Bishop Macedo!

My name is Mara and I sincerely hope you receive this e-mail. I’ve known the work of the Universal Church for about 10 years. I’ve taken part in the chains of prayer and attended church once or twice a week, depending on the various purposes. I received many blessings, gave offerings and was even a tither, but I was doing things my way. Everything was carefully done with great caution. Rather than truly committing my life to God, I chose to remain a quiet observer.

About a year and a half ago, I decided to place my life on God’s altar and truly gave 100% of myself to Him.

Oh, Bishop! Things began to happen in my life, things that involved you; someone who wasn’t even aware of my existence. Who would have imagined that a year and a half later I would be writing to you?

It all began after I decided to sacrifice in the Campaign of Israel. I sacrificed everything I had. You know how it is. I was healed from an incurable disease that caused excruciating pain to the core of my bones. It was widespread and seemed to target a different part of my body all the time. I felt so much pain. This disease is called Fibromyalgia. I underwent various treatments and had to take strong medicine. I became bed ridden for some time but the doctors said it was normal and that I should learn to live with the pain. I struggled and dealt with this disease for about 8 years. Eventually, it also began to affect my intestines.

God healed me and restored my health. The funny thing is that I can’t even pinpoint exactly when I was cured because when I noticed, it had already happened. And so, God continued working: He delivered my son from death in a car accident, where the car was crushed into an accordion. Only the driver’s seat area (where he was) remained intact. Even the police were in disbelief with what had happened.

Already living in Florida (United States) and attending the church in Orlando under the spiritual care of the pastor, my husband and I were both delivered. Today, we have the Holy Spirit, we’re assistants and our family is in the presence of God. While I was praying in the service on March 7th, Pastor Jean called me and said, “I want you to give your testimony”. I replied: “Who, me?” He said, “Yes, you!” I nervously thought to myself, “Oh no, this is it!” He motioned me to stand in front of the altar where Bishop Macedo was. This is where you come in!

You know, Bishop, there was a time in my life where I felt a certain animosity towards you. I couldn’t even stand hearing your name. I referred to you as being corrupt, among other demeaning things. I remember saying things like: “I can’t stand the sound of his voice”, and it went from that to worse! A few years ago, you visited Elizabeth, New Jersey, which at the time was near where I lived. My daughter said, “Mom, are you going? It’ll be an evening of blessings. The bishop is going to be there!” I said, “Have you gone crazy? Do I look like I’m going to leave the comfort of my house and face a crowd of people just to see Bishop Macedo? Yeah, right …hahaha… for Bishop Macedo! Who does he think he is?”

Detail: one of the blessings I obtained was to have my daughter come to the Universal Church, where she’s been attending for many years. My problem wasn’t with the Church, it was with Bishop Macedo. At least, that’s what I thought.

Back to my testimony; I froze for a minute, then held my husband’s hand and made my way up to the altar. As I approached you, something completely unexpected happened. I couldn’t speak. No sounds were coming out of my mouth. I could hear you asking me questions but I couldn’t answer. And the words that were said could barely be understood. Do you know why? The presence of the Holy Spirit was overwhelming. A powerful assurance invaded my heart. I became certain that you were chosen and anointed by God. The Holy Spirit was answering my prayers just like I’d always asked Him to show me. I just didn’t expect it to be at that moment and much less right in front of you. I was completely taken aback, totally numb. It’s unexplainable; an absolute euphoria. I had an overwhelming desire to apologise, but I didn’t know if it was appropriate to do it right there and then. As a result, I was unable to give my testimony. Completely beside myself, I cried and went home. As the day ended, I was still unable to deal with what had happened. That night, I decided to write to you.

Today, I’m apologising and hoping that you can forgive me for all the stones I cast without knowing anything about you or even having heard your voice.

I thank God for the opportunity He gave me and has given me. Few are given the opportunity I had. Thank you, Bishop Edir Macedo, for allowing yourself to be clay in the Potter’s hands because we are the ones who have gained from that.

I’m sorry!

Thank you, Holy Spirit, for the opportunity and for so many blessings. May God bless you even more.

Mara Lucia
IURD Orlando