The Charism of Prophecy and Poverty Eradication: A Reaction to Lugino Bruni’s Article on Economy and Communion

Abstract

Being a prophet is to speak the truth, to convey God’s messages to people, regardless of the backlash the messenger may receive, just in case some people repent, and God does not punish those who do not repent. This article examines the Charism and Prophetic roles in the modern capitalist world where over 75 million people are languishing in abject poverty. The article is grounded on Lugino Bruni’s manuscript on Economy and Communion. It presents a reaction to his avers on true prophesies and the nature of love that not only unites people and communities but also fosters human relationship with God resulting in a religious world economy that constantly fights poverty. The article uses empirical examples to demonstrate how selfless love and economic prosperity are inseparable. It argues that ending poverty is a universal goal that can be achieved through unity among religious organizations and true prophetic actions. This points to the Economy of Communion (EOC), which is closely linked to agape in Christianity, Sorokin’s Altruistic Love, Ubuntu in Africa, the Harambee movement in Kenya, the Ujamaa spirit in Tanzania and many other forms of charism