Charles and Maria Spinelli have enjoyed the past 4 years as Regnum Christi members sharing the faith with family and friends, as well as brothers and sisters in Christ. Having received a wonderful gift of being incorporated together in 2009, the Spinellis fondly look back at their introduction to Regnum Christi by their dear friends Stephen and Evelyn Auth as a launch point in their faith.
Enduring a significant tribulation several years prior, the family recommitted to their Catholic roots and so began their conversion. Trusting in the beautiful examples of the saints and the inspired words of Holy Scripture, the Spinellis knew that His “grace was sufficient” for them, and His “power is made perfect in weakness.” It was the storm that redeemed their family and purified their hearts. This transformation was enhanced by the solid formation received in Spiritual Direction and thoughtful guidance of the Legionaries of Christ.
Charles assisted in the formation of a Men’s Gospel Reflection group and began to actively pursue team life. A participant in New York City Mission for the past 4 years, he soon began to experience the uplifting spiritual development that RC provides. He briefly sums it up by saying, “I can hardly express my gratitude for the blessing in becoming a part of this incredible family of religious and lay friends that Regnum Christi has brought into my life.” A member of the Tri-State Governance Team, Charles respectfully accepted the position of NJ Men’s Section Coordinator in May 2013.
Devoted to serving her parish community, Maria co-moderated a Bible study. She too is an active participant in the New York City Mission. She has encountered so many fruitful friendships through her team life and spiritual commitments; “Regnum Christi has enhanced my life and my relationship with the Lord in ways I could have never imagined.” She recently completed a term as the event coordinator for NJ Women’s Evening of Reflections. Through her persistent efforts, today she is the co-coordinator for a newly formed Walking With Purpose program in her parish.
This past summer, the Spinellis went to Spain with 2 other Regnum Christi couples and Fr Edward Hopkins, LC to experience the Way of St. James (El Camino). An inspiring and spiritual event, they unanimously agreed that it was one of the highlights of their 29 year marriage! From the simplicity of roadside chapels to the majesty of the Santiago de Compostela Cathedral, the fullness of the history of our Church was on display, and it was often overwhelming. Making this pilgrimage with the holy insight of a Legionary priest was nothing short of a gift from God. It is surely a Regnum Christi occasion that will be cherished for years to come.
Charles and Maria reside in Chatham, NJ, have 3 beautiful daughters and are blessed with two grandsons. The fruits of Regnum Christi have been similarly bestowed on their family. Their daughter Linda is also a member of Regnum Christi. Gianna is now engaged with the Young Professionals Group of the Lumen Institute. And their youngest, Sophia, has enjoyed the Challenge program and participating in other RC sponsored events.
October 2014
