'When you are down to nothing, God is up to something' A Fountain of Hope – 'Special' Day of Renewal at St Henry Morse

By Pam Smith

Around 80 people from across the Diocese of East Anglia and beyond gathered at the Catholic Church of St Henry Morse in Diss for a deeply enriching Day of Renewal, hosted by the Charismatic Diocesan Service of Communion (CDSC).

The day began with Mass, uniting parishioners and visitors in the celebration of the Eucharist and in proclaiming the enduring hope found in the Gospel.

Fr Alvan Ibeh, who led the day, encouraged all present not to let the moment pass without encountering something meaningful. He spoke directly to the common burdens of worry and anxiety that often keep us awake at night — the seasons of waiting and silence in prayer. Yet, he reminded us with conviction that "Hope does not disappoint” (Romans 5:5). Drawing from Romans 12:2, he prayed that all in attendance would be "transformed by the renewal of your mind."

When our minds are renewed in Christ, the enemy has no access to them

Fr Alvan’s powerful talk journeyed through Scripture, highlighting individuals who placed their hope in the Lord — showing how God, against all odds, remains faithful to His promises. Their hope was not in vain, and neither is ours. He declared that when our minds are renewed in Christ, the enemy has no access to them. “When you are down to nothing, God is up to something,” he reminded us. Just as Peter walked on water by keeping his eyes on Jesus, we too can rise above life’s storms when we focus on Him — but when we shift our focus to the problems, we sink.

Fr Alvan Ibeh prayed that all in attendance would be "transformed by the renewal of your mind."

Throughout the day, Fr Alvan also shared personal testimonies and reflections from his two books, A Fountain of Hope. His inspiring words, heartfelt prayers, and the vibrant praise and worship helped uplift and encourage everyone to trust in God’s plan and steadfast love.

During the lunch break, attendees connected with one another, shared fellowship, went to confession, and many received personal prayer ministry.

Walk in the hope that does not disappoint

The fruits of the day were evident. One participant, Barbara, shared the next morning: “I slept all night for the first time in a long, long time,” adding that she now feels “more relaxed in prayer.” Another attendee wrote to say:“Very many thanks for such a special day. It was so good of you to invite people from other parishes — you made us feel so welcome. Father Ibeh is truly inspiring. It was certainly a day of refreshment in your beautiful church and grounds.”

We are deeply grateful to Fr Alex, Deacon David, and the entire community at St Henry Morse Parish for their warm hospitality and generous support throughout the day. Their openness and welcome were deeply appreciated by both the CDSC team and all who attended. Opened in 2012, the Church of St Henry Morse on Shelfanger Road is truly a gem, filled with light and an atmosphere of worship.

Our heartfelt thanks also go to Fr Alvan Ibeh for leading this Day of Renewal, and for his inspiring call to embrace the promises of God. May we continue to walk in the hope that does not disappoint, because “God’s love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us” (Romans 5:5).

For more information about charismatic events in the Diocese of East Anglia, please email renewaleastanglia@gmail.com and check out our website: www.renewaleastanglia.org.

Pictures: Andrea Cope