Burning Bush Experiences

9 Days of Intercession Prayer for the Nation

Belgium is a small federal country of 10 million inhabitants with three language groups, French-, Dutch- and German speaking, which differ widely in political terms.

From the outset the Charismatic Renewal in Belgium was strongly supported by Belgian Cardinal Suenens.

For several years Charismatic brothers and sisters from the three language communities have been meeting to pray and follow God’s will.

So it was that all Christians (especially those from prayer groups) convened to celebrate together the Feast of Pentecost in 2002: some 1500 people gathered « one of heart and soul » at the Brussels Basilica on Pentecost Monday around the Cross of Jesus that unites all men. Cardinal Danneels presided over this joyful and prayerful assembly, inviting everyone to welcome the gifts of the Holy Spirit.

In 2003, prayer induced the multilingual core group to organise a novena from Ascension to Pentecost. Every day on a 24 hrs basis, a diocese adored and worshipped that faith might be restored in Belgium; a candle was carried from one diocese to another. Testimony to the power of the Holy Spirit could be seen in reconciliation prevailing over former misunderstandings and bringing greater faith and unity.

In 2004, the Lord continued watching over and leading His people. The Charismatic core group thus felt in prayer that the Lord Himself wanted to sew together different pieces of cloth to make one single garment, namely Jesus’ robe.

Throughout the year, the Lord led us through His Word. We met the challenge of running nine days of prayer (the word novena seemed old-fashioned) for revival in Belgium by designing a single poster in the three national languages, a single prayer book with the prophecies of the year, and prayers based on the Holy Father’s « Ecclesia in Europa ». Every day in a town from each diocese, nine services united local Christians, parishes, prayer groups, communities, sometimes around the local bishop, sometimes with brothers and sisters of other movements or confessions. « The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light rising » (Is 9, 1) Yes, a praying people has risen. Local radios and Christian magazines relayed what was an achievement: a Belgium-wide drive that bridged every language barrier. The Lord really allowed each one to understand the message, regardless of their mother tongue! The Holy Spirit is at work shaping His people.

In 2005, a similar country-wide event will be proposed: common prayer will unite all the dioceses around the Eucharist since in this year we are “sent to celebrate”.
Residents of several homes have already expressed the wish to participate in the 9 days of prayer and will receive prayer books. We pray that the Holy Spirit will spread graces throughout the country.

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written by the chairpersons of French and Flemish speaking Belgium, Françoise Huybrechts and Marc Meirsman
March 2005