I went to Emmaus with the understanding that this was going to be a weekend where I would have to “work” at my faith (if I really, truly had any!!) rather than just turning up and going to Church on a Sunday.
Was there one “ah-ha” moment during the walk that has had a significant impact on you?
The walk did change my faith, but it was clear that I had to own up to and face a lot of personal baggage, and it was the clear love from all that turned the tide for me.
All of the Emmaus community who made the agape had no idea of who I was, no understanding of my limited relationship with God, and only love and messages of support. So, in the end, I realised that I was not really alone.
When I stood before the cross that day and threw my bit of paper into that bowl, believing that my sins would be forgiven, it was my turning point. My fundamental belief was that I was not alone. Perhaps I could let go of the past, stop beating myself up, trust someone with the power and authority to make me a better man, give me a strong well to draw from without feeling guilty.
Can you share one of those moments with our readers
When we went for our special walk Saturday night up to the other hall, seeing several people from my church brought home the fact that “others cared”.
One person in particular was going through a bad time with her father. What right did I have to be the person I was?
I thought about my wife and daughter, but my son and my relationship with him brought me home! I could either keep going the way I was or trust in God and put my life in his hands.
I just had to believe—that was it!!
Has your relationship with others changed?
My relationship with my whole family is better, with my son, it is improving with time. This remains a WIP, but it starts from a much more positive base than where I was before.
I went to Emmaus with the understanding that this was going to be a weekend where I would have to “work” at my faith (if I really, truly had any!!) rather than just turning up and going to Church on a Sunday.