Over the past few months, the Evangelists in Australia have been discussing in their monthly meetings how we might be able to become a more significant presence in the spiritual life of our people. We are hoping that in the future communications we bring to the church this goal might be achieved. The purpose of this testimony is to share some light from my perspective, on the ministry of the Evangelist.
The purpose of the Sacrament of the Evangelist Blessing is to bring affirmation and spiritual support to people on their life’s journeys. During the preparation for the Blessing as well as in the Blessing itself the warming and quickening Spirit of God links with the current events of the candidate’s life’s journey and brings counsel, encouragement, and direction.
At the outset, I must point out that the Blessing is only a portion of the ministry of the Evangelist. Each of us provides ministry according to our gifts and callings in the areas of Being a Spiritual Companion, an Apostolic Witness, a Teacher Learner, a Pastoral Presence, and a Living Sanctuary.
The Sacrament of the Evangelist Blessing is probably one of the least known about and taken advantage of sacraments in the Australian Mission today. I remember I received my blessing at the age of 17 by Evangelist Wilfred J. Vaughan in the Leichhardt Church. Back in those days it was quite a regular occurrence in the lives of the people. I remember at each blessing the Evangelist had a scribe present who wrote the words of the prayer being spoken, down in shorthand and then it was transcribed and given to the candidate. Today, the recording of the blessing is done under more modern technical conditions.
There is also the opportunity to receive a further blessing. I remember my mother in her later years receiving a second blessing from Evangelist Paul Henricks.
I have often wondered in these days why people aren’t taking advantage of the spiritual guidance available through the blessing? Is it because they don’t know what the blessing is about? Or is it because it is a very private and confidential experience between the participant, evangelist, and God? Or maybe in these modern times we don’t feel comfortable to talk about and reveal our personal feelings and desires? The reason of course to talk openly with the Evangelist confidentially is so they can get to know the candidate, their lives and reason for living so they can connect with God to receive appropriate counsel and direction that will benefit their future lives.
I have shared in wonderful spiritual experiences with a variety of people as I have connected with them and my God when giving a blessing.
The people who have come to me for a blessing have been from several different life situations and backgrounds. There have been singles and married people, some struggling with physical disabilities and others coming to grips with their sexuality. Each of these folk were needing to receive spiritual direction in their journeys of life.
Blessings are also available for other significant life experiences. I have given a blessing over a marriage as well as over two congregations who were seeking direction for their future.
I hope this brief explanation will be an encouragement for those seeking a closer relationship with their God to approach an Evangelist and enquire about receiving a Blessing.
Bill Gillard
If you would like to receive an Evangelist Blessing, or if you would simply like to talk about Blessings, you can email aus.evangelists@gmail.com or talk with an evangelist who resides in your local area.