God

When God Becomes Our Safe Place: Attachment, Faith, and the Healing of the Heart

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Sponsored: This article is made possible by The Elijah Institute, supporting quality and engaging Catholic content.

There’s a quiet moment that happens sometimes in prayer. It’s that pause when the words dry up and what’s left is something simpler: a reaching out. We may not even know what we’re reaching for, only that we need Someone.

Psychologists have a name for that reaching: attachment behavior — the human drive to seek closeness, safety, and reassurance from someone we trust. It’s the instinct that makes a child run to her father after scraping her knee or a friend call someone they love when grief hits hard. But it’s also at the heart of our spiritual lives.

According to attachment theory, developed by John Bowlby and Mary Ainsworth and expanded in later research, our earliest relationships with caregivers shape the patterns of connection that follow us into adulthood. The secure, anxious,avoidant, and fearful avoidant ways we bond with others don’t disappear when we start praying. They often reappear in how we relate to God, particularly during dark and desolate times.

That’s what Pehr Granqvist and Lee Kirkpatrick explore in “Attachment and Religious Representations and Behavior” from The Handbook of Attachment. Their work invites us to see that the God we love is also the God we attach to. Grace often works through the same relational pathways that once taught us how to love, fear, trust, or withdraw.

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How the SOAP Method Can Equip Christians to Stay Consistently Rooted in God’s Word

/ chicoinematt

Guest post by: Harry from Biblejar

For years, I struggled to stay consistent in my Bible reading. I would start strong with a new plan, only to find myself falling behind after a few weeks. Life’s busyness, distractions, and even feelings of discouragement often got in the way. I wanted to stay grounded in Scripture, but I lacked a clear method to help me stay focused and engaged.

That was when I came across the SOAP Method. Simple in design but powerful in practice, this approach helped me slow down, reflect more deeply, and stay rooted in God’s Word day after day. Whether you are new to Bible study or looking for a way to refresh your devotional time, the SOAP Bible Study Method can provide structure and depth that keeps you connected to God.

SOAP stands for Scripture, Observation, Application, and Prayer. Let’s explore how each step works and why it can transform your time in the Word.

1. Starting With Scripture

Consistency in Bible study begins with Scripture itself. The first step of the SOAP method encourages us to choose a verse or passage and write it down word for word. Slowing down to copy Scripture is more than a writing exercise; it helps the words sink deeply into our hearts and minds. For example, writing “The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want” (Psalm 23:1, RSV) makes the verse personal. It shifts from something read quickly in a devotional to a truth that actively shapes our perspective.

Writing Scripture also trains focus. Instead of rushing through reading plans or skimming chapters, believers pause and reflect. They begin to notice details they might otherwise miss—the verbs, the promises, and the repeated ideas that underscore God’s character. For many, this simple act of writing marks the difference between reading passively and engaging actively. When Scripture becomes something we handle physically, it becomes something we internalize spiritually, forming a foundation for the rest of the SOAP process.

2. Observation: Seeing What God Is Saying

Once a passage is written, the next step is observation. This involves asking, “What is God communicating here?” Observation encourages careful attention to details, repetition, and overarching themes. It is an invitation to look beyond the surface and uncover spiritual insights.

For instance, consider Jesus’ words in John 15:4, “Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in me” (RSV). Reading slowly and noticing the repeated word “abide” highlights the importance of continual reliance on Him. Even familiar verses can reveal new meaning when observed carefully, giving believers a fresh perspective on everyday challenges.

Observation is also a reminder that Bible study is active, not passive. It’s about asking questions, noting patterns, and thinking deeply about the implications. This practice helps Scripture move from abstract words to practical, lived truth, preparing the heart for applying these lessons in daily life.

3. Application: Living Out the Word

Observation naturally leads to application, the step where Scripture meets daily life. Application asks believers to consider how a passage informs their thoughts, decisions, or behaviors. It connects the timeless truth of God’s Word with present-day circumstances.

For example, Philippians 4:6–7 says, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus” (RSV). Recognizing this verse can transform a stressful day into a moment of trust and prayer. When challenges arise, the believer has a tangible Scripture to recall, helping them act according to God’s guidance rather than reacting impulsively.

Application turns knowledge into practice. By reflecting on how a verse addresses specific struggles—whether anxiety, decisions at work, or relationships—believers integrate Scripture into everyday life. Over time, this builds a habit of responding to life through a biblical lens, deepening both faith and obedience.

4. Prayer: Turning Insights Into Conversation

The final step of SOAP is prayer, where observation and application become dialogue with God. Prayer takes the insights gained from Scripture and turns them into a personal conversation. It is an opportunity to express gratitude, confess shortcomings, ask for guidance, or seek wisdom.

Through prayer, the Word becomes relational rather than merely informational. James 1:5 reminds us, “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives to all generously and without reproach, and it will be given him” (RSV). As we pray about what we’ve learned, we rely on God to apply His truth in our lives. Prayer keeps believers anchored, preventing study from becoming an intellectual exercise detached from personal faith.

Daily prayer through SOAP reinforces consistency. Each morning or evening, brief but intentional time spent in reflection and conversation with God nurtures a deeper relationship. It reminds believers that Scripture is living and active, capable of shaping hearts, thoughts, and actions when approached with openness and dependence on Him.

Reaping the Fruit of Consistency

Praying with the Bible

The beauty of the SOAP method is not just in one session but in the long-term consistency it builds. Over time, the simple rhythm of Scripture, Observation, Application, and Prayer creates a daily habit of meeting with God.

I can personally testify to how this method deepened my faith. Instead of feeling guilty for skipping Bible study or rushing through chapters, I found joy in slowing down and letting God’s Word speak to me. My mornings became more peaceful, my decisions more grounded, and my heart more anchored in God’s truth.

This consistency doesn’t happen overnight, but the SOAP method makes it attainable. Just one passage, a notebook, and a few quiet minutes each day can change your walk with God.

I encourage readers to give the SOAP Bible Study Method a try and see how it transforms your time with God. Start with just one verse today, write it down, observe it, apply it, and pray it back. Over time, Scripture will become a living guide shaping your heart and actions.

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7 Reasons Why October is an Extra Holy Time

/ chicoinematt

october.jpg

“Autumn is a second spring when every leaf is a flower,” stated Albert Camus the 20th century French Novelist. Fall is my favorite time of the year. Colorful leaves carpet the lawns in my neighborhood. I enjoy seeing the visible transformation occur on trees and watching animals prepare for winter. My wife’s birthday is during October—the middle of fall. I am indebted to God for the gift of my marriage. Without my wife, my fervor for Divine Mercy and St. Maria Faustina—her confirmation saint— may not exist!

Reflecting on autumn, my wife, and the Polish saint allowed for me to have a profound revelation: October contains an all-star line-up for saint feast days!

Five of my personal favorite saints, and historical favorites among Catholics as well, have a feast day in the first part of October. On top of this amazing realization, October is also dedicated to the Holy Rosary and respect for all life. I will be dedicating other posts on these topics so I will focus on the seven feast days of stellar saintly role models:

Guardian Angel meme

Guardian Angels

My children and I ask for the intercession of our guardian angels every night before bedtime. According to the Catechism of the Catholic Church number 336, “From its beginning until death, human life is surrounded by their watchful care and intercession.202 ‘Beside each believer stands an angel as protector and shepherd leading him to life.’203 Already here on earth the Christian life shares by faith in the blessed company of angels and men united in God.” God sends his messengers from Heaven to keep us safe and remind us of His Presence.

St. Therese of Liseux quote

Therese of Lisieux

According to St. Therese, “Our Lord does not so much look at the greatness of our actions, or even at their difficulty, as at the love with which we do them.” Known as the Little Flower, the saint’s words provide a fresh perspective on my daily living and struggles. As a person who focuses on problems as something to be overcome, I sometimes place an emphasis on the amount of effort I have to put forth on a task. I also struggle with desiring recognition toward my works. Instead, if I focus on love as St. Therese teaches us, my life will be more joyful!

Francis of Assisi

Francis serves as an example of holiness, but for me, it is a personal reminder for my college days. I attended Franciscan University graduate schooling. The legacy the Italian saint left on me is truly immeasurable.

His transformation from a wealthy individual to a beggar of Christ is a tangible example of the Gospel lived out. Struggling with envy and greed myself, I am able to look to Francis of Assisi as a role model. Lord make me an instrument of peace like your servant Francis!

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Maria Faustina

No other 20th century saint, besides John Paul II and Maximilian, has impacted me as much as St. Maria Faustina. Known as the Apostle of Divine Mercy, the Polish nun is to the 20th century what St. Paul was to the 1st century Church—the evangelizer of truth to the Gentiles! Sister Faustina helped console my wife after a good friend from high school died suddenly.

The Polish sister led my wife to convert to the Catholic faith as well! She has been instrumental in deepening my relationship with God over the past decade. St. Faustina is probably the biggest influence on viewing God first as a merciful Father as opposed to a vengeful Judge. Through St. Maria Faustina I heard God’s truth in her words, “Suffering is the greatest treasure on earth; it purifies the soul. In suffering, we learn who our true friend is.”

Our Lady of the Rosary

While the entire month of October is dedicated to the Rosary (another reason to love this month!), Catholics celebrate Our Lady of the Rosary on October 7th.

Our Lady of the Rosary holds immense importance in the Catholic faith and Christian tradition. This title honors the Virgin Mary as the Queen of Heaven and a powerful intercessor. The rosary, a centuries-old prayer practice, is closely linked to this devotion, believed to have been revealed by Mary to Saint Dominic in the 13th century.

Beyond its historical roots, Our Lady of the Rosary plays a vital role in the daily lives of Catholics. Many turn to Mary for guidance, protection, and assistance. The rosary, a tool for meditation and reflection, deepens the connection with God and fosters unity among believers worldwide. It serves as a symbol of faith, hope, and unity, reminding us of Mary’s enduring grace and mercy.

Saint Teresa of Avila

Teresa of Avila

Another example of heroic holiness in October is Saint Teresa of Avila. Her life differs from Maria and Therese as the Spanish saint lived a much longer life. Teresa also experienced more of a 180°-type of conversion.

As a young adult, Teresa enjoyed the allure of the world. It wasn’t until her entry into the convent that the Spanish nun learned the importance of meditative prayer. Teresa’s The Interior Castle is a profound spiritual work that explores the vastness of our spiritual journey. This spiritual treatise has helped aid me on my journey.

Saint Luke

The Catholic Church celebrates the Feast of Saint Luke on October 18th. As a writer of one of the four Gospels, Luke had a special role in the early Church. He was also a traveling companion to Saint Paul and penned the Acts of the Apostles. Paul makes reference to Luke’s profession as a doctor (Colossians 4:14) and the Lord had even bigger plans for this saint. Inspired by the Holy Spirit, Luke provides us with an amazing account of Jesus’ life and shares parables like the Prodigal Son and Lost Sheep.

Saint Luke is an advocate for passing on the faith. Celebrate his feast by reading from his gospel account or from Acts of the Apostles.

While autumn is akin to a second springtime, my communion with the saints during October is like a second spiritual springtime for me. My guardian angel, Therese of Lisieux, Francis of Assisi, Maria Faustina, Luke the Evangelist, Teresa of Avila, and the Blessed Virgin Mary reflect God’s merciful and transforming love.

Through communion with these exemplary role models I am given hope that my personal vices of greed, envy, and pride are able to be overcome! The Church teaches “We worship Christ as God’s Son; we love the martyrs as the Lord’s disciples and imitators, and rightly so because of their matchless devotion towards their king and master. May we also be their companions and fellow disciples!” (CCC 957). I pray the communion of saints will continue to guide you in your path toward holiness and ultimately lead us closer to God.

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Related Links

3 Ways St. Maria Faustina Provided Buoyancy in the Overwhelming Ocean of Life

5 Astonishing Facts about Your Guardian Angel

St. Francis of Assisi: Lover of the Eucharist

Why I Absolutely Love Saint Therese Of Lisieux

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The Assumption of Mary: Our Mother’s Triumph and Our Future Hope

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Every year on August 15, Catholics around the world celebrate one of the Church’s most beautiful feasts: the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Alongside the feasts of the Immaculate Conception (December 8) and Mary, Mother of God (January 1), this is a Holy Day of Obligation, a day when we gather for Mass to honor the Mother of God.

And let’s be clear — we venerate Mary, we do not worship her. All true Marian devotion leads us closer to Jesus. The Church teaches that the mysteries of Mary’s life inseparably connect to the mystery of Christ.

The Assumption celebrates that, at the end of her earthly life, God took Mary up body and soul into heavenly glory. This is not simply a personal privilege for her: it is a sign of what God desires for all of us. The Catechism describes it beautifully: Continue reading →

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Controlling the Unexpected

/ chicoinematt

Editor’s Note: Post originally published on August 21, 2018.

According to 18th-century British poet Alexander Pope, “Blessed is he who expects nothing, for he shall never be disappointed.” As a perfectionist who thrives on routine, my immediate reaction is to bristle at those words. I prefer order, structure, and clear expectations, and I don’t always respond gracefully when my plans unravel.

Yet, I’ve found myself challenged more and more to stretch beyond my preferences, especially when the unexpected barges in. I’m learning that growth often comes precisely when we release our white-knuckle grip on control.

Humanity as a whole tends to lean toward predictability. We crave the comfort of habit and routine. So when life throws a curveball, our instinct is to protest. We ask why. We question the timing. We may even resent the disruption.

A recent example: the changes to the Catechism of the Catholic Church regarding the death penalty. I won’t get into that debate here (maybe in a future post), but the intensity of the reaction—especially online—shows how unsettled we become when the Church, or life itself, seems to deviate from the script we’ve written in our heads.

Our Desire for Control vs. God’s Plan for Freedom

C.S. Lewis offers a piercing insight into our attempts to “manage” the messiness of life. In A Grief Observed, he wrote:

“We were promised sufferings. They were part of the program. We were even told, ‘Blessed are they that mourn,’ and I accept it. I’ve got nothing that I hadn’t bargained for. Of course it is different when the thing happens to oneself, not to others, and in reality, not imagination.”

That last line is especially humbling. It’s easy to accept the theology of suffering in the abstract, much harder when it knocks on your door personally. We want life on our terms—timed, tidy, and manageable. But even the names of things, like “Planned Parenthood,” hint at our desperate desire to domesticate what was never meant to be controlled.

Of course, God could have made us automata. But He didn’t. He gave us something far riskier: freedom. And with freedom comes the possibility of evil, but also the possibility of love.

Lewis captures this tension perfectly in The Case for Christianity:

“Why, then, did God give [us] free will? Because free will, though it makes evil possible, is also the only thing that makes possible any love or goodness or joy worth having… A world of automata, of creatures that worked like machines, would hardly be worth creating.”

Love Is Worth the Unexpected

After a long week of wrangling my three kids—taking them to the park, refereeing their arguments, picking up toys for the 100th time, and navigating bedtime for the 1,000th—it’s easy to feel drained. Exhausted, I find it hard to be fully present to my wife.

That’s when I notice the tension: am I seeking to control the bedtime routine, or am I trying to love my family well?

When I get too fixated on control, when I parent from anxiety instead of love, I actually lose control. Love involves letting others act freely within good boundaries. God, as the perfect Father, models this. He allows us the freedom to accept or reject His love. And yet, He never stops inviting.

When I allow room for the unexpected—bedtime detours, messy prayers, spontaneous laughter—I often find that love shows up in surprising ways. And that’s the real goal: to choose love over rigid control, every day.

The Creativity of the Creator

Love not only invites freedom; it also sparks creativity. And creativity suffers when we try to control everything.

When I think of the most creative people I know—whether Einstein, Tolkien, Edison, or my own children—there’s always a spark of freedom, wonder, and play. Creation isn’t born from fear or calculation. It’s born from love, vision, and a willingness to embrace risk.

Genesis 1 reminds us that God is not an indifferent architect. He is an attentive, joyful Creator, delighting in both the vastness of the stars and the details of sparrows. That divine creativity continues through us, His creatures. I see it daily in the Lego towers my kids build, the “dance parties” they host with stuffed animals, the wild adventures they imagine.

Of course, some boundaries are needed. Rules and routines help children (and adults) flourish. But when control reigns supreme, we risk choking the life out of joy.

Control Is Not the Goal

J.R.R. Tolkien put it bluntly:

“The most improper job of any man, even saints… is bossing [controlling] other men. Not one in a million is fit for it, and least of all those who seek the opportunity.”

That includes bossing around our own lives.

I’m not saying we should throw structure out the window. Discipline matters. Planning has its place. But if we cling to control as the ultimate good, we start to treat people—including ourselves—like problems to solve instead of persons to love.

The Church teaches that the purpose of life is to know, love, and serve God. We do this best when we allow His grace to surprise us. When we stop demanding control and start delighting in the unexpected, we find glimpses of heaven in the ordinary.

Maybe Pope was right after all: “Blessed is he who expects nothing…” Not because we aim low, but because we open ourselves to whatever God has planned.

And in His hands, even the unexpected is worth it.

Thank you for sharing!

Sharing the Gospel: The Greatest Adventure in Life

/ chicoinematt

Have you ever felt that gentle tug on your heart, that whisper in your soul calling you to something greater? Maybe you’ve dismissed it, thinking it couldn’t possibly be for you. But what if I told you that this call is the beginning of the greatest adventure of your life?

As I sit here, reflecting on my own journey of faith, I’m reminded of the countless stories in Scripture and throughout history of ordinary people who said “yes” to an extraordinary calling. From fishermen becoming apostles to a humble nun in Calcutta changing the world with her love, the pattern is clear: God delights in using the unexpected to accomplish the unimaginable.

In our modern world, filled with distractions and comfort, it’s easy to overlook or ignore this divine invitation. We might feel unqualified, unprepared, or simply too busy. But today, I want to challenge you to see sharing the Gospel not as a burden, but as the thrilling adventure it truly is. Let’s explore together why answering this call might just be the most exciting thing you ever do.

The Call

God calls you to follow him. He did this with the first Apostles. Everyone’s calling looks a bit different but it almost always seems to be an interruption of your normal life and routine. I’m currently reading my children The Hobbit before bedtime. Something Gandalf the Wizard said in the opening chapter has prompted me into a deeper reflection of the Good News of Jesus Christ. He tells the hobbit, Bilbo Baggins, “I am looking for someone to share in an adventure that I am arranging, and it’s very difficult to find anyone.”

How true is this when we are evangelizing? Once people realize that Jesus is calling us to a life of service and carrying the cross, it is easy for people to give up the journey or to never begin at all. The Hobbit’s tagline is “An Unexpected Journey”. Our journey of faith is often much like an unexpected journey too.

As Saint Pope John Paul II wisely said, “Life with Christ is a wonderful adventure.” This adventure, while unexpected and sometimes challenging, is the most fulfilling journey we can embark upon.

Thinking it over

Once the excitement of the call wears off worry and anxiety sets in. “What if I’m not good enough or talented enough or tough enough?”. You might question your worthiness in general. Paralysis by analysis. I totally get it! I have often struggled to act or start the “journey” because of the worry I let in and allowed it to simmer in my mind.

God knows that humans struggle with over analysis and angst. He wants to encourage us and gives us plenty of examples in the Gospel to show how He is trustworthy and to lean on Him. One of my favorite bible verses is from the Epistle of Peter. The saint writes, “Cast all your worries upon him because he cares for you” (1 Peter 5:7).

In moments of doubt, it’s important to remember the words of Pope Benedict XVI: “The world offers you comfort, but you were not made for comfort. You were made for greatness.” This greatness often lies just beyond our comfort zone, in the realm of faith and trust in God’s plan.

You gotta just do it

The Nike slogan “Just Do It” is so simple and natural. It’s an effective brand saying because of its applicability to daily life. We see amazing athletes run, leap, and tackle difficulties in their sports. But it’s also a metaphor and practical mantra to take on life’s daily tasks. Wake up without hitting the snooze button. Make your bed before work. Eat your breakfast. These are things we should do and aren’t extraordinary, but they lead to extraordinary results when compounded day after day.

God is inviting you to join Him in sharing the Good News: Jesus died and rose from the dead. He wants to free us from our sins. But you gotta just do it. Jesus’ final words in Matthew’s Gospel were a command: “Go, therefore, and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you” (Matthew 28:19-20). In other words, Jesus is saying to just go out and preach the Gospel.

We are called to be bold. Not to hide our light under a basket. But to shine it and share it with others. Light begets more light. When you share your gifts God is generous and increases your gifts exponentially.

I have felt apprehensive about continuing on an adventure God invited me back in 2023. I let fear of failure seep into my heart and mind. Satan wants to sidetrack you and tempt you to give up the adventure altogether.

In these moments of hesitation, I’m reminded of the wisdom of Saint Francis of Assisi: “Start by doing what’s necessary; then do what’s possible; and suddenly you are doing the impossible.” This step-by-step approach can help us overcome our fears and doubts, allowing us to grow in our faith journey.

But remember, sharing the Gospel is the greatest adventure in life. It’s a journey that may seem unexpected, filled with challenges and self-doubt, but it’s also one that brings immeasurable joy and fulfillment. Just as Bilbo Baggins found courage he never knew he had, we too can discover strength we never imagined when we step out in faith to share the Good News.

So, are you ready for the adventure? The call has been issued, the journey awaits. It’s time to cast aside your worries, trust in God’s care, and just do it. The world is waiting for the light you have to share.

Thank you for sharing!

Reflections on the National Eucharistic Congress: Faith, Healing, and Revival

/ chicoinematt

Last week, I had the incredible opportunity to attend the National Eucharistic Congress in Indianapolis. Over 50k Catholics were in attendance across the United States. Eucharistic Adoration, daily Mass and a line-up of speakers headed by Fr. Mike Schmitz and Bishop Robert Barron were the highlights (but to be honest the entire week was a highlight).

The experience was truly transformative, filled with moments of profound joy and palpable movements of the Holy Spirit. As I reflect on those days, I’d like to share some of the most impactful insights I gained.

The Joy of Christian Community

One of the first things that struck me was the overwhelming sense of joy that permeated the entire event. As I sat in the conference hall during supper, I couldn’t help but notice the many small groups of two or three people scattered throughout the room. In those moments, I felt certain that Jesus was present among them, fulfilling His promise: “For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them” (Matthew 18:20).

A Powerful Encounter

While waiting in line for the Eucharistic Miracles exhibit (a popular attraction with over an hour and a half wait), I had a life-changing encounter. I met Emilio, a gentleman from California, whose story deeply moved me. Emilio shared how he had been involved in gang activity from a young age and had even taken a life at 22, resulting in a life sentence. Eventually, a combination of legal changes and Emilio’s profound spiritual transformation led to his release.

Emilio and I waiting in line to see the Eucharistic Miracles Exhibit.

His journey of repentance and renewal in prison led him to give his life to Jesus. Emilio’s wife, who accompanied him, emphasized that she felt the Eucharistic Congress was specifically for him. This reminded me that while we were blessed to attend, the Eucharistic Revival is for all baptized Catholics – we are all called to share the Gospel and live sacramentally.

The Power of Jesus’ Name

Another powerful realization came during Dr. Mary Healy’s talk on healing and prayer. The healing service she conducted with Fr. Mathias Thelen felt biblical in its intensity, reminiscent of Jesus’ own ministry. During this service, I experienced firsthand the power of prayer and the name of Jesus.

Jesus is Lord. 🍞🍷✝️🙏

Despite initial doubts about whether my relatively minor headache was worthy of divine intervention, I prayed, “Lord, help my unbelief” – echoing the father in Mark 9:24. To my amazement, as the service concluded, I realized my headache had disappeared. This experience reinforced the truth that Jesus has the power to heal us physically, mentally, and spiritually – just as He did in biblical times. Jesus is the Divine Physician and He desires to heal all our wounds.

The Importance of Repentance

A recurring theme throughout the Congress was the significance of repentance. According to Fr. Mike Schmitz, “If this is going to be a revival, if it’s going to be a real revival, here’s the reality. In the history of Christianity, you can never have a revival without repentance.”

To fully receive the graces available in the Sacrament of the Eucharist, we must approach it with hearts open to God’s mercy. But this mercy is not forced upon us. We have to repent of our sins. The Catechism of the Catholic Church puts it this way, “Jesus calls to conversion. This call is an essential part of the proclamation of the kingdom: ‘The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand; repent, and believe in the gospel” (CCC 1427).

This emphasis on repentance serves as a powerful reminder of our continual need for God’s mercy and our call to ongoing conversion.

Go Forth and Preach the Gospel

The National Eucharistic Congress was a profound reminder of the living presence of Christ in our midst, particularly in the Eucharist. It reinforced the power of community, the importance of personal testimony, the reality of divine healing, and the necessity of repentance in our spiritual lives.

As we move forward in this Eucharistic Revival, may we all be renewed in our commitment to Christ, open to His healing power, and ready to share His love with the world. The revival is not just for those who attended the Congress – it’s for every baptized Catholic. We are all called to live out our faith in a sacramental way, drawing strength from the Eucharist and sharing the Good News with those around us. I will see you all in the Eucharist!

Share Your Eucharistic Encounter

These testimonials offer just a glimpse of the countless ways Jesus touched hearts during the Congress. If you attended the National Eucharistic Congress, I invite you to continue this chain of witness:

Take a moment to reflect on your experience. How did you encounter Jesus during the Congress? What moment stands out as particularly meaningful or transformative?

I encourage you to write a short paragraph (100-200 words) sharing your personal encounter with Jesus at the Congress. You might consider:

  1. A specific event or talk that moved you
  2. A moment of prayer or adoration that was especially powerful
  3. An unexpected encounter or conversation that touched your heart
  4. How the Congress has changed your perspective on the Eucharist
Thank you for sharing!