Official Calls for Action against Practices “incompatible” With Charismatic Renewal in Angola

Canon Apolónio Graciano, the National Assistant of the Catholic Charismatic Renewal in Angola, is calling for increased oversight of prayer groups and communities within the movement. Speaking to ACI Africa on September 24, Graciano stated that certain practices have become incompatible with the movement's Catholic identity and spirituality.

The call follows a circular issued on September 18 by the National Coordination of the Catholic Charismatic Renewal in Angola. Signed by Graciano and other coordination members, the document identifies specific activities and organizational setups that depart from the movement's objectives.

The circular highlights the use of baths and the improper use of sacramentals, such as oils, perfumes, sulfur, and unusual resins. It also identifies residential centers that practice traditional treatments and activities involving divination, dreams, and revelations. Graciano linked some of these behaviors to a witchcraft mentality.