Dear Friends in Christ,
As we prepare for our upcoming Awakening sessions—a ministry of invitation and reconciliation for those who have fallen away from the Catholic faith—I ask for your partnership in a special way.
We have extended invitations to men and women who were once close to the Church but have drifted away, some perhaps feeling wounded or forgotten. Awakening is meant to be a gentle, grace-filled opportunity to rediscover the truth, beauty, and goodness of our faith and to encounter again the merciful Heart of God through His Church.
We know that conversion is always a work of grace, and so we wish to surround this ministry with prayer and sacrifice. I invite all the faithful to join us in a spiritual commitment:
- To pray intentionally for those the Lord is calling to say “yes” to His invitation—to come, to listen, and to be renewed in faith;
- To offer a personal act of penance in union with Christ’s own sacrifice—for the healing of wounds, the softening of hearts, and the courage to respond to grace.
You might choose to fast from a meal, offer a Rosary or Chaplet of Divine Mercy, make a Holy Hour, or take on another small sacrifice—perhaps while keeping in mind a particular loved one who has fallen away from the Church.
Our Awakening sessions will begin October 30th and continue for six weeks. As we draw near, let us walk the walk—not only speaking of renewal, but praying and offering ourselves for it. May the Holy Spirit prepare the soil of every heart to receive the Father’s love and come home to Him.
Thank you for uniting your prayers and sacrifices with ours. May this season of renewal bring many souls back to the peace and joy of Christ in His Church.
In Christ,
Emily Gipson, Director of Catechetical Formation
On behalf of the Awakening Core Team
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