Resting (Slain?) in the Spirit

Last night Epiphany Church hosted Fr. Michael Walsh and his prayer team from St. Vincent de Paul's roman Catholic Church for a "Healing Service". Fr. Stace had indicated that this man was actually healing people in his own congregation, seemed down to earth, and straight as an arrow theologically. Fr. Walsh is an Irishman, priest for 45 years, a naturalized American citizen, and has a wee gift. Fr. Stace led the congregation in the Epiphany Healing service and Eucharist. Then, with little fanfare, Fr. Walsh began his portion of the service, after a few "rules". He mentioned "resting in the Spirit" and asked for a volunteer from our congregation to "help". Chris Sinclair, a vestry member and an ardent, growing Christian stepped up and joined one of Fr. Walsh's team. The first person who stood received a prayer from Fr. Walsh and promptly, smoothly, gently fell back , was caught and placed softly on the carpet in the front of the sanctuary, where he lay for about three minutes, recovered, was helped to his or her feet and was anointed with the sacrament for the sick.

Christ the King and Epiphany Church members took turns approaching Fr. Walsh for healing. I would estimate that about two-thirds fell back to rest on the carpet with their brothers and sisters. There were definitely several dramatic healings announced by those so affected, and by those who were not so affected. Glenda Gay and I prayed and stayed. We, too, had the "resting" experience.

Now thirty years of TM had me expecting an experience of transcendence. I was not fearful. But, "resting" is different. Transcendence is often described as an expansion of awareness. This was more like a covering in rest and peace, breathing very shallow and reduced but comfortable, an awareness of things around me unreduced, a definite suspension of the will to move, and a quiet space for prayers of adoration and gratitude. I saw no lights, though my internal vision seemed lighter somehow. I felt no sensations, except perhaps a "feeling" of being covered. I heard no music or bells or harps or anything out of the ordinary sounds of additional activity going on around me. The "resting" came on easily. The "falling" was without fear or care. I do remember nothing much of what was being said by the priest. I was praying myself a form of "Come Holy Spirit, fill my heart with your presence." Afterwards I felt "new". Although I had not asked for prayer for a very sore, arthritic knee that has had two surgeries, it too felt better. The aftertaste of the experience was also peace and restful.

So, here is a something new in my walk with the Lord. Praise Him.