Divine Experience

DIVINE EXPERIENCES . AN INQUIRY INTO THE CHARISMATIC RENEWAL The author has made a scholarly study on the social and spiritual impact ot Divine Retreat Centre on the Church, systematically analysing the great impact the Centre has had on faith formation in the country. Over the last few years there has been a great renewal of the faith of the people which is clearly seen in the vibrant practice of faith. The Churches have come alive with new appreciation and great love for the Word of God. In the daily life of the people, family prayer is coming back to the households and family ties are being strengthened in the power of the Holy Spirit. People are becoming more conscious of their responsibilities towards the least of the brethren of Jesus. As a result, various kinds of social concerns are being taken up and many centres supporting them are being set up. In public life, there is greater awareness of equality and social justice with better harmony among the different classes of society. These multifarious effects brought on by the on going renewal of the spiritual lives of people are evaluated in this valuable volume. Dr. Augustine Vallooran VC Director, English and Other Languages Divine Retreat Centre, Muringoor, Kerala Jacob Joseph Kaniyaraseril is a Capuchin priest, and an Associate Professor of Communication and Mass Media in St. Francis Theological College, Kottayam, Kerala and Vijnananilayam Institute of Philosophy & Religion, Janampet, A.R He holds a Master's Degree in English Literature and Ph.D. in Communication. He is the Chief Editor of Indian Currents National Weekly, Delhi. CONTENTS Foreword Acknowledgements Introduction Part I Research Design and Methodology 1. Communication-Oriented Approach Theoretical Inputs 2. A Qualitative Research Paradigm Sampling and Methodology Data Collection: Primary Considerations Data Collection Procedures The Researcher's Role Part II* Results : An Exposition , 3. Life-Stories; A Narration 4. Charismatic Tales 5. Results Under The Scanner DRC Culture: An Overview DRC Retreat: A Close Look A Journey Through The Retreat: English Section Malayalam Section Through the Retreat Communication Processes within DRC The experiences of Christians The experiences of non-Christians Rituals as Communication The Power of Words The Role of Persuasive Communication Communication and Healing / Miracles Communication in Conversion Converts Tell their Tales 6. A Participant Researcher Conclusion The Road Behind, the Road Ahead Recommendations Bibliography Appendix