Ellicott, MD

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The following story comes to us from evangelist Bernie in Ellicott City, Maryland:

Today was our first time evangelizing! It was one of those autumn afternoons touched by grace. Sunlight rested gently on the red brick streets while a man across the way filled the air with shimmering bubbles that floated above the weekend crowd like tiny blessings. In the midst of the hum and laughter stood a small table draped in blue, lined with rosaries, medals, and prayer cards, an open invitation for anyone seeking peace. We began in prayer, asking the Holy Spirit to guide the afternoon and bring to us those who most needed His comfort. In the hours that followed, we met people whose stories reminded us that Christ truly meets us where we are.

Our first visitor was a cheerful man from Australia drawn to the rosaries. Around his neck hung a thrift store camera he had found that morning. Laughing, he said he was excited to take photos and capture light in the moment, not realizing how fitting that phrase would become for the day ahead. His joy lifted our spirits, and before long we were smiling and talking about how God uses even the simplest encounters to bring people together. Before leaving, he took a picture with us and promised to pray for our mission, setting a hopeful tone for the afternoon.

Soon after, two women from Asia paused nearby to take photos. One smiled and said she already knew Jesus, thanking us warmly before continuing her tour. Though brief, the exchange reminded us that even the smallest moments can plant seeds of grace.

Later, a Catholic man and his Methodist friend approached. The woman, recovering from a broken hand and preparing for eye surgery, welcomed prayer. When we finished, the man quietly made the Sign of the Cross, a simple but powerful act of faith that reminded us how God’s mercy reaches across every distance.

A short while later, two friends stopped to talk. One explained that he was Protestant and had always been curious about the Rosary but never learned how to pray it. We spoke about the mysteries of Christ’s life, the love of Our Blessed Mother, and the Miraculous Medal. They each accepted rosaries and prayer cards, asking us to pray for peace and success in their lives. As we prayed together, we could feel God’s presence among us.

Praised be Jesus Christ!