Francis MacNutt, born in 1925 and passing in 2020, was an American figure deeply involved in the Catholic Charismatic Renewal. He initially joined the Dominican Order and was ordained as a Roman Catholic priest. MacNutt pursued advanced degrees, including a Ph.D. in theology, and taught at a seminary before taking on administrative roles. His engagement with the charismatic movement, influenced by Protestant friends, led him to embrace practices like speaking in tongues and faith healing. He gained public visibility through television appearances and authored influential books on spiritual healing and deliverance.

In 1980, MacNutt left the Dominican Order to marry Judith Carole Sewell, a psychotherapist. Together, they established Christian Healing Ministries in Florida, which later expanded into a dedicated healing center in Jacksonville. Their ministry involved extensive travel and teaching. The couple's marriage was later formally recognized by the Church with a ceremony officiated by a bishop. In 2007, an international conference co-sponsored by the Vatican and their ministry aimed to disseminate their teachings globally. MacNutt passed away in 2020 at the age of 94, leaving behind a significant body of written work and a lasting impact on the charismatic renewal movement.

Francis MacNutt became a prominent voice within the Catholic Charismatic Renewal, a movement that gained momentum in the 1960s. His involvement was marked by an embrace of spiritual gifts such as speaking in tongues and faith healing. He co-authored works and ministered alongside his wife, Judith, who was a psychotherapist with a practice integrating healing prayer. Together, they founded Christian Healing Ministries, which served as a center for prayer, teaching, and spiritual guidance. Their work aimed to bring a focus on spiritual healing and deliverance to a wider audience within the Catholic Church and beyond. The ministry's reach was amplified through international conferences, some co-sponsored by Vatican entities, underscoring the significance of their approach to spiritual well-being.

As an author, Francis MacNutt made substantial contributions to the literature on spiritual healing and deliverance. His book 'Healing,' published in 1974, became a seminal work in the field. Other notable titles explored themes of spiritual power, prayer, and overcoming spiritual obstacles. MacNutt's theological background, including a Ph.D. in theology, informed his writings and ministry. He addressed sensitive topics, including homosexuality, in his works, offering perspectives that sought to integrate spiritual healing with pastoral care. His writings were instrumental in shaping discussions and practices related to spiritual wholeness within charismatic and broader Christian circles.