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A charismatic mini-retreat, hosted by ADoRE, one of the longest-running charismatic days of renewal in the country, is coming to St Dunstan's Church, Woking, on 21 September, 10am-3.30pm. It offers an opportunity to participate in a free retreat that will explore in more depth how we can ask the Holy Spirit to stir up in us the gift of Prophecy, for the encouragement and comforting of God’s people.

The session includes Mass, Adoration, Praise and Worship, inspired Teaching and Prayer for all participants to develop Prophecy and other charisms of the Holy Spirit. It is part of the 2024 ADoRE programme encouraging us to respond to God's call to holiness; co-operating with the Holy Spirit as He inspires and empowers us to love and help our neighbour.

Talking about this event, ADoRE Leader Alastair Emblem said,

"There’s a lot of misunderstanding about Prophecy: the popular image is that it’s all about dire predictions of the end of the world. But, as Pope Benedict XVI wrote: 'It should be kept in mind that prophecy in the biblical sense does not mean to predict the future but to explain the will of God for the present, and therefore show the right path to take for the future.'”*

“Prophecy is a seriously undervalued ministry in the Catholic Church,” said . “Pope Francis has consistently encouraged this gift of the Holy Spirit. Last year he said that we are all called to be modern-day prophets who guide others to see the Holy Spirit at work in everyday life.** We at Alton Day of Renewal have been guiding people to the Holy Spirit for the last 49 years at our monthly Days of Renewal, and we invite people from across the Diocese to come and find out more at what promises to be an exciting session.”

The main talk will be given by Geoff Poulter, former Director of the Catholic Bible School, who has a powerful ministry of Prophecy and Healing. This is one of only two in-person meetings this year, as ADoRE sessions now take place mostly on Zoom, since Covid forced them online four years ago. Over this time, monthly meeting attendance has risen to as many as 150 from all parts of the UK and overseas.

The live format means there will also be opportunity for individual face-to-face Prayer Ministry in the afternoon, when people can receive prayer for spiritual renewal or healing from experienced lay ministers. There is no charge for attendance but donations will be welcome. Attendees should bring a picnic for lunch. Those unable to attend in person can view the Mass, Praise and Talk by livestream – no need to register.

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* Apostolic Exhortation Verbum Domini 2010  ‘On the Word of God in the Life and Mission of the Church.’

**Angelus St. Peter's Square, 2 July