News February 12, 2026
News from Good News Ministries:
- Surprises of the Holy Spirit
- Video Short: Worried About Worldly Chaos?
- Plus great links to great content!
Surprises of the Holy Spirit
A few weeks ago I had a the opportunity to facilitate a Life in the Spirit Seminar in Sheboygan, WI. The Holy Spirit was palpable in the air during the entire weekend, and the graces from it continue to linger in my life today. As I’ve spent time reflecting, I’ve realized that there were two things that made this weekend so spiritually impactful for everyone involved; a willingness to bear hardships and a radical openness to God’s will.
When the parish community scheduled the seminar in October 2025 for mid-January 2026, we anticipated that we might encounter some adverse Wisconsin weather – maybe a little snow. However, there was no way to predict that we would get hit with a once in a decade artic blast of cold air that sent windchills to -40 degrees Fahrenheit. The leadership team debated rescheduling the seminar, but ultimately proceeded and the Lord rewarded us. Only two of the sixty attendees decided not to attend, everyone’s car started and despite having to wear an extra few layers of clothing to stay warm (even with the heater constantly running) no one complained or grumbled about being uncomfortable. The group did not allow difficulties stop them from receiving what God wanted to give them.
This is a critical piece we often miss in our lives today. Our culture screams at the top of its lungs, “take a break, grab a cup of coffee – you deserve it!” It never says, “bear hardships patiently and persevere!” When we push through difficulties we provide more opportunities to receive the graces God wants to give us.
In addition to providing God opportunities to work in our lives we must also give him permission. We cannot grow in the wisdom and knowledge of God if we close off our hearts. Saying, “God, I want to keep my old lifestyle but get to know you in a new way” doesn’t work. Instead, we must say God my heart is fully open, I want you to give me new life.”
In my conversation and prayer with the weekend participants at the Life in the Spirit Seminar, I was surprised by their openness, participation and hunger to deepen their relationship with God. At times I was astounded by the radical openness that many of the participants showed and as a result I’ve had a strong desire to surrender more and more to God’s will in my life.
As we approach the Lenten season next week, I encourage you to prepare your heart by embracing these two principles of bearing hardship with a firm resolve and give God permission to work in your life. If you do so, I think you’ll be surprised how much you’ll spiritually grow during Lent.
Come Holy Spirit!
Good News Prayer Room:
Use our collection of Catholic prayers designed with your needs in mind. They will give you hope and a stronger connection to God’s love and support. What do you need prayers for today?
Visit gnm.org/prayers.
Post your prayer requests @ gnm.org/post-a-prayer.
Good News WordBytes:
WANT MORE FAITH and HOPE in TROUBLED TIMES? WE’RE HERE for YOU! Choose from a variety of topics on our website of Catholic Faith-building articles. What do you need today?
Visit wordbytes.org.
We’ve Got a New Video for You!
Share this video short with your family and friends and join #TheGreatMercyChallenge
Worried About Worldly Chaos? Pray #TheGreatMercyChallenge
God bless you!
Every morning, I lift up in prayer everyone who helps Good News Ministries in any way (donors, volunteers, prayer supporters, etc.) and all the prayer requests posted on our site. What can I cover in prayer for you? Post your prayer request.
How else can the team and I serve you today? Visit our homepage.
Thank you for reading this newsletter.
Your servant in Christ,
Bill Snyder, Executive Director
Good News Ministries
gnm.org
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