By Father Ed Danneker

Several people from the Atlanta Archdiocese were present at the Charismatic Conference in Augusta to learn about the movement. Father Sean Fleury, pastor of St. Patrick’s in Norcross, came to find out about the movement. “The seminars I found inspiring, but in the prayer meetings I am a little hesitant in feeling a part yet. My reaction is one of overall personal delight.” Rita Ream, a member of St. Philip Benizi in Jonesboro, commented: “For me, the atmosphere was such that I was continually aware that Jesus, through His Holy Spirit, was in complete control at all times, making His presence and love known to all His people.”

“I was very encouraged for those active in the movement to see the support of the total Catholic Church. There was reliance on the existing leadership in the Church–noone wanted to revolt or split the church. There was a reliance on the existing liturgy and a strong emphasis on the importance of the sacraments,” responded Barbara Cascio, a member of St. Thomas More, Decatur.

Blessed Sacrament Parish was represented by Barbara Peterson, who said, “It has been a real inspiration to me. The workshops explained and answered all my questions and more. This conference has made such a wonderful change in my life. It is hard to find words to describe the effect the conference has made on all who attended.”

Father Ray Carr, a Marist, who has been active in the movement and has attended the Notre Dame Convention, said: “It is a unique experience that reflects the experience that most people felt at Notre Dame. The Conference shows the Spirit is working all over the land. It is a fine introduction to the movement in the southeast.”