It all started with an experience that God is real, not a distant God. His love is personal.

This was the experience of a handful of men and women who frequented a weekly prayer meeting at the Assumption Convent in Makati City, Philippines. They were fired up by the baptism of the Holy Spirit, and encouraged by the personal testimonies, the vibrant singing and spontaneous praising in the prayer meeting.

On July 19, 1975, there were 41 men and women who gathered together for a weekend retreat at the EAPI at the Ateneo de Manila University campus.

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The Lord’s message was summarized in a prophesy uttered during the retreat.

“You have asked to see my face. I will show it to you. As you grow in love and service for one another, you will see me. For I will be among you. You will see me. I will be in your midst acting among you. You will see my face in the love you have for one another. And I will give you a name by which I will be proclaimed. ‘Kayo ang aking Ligaya. Ang aking Ligaya ay makikilala ng buong bayan, dito sa Pilipinas at sa lahat ng aking mga tao.’ (You are my joy. My joy will be known throughout the nation and among all my people.)

I want you to know that you will proclaim my name not only in Manila, not only in Pasay, not only in one or two cities, not only in the Philippines but all throughout Asia.”

It was an experience of a faith awakened, a deep hunger to know God, to serve him and to live life loving Him. And they hungered to be a community. The way the early Christians were.

This is the beginning of Ligaya.

GET TO KNOW FR. HERB

Fr. Herbert Schneider, S.J., or simply Fr. Herb to many, has had, and continues to have a deep and meaningful impact on the lives of countless individuals, communities and organizations.

Get to know the man who was instrumental to the growth of the Catholic Charismatic Renewal in the Philippines and the birth of Ligaya ng Panginoon.

VISIT FR. HERB'S WEBSITE