An Unexpected Encounter
Recently, during StretchCo’s fortnightly zoom Hangout, something extraordinary unfolded. What began as a typical time of connection and conversation about the prophetic took an unexpected turn. David, the School of Prophecy’s Co-Founder, described the moment:
“The Holy Spirit suddenly increased His presence among us. For me, it was like waves of heat; for others, it was tears or just weighty stillness.”
Participants paused, sensing the Spirit’s call to rest and respond. One by one, they shared their experiences as the meeting stretched beyond its usual timing.
David captured the heart of the moment in a message to the wider community:
“We have truly been WITH HIM this morning. I pray that every single one of you gets time to be WITH Him today so this spreads throughout all our communities. Yes 🔥.”
As the day unfolded, it became clear that this wasn’t just a moment for those on the call—it was resonating far beyond.
Unity in the Spirit: A Ripple Effect
Even those unable to attend the Hangout felt the Holy Spirit moving in their own spaces. Sally, the School’s Prayer and Special Projects Lead, shared:
“At the same time you mention, David, I felt His presence and just sat and prayed. Still basking in Him now.”
Philippa echoed this experience, connecting it to a memory from a past retreat:
“As I was driving, God brought to mind the memory of when He moved in our community at the retreat. I thanked Him and reveled in it and said, ‘I would love to have more of that.’ How funny, He was already doing it!”
Both messages provided beautiful reminders of the power of unity in the Spirit, prompting David to respond: “One in the Spirit. Family. Kingdom. Yes 🔥.”
Testimonies of Renewed Calling
The morning’s impact was as diverse as the community itself, bringing unique expressions and unified themes.
A New Journey
Stephen, leader of StretchCo’s Buddy System, described the experience as an invitation to journey deeper:
“I used to fly power kites, and this morning I had the same sense in my arms, being pulled along by the wind of the Spirit. I think we’re being taken on a new journey—hold on to your hats.”
Soaring and Following
Arshad shared a striking metaphor:
“We are eagles, not chickens. An eagle soars—it doesn’t flap. An eagle rises above storms. Believe you are an eagle and go where the Father directs you.”
Carl, meanwhile, was reminded of the 1973 song Turn Your Head by Rare Bird, which speaks of seeking direction and identity:
“Turn your head around, see where you came from, see who you are.”
A Song of Surrender
During the Hangout, Nkechi felt led to sing Refiner’s Fire, a song of surrender and readiness to follow God’s will. Catherine later reflected on this powerful moment:
“I was touched by Nkechi’s vulnerability and her heart to share what had risen up in her.”
The lyrics, written by Brian Doerksen, deeply resonated with the group:
'Refiner’s fire, my heart's one desire
Is to be holy, set apart for You, Lord.
I choose to be holy, set apart for You, my Master,
Ready to do Your will.'
God’s Gentle Army
Near the end of the meeting, Moyra articulated the prophetic theme that had emerged from the shared experiences, and David quickly shared it with the whole community:
“As I type this the call is still going on... and we have just heard Father is raising us up as a ‘gentle army’. It’s a moment in God. Press into it everyone.”
Impartation and Equipping
Later in the day, Michelle reflected on how the morning’s events tied into StretchCo’s prophetic mission. While reading J. Lee Grady’s book Follow Me, she was overwhelmed by the Holy Spirit as she read these words:
'Be ready to be a vessel of the Holy Spirit. Make sure your lamp is trimmed and your oil bottle is full... He wants those you mentor to be armed with spiritual gifts and weapons so that they become victorious warriors.'
Michelle shared with the group:
“It seemed to capture the essence of all I see you doing in StretchCo. Keep on being the amazing prophetic people you are and are growing to be.”
Looking Ahead: Join Us
What began at 9:45 AM during the Hangout was more than a moment—a renewed calling emerged, inviting StretchCo to rise higher as a gentle army, equipped to step into the Father’s plans.
Would you like to be part of it?
- Join our StretchCo Community after completing the Starter Workshop.
- Come to our next Hangout and be prepared for more moments like this!
- Explore more StretchCo events via the StretchCo Hub.
Together, we are stretching, connecting, and growing. Yes! 🔥
