byers,
<<Well Dorothy that is a matter of opinion as I found her blog to be very truthful, realistic and honest. To me, negative and positive, are not the issue. The issue is truth. Could you explain to me what you mean by the “positive experience” of the movement? Do you mean positive feelings? Thanks>>
No, I am not referring to feelings, as I am aware that feelings are not what counts, commitment is what counts. My positive experiences with the renewal is the desire to read and pray with Scriptures, and also to take daily prayer time more seriously.
I am not here to whitewash the shortcomings of the Catholic charismatic movement. I have had the blessing of being exposed to a priest that mentored leaders and core group people that were in the renewal.
He promoted the Liturgy of the Hours, and reading and studying the Carmelite saints on prayer. He did not neglect the charismatic gifts of the Holy Spirit and instructed us as to their use. I grew from his instruction and did my best to bring that into the group I attended.
Again, I like to point out that all movements in the Church are in need of renewal and discernment, not only the charismatic movement. Religious orders, Secular Institutes, Confraternities,…and the list goes on.
I no longer attend weekly prayer meetings as they no longer feed me spiritually. I believe that the renewal helped me in ways I needed to be helped, and now I move on.