St. Margaret Mary Catholic Church in Winter Park opened its doors to the public for its local Nightfever event. The religious ceremony allows everyone to take part in the Eucharistic Adoration. 

Night of Prayer

In a report with The Florida Catholic, the event took place on Saturday, Dec. 18, 2021. The ceremony marked the first time that the church celebrated the night of prayer. 

Father Adam Marchese, the parochial vicar of the church, explained that the event was non-confrontational. It served as a welcome invitation for passersby to visit the parish. 

The Catholic priest is also the organizer of the event. He pointed out that the church was located where many people frequented. 

Father Marchese noted that families would often pass by the area and enjoy the city's sights. Winter Park also allowed for many to take in the spirit of the season. 

He explained that even the most secular individuals understand the sacredness of the Christmas season. The vicar hoped to meet more people and offer an opportunity for prayer. 

Global Event

According to a report with Crux, the evangelization program began in Bonn, Germany. The event followed the 2005 World Youth Day in Cologne. 

The ceremony has since spread across Europe, Australia, and Canada. 

Nightfever London said that the initiative was founded by students Katharina Fassler-Maloney and Andreas Süß. 

The former is a member of the Emmanuel Community, while the latter is a priest. 

The students wanted the fervor of World Youth Day to be instilled in the hearts of young people. 

Both meant for Nightfever to be a one-time event, but it continued because of its success. 

Something More

Father Marchese told the news outlet that he did not expect many people to come to the event. He was surprised when the church had a steady stream of people of all ages. 

The parochial vicar shared that one of the invited women expressed her need to come inside the church. Father Marchese added that the woman must have recognized something deep within her. 

Deeper Encounter with Christ

The woman wanted to experience the quiet moment with Christ. Father Marchese explained that many people were looking for something more in life. 

He hoped attendees would get to have a deeper encounter with Jesus wherever they are in their life.

Father Marchese also invited a woman named Rachel and her two daughters. 

Rachel admitted that she has walked by the church many times but has never been inside. She is a parishioner of First United Methodist Church of Winter Park. 

She told the news outlet that she and her children spent 10 minutes praying. Rachel described the experience as nice and peaceful. 

They also lit candles and said thanks to the baby Jesus. 

Volunteering for Christ

Connor, a volunteer for the church, said that he enjoyed greeting the people at the door. He always enjoyed working for events such as this one. 

The teenager added that Father Marchese approached him on the matter.

He shared that his faith in Christ kept him alive. 

The teenager told the news outlet that he worked to grow his journey in faith. 

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