The Called & Gifted ministry aims to assist Catholics in identifying their spiritual gifts, known as charisms, to better serve their communities. Sandy Pickert, who coordinates the program at Wichita’s Church of the Magdalen, explains that while Christians may be called upon by the Holy Spirit to act in various ways, specific charisms are given to individuals to aid others.

Pickert began her journey with Called & Gifted in 2019 as she approached retirement from nursing. She attended a workshop at Wichita’s Church of the Blessed Sacrament to focus her service efforts. Reflecting on her experience, Pickert said, “I am a doer, which made me a bit afraid that retirement would have me volunteering my life away.” Knowing her charisms now allows her to decline tasks outside her strengths without guilt.

Through the program, Pickert discovered charisms like encouragement and teaching, leading her to become a facilitator for Called & Gifted workshops. She estimates nearly 300 parishioners at Magdalen have participated since she began facilitating. "It has been really fun to see light bulbs come on," she noted.

Pickert shared examples of parishioners discovering new charisms through writing and contributing meaningfully to church activities. She observed that when people apply their unique gifts effectively, parishes thrive: “I have seen Magdalen’s ministries grow and thrive as people focus on doing what they do best.”

A key component of the process is a workshop scheduled for June 13-15 at the Spiritual Life Center in Bel Aire. Participants complete an online inventory before attending to identify potential charisms. The workshop provides time for reflection and spiritual experiences such as Mass and adoration.

In phase two of Called & Gifted, participants interview with trained facilitators like Pickert to identify likely charisms. Phase three involves sessions where participants further discern their gifts in small groups with similar interests.

Pickert attributes the success of these workshops to the joy they bring participants: “It’s joy,” she states. "That’s one of the characteristics of a charism...allows the Holy Spirit to work through us to serve others."