Sensing a Presence

[SharonL]

Hi everyone - it’s been awhile,

Anyway, I sometimes sense the presence of the Holy Spirit when I pray. I have also sensed the presence of people who have passed away recently (they seem to be saying goodbye). However, what does it mean when a person senses the presence of another person, who is still alive? I have experienced this a few times - it was almost as though this person was right beside me.

Could it be that the person is praying for me?

Thanks!

Sharon

 

[Kay_Cee]

Sharon:

It is indeed possible to have a sense of presence. Whether or not this means others are praying for you, I don’t know.

However, if these “people” ever start communicating with you, take it to your priest or Spiritual Director. Do not rely on yourself to see if what they’re telling you is accurate.

 

[Dasher]

Sharon,

I had a friend back in graduate school who would experience the same thing. She sensed the presence of people who were still alive (family members, friends) even though they were far away. She looked on it as a gift. To sense those who have died seems reasonable to me; especially if you are reasonably sure they are in Heaven. Those saints are in communion with us, the church on earth. To sense those who are still alive is more of a mystery to me. Do you have good feelings about them, or are there a darker feelings associated with them? I think this question is important. Always remember to pray about it this as well. The Lord may have given you a great gift.

 

[SharonL]

Dasher:

Sharon,

To sense those who are still alive is more of a mystery to me. Do you have good feelings about them, or are there a darker feelings associated with them? I think this question is important. Always remember to pray about it this as well. The Lord may have given you a great gift.

I once sensed the presence of someone during a time of distress in my life. This person’s presence was extremely consoling, and my mood improved considerably at the time. As this person is prayerful, I thought that maybe he was praying for me. I never did find out for sure, though.

What are your insights into this?

 

[elliot]

I also have felt a sense of a living person before. With me, it was someone who I was very connected with spritually, and so it didn’t even come as so much as a shock. Even though the idea of it should really. It’s happened a few times, and although of course I have no idea how to make it happen, it sure is like you said consoling when it does. I often wonder…if I am feeling/sensing, hearing their words- are they also able to hear mine? or is it a one way street just when we are in need of consolation?

 

[Dasher]

Sharon,
I have no doubt that the person you described WAS praying for you during your time of distress. I think it is beautiful that you were able to sense that and be consoled by it. I would not be worried or concerned by this at all. I think it’s a special gift you have. It has been stated that some very holy people (I believe Padre Pio was one) are able to bi-locate–to be in two places at once. If this is indeed the case, I have to believe that the Lord is quite capable of giving you the gift of sensing the presence of certain individuals who are still alive. I think it’s great!

Take Care