St. Anthony’s Stories of Grace

We know the many stories well; St. Paul’s conversion to Christianity on the road to Damascus; St. Augustine’s conversion through the prayers of his mother, St. Monica; the beautiful “Little Way” of St. Thérèse of Lisieux, who did everything in her short life, even menial tasks, all for her love of Jesus; and so many others! Those amazing stories of grace and faith continue to inspire us and remind us of God’s love, providence, and forgiveness. But how about that young family who sits in front of us at Mass on Sunday, or the lady with the beautiful smile who plays the organ, or perhaps the older couple who always sits in the second pew on the right? What path have they traveled on their journey through life?  What is the source of their inspiration? What has led them to be in that pew right now, right here? Have they witnessed a miracle in their life? Are they struggling right now in their faith? Are there true saints among us?

Such were the questions that came up during a conversation with a friend as we shared our own conversion stories and challenges experienced along our own faith journey through life. What are the faith stories of the many people we see every Sunday at Mass, many whose hands we shake during the sign of peace or converse with after Mass in the social hall? The inspiration of the Holy Spirit entered the conversation as we discussed the possibility of sharing our own stories with our faith community at St. Anthony’s and wondering too, if others may be inspired to come forward and share their stories as well. Perhaps organizing an event at which several parishioners could share their personal witness stories could be possible.

The idea for “St. Anthony’s Stories of Grace” was proposed during a meeting with Father Braun, our two deacons, deacon candidates, staff members and other interested parishioners at St. Anthony’s. It would be a platform for ordinary parishioners, such as ourselves, not professional speakers, just people willing to come forward in the church and share their personal witness story, faith journey, or a miracle through which they experienced the love, providence, forgiveness, or guidance of the Lord Jesus and Holy Spirit in their lives. How amazing and inspirational that would be!

With the blessing of Father Braun and the other meeting attendees and through the guidance of the Holy Spirit, “St. Anthony’s Stories of Grace” was born!

The fruits of “St. Anthony’s Stories of Grace,” thus far, have been truly amazing. Our first series consisted of five talks presented to our parish in the three weeks following Easter of 2023. What a perfect time to celebrate God’s love for us! Each presenter’s faith journey experience was so uniquely moving and inspiring, bringing to light the many different paths, hard, narrow, or straight, that brought each to the light of Christ through trials, faith, blessings, and forgiveness. Story topics ranged from infertility issues, battles with cancer and other health struggles, to the loss of loved ones, true witnessed miracles, and many others. It was enthusiastically received by all who attended which led to organizing another series of three talks this past Advent, and another three-talk series to begin a week after this coming Easter.

The hope for “St. Anthony’s Stories of Grace” is not only to praise God and celebrate his providence and countless miracles, but also to bring to light the many faith stories, miracles, and struggles that go on among those around us and to bring us closer together as a faith community—all brothers and sisters in Christ. True life stories, along with parables, miracles, and signs were used many times by Jesus during his time on Earth to highlight and reward the faith of those who believed in him. Perhaps this may inspire you to share your own witness story with someone or maybe even think of starting a “Stories of Grace” series of talks in your own parish, the fruits of which will surely be blessed by the Holy Spirit.

We travel many different paths through life with countless unique stories—with both challenges and blessings—but our desire and destination is one and the same: basking in eternal happiness and glory with our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, in heaven one day. Let us share and rejoice in our “Stories of Grace.”

If you would like more information about “St. Anthony’s Stories of Grace,” contact Tom Smith through St. Anthony’s parish office at (701) 237-6063. Audio files of all “Stories of Grace” presentations are available at www.stanthonyfargo.org/stories-of-grace.