"HILLSONG HOME NIGHT EXPERIENCE"

(the power of a simple smile)

I remember back in early 2020, I attended a Christian service for the first time. The feeling of meeting new people who have passion in serving the Lord excites me. Over the years, I had often read or heard stories of individuals who converted from Catholicism to join a Christian church. A common reason they shared was how welcomed and embraced they felt in their new community. They weren’t just attendees, they felt seen, heard, and connected, which kept them coming back.

At the time, I struggled to understand how someone could leave the faith they grew up with for something that seemed so simple. I often ask myself if Catholicism wasn't enough to give them that same sense of belonging, but after attending my first Hillsong Home, I began to see things differently.

The moment I walked in, I was greeted with warm smiles and welcomed me with genuine sense of acknowledgment. Volunteers spoke with sincerity as they looked at me and even pat me on the shoulder as they passed by. They introduced themselves first, making me feel not like a stranger, but like someone they were truly glad to meet.

The program itself felt familiar, there's praise and worship followed by a message. But what made it stand out was how intentional it was. Instead of just a sermon, the pastor shared Hillsong’s history, vision, mission, and goals for the coming years. Every time a highlight was mentioned, the crowd erupted in cheers, which make me realize how fired up these people are. I don't know if it is just because most of them are youngsters or is it just they are really passionate in what they do.

As I left, I finally understood why some people are drawn to join them. I had caught a glimpse of how their church community thrives. It wasn’t a full experience yet, but it gave me a new perspective. If there’s one thing I wish the Catholic Church could learn from these Christian communities, it would be to strengthen relationships and create spaces where people (especially newcomers) feel truly welcomed and embraced. After all, while we ultimately go to church for Christ, it’s the relationships we build with one another that nurture growth and allow faith to spread.

As for me, I think I’ll stick around for a while, just to fully experience what makes this community so alive. I’ll let you know what happens next.

#FaithJourney #ChurchCommunity #HillsongExperience #ChristianFaith #Belonging #FaithInAction #SpiritualGrowth #CatholicAndChristian #WorshipTogether