Charisma. This Greek word (plural charismata) means a favor bestowed. It is traditionally rendered in English "grace" (from the Latin gratia). Paul lists various charismata that may be bestowed on Christians for the fulfilment of the various kinds of work that they may be called upon to do in their ministry ( I Corinthians 12.8-11, 28). In 20th c. English, the word is often used in a general sense to designate a person who has magnetic personality and in Christian discourse today the adjective "charismatic" is commonly used to designate a person or group of persons whose outlook and practice in the Church emphasizes emotional spontaneity rather than the more formal type of life and worship that is traditional.

Geddes MacGregor, Dictionary of Religion and Philosophy, New York: Paragon House, 1989