Over the past eight years there have been over 40,000 encounters with Jesus Christ through IGNITE. With all the power to heal, forgive, transform. Some of the most powerful have taken place in prisons. Resulting in inmates coming into the Catholic Church. Here is but one, simple but powerful testimony from just such an encounter.
I attended our IGNITE. It was a mind blowing, life altering experience. Although I had been given some indication from others who attended in the past, I didn't really know what to expect. Nothing could have prepared me. What an experience it turned out to be.
I really have no words. Whenever I reflect on my experience I am so moved to tears by our leaders who created the atmosphere that allowed the Holy Spirit to work within us, through us and around us. To be present and to make that such a powerful evening of worship. Encountering Jesus Christ there changed my life.
I knew candles would be lit. And of course, we had to use battery operated candles for security reasons, but it was not without effect. As I watched the procession with the monstrance, which holds the Holy Eucharist, moving down the aisle, my spirit was lifted tremendously. Once the Blessed Sacrament was placed for all to see my spirit was lifted. Even more, I felt such a tremendous, inner calmness I’ve never experienced before, that let me know the Holy Spirit was present. In addition we spent time in silence, reflecting and worshiping.
During the period of silence and as the Spirit prompted us, we were allowed to approach the Blessed Sacrament, the Holy Eucharist, the Body, the Blood, the Soul and the Divinity of Jesus Christ. Marveling in the splendor of this whole experience, one of the leaders whispered: “Shall we go?” The two of us fell in lock step as we walked forward and approached the Blessed Sacrament. We were like two children approaching our Lord Jesus Christ. We knelt and worshipped our Lord up close.
As we returned to our place in the back of the room, one by one, others arose and followed suit. I was so caught up in the Holy Spirit that I couldn’t help but return to the monstrance. To worship Him up close again. I didn't want to leave. The uplifting songs of worship interspersed throughout captured my soul. It was the coolest experience. My life will be forever changed. Soon I’ll be entering the Church.
"The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of deep darkness a light has dawned." Isaiah 9:2
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