On May 26, 2024, The Lord’s Flock Catholic Charismatic Community Bislig Chapter held the Catholic Life in the Spirit Seminar at the St. Joseph the Worker Parish Church in Forest Drive Village, Bislig City, Surigao del Sur. This spiritually enriching event, comprised of a series of talks, prayers, and worship songs, aimed to guide the thirty-nine (39) participants towards a more profound relationship with God. It was an immersive experience that started their transformative journey in love, healing, forgiveness, and fulfillment.
The Seminar Teachings
Kindle Urdaneta (Bislig Chapter Steward) commenced with the introduction of the esteemed guests from Manila, Allan Almendrala (Head Steward, SEND Ministry), Jess Advincula (Steward, SOWER Ministry), and from Davao, Juli Jabay (Chapter Steward). She subsequently started the seminar with a discussion on the “Four Basic Truths about God” and elaborated on His boundless love and its transformative power. Furthermore, she shared personal anecdotes to illustrate the depth of God’s love and concluded with a powerful message: “Experiencing God’s love will bring about transformation in your lives. You can begin by turning to Him and opening yourselves to Him.”
The second speaker, Undo Urdaneta (Bislig Chapter Steward) delivered an insightful talk on “God’s Salvation.” He highlighted the necessity of repentance and maintaining a close relationship with God. He then shared his own journey – how the sacrament of confession led him to a renewed life and he encapsulated his message with the assurance that “salvation is a free gift.”
After the two topics, the music ministry led the community in joyous singing and dancing, thus, created a vibrant and uplifting atmosphere.
Receiving God’s Gift
Allan Almendrala then expounded on the topic of “Receiving God’s Gift.” He engaged the audience with humor and relatable anecdotes, which sparked laughter and liveliness. He stressed the significance of adhering to God’s Ten Commandments, seeking repentance, and transforming one’s life.
Baptism in the Holy Spirit
Thereafter, Kindle discussed the profound concept of Baptism in the Holy Spirit, which is distinct from sacramental baptism. She introduced the seven manifestations of the Holy Spirit and described the Spirit as a divine person who engages in personal and relational actions such as teaching, speaking, giving spiritual gifts, and interceding. Kindle then led the prayer session and encouraged the community to open their hearts and welcome the Holy Spirit.
As the community sang “Come Holy Spirit,” the church was filled with a deeply emotional atmosphere. Participants shared their experiences of the Holy Spirit’s manifestations, including feelings of healing, forgiveness, and a renewed sense of divine presence. One testified that he felt his heart being healed of anger and hatred and felt ready to forgive. Another experienced the wind manifestation and acknowledged how God sacrificed His life on the cross.
Spiritual Growth
Juli Jabay concluded the seminar with a discussion of the “Four Spokes of Spiritual Growth” namely, prayer, study of the Word of God, community, and service.” She shared her personal journey of faith and detailed how opening her heart to the Holy Spirit led to profound transformation and stability in her life.
The seminar culminated in a collective spiritual awakening. After the final prayer, the community felt inspired and rejuvenated.
To God be the glory!
Written by: Rose Robles
(Bislig Chapter)
