A quick post to let you know what a positive experience the Word on Fire Conference was.
It was a privilege for the CMA to be invited to such a big event. We weren't sure what to expect but it should surprise nobody that with 5 of our Members there sharing our work and manning our stand that it was a joyful and uplifting experience all round.
We hit the ground running on Friday, when I arrived late having had to reinsert my son's NG feeding tube before I left (always takes more time than you might expect). The Excel Centre was far huger than I realised, and I ended up accidentally unloading the 'Catholic Swag' in the middle of the World Pokémon Championship, of all things. I managed to nav my way to the less surreal destination with the aid of some friendly nuns who were packing out a confused Starbucks, and therefore had less time than planned to set up the stall - it would have been impossible without our volunteers' help! We weren't entirely sure what to expect, but as the doors opened and the crowds arrived we realised we were going to be in for a very busy few days.
The conference was a blur of interesting and insightful talks, a massive amount of good will from all the attendees, and thoroughly lovely company of the CMA volunteers. We had some great conversations with people and two massive and unanticipated wins:
LOADS of people signed up to be prayer supporters. Each prayer supporter was given 5 individual CMA Members to pray for. We know how important this is and we're deeply grateful for the generosity of those who volunteered.
People loved our Rosaries and T-Shirts, and selling these really helped to balance our books. We're an international but financially tiny charity, and every little really does help us to fulfil our mission.
It was really great to be in the company of other UK Catholic ogranisations like ACN, CTS, SPUC, the Catholic Herald, Radio Maria England and Catholic Mothers, and I think we were all slightly daunted by the sheer volume and enthusiasm of attendees. A lot more people are now aware of the CMA and the work that we do, including Bishop Robert Barron, and many people also took Pilgrim Ways leaflets, which we were very pleased to be able to have on our stand too.
More important than the material success of the event was the spiritual impact. It was a deeply fruitful and spiritually nourishing experience. Personally, it was an honour and a privilege to attend. The CMA is beyond grateful that we have grown to the point where we were able to work with Word on Fire to provide a discount that allowed 7 members of HM Armed Forces / the CMA to attend. The fruits, with the help of God, will continue to grow.
If you'd like to support us to continue fulfilling our mission, please feel free to donate or email us to become a prayer supporter. By supporting us, You are:
supporting the furthering of Catholic faith and community in the Armed Forces,
supporting sailors, soldiers, airmen, veterans and their immediate families to become better spiritually, professionally and personally.
Please pray for our work!
Thank you.
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