Musings on Charismatic worship

I went out with an old friend and we realised that both of us are into the Charismatic way of praying. It was a surprise because she doesn't seem to be the kind.

She was introduced to it through our parish's LISS. I was introduced to it by someone. We spoke about our worship experiences and the gifts of the Spirit versus the fruits of the Spirit. We had different experiences over being slain, however.

I totally surrender to the Spirit when I'm prayed over and I am slain very quickly as a result. When I wake up, I feel His presence of peace and power. I know God's gracing me with this faith and trust. Somehow I am not privy to doubt. I admit that I did have such thoughts before but I believe my earlier spiritual attack has been dealt with for good. :)

As I mentioned in another entry, I listen to the hillsongs CDs very often and I was actually tempted at one point not to go for the upcoming Charismatic session. After all, the songs I sing at the session are hillsongs. However, I know that the atmosphere and praying over I go through at the session are what the CDs can't give to me. It's similar to the praying at home that can't replace the graces of being present at Mass.

Charismatic is another way of encountering my God. I still pray in the quiet form. I read Divine Mercy in my Soul and God Calling for my daily quiet time. All forms of prayer lead to our God, whether through outward praise, set prayers or through silent adoration. Without dispute though, the Mass is the greatest form of prayer for us Catholics. That should be our priority.

It has been a calming force in my life and I don't get so easily ruffled with people who may annoy me or who may be closed towards this form of prayer.

I am really glad I took the bold step to leave my church choir for some time and to join Ctk. I'm very grateful to the person who introduced Charismatic to me. He's my greatest 'angel'. Even though I've returned to my own church, this gem has never left my life. I may have taken a hiatus for 2 years but I'm back now and am proud to say that I am very enthusiastic about it. I don't care if I'm labelled a fanatic or whatever names people can think of.

It's so strange how I was so closed to it for 7 years but Ctk has broken this barrier so completely. Yep.