Fr Marco Egawhary

This past weekend (4-6 April), Holy Souls Catholic Church in Acocks Green was blessed with an extraordinary outpouring of faith and community during our 40 Hours of Devotion. The event, rooted in deep tradition and reverence, was a beautiful opportunity for parishioners and visitors alike to spend extended time in prayer and adoration before Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament.

It was especially moving to see some return to church for the first time in years. From the moment the devotion began, there was a palpable sense of peace and reverence that filled the church, drawing hearts back to the presence of Jesus in the Eucharist.

The Saturday night candlelit adoration was a highlight for many. The church, glowing softly in the warmth of those candles, became a sanctuary of calm and beauty. During the night, silence reigned as individuals knelt in personal prayer, many praying a Holy Hour for the first time and commenting on the powerful experience of this Eucharistic intimacy with Christ.

Another moment that deeply touched hearts was the Eucharistic Healing Service. For many attendees, it was their first experience of such a service, and the response was truly humbling. The sense of openness, vulnerability, and spiritual renewal could be felt strongly, and we were touched to hear of people travelling from various places in the diocese to participate including Worcester, Brewood and Rubery! 

Throughout the weekend, refreshments were served after various services, providing not just physical nourishment but also a space for fellowship and joyful conversation. Many were greatly appreciative of the sense of welcome and community they encountered at Holy Souls.

We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to all those who helped prepare and support this event—from those who coordinated the schedule, to those who kept watch through the night, to everyone who offered hospitality and prayer. Your efforts created a space where many encountered Jesus anew.

There are tentative plans to make this an annual event – watch this space! We also hope it will inspire other parishes to promote this venerable and awe-inspiring devotion where possible.

Let us continue to pray for this revival of faith in the Real Presence of Christ in the Blessed Sacrament!

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