Writings of the Shalom Catholic Community

by Moysés Louro de Azevedo Filho

When Pope John Paul II talked to the New Communities and Ecclesial Movements on Pentecost in 1998 he said, “There is a great need for living Christian communities! And here are the movements and the new ecclesial they are the response, given by the Holy Spirit, to this critical challenge at the end of the millennium. You are this providential response.” On Pentecost in 2006, Pope Benedict XVI echoed John Paul II’s words, saying, “Today, the Ecclesial Movements and New Communities are a luminous sign of the beauty of Christ and of the Church, his Bride. You belong to the living structure of the Church. She thanks you for your missionary commitment, for the formative action on behalf of Christian families that you are increasingly developing and for the promotion of vocations to the ministerial priesthood and consecrated life which you nurture among your members.” The Writings of the Shalom Catholic Community seek to illuminate our to announce the Risen Christ who went through the Cross, with joy and enthusiasm, as ministers and disciples of Peace, according to the spirituality of our Charism, with a sincere willingness to humbly meet the expectations, as useless servants, of the Church for the New Evangelization.

115 pages, Kindle Edition

Published February 17, 2021

Reviews

[William · Rating 3 out of 5]

The first half of this book seemed somewhat nebulous and pointed out themes that I didn't feel were new or unique, just Catholic. On page 99, the Shalom community is referred to as a charismatic prayer community for the first time. This aspect of Shalom is referenced again especially when the history of the community is discussed.

I am not a fan of the Catholic charismatic renewal, but agree with St. John Paul II that it can be one of the ways the Holy Spirit is acting in the Church, provided that they "manifest their complete communion of mind and heart with the Apostolic See and the College of Bishops, and cooperate ever more fruitfully in the Church’s mission in the world." (address, 14 March 1992) The fact that Shalom didn't even open their first cafe in Fortaleza until the Bishop approved demonstrates its obedience and love for the Church. More importantly, their emphasis on Eucharistic Adoration, attendance at the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass, devotion to Mary in the recital of the rosary, and many other salutary means of holiness have in large part been responsible for their growth and positive influence within the Catholic Church.

I found the second half of the book interesting as it traced the development of Shalom from an idea to its current role as a lay association of faithful devoted to evangelization and holiness.

[Andoni · Rating 4 out of 5]

One of the people I admire most gave me this book, and its lessons are truly priceless. It’s incredible how little we often know about Catholic communities, their way of life, and the good they quietly do every day.

Many of the principles shared in this book can be applied to everyday life, even if you’re not part of a religious community.

I highly recommend it to anyone interested in learning more about the Shalom Community and their inspiring way of living.