Patrick B. Conlon / Patrick BConlon
How 'PEACE AND HOPE' came to be written:When the Prayer Movement swept the land in the late Nineteen Sixties and early Seventies, it had a natural attraction for both Patrick and his wife. The gifts of the Spirit, (1 Corinthians 12, verses 1-12, The Jerusalem Bible), were accepted with grateful openness of heart. Daily prayer time together became intensely meaningful. As the Spirit's gifts of Tongues, Interpretation and Prophecy evidenced, both at Prayer Meetings and at home, they were used. Connie felt the inspired words spoken by her husband, being of such beautiful nature, must be shared with others. Any piece of paper sufficed to hurriedly write upon as her husband spoke, and thus many, but not all of these words were preserved.Shared first with another couple with whom they had become friends, they began to meet weekly to pray, read scripture, sing hymns and listen for the Lord's word to them. Others joined in these beautiful experiences of fellowship in closeness with the Lord, and thus began Holy Family Prayer Community. This Community continued for approximately seven years before disbanding. The weight of family duties, health and exhaustion were overtaking the couple and others who shared in leadership.Always throughout the years the thought of putting these inspirations into book form was with them, to share with the intention of inspiring, bringing comfort and strengthening the faith of others. It was as a burden which would not leave them. Much encouragement, but also some discouragement, was offered them. In their retirement years the work of fulfilling this task was begun. It proved to be challenging. When strength began to fail, it was from within the family that help came.No claims are made for the contents of this book. If in it the reader finds a deepening experience of the depth of love of the Lord, his goodness and care, then praise and thanks be to God.
