Remember the glory days of the Charismatic Renewal?
For some people, that question brings back profound memories of amazing miracles, prophecies that have come true, and amazing energy within the Church. For others, that question brings up thoughts of people being crazy and losing their real faith and identity. They couldn’t fathom someone actually praying that way. Still others would have no clue what you are talking about if you brought up that question.
I was not one who participated in those days, but I was exposed to the Baptism of the Holy Spirit. I was not afraid of it as others have described in their testimonies. My original encounter with Christ came filled with the love and passion of God. I didn’t yet understand that the Holy Spirit was the One doing that.
Six months after that conversion, I was preparing to serve in youth ministry and was prayed over to receive the Holy Spirit. I again experienced this power of God that comes with peace, love, and a strong desire to get to know Jesus. Then the Lord led me out into the wilderness, away from charismatic communities, and began to teach me how to draw close to Him.
I never really was in a prayer group or community, but always found myself focusing on the role of the Holy Spirit in my life. He was teaching me amazing things about God. These days, the Spirit plays a major role in my ministry. The Spirit speaks through me and tells me what to do in different situations. He confirms, through the fruits found listed in Galatians 5, His will for my life in many of these situations.
As I speak to people around the country, I can see that people either know what I am talking about or have no clue what life in the Spirit is all about. In many ways, this is how the Lord is using me as an evangelist. I’m being sent to parishishes to evangelize them and help them learn how to engage in the life and love of the Spirit.
What has become very evident within the Church is the need for those who have practical experience to mentor those who don’t. The young adults who have grown up in groups where the Holy Spirit was present need the wisdom of our seniors who know and understand the ways of the Spirit.
It sounds funny, but this situation is very much like what we see in the current Star Wars movie series. Where those young in the Force need someone to teach them how. This is so true for the Church. I believe we need mentors who are willing to share their life with the Spirit to step up and help the younger Church grow in the Spirit.
For those of you who have no real clue about the Holy Spirit and want to learn, I suggest you ask the Spirit to reveal to you someone who knows Him, and ask them to mentor you one-on-one! They won’t teach you everything, but they will get you started.
I had the greatest privilege of hearing you speak and share your faith with our congregation last week! It was a rejuvenation I greatly needed. I felt like an old car with an ignition that was trying to be turned over… there was spark but it just wouldn’t turn over… but you imparted some reflections and tools to help me keep trying, and on that last night, the engine turned over and caught!
I’d been struggling in my prayer life, and I knew it’s importance, but now I am putting forth a concentrated effort to make prayer the central part of my life, along with the sacraments, reading and reflecting on Scriptures, and ministering to my parish and others I may encounter.
Just since our final gathering, last Wednesday, I have shared the message of God’s forgiveness and love to three people! In each encounter the people have discussed the prevalence of evil in the world and how it is affecting their lives, those they love and care about, and the world in general. I was able to explain that evil is a reality that take us away from the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, and I was able to share simple ways to turn back to Him! I could feel the Holy Spirit guiding me, my words, and thoughts! Where there was despair and unhappiness at the start of our conversation, the Holy Spirit was leaving seeds of hope, love, and forgiveness! It was incredibly humbling and powerful. On Sunday I even carried the readings and gospel message of forgiveness to one couple who did not attend Mass that day. It was as if God was acting out the lost sheep parable, going out to find those ones of the flock who had fallen away! My intent was merely to visit with this couple and let them know that even in their difficult circumstances they were not forgotten and they were loved, but the Holy Spirit transformed this visit into so much more.
Thank you for helping me to recognize my worthiness, though I too am a sinner, to bring the love of God and the message of Christ’s Salvation to others.
I will keep you in my prayers and rosary for the continued success of your mission to bring more souls to accept the One True Church and the love and salvation of Jesus Christ, His Father, and the Holy Spirit!
You are so much more than you will ever know. Peace be with you.
Well done!!! Daughter of God!
Thank you for your kind words of encouragement. If you are so inclined, please sign up to be a prayer warrior. I will put you to work by praying for all future places I am going to.
Praise be Jesus Christ!