ADL_logoby Steve Toth, Toledo, Ohio

The Association of Diocesan Liaisons (ADL) recently gathered for our annual convocation April 11 – 15. The theme this year was, in union with Pope Francis and the other National Leadership Groups, “Mission in Mercy” and was presented by Charles and Sue Whitehead from London, England.

We were wonderfully hosted this year by the Alleluia charismatic covenant community at their facilities in Augusta, Georgia. It was, for us who attended, an immersion in the 40 plus years of experience of the Whiteheads in their mission of leading God’s people to Pentecost and beyond. It was also an immersion in the life of the Alleluia Community.

The Whiteheads shared with us their experience of how the Holy Spirit worked through them to go to unexpected areas of mission with non-Catholic brothers and sisters, youth and the unchurched. They told many stories of the Holy Spirit moving mountains to open doors for mission. Their personal experience interspersed with many quotes from scripture, Popes, saints, and The Catechism of the Catholic Church led us to the shared conviction that we need to go to “the fringes” in ministry.

They reminded us that we have been baptized (immersed) in his Spirit. The process has begun but it is by no means over and the only way it can continue is by sharing what we have been given. Of course, this is not always a comfortable thing to do but Charles pointed out that “when we walk in the current will of God for us we are at peace.”

We were given a chance to get out of our comfort zone and team up with community members and go on an “ultimate treasure hunt.” We prayed for a short time and asked the Holy Spirit for clues of where to go and descriptions of people to pray with. It was an amazing experience!

This is but a sample of what takes place when the ADL gathers together. We encourage all liaisons to join us next year. You will not be disappointed.