respects the unity and order of worship.
Reference: 1 Corinthians 12:10; Catechism of the Catholic Church, 2003.
9. Interpretation of Tongues
The charism of interpretation accompanies the gift of tongues, allowing a person to understand and convey the meaning of a message spoken in tongues. This gift is meant to ensure that such messages are understandable and edifying to the community.
Reference: 1 Corinthians 12:10, CCC 2003.
10. Teaching
Teaching as a charism enables a person to explain the faith clearly and effectively, helping others to grow in understanding. Those with this gift have a particular ability to make complex ideas accessible, often drawing people deeper into the mysteries of the faith.
Reference: Romans 12:7, Apostolicam Actuositatem, 3.
11. Exhortation (Encouragement)
Exhortation is the ability to encourage, strengthen, and inspire others in their faith. Those with this charism often uplift others in times of doubt or struggle, motivating them to stay faithful and persevere in their calling.
Reference: Romans 12:8, Catechism of the Catholic Church, 799-801.
12. Giving
The charism of giving is an extraordinary generosity in sharing resources, often with a sense of stewardship and charity. People with this gift feel called to use their material resources to support the Church’s work and assist those in need, always with joy and humility.
Reference: Romans 12:8, Apostolicam Actuositatem, 3.
13. Leadership
The charism of leadership enables a person to guide and inspire others toward a common mission or purpose. This gift includes a sense of vision and responsibility, along with the ability to delegate and organise effectively. Those with this charism often serve in positions of influence within Church communities.
Reference: Romans 12:8, Christifideles Laici, 24.
14. Mercy
Mercy is the gift of compassion and empathy for those who are suffering. People with this charism have a special sensitivity to the needs of others and often feel called to serve the poor, sick, or marginalised, reflecting God’s love through acts of kindness and service.
Reference: Romans 12:8, Lumen Gentium, 12.
15. Service
The charism of service allows a person to assist others with humility and dedication, often through practical acts of care. This gift helps maintain the practical needs of the community, supporting other ministries and allowing the Church to function smoothly.
Reference: 1 Peter 4:10-11, Lumen Gentium, 12.
Summary
Charisms are special graces freely given by the Holy Spirit for the building up of the Church and the service of others (CCC 799–801). They differ from the Seven Gifts of the Holy Spirit, which every baptised Christian receives for personal sanctification (CCC 1830–1831). Some charisms are extraordinary, while many are simple and ordinary, but all are intended for the common good. The Church encourages every Catholic to prayerfully discern how the Holy Spirit has gifted them so that they may participate more fully in Christ’s mission.
References
1. Catechism of the Catholic Church, 799-801, 2003.
2. Lumen Gentium, 12.
3. Apostolicam Actuositatem, 3.
4. Christifideles Laici, 24.
5. 1 Corinthians 12; Romans 12; 1 Peter 4:10-11.
Footnote – The Siena Institute offer the Called and Gifted process to help Catholics identify their charisms. Check this out at https://siena.org/called-gifted Download the Spiritual Gifts Inventory by going to this site. The Called and Gifted process would suggest the following charisms:-
16. Administration
Administration is the God-given ability to organise people, resources and projects so that the Church’s mission is carried out effectively. Those with this charism bring order to complexity, develop systems that help ministries flourish and enable others to use their gifts more fruitfully. Their service often takes place behind the scenes, yet it is essential to the life and mission of the Church.
References: 1 Corinthians 12:28 (“administrations”); CCC 799–801.
17. Hospitality
Hospitality is the grace to welcome others with genuine warmth, making them feel accepted, valued and at home. Those gifted in hospitality create environments where people encounter Christian love, often opening the door to deeper faith and community. Their homes, parishes and ministries become places where strangers become friends and newcomers discover they belong.
References: Romans 12:13; 1 Peter 4:9-10; CCC 799–801.
18. Craftsmanship
Craftsmanship is the ability to use artistic or practical skills to glorify God and build up the Church. This may include woodworking, sewing, architecture, design, iconography, technology or other creative skills. Through beauty, excellence and careful workmanship, those with this gift help create environments that inspire worship and support the Church’s mission.
References: Exodus 31:1–11 (Bezalel); Exodus 35:30–35; CCC 2500–2503.
19. Music
Music is the special ability to lead others into prayer and worship through singing, composing or playing musical instruments. Those with this charism use music not simply as artistic expression but as a ministry that opens hearts to God, deepens faith and strengthens the unity of the Christian community.
References: Colossians 3:16; Ephesians 5:19; Sacrosanctum Concilium 112; CCC 1156–1158.
20. Evangelism
Evangelism is a special ability to proclaim the Good News of Jesus Christ in ways that invite others to faith and discipleship. Those with this gift naturally seek opportunities to share Christ with those who do not yet know Him or whose faith has grown weak. They often inspire others to become missionary disciples and help people take their first steps towards Christ and His Church.
References: Matthew 28:19–20; Ephesians 4:11; Evangelii Gaudium 120–121.
21. Intercession
Intercession is a deep and persistent calling to pray for the needs of others with confidence and perseverance. Those with this charism often spend significant time in prayer and experience a particular sensitivity to the prompting of the Holy Spirit. Their hidden ministry supports the Church’s mission and brings many unseen graces to individuals, communities and the wider world.
References: 1 Timothy 2:1; James 5:16; CCC 2634–2636.
22. Missionary
The missionary charism is a special grace to bring the Gospel to new places, cultures or groups of people who have not yet encountered Christ or who have drifted away from the Church. Those with this gift willingly cross cultural, geographical or social boundaries and often thrive in pioneering situations where the Gospel is being proclaimed for the first time. Edel Quinn would be an example of this charism
References: Matthew 28:19–20; Acts 13:2–3; Ad Gentes 23.
23. Celibacy
Celibacy, freely embraced for the sake of the Kingdom of God, is recognised by the Church as a charism. Those with this gift experience a joyful freedom to devote themselves wholeheartedly to God and the service of His people without the responsibilities of marriage. It is not simply the absence of marriage but a positive gift enabling generous love and fruitful ministry.
References: Matthew 19:12; 1 Corinthians 7:7, 32–35; CCC 1618–1620.
24. Voluntary Poverty
Voluntary poverty is the grace to live simply and detach oneself from material possessions in order to depend more fully on God and serve others generously. Those with this charism witness that true wealth is found in Christ and encourage the Church to place its trust in God’s providence rather than worldly security.
References: Matthew 19:21; Luke 12:33; CCC 2544–2547.
25. Writing
Writing is the ability to communicate truth, encouragement and wisdom through the written word. Those with this gift use articles, books, catechetical resources, digital media and other forms of writing to teach, inspire, evangelise and strengthen the faith of others. Their work often continues to bear fruit long after it has been written.
References: Jeremiah 30:2; Revelation 1:19; CCC 904–906.
26. Shepherding (Pastoring)
Shepherding is the grace to care for the spiritual growth and well-being of individuals or communities. Those with this charism naturally nurture, encourage and guide others, helping them mature as disciples of Christ. They build relationships, notice those who are struggling and help create healthy Christian communities marked by love, unity and mutual support. Such a gifting is useful in the context of small groups/bible studies or lay leadership in parish contexts
References: John 21:15–17; Ephesians 4:11–13; 1 Peter 5:2–3.
27. Encouragement (Exhortation)
Encouragement is the ability to strengthen, comfort and motivate others in their Christian life. People with this gift recognise the potential God has placed within others and know how to speak words that restore hope, build confidence and inspire perseverance. Through their presence and words, they often help others remain faithful during difficult seasons.
References: Romans 12:8; Hebrews 10:24–25; Acts 4:36 (Barnabas, “son of encouragement”).
