My Pentecost Pilgrimage to Marian Valley

A Pentecost Pilgrimage: Finding the Divine at Marian Valley

This Pentecost, I felt called to embark on a three-day spiritual retreat at the Marian Valley Shrine of Our Lady Help of Christians, near Canungra. Realizing that while I am a Protestant Anglican, the setting of a Catholic retreat might be a little different from what I am used to, I was drawn to Marian Valley's reputation as an Archdiocesan Shrine dedicated to Our Lady Help of Christians, the Patroness of Australia. The shrine, maintained by the Pauline Fathers, features chapels donated by various ethnic communities, life-sized Stations of the Cross, and a replica of the Black Madonna icon. I was curious to experience the unique spiritual atmosphere and traditions of this place.

Confirming My Calling

Part of this retreat was to seek confirmation of my calling to study law, which came as a resounding clear message of yes. I'm looking forward to seeing the integration of theology and law and what that means for my future ministry and service to the community.

Unexpected Encounters

In the weeks leading up to this retreat, I had been visiting the Anglican Parish of Surfers Paradise, known as the Church of the Holy Spirit. For a long time, I thought speaking in tongues was just a story—something that happened to others, not to me. But two weeks ago, during a service there, I found myself unexpectedly speaking in tongues for the first time. Even today, after the service, I experienced a little "babble" again. These moments have challenged and expanded my understanding of how the Spirit moves.

Walking Through Grief

During this time, I was also grieving the tragic loss of my friend Anthony. I very much had time to connect with my higher self on this and do some work. It's terrible when we lose a saint on earth to tragic circumstances. Lord, make me raw material for grace to work upon so that I can shake the very gates of hell and so the ringleaders in Satan's camp make noble sergeants in the camp of Christ. Help me to be the bravest of the brave.

— A paraphrased prayer inspired by Charles Spurgeon

Arrival and Reflection

When I arrived at Marian Valley, I was warmly greeted by Robyn, who showed me to my room, "St Pauls the Hermit." The room featured "Station X" (Mark 15:19), a depiction of Jesus being stripped of his garments, which prompted reflection on vulnerability and sacrifice.

A Profound Experience

On that first evening I conducted a simple Friday-night service in my room, following the Order of Holy Communion. At about 6 p.m. on 6 June 2025, just after I spoke the words "Hosanna in the highest," a profound experience unfolded. I perceived a luminous outline—of what I can only describe as the Lord Himself—standing at my right, then walking behind me to rest His hands upon my head. Tears streamed down my cheeks as time seemed to stand still; even after I noted the moment in my journal the sense of holy suspension lingered. When I closed my eyes I saw a chamber filled with pure, sparkling light and felt the presence of angels surrounding me though I could not see them.

Experiences like these, while deeply personal, are not unique. Throughout history, individuals across various faiths have reported similar encounters with the divine. Mystics, saints, and ordinary people have described visions, feelings of profound connection, and moments of being touched by a higher power. These experiences often involve a sense of being outside of time, a feeling of intense love or peace, and a conviction of the reality of the spiritual world.

Later, sitting on my bed, I asked and prayed for understanding. Again, I felt a sensation from my heart to my head to my toes—a bird descending. Closing my eyes, I saw a burning bush and Moses. The bird returned, descending from fire, and I recognised the shape of a dove.

Pilgrimage and Revelation

The next morning, I made a pilgrimage up the mountain. At the feet of Jesus and Mary, I prayed for the Pentecostal gifts I need for the next season of my life. This experience was unlike anything I've felt in years—the last time being in 2018, which I recorded in my book, Faith & Sexuality, as a lightning bolt touching the Cristo Blanco Christ statue before my eyes.

In honor of Anthony's memory, I will do my best to serve my community, combining my faith with my future legal studies to make a difference in this world.

A Gentle Echo of the Divine

I feel different now—clearer, alive, and filled with a sense of purpose. The Holy Spirit shared personal prophecies with me, which I've recorded in my journal, like seeds planted in fertile ground. As this season of Pentecost continues today, Sunday, June 8, 2025, I carry these words in my heart, a gentle echo of the divine:

John 14:26: "But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you."

Acts 2:4: "All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit enabled them."

Psalm 46:10: "Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth."

May the Lord's grace illuminate your path, and may you find the courage to open your heart and let His love flow through you. Thanks be to God.

I also give thanks for Anglican Surfers Paradise. Here is a photo from this morning's service.
The Rev'd Jim Raistrick is Priest-in-Charge of The Parish of Surfers Paradise—he's a pretty cool guy and even plays the guitar during the service. Worth checking out!