Don’t Forget the Holy Spirit

On Saturday 1 March 2025, up to 100 people gathered at St Laurence’s Catholic Church in Cambridge for a Day of Renewal with Fr Matt Anscombe and Caroline Sadd from Clifton Diocese.

Report from Pam Smith, Coordinator – Charismatic Diocesan Service of Communion for East Anglia

Despite numerous parish activities taking place simultaneously, the day began with Mass in celebration of the Feast of St David.

During the morning session, both Fr Matt and Caroline shared their personal experiences of how the Holy Spirit has transformed their lives. Fr Matt spoke about his return to the Catholic faith and his journey to the priesthood, culminating in his ordination in 2010. Caroline recounted her profound experience of making a ‘proper confession’, describing how the burden of unforgiveness was lifted from her. She reflected on the stark difference between her life before and after that day.

Two priests were initially available for an hour to hear confessions, which many attendees sought. Due to the overwhelming response, additional priests stepped in, and by the end, a total of five priests were hearing confessions. Attendees were encouraged to be patient as queues formed. Many also took the opportunity to receive prayer ministry during this time.

Fr Matt led the congregation in a renewal of their baptismal promises, followed by a period of Eucharistic Adoration in the final hour of the event. Those who wished received prayer for a fresh outpouring of the Holy Spirit’s graces.

Praise and worship throughout the day was led by a group of musicians brought together specifically for the occasion. After Fr Matt imparted a final blessing, the day concluded with a song of blessing based on the Aaronic Prayer (Numbers 6:24-26).

Feedback from attendees was overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing gratitude for the experience. One participant, Maria, shared: “I felt very blessed by this powerful outpouring of the Holy Spirit through the Most Holy Sacrament of the Eucharist, confession, worship, and prayer, united in Him who loves us all. Thank you!”

A heartfelt thank you to everyone who attended, as well as to the parishioners who assisted with setting up and refreshments. Special thanks go to the priests who generously gave their time to hear confessions.

For further information about upcoming events, tune in to Radio Maria – English Catholic News, visit the Diocese of East Anglia website, or go to www.charisuk.com. Alternatively, contact Pam Smith at renewaleastanglia@gmail.com.

The Worship Band: Jim Allen (guitar), Oscar Lyons (keyboard) Anna Allen (vocals), Nancy Allen (vocals) Luc Wallace (base) Karen Wain (keyboard/vocals) Kevin Pugh (hand drummer)

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