charismatischen

Charismatischen is a German term used to describe things related to charisma in a religious context, and is often encountered as a noun in the plural die Charismatischen (the Charismatics). It also appears in phrases such as charismatische Gaben (charismatic gifts). In this sense the word denotes adherents of a movement or belief that emphasizes contemporary spiritual gifts. The term ultimately derives from the Greek charisma, meaning grace or gift.

The Charismatic movement refers to a renewal tendency within Christianity that highlights the ongoing presence and operation of spiritual gifts, such as tongues, prophecy, healing, and miracles. Its modern emergence is linked to 20th‑century Pentecostal revival, but it spread widely in the 1960s and 1970s as renewal efforts within existing churches—both Protestant and Catholic—rather than as a separate denomination. The movement is characterized by lively worship, experiential faith, and lay participation in ministries.

Beliefs commonly associated with Charismatics include the baptism in the Holy Spirit as a distinct experience that empowers believers for service, and the continuation of spiritual gifts (continuationism) rather than their absence (cessationism). Practices often focus on prayer for healing, prophecy, and personal prayer language, with notable variation across regions and denominations. The movement has contributed to ecumenical dialogue in many countries and has influenced church renewal projects, worship music, and mission work.

Critics within and outside traditional churches sometimes challenge Charismatic practices on doctrinal grounds or concern about emotionalism and sensationalism. Proponents argue that the gifts are biblically supported and beneficial for personal faith, church life, and mission. The term Charismatischen thus encompasses a broad spectrum of believers and communities engaged with charismatic spirituality.