Lily's testimony: Amazed by the heart of Jesus

I first met Lily 17 years ago when she joined our toddler group. We chatted occasionally, and her children took part in our church's kids clubs and activities. Over time, we lost touch except through Facebook. I had no idea then that the safe space we offered - through friendship and community - would later become a vital part of Lily’s spiritual journey. It’s a beautiful reminder that God is always at work, even when we don’t see it. I’ll let Lily share the rest in her own words.

Lily's story *

I was raised within the Catholic Church, and often felt confused and unworthy. As a child, I was told that being born to unmarried parents made me a product of sin and destined for hell. That message of shame and fear shaped my early view of God. Church became a place of kneeling, confessing, and never feeling forgiven. That sense of never being “good enough” drove me away from both church and God altogether.

After leaving an abusive relationship, I began to sense something greater than myself guiding and protecting me. In the darkest moments, when I should have felt completely alone, there was an undeniable presence - gentle, quiet, and protective. Now, I know the Holy Spirit - He was with me. The presence was His.