This Easter has been one I’ll remember forever.
I took part in many Catholic mass services as is traditional in Hvar. I didn’t understand the language or the religious rituals so honestly I did not expect encounter God during these services…. I’m happy to report I was very, very wrong.
On Good Friday, I found the atmosphere to be very heavy and somber. I felt tearful all day and couldn’t explain why (my mental and physical health being the best they’ve been in a long time). During a walk around the village following the cross, I saw streams of blood on the floor and on my feet. I heard the sound of screaming and crying. I had no idea what the prayers of the woman in the back meant (spoken in Croatian) but I could imagine what it was like to be one of the crowd following behind the cross. It was an extremely powerful experience to say the least.
A couple of years ago I decided to “retry” this whole “being a Christian” thing, mostly out of desperation and brokenness. While on Hvar I had a new revelation of who Jesus is and decided to recommit my life to Jesus. This time the decision was not based on who I am not but rather it was based on who He is and what He did for me.
I’m so glad I leaned into this new experience and am amazed that I encountered God in a completely different setting to what I am used to. I have developed a deeper respect for Catholic traditions and I am excited to learn more about them.
Happy Easter! He is risen!
💟
Beth, Journey DTS student.