Faced with the spiritual drought of modern Europe, the SSps community in England is responding with a living answer to God’s question: “Can these bones live?”
The Search for a Hopeful Space
While searching for a space to do some good and practice my English, I unexpectedly discovered a place of immense inspiration and hope. It confirmed for me that transformation is truly possible—that the valley of dry bones can, indeed, come alive again.
Mission in a Landscape of Need
I have been living in our community in Bristol, England, for almost a year. Our home is in a part of the city marked by various kinds of poverty: material, social, mental, and, above all, spiritual. For years, I have held questions in my heart about how to be a missionary in Europe and how to witness to God’s love in a place that seems to no longer want Him. Having walked through more than one “valley of dry bones” in the Czech Republic and experienced the brokenness of the Church in Ireland, I have seen how churches are closing because they are deemed no longer needed. Yet, God never ceases to ask, “Son of man, can these bones live?”
A Response Rooted in Faith
Here in Bristol, not far from us, I found an answer in St. Andrew Church, an Anglican parish. I met people who are responding as the prophet Ezekiel did: “LORD, you alone know.” They have listened to the Holy Spirit and, instead of closing their doors, have opened them even wider. In an unused part of their church building, they have established a food bank and a Social Justice Hub where people in need can find advice and support. They offer cooking classes, run a carpentry workshop to combat social isolation, and organise meetings for mothers and children. They also run “The Well,” a café where everyone is welcome.
The Honourable Role of Listening
It is at The Well that I have become a sort of listening volunteer—a role I find deeply honourable. One of the first people I met there was Dominic. He would usually sit in a corner with his coffee, not seeking company. I now know that this kind and humorous man struggles with depression, and that every day, simply being around people is a real challenge for him. Dominic’s life has traversed dark valleys, to the point that his home is now a tent hidden among ferns. The simplicity and authenticity with which he lives often touch me.
A Transformation Begins
I will always remember the day Dominic listened in on my conversation with Gloria, a volunteer who was to lead the afternoon sharing of God’s Word. She had her Bible, full of colourful bookmarks and underlinings, and we were discussing how alive God’s Word is. With interest and surprise, Dominic asked how we hear God’s voice… how that is even possible. After that meeting, he decided to stay for the sharing. He then began attending Sunday services and joined the Sycamore course at our convent. It is a grace to watch Dominic open his heart. He asks questions, seeks answers, and God responds to him with great sensitivity. I see something extraordinary happening in him, and I deeply believe this is only the beginning of his life’s transformation.
The Power of Prayer and Welcome
At The Well, we begin each meeting with prayer, entrusting the time, place, and people to God. One overcast day, we prayed for those who lack the strength to leave their houses, for whom even the simplest decision is difficult. We didn’t expect many people on such a rainy day, but to our great surprise, so many came that we ran out of coffee. We also always pray for wisdom, kindness, and warmth, so that everyone who comes feels welcomed and accepted, and the space remains open to God’s action.
Learning to Prophesy Life
I rejoice in this extraordinary time and place. Despite my many imperfections, especially linguistic ones, I experience an abundance of grace. I am learning from my Protestant brothers and sisters. I am learning to be sensitive to the most basic human needs, especially acceptance and a loving welcome. I am learning the courage to “prophesy over the dry bones” like Ezekiel: “Thus says the Lord God: I will put breath in you, and you will come to life. Then you will know that I am the LORD.”
I am learning not to lose hope. I also believe that the Holy Spirit will revive our SSpS communities in Europe. May we, with renewed zeal, answer God’s question, “Can these bones live?” by daring to go out and prophesy, proclaiming through our actions God’s Word that brings life.
Sr. Magdalena Lis, SSpS – Region of Ireland/England
