Something in common: prayer

LYNN – Lynn Commons, a place where people of the city go to relax and gather, hosted a prayer festival over the weekend where members of El Ejercito de Dios, a church located in Saugus, gathered to celebrate God and pray.With many members of the church in attendance, the priests welcomed all who came to celebrate with music, dancing and singing – all in the name of God, they said, adding that an event such as this that brings everyone together is truly a way to celebrate the church.People from states like New York, Texas and Ohio came to the Commons to speak and connect with other church members.Anabela Rodriguez of Malden stood among some of the congregation and looked on as gospels from the bible were being spoken for everyone to hear. She explained that the festival is “fun for the church” and “everyone is invited to be a part of the celebrations.”Jose´ Torres of Rockaway Street in Lynn travels to many different churches in the area listening to priests from all over speaking about Christ and heaven.?I?m a Christian and I go to different churches because I don?t like to just stick to one,” he said. “I like to learn about Jesus by listening to different priests. It?s a great experience.”In attendance was the grandson of Puerto Rican Pentecostal Evangelist José Joaquín Ávila Portalatín. Miguel Sanchez Ávila followed in his grandfather?s footsteps and began preaching at the age of 20. Invited here from Puerto Rico, he felt immense gratitude and excitement to be able to speak in front of the congregation.?I do this because I?ve felt God since I was a child,” he said. “He was put into my heart along with love for the bible. To be able to give the word of hope in the hard times that we live in is something truly amazing.”Ávila said that all we need to do is take the time to pray to God and he will answer. He said that it is important to give “whatever you have” because God is there and he will always be there.