The transforming power of love

Br. Gary shares on the fruits of his work in prison ministry.

After every Cursillo Retreat we gather together the next month for an

ultreya

, which means "onward" or "proceed further on." At the meeting the men from prison share about their experience at the retreat and receive encouragement as they deepen their faith in Christ.

The theme for this night was the transforming power of love. Every man spoke about the love that they tangibly felt by our team and most especially by God! It was a respite from the tyranny of prison life and they described our time together as not being in prison. We ate meals together and they were dumbfounded that we seemed to enjoy it! It was not about the food but being with them for an ordinary meal. Some of the men experienced being able to express their emotions which are usually always concealed. Our new brothers in Christ intimately shared about the real challenges they face in prison, but also the current tragedies within their own families. There was a vulnerability in their sharing that can require years to attain in other groupings.

To witness the transformation of love in their hearts and the gratitude they expressed to us was truly humbling. One younger man spoke about the Lord giving him a message of love that he desires to proclaim. He was truly eloquent and full of conviction and he captivated us with the power of his words and the love that poured out from his heart. Lastly, the men spoke about hope for their futures and were grateful to us for treating them with dignity that their lives matters!

Thank you for your prayers and your support of my life in this ministry to the spiritually poor. Gratefully, Br. Gary