Yup my sister's life has been a mess dabbling in Wicca, tarot and other new-Age stuff. I'm gradually getting through and got her to burn all those books and and new-Age stuff. She's slowly coming back to the church.
I was an Oðin-worshipping Heathen, which did nothing for me except feed my wrath and lust... I am grateful that Christ led me out of that. I was just as wrong as any human could be under that pagan nonsense.
I'm not an artist myself, but I want you to know how important it is to have Christians in every field of our society! Thank you for what you do, God bless 🙏🏻
@@grumpycrumbles7360 appreciate it. Thanks. I know God has me where I am, doing what I do, when I'm doing it, for a reason. I am extremely active in my church, I lead a men's group and teach Sunday School. I have only one peer in my immediate vicinity (by that I mean someone who has the same beliefs who works in my industry). That person is a blessing, but not a day to day part of my life through their own disposition. I've had many chances to witness in one form or another to the local art community (which is extremely active), but the overall "scene" either despises Christianity or is some bastardization of it (and I really do mean that in a non-frivolous not swearing meaning). I don't think I live in a world any different than most people in the U.S. - but being an artist is a unique place in society. We are the belt buckle that joins poverty to wealth, and we walk the razors edge of fame and obscurity. Our entire life and career is a high wire act - and by default it is very isolating. Add being a Christian to the mix, and it is doubly so. Artists dive into the fringes of society because they are curious by nature, but they also are constantly mining the world for new and original ideas - and then we have to find a way to monetize it. It's high pressure all the time for most of us. Plus, we bear our soul in our work (more often than not) and it's hard to endure regular professional rejection because it often mixes with the personal. Regardless of culture, worldwide, "creative people" make up less than 5% of a general population (usually around 2%). We are told that we are extremely valuable, but our skills are more financially rejected than almost any other marketable skill. I'm not saying any of this to complain. I love my life and I am most fortunate to get to do what I do. But some days it is very easy to slip into despair. If you know a creative person, make a point to get to know them, not just as an artist, but as a person. Make them a part of your life and invite them into it regularly. It will mean the world to them
Years of confusion, dabbling with various occult theories and practices, sexual immorality, porn addiction, and occasionally approaching Jesus but never really committing have left me a jaded and skeptical, grumpy old man. I have to say that watching this, watching you two interact, listening to her story has opened something in me. I feel like something has shifted, whatever the bleep that means? I love you both is all I can say. Thank you and God Bless you.
@@McPocalypsus "Whatever that means"? That's the Holy Spirit tapping you on the shoulder, I dare say. 😊 If you're feeling bold, ask Jesus to reveal Himself to you.
@@MJK2600 It's always slightly easier to break one down vs. building one up! I'm guessing that it's the human condition that does this to us! May God bless you my friend! ⚘️
@@rosiegirl2485 My observation isn't breaking anyone down or building any one up. In fact, stating what I stated wasn't critical. It is a simply a recognition of the exchange between two people in a conversation. Some conversations can be too emotive as to cloud their intent while others can be too sterile. It is amazing to me that such a simple and arguably accurate observation would lead you to infer what you apparently did. We live in strange times today.
I am not a Catholic and honestly, I was raised with a negative bias towards it. However, I have found nothing but true blue believers spreading the Gospel of Jesus Christ. I am proud to call myself your sister in Christ.
@@pixeldrifter Yes. No Holy Spirit with the Catholics. Satanists go for the consecrated eucharist of other denominations right? They defile the Catholic mass, not Protestant ones. I am sure it is not because there is anything sacred there. If it was not holy, they wouldn't bother. They aren't going after protestants or evangelical articfacts, etc.
I don’t know what she does for a living, but she needs to investigate broadcasting. Her voice is pure good! Radio, TV, Podcasting, singing, audio books… something! What A Gift!
I AM MUSIC EDUCATED, OPERA.... WOULD LOVE TO HEAR HER SING. I AGREE WITH YOU. ...A PERFECT GIFTED, SPEAKING VOICE AND HERE SHE IS 'SPEAKING HER STORY' ABOUT HER JOURNEY TO GOD. I CAN'T THINK OF A BETTER WAY TO DELIVER A MESSAGE TO THE MASSES. HALLELUJAH!!!! AMEN!!!✝️🙇🏼♀️🌹🌿👍💖💒🥰
I'm an Orthodox Christian and I absolutely believe Catholics are our bros and sisters. Many Orthodox do not feel this way, so I understand how they can be off-putting. Thank you for airing this particular video. May God bless you and your podcast.
Raised Catholic I walked away from Jesus and got stuck in witchcraft coming out of the occult myself after working in the New age industry my whole life knowing I was misleading people Iam now a returning Catholic Iam 53 mother of 3 adults and the saddest thing is how much time I’ve wasted in the darkness Jesus saves better late than never Fantastic woman fantastic stories ❤
I am a cradle Catholic, my mother's family is full of priests and nuns, 2 of them martyred and beatified. That did not stop me from getting pretty deep into occultism. I believe the prayers of my aunt, a Carmelite nun, through the Virgin Mary's grace saved me and brought me back to the faith.
As a Protestant who loves Jesus and enjoys your show, I appreciated your expression of love for said Protestants. ❤ Also, the Grace of God displayed in Vesper's life is beautiful. I'm reminded of his High Priestly Prayer when Christ says "and none of them are lost." He goes after His sheep.
So different than how Catholics are treated by most Protestants. Most don’t recognize them as Christian…… Jew, Christian, Catholic…….complete ignorance.
Deception looks beautiful and sounds great. R.C. Doctrine of salvation through works. Sacraments and adherence to Papish bulls and Dogmas, As Martin Luther correctly declared, will only lead to the Lake of fire for all who believe these doctrines of demons. All this fluff n puff is planned as part of the Jesuit led ecumenical movement to bring everyone back to the " Mother Church". Peter was never a Pope and from that false foundation the whole tower of Babel, Godless system was built. Read The secrets of Romanism by Father Joseph Zachello or The Woman who rides the beast by Dave Hunt. The truth will set you free.
When she talked about being tucked in the wound in Jesus side, I was reminded of a prayer from St Alphonsus Liguori "...Therefore I place myself into the wound of Thy sacred side and beneath the protecting mantle of my Mother Mary. May Thy holy angels assist me and watch over my peace, and may Thy holy blessing remain with me."
New Age practices were so attractive to me in my youth. There were movies like the Craft and other similar movies that made it attractive. I used to go into new age bookstores and I was so attracted to the candles, the idea of the rituals, the “esoteric knowledge” and I am a cradle Catholic. I have come to the realization that all of the desires for ritual are satisfied in the Roman Catholic Church. The truth truly sets us free and the truth is in the Church established by Jesus Christ.
I’m an Orthodox Christian Actor and so appreciate everything about her story. She is wonderful. Early in life I had an episode of an unclean Spirit speaking those thoughts and the Lord Jesus Christ delivered me instantly. I love you guys. God bless!
Her story is heartbreaking. God bless this woman. The suffering and horrible things she went through. So glad she found God and found her way out of her abyss. Praise be to God.
What she said about, it isn’t about you was my biggest “aha” moment when I began going to the Latin mass. It’s not about how loudly I reply or how well I sung , it’s about me being present at the holy sacrifice of the mass. Man once I figured that out I was able to truly participate in mass by remaining silent and simply being. “Be still and know that I Am God”
His word says other wise,if you claim to love him you would follow his word RC orthodox ect.... Doesn't reflect his words it's twisted not in context at all,if you do your research study get others to help that are not just part of a religion you can see for yourself, Jesus says himself it is because of tradition the power of GOD doesn't work......We forget to seek his word,in context,for understanding,and not to please man, which RC is all about everyone and everything but Straight Jesus Christ, GOD and his word,not what they feel his word says his word. I want someone to look at all the things they say compare it to scriptures and truly say this is what they mean without a doubt in their minds,if they're honest they know it doesn't match the word of GOD',it matches the Words they say is inspired by God through others 😢 the priest gets more glory then Jesus 😢.....
@@jernisharichard5032 Jesus also said he came to start his church, To his apostles he said he who receives you receives me, So if it wasn’t an institution that spread all over the world how did all of us get the message of the gospel to be saved? Was there something else that was spreading the gospel for 2000 years alongside the Catholic Church?
@@Chrishd1 Yes,the Bible that tells us what is expected and how to spread the Gospel not just in a building. The RC has it's own teachings that are not biblical.... pagan teachings, rituals that are not of GOD'.
WOW, I'm only 20 minutes in and this is like my life but on the other side of the coin. Early sexual abuse, acting out as a kid. Nightly demonic attacks. Researching occult as a teen. Fully immersed in college. Initiated two traditional African religions, Native shamanism and any and everything occultic. Not as much wiccan, I'm black/native so I more those beliefs. Started dreaming of Jesus in 2001, and ran for three years. Had major miracles involving the Virgin Mary. Come to faith but still bordering the occult. Set free 2005/06 but terribly oppressed. Seek deliverance am very oppressed, in Protestant Church no one believes I can be demonically oppressed. Eventually turn to our Mother (very scared too, as many African religious beliefs hid their "gods" in the guise of Saints) so had a very hard time trusting in the intercession of the Saints. Her love for me overcame all my fears. She will indeed lead you to her son. Praise Jesus. Was baptized in the Orthodox Church 7 years ago after many years of study. Was raised in a non-religious home filled with sin but Praise God my mom kept me in Catholic schools and I was 10 the Blessed Mother visited me, after that night I was no longer attacked demonically in a specific way as I had been for years. I saw shamans from the Amazon, Hindu priests, and Buddhist monks. I was initiated in Reiki up to level 2. Religious vegan and open to ANYTHING except Judaism, Islam, and Christianity. Praise God he saved me. I have a great devotion to our Lady and St. Michael specifically. Have a great love for my Roman brothers and sisters in Christ. Can't wait to the hereafter to serve our Lord and King Jesus Christ eternally.
@@Tx911gal I keep trying to share a link to my testimony but it won't work. Google, Journey to Orthodoxy, in the search write Hannah husband not Orthodox. My testimony will come up. God bless
Thank you so much for sharing! I would love to have you as a kind of role model I can look up to as their is still so much I want to learn and can’t find anyone to relate to. Would you mind if I emailed you?
As a Protestant, this episode really blessed me. It’s 3:00 in the morning and the closing prayer had me weeping in my bed from start to finish. I think I’m going to start praying that every night. God bless you both. Ave Christus Rex
I was raised JW, went to a bunch of churches after I was DF'd, joined a Traditional British coven, moved to Buddhism, then harcore atheist for years. Now, preparing for OCIA and it feels like coming home.
That makes me not want to keep watching..and right now he's warning of triggers 😢. All I will say is thank you to God for delivering people from suffering and thanks to Pints for providing this testimony of God's love.
@@BitsyBeeThere are triggers. Its a heavy interview. But in the MOST LOVING, STRONG, KIND, and SAFE place... Its actually very HEALING. If you are sensitive, you may actually NEED to watch this. Parts are uncomfortable, but they don't leave you there, they bring you through to the peace in the other side of it. They address the damage and the pain and walk through it together as Christians with firm foundations and understandings of how God saves people. Its heavy but miraculous! Totally worth it!
@@vesperillustrationyour testimony pierced my heart. And your spirit is so beautiful. You're one of those ppl I just want to find myself in the same room as. Thank you for sharing.
Matt's one of the guys partly responsible for my being drawn towards Catholicism, and I really have a desire to be a part of the Church. As someone who was an atheist for years (and Protestant growing up), the tradition and clarity of what the Church is and was is what draws me to it. I see people like Matt that want to preserve that and not conform it to the world and the whims of the present. God bless you Sir, keep being a loving and open, yet firm and unshakable opposition to the present age. You and others like you are a beacon that reflect the love of Christ into the darkness.
She truly is a beautiful woman inside and out, I just prayed for her shoulder...❤ I am not a Catholic .. But I've been binge-watching this channel for the last couple days maybe 3 days... I have to say that it's been healing for me because there's a lot of bad things being said about the Catholics... And even though I don't agree on several things, I can see genuine love of Jesus Christ from you both and other people that I've seen on your show as well... So the healing part is dropping judgment and being able to love without agreeing on some things... So thank you for that
I had the same experience! I had all these sinful evil thoughts in my head, demonic entities would enter my dreams and tempt me into sin, or to manifest them, or I would try to exorcize them out of a house. And in my waking hours, all these thoughts would come into my mind and implant themselves. Praise the Lord that I actually met a priest who does healing and liberation ministry. After he had laid his hands on me and prayed, that night I experienced that peace and silence that she had mentioned. I cried tears of joy! And mass the next day was truly a celebration! Prayer works!
I know this sounds weird, but I was a Christian-turned-atheist until i started to dabble in witchcraft/New Ageism, and I felt genuine fear. And then bad/unexplainable things started happening at home and in my life. But that fear, wow. Not sure if it was fear of hell, of the demonic, no idea. But it made me realize that I did have faith after all, and I thank God for that.
Fr. Mike from Ascension presents gave me some good advice on how to honor your parents when the relationship is toxic and abusive. He said you can honor them by not repeating the same behavior and abusive patterns onto your children. This has changed my whole life hearing this and I’m so thankful and blessed for him responding to my email on that.
What a privilege to listen to Vesper’s story! So moving! I loved her remark: “it either comes from the Lord or from the Devil!” How we need such women in our Church experience! People such as she will be the “Arbiters of Church unity”!
It was the way you carried yourself through all the hardships you have been facing alone through using power of anger as fuel without realising the negative side of it. That could be why the chronic pains that came latter to haunt you again for years. Thanks God that you have come out with victories to share them here. Amen. God bless your road ahead.
Vesper is an amazing woman of faith from every angle-and a dear friend!! What a beautiful surprise for me to see this come up today as a recommendation!!
It is as if Vesper and I lived parallel lives. I cried so much listening to her story because this was my childhood as well. Not being heard. Not being believed. Living as a latchkey kid. Then having to forgive and let go of the anger and resentment with the help and love of Christ . Thank you , Matt for having her on.
I was really into attempting astral projection in my 20's, and one time, I felt my astral body lifting out of my physical body just by an inch in my fingers and arms. It felt more real than my daily waking life, but just as I was lifting out, there was this dark shadowy presence at the foot of my bed just watching me. It was terrifying... so malevolent...intensly still, just waiting and watching... I was scared back into my body and never attempted again. I thought it had probably been my imagination, but now I am thankful I went no further.
I am often admiring of my Protestant brothers for their evangelical spirit. Jesus has been able to bring so many people to Himself through their efforts. We have much to learn from them.
It is a wonderful thing to know his word I use to want to follow RC but I had to see for myself who to follow I was sent to JW,I was in baptist, I did all kinds of church you know just checking everything out.... The thing I've learned is to follow his word in context,not trying to please anybody or any religions just truly seeking his word.... I'm now just a follower of Christ because I've learned a lot on how all those religions were just traditional teachings, and not the same as exploring what is expected what his word truly teaches,it was mostly perverted all we have to do is hold up whatever is being taught AGAINST his word truly seek to understand and know what is of God and not. There is a lot of things people Are being deceived on all in the worship of A man 😢 and not what our savior has taught ,not what God says to follow. The past how people were killed for not following, that is one frightening scene that people just look over,it's very telling.
I'm big on trying to figure out what is expected and what is going on.... It is a lot of paganism in what is taught....and flat out how can you bring Jesus body back over, and over😢 who in their right minds can believe that is biblical 😢
The Lord worked on my heart in Adoration and showed me that I was holding a feeling of abandonment by the Lord that was an obstacle to emotional intimacy. He’s big enough and strong enough to take the “where were you - why didn’t you save me?” question and offer healing.
I had a friend in college who told me she had left her body and thought it was really cool, until she tried to return to her body and found somebody else was there. "I had to FIGHT it to get my body back." She RAN to the church and never looked back.
Matt, if you call up Bert to tell him you love him, tell him I do too. My heart is filled with gratitude for what Jesus did through his intercession for Vesper and her family.
I'm barely half way and just wanted to say THANK YOU. You two have shared something that relates so much to my life. These stories are what give me and others hope. Glory be to God.
I went through my house and threw away all the witchcraft things I had. Tarot cards, pendulum, sage, and a bunch of books. I just had this feeling overcome me that I HAD to get that stuff out of my house.
The spirit (Holy) present during this interview was so gentle and uplifting. What a lovely witness to our Lord. May He continue to bless you according to His ownership and love. Bless you both and thank you
I'm not a christian, but I'm very curious and interested in other ways of life. It often brings to be unexpected places, like this podcast episode. I might not relate to all of this but I loved how earnest and open Vesper was, this was a very engaging listen. Thank you for sharing your story!
Power to this woman for praising her mother for leaving domestic violence. This truly has the power to allow physical, emotional and spiritual safety. Ignore toxic voices that tell you to stay, no matter your sex or background. ❤
I have friends and the mom is Catholic and the dad is Jewish. My birthmom has mental illness. I'm glad I have medical Lupus and Bipolar support in my adoption family. I came here on your recommendation and I'm glad I did. Vesper is a wonderful guest.
This was awesome guys thank you. Jesus is amazing and I love hearing others stories of how He rescues them. And of course I love John Eldridge. So appreciate you reading the daily prayer. I love that prayer.
This resonates so much with me. The SA, the non existent childhood with different fathers. Dabbling in new age mambo jambo. Took one very scary unholy incident to make me turn back to God and now, it’s only about God. I too realised He has always been there, trying to reach out and I kept rejecting Him. I am ao grateful He has been so so so patient with me all these years and taken me back with His wide open loving arms. Thank you Father for not giving up on me. Amen.
I confess that I don't often watch Pints with Aquinas but this is the very best interview I have seen on this channel. Vesper is wonderful! Her story was so interesting and inspirational.
I practiced wicca too, just a month ago I was saved. I was suicidal and like her I have racing thoughts of terrible things. I did get help for my mental illness, but it was Jesus that truly saved me and changed my life. He saved me from things that I didn't know was ruining me. Thank you God for your goodness!
Welcome sister. I too have been involved in the occult. Catholicism has been anything but perfect or easy, but it is home. May God continue to bless your journey. ❤
I absolutely adored this conversation! Vesper has an incredible story and inspires me as an aspiring fiction writer. Stoked to read her books. Thanks PWA!
When people ask, "Where was God during X atrocity/tragedy? Why didn't He do something?", people need to ask the same thing about Jesus' Passion, Crucifixion, and death, the worst of the worst atrocities/tragedies. They need to realize that, if the Father didn't intervene to stop His Son's suffering and torture, neither should we think we have a right to His intervention in our suffering. Rather God's answer to those questions is to suffer with us, exactly as we suffer, in the person of Jesus Christ and to show us how to humbly trust the Father and bear it with confident hope of redemption of all evil and suffering.
Realising the reality of the Fall actually converted me to Christianity. We are fallen men and women in a fallen world- and Christ redeemed us through suffering.
JUST BRILLIANT TONY........ I BELIEVE THAT, THAT THIS IS THE BASIS OF OUR ROMAN CATHOLIC FAITH: GOD BLESS: SUFFERING IS HUMILITY!! TO KNOW HOW TO SUFFER, YOU THEN HELP OTHERS IN HIDDENESS: ❤
Oh I really enjoyed this podcast. Her expressive nature and warmth makes me feel like I'm listening to a friend. I too wandered arounded NYC in the 90's, went to the East West bookstore, film school at Parsons and ate up every New Age workshop. I came to God in 2021 on the heels of coming out of a mental illness collapse. God's grace restored me and saved my life. No more more occult and New Age. My sanity restored and my grateful heart thanks God everyday. Thank you for this lovely podcast. Yes Tikki Marsala is the bomb ;)
What a powerful testimony, I was mesmerized for the entire episode. I confess I wept too at the moment Vesper described her conversion to Christ. As always, excellent interview Matt, thank you.
I'm really thankful for this video. My daughter is in a place now where she thinks she can be a "christian witch", even though I tell her there's no such thing (thank you, TikTok). And Vesper is right - it's all about control. Due to things that happened in her life, I think my daughter feels the need to control her emotions, reactions, and environment. Herbs, lore, incantations, etc. And if I say anything, she'll dig deeper into it. And YES, she thinks it's all about light and love and not being bound to something that was made by old men that's out of date. I just keep praying to know when and what to say to her, and when to keep my mouth closed and be prayerful about it. I'm hoping she comes out on the other side with a stronger belief in Christ and His church. Right now she's too worried about anyone's feelings being hurt by "strict" religious beliefs and especially cannot stand Catholicism. sigh.
@@vesperillustration Ah, if only. She's 25 and lives on her own. I'd say since the Covid shutdown she started turning toward this but never really came out with it until a year ago. It breaks my heart for her.
@@cthurbz5146 I’m so sorry about what’s going on with your daughter, truly. I’m praying for you both. How horrible, all the confusion that’s in our world today.
I don't know if this will help, but it may also be an aesthetic thing. I had an ex-protestant now-wiccan classmate, and we spent an entire feildtrip drive where I told her about the smells-&-bells parts of Catholicism, as well as things about icons, ossuary churches, angels, and so on. She thought it was all really cool. She eventually converted back to Christianity. I don't know if our conversation had anything to do with it, but it might have. TL:DR show her that Catholicism is cool.
I love Matt’s emotion…. I can’t explain but it’s profound. I needed this testimony today. This from a cradle Catholic that has had wonderful miracles and blessings in my life at 58. Thank you Matt and Vesper.
Loved every single minute of this! Im a graphic designer and illustrator, and was so moved by your God journey! Implimenting God into my Illustration teachings has been amazing and frustrating as i battle the masses who turn me away because of my mention of Christianity. I too was born in Germany and lived in New York for a stint. Was moved to beautiful Colorado at an early age and desperately wish id have had more training at a young age like you! 25 yrs as a graphic designer and now pushing my way into the illustration realm. You are an amazing inspiration Vesper! You have a new fan for sure. God bless you in your continuous growth and aspirations, and in healing!❤ and Matt, you have a new fan as well! Love you, and your podcast, lining them up for a listen! Loved the one with Lila, and the very moving story with Kim Zember! The world needs more of these discussions...raw, real, truthful and amazingly faithful❤❤❤
I pray to the LORD for more conversions, they need back to GOD, I thanks to God, HE always open his merciful ❤. Thank for the podcast, testimonies are powerful for others .
Fairytales were more real to me than real life too… I’ve never heard anyone else say it like you did… Extend grace to the grown ups- I’m crying. Yes. That’s it right there… praise the Lord for being our true Father ♥️
Today was my first live Pints, I usually listen in the evening. I want to say I appreciate the topics that are discussed as well as the amazing guests. I have also enjoyed the new format with Matt and Thrsdy. Thrsdy has brought new perspective and depth to Pints. Thank you for all you do to further the Kingdom.
Wow. Thank you so much for sharing your story. I am 30 minutes in and my story parallels in so many ways! I grew up in the Pacific NW in the 90s and witchcraft was rampant. My best friend and I practiced Astral projection around 10/11 and my friend's experience was exactly what you shared. She started to be able to start to leave her body, but got scared and was slammed back in. So much of my family experience and personal experiences were the same, although undated of NYC, in the country, poor. A lot of these experiences and the Catholic church's doctrine on demonic entities are a big part of what took me from not being able to believe to bring able to see it as logical.
If there is anyway I can get connected with her, I feel it would help my healing immensely. Our stories are shockingly parallel. Hearing her share her testimony, has already felt like one of the biggest God hugs I’ve received. Wow. Praise Be! 🌹
Her post "yes" vision of throwing piles of paper at Jesus's feet reminds me very strongly of Til We Have Faces by CS Lewis... phenomenal book. Thank you for an excellent interview -- I can't stop listening!
I stumbled upon this channel, and I love the interview style. You do a great job letting people tell their own stories. I love the times you find yourself starting to ask a leading question, but catch yourself and ask the interviewee to tell it in their own way. These are stories that we all need to hear, absorb, and take into our daily lives. Things we need to be aware of, and ask the Lord for help with! I would love to know more on strong Christian trauma therapy. It is very, very hard to find a good Christian therapist. A lot of it is wishy-washy, and we really need help that gets to the root of trauma response. Maybe you could do an interview with someone on this topic.
I had to stop this interview after she accepted Jesus. I felt the presence of God and I needed to spend time with him and thank him for everything he’s done for me and for humanity. He really is GOOD! Being entertained AND feeling the Holy Spirit… now THAT is a GOOD program! Thank you sir!
for anyone who doesn't believe this story here listen to mine. I am a saved human being by Jesus Christ. However I wasn't always this way. Growing up I was Christian however there was never pressure in my family to stay Christian or even go to church for a long time. I knew what the bible said about witchcraft, however in my life at that point I don't think I ever felt God, it doesn't mean he wasn't with me. But I never felt him, nor did I chase after him. Once I was 15 a few different traumatic things had already happened to me. Intense bullying, friends suicide, sexual assault, and much more. Once I started middle school I had made up my mind, no one was going to make me feel lesser than them, and no one was going to make someone else feel lesser than them in front of me. My mom had caught wind of this, she knew the longer id stay in school the more I was going to fight back and fight for others. And at an attempt to help keep my innocence the innocence I had left, she decided to homeschool me. But in that transition I had found some books and websites on witchcraft and Wicca. I started practicing when I turned 16 and I should tell you (whoever is reading now) All of the spells that I did worked and every time that a spell worked I felt more and more empty. My depression would get worse the more pride id gain over a successful spell. I was on an endless loop, out of control trying to gain control over everything. I was 20 when I was saved, and it happened in a miraculous way. Now I'm not going to call this what it's not. IF you don't believe this story, thats okay even after being saved I questioned what happened to me. But I'm going to say it like it is. One day about four years ago I was doing a spell and then was told to get ready to leave. So I put my candles out, made sure the glass that it was in was cold. Then I covered my 'altar', I went to go get snowballs with my mom. (Unknowingly to me at the time, My mother had been praying that I will come back to Jesus. Asking God to give her a chance to make things right. Like starting to go to church.) While we were gone we got a call from our alarm system company that their was a fire at our house. I couldn't believe it, in fact I didn't, until I got home and saw the smoke. The firemen came and put out the little bit of fire that was on the altar. It didn't do any other damage to the house. Apart from the ceiling and the desk itself. All of the tools I used to practice witchcraft was burnt including my book of shadows. Seeing all of this happening I did feel sorry for myself, sorry for my things. And sorry to my parents. But what I was most sorrowful for is that when I entered my room where the fire happened I felt God's Authority for the first time. And above all the things I was sorry for, I was the most sorry that I had angered him. I couldn't speak, I wanted to tell my parents I was sorry I wanted to cry. But it was like I wasn't allowed too. Then the words came to me which were the only things I was able to get out my mouth and the words were, "Jesus Forgive me." and I cried, I wept. But it wasn't out of remorse or shame now, it was freedom and just this intense sorrowful gratefulness. It's so hard to explain. But on that day I was forced to throw a lot of my witchcraft out, because of the fire. And I truly believe it was God that started the fire. I believe he called me, and choose to answer to him Now. Praise be to God, Amen.. thx also for reading if you did. May God bless you
Wow, that’s a great story. I don’t think you have to question what happened, if it turned you to god and changed your life then you can be sure it was him, how else could we turn around if not him? I’ve had an experience in my life, somehow god just let’s you know, you know?
Todays July 10 2024 . 12:35 . I'm 40 yes old. I am a woman lol. I loved this interview, thank you so much for such a wonderful honest interview. I loved it . My 12 yr old daughter was in room as it played . I know she was listening whilest acting like she wasn't. I grew up same time as lady in interview. This was a wonderful testimony. Thank you to both of you I'm on hr 2 and I'm just spell bound . Yall are doing a hallowed app commercial kinda moment .. Just thank you so much .
I’m reminded that the standard for forgiveness is Jesus forgiving those who placed him on the cross…through false testimony to the very nails that fixed him there until death. Very high standard. It was helpful, in that it was a reminder that being incessantly bullied as a young girl is nothing compared to the scourging and the cross. Great long form discussion. Thank you.
Great comment! I’m really sorry you went through that but you have clearly emerged from those years as a very special woman to make that kind of observation here, anneinohio.
@@Featherfinder It took many years, and I’m grateful to have been given the time to appreciate blessings, even when they come as hardships (I still struggle with this…). Thank you for the kind words!
I have watched/listened to so many Pints and this one is now tied with my favorite show (Aliens and Paul Thigpen ❤). She's amazing. Thank you for letting her tell her powerful story.
Matt, I want to thank you for this beautiful interview. I think this is the first time I’ve ever witnessed an interviewer so genuinely compassionately engaged with his interviewee. That is truly healing to watch. That moment…”Do you want Jesus?”…😭 Well, anyone who has received the unspeakable undeserved gift of encountering Him knows exactly what is going on here! I bless all the “Burts” in my life! I started out Methodist, (encountered Jesus as a child) traveled through Pentecostalism and various iterations of Evangelicalism as a teen and adult until I reached the end of my rope after over 20 years in the same Evangelical church and cried out for an answer…the answer that came led me into the Orthodox Church. It’s been 16 years, and humanly speaking this is as messy and imperfect place as exists in the world, but in terms of the Tradition-the Liturgy, Dogma and Saints, it is my only true spiritual home. I’ve never looked back. Vesper, thank you so much for telling your story. The Burts of this world surely are not going to lose their reward! I’m also working to steer the narrow path between rigorism and legalism on one side vs. boundary-less undiscerning liberalism on the other, so thank you for touching on that (I’m halfway through the interview). Thank God He does not allow us to rest and be at peace until we are right where He wants us-in His embrace.
Wow. I'm at a loss for words other than to say that this was really moving to me. I'm a 46 year old artist too and the Lord has brought me closer to Him in this last year through my own journey through hurt and darkness. This blessed me incredibly. Thank you to the both of you.
I was deeply into new age occult and witchcraft and it had ruined my life. Depression, suicidal thoughts, drugs, gluttony etc etc etc yet i was delusional enough to think that i was “manifesting” great things. I pray God everyday and thank him for his forgiveness and his guidance. I turned to Him a year and a half ago and my life has blossomed. No longer depressed, and my anxiety has gone down. My relationships have never been better and my health as well.
The Shroud was mentioned here. I just wanted to comment that there was something interesting about this from Father Carlos Martins, who has the Exorcist Files podcast. He mentioned in a case file podcast that a priest gave him a tiny thread from the shroud. He didn't know if it was an authentic thread. He was performing one of the hardest exorcisms without results and so he pulled out the thread during a session. The demon (as in the manifestation in the possessed person ) immediately became quiet, subdued, and made the person's body into the shape of Jesus on the shroud, with arms crossed etc. Like God had commanded it to be submissive. Father Carlos then knew the thread was authentic.
The Exorcist Files is very well done. I’ve learned a lot from Fr. Carlos Martins. I just can’t listen to the podcast at night due to the subject matter 😬
That's pretty cool. I downloaded the podcast, didn't have the nerve to listen to it yet. I tried the first one, a little girl talking with a woman if I recall correctly. I didn't have time to listen then I psyched myself out of listening. That was not long after he came out with it. Maybe it'll attempt to listen all the way through, instead of a few minutes. I love hus stories. Its funny, he cameto a nearby church with 150 relics about 4 or 5 years ago. He did an amazing presentation. I touched all the relics too. I didn't know he was an exorcist. Then I started seeing him on UA-cam about a year ago. I was like, hey, he's the one who came to that church! He also came just a few months ago, I couldn't make that one though.
@@katdunn7934 listen to it during the day then it's not so bad. Once you get into the interesting bits of it, when Father explains things, the creepy parts aren't so creepy anymore. Maybe listen to one case per week so you don't overwhelm yourself with it. Good to take breaks. The question and answer episodes are not scary
I relate to so many of the core aspects of her life story, raised in chaos, raised by wolves, how it makes seeing reality important to you and that you see things other people don’t see bc of it
Just incredible. Don’t know how to say what that interview made me feel, except that it was powerful. Agape? I’m a bit older than Vesper, but there were so many synchronicities of the heart in her experiences and my own that I felt truly exposed. Dang Matt, another great one. God bless.
So, I'm watching this while working and thinking this is a cool interview. Then BAM!! the 48:00 mark crushed me into sobbing tears. Glory to Jesus Christ! Glory Forever!
This is an INCREDIBLE episode. I'm a Catholic who loves her faith and would never trade Christ for anything....but I can admit that I find Wicca attractive. It appeals to something in my personality I think. God bless this woman who is sharing this unique and important story.
New age witchcraft almost ruined my life. Praise God that he saved me from that demonic trap.
AMEN. I relate so much. I’m so grateful he saved me as well. God Bless you 🙏🏻🤍
Me too! Amen
Yup my sister's life has been a mess dabbling in Wicca, tarot and other new-Age stuff. I'm gradually getting through and got her to burn all those books and and new-Age stuff.
She's slowly coming back to the church.
I was an Oðin-worshipping Heathen, which did nothing for me except feed my wrath and lust...
I am grateful that Christ led me out of that. I was just as wrong as any human could be under that pagan nonsense.
@bethlaubenthal895 You are in greivous error. Please, take a moment to put your phone down or step away from your keyboard and pray for peace.
I am a Christian, and a professional full time artist, and I feel VERY much alone in the world. I needed this podcast. Thank you
I'm not an artist myself, but I want you to know how important it is to have Christians in every field of our society! Thank you for what you do, God bless 🙏🏻
♥️
@@grumpycrumbles7360 appreciate it. Thanks. I know God has me where I am, doing what I do, when I'm doing it, for a reason. I am extremely active in my church, I lead a men's group and teach Sunday School. I have only one peer in my immediate vicinity (by that I mean someone who has the same beliefs who works in my industry). That person is a blessing, but not a day to day part of my life through their own disposition. I've had many chances to witness in one form or another to the local art community (which is extremely active), but the overall "scene" either despises Christianity or is some bastardization of it (and I really do mean that in a non-frivolous not swearing meaning). I don't think I live in a world any different than most people in the U.S. - but being an artist is a unique place in society. We are the belt buckle that joins poverty to wealth, and we walk the razors edge of fame and obscurity. Our entire life and career is a high wire act - and by default it is very isolating. Add being a Christian to the mix, and it is doubly so. Artists dive into the fringes of society because they are curious by nature, but they also are constantly mining the world for new and original ideas - and then we have to find a way to monetize it. It's high pressure all the time for most of us. Plus, we bear our soul in our work (more often than not) and it's hard to endure regular professional rejection because it often mixes with the personal. Regardless of culture, worldwide, "creative people" make up less than 5% of a general population (usually around 2%). We are told that we are extremely valuable, but our skills are more financially rejected than almost any other marketable skill.
I'm not saying any of this to complain. I love my life and I am most fortunate to get to do what I do. But some days it is very easy to slip into despair. If you know a creative person, make a point to get to know them, not just as an artist, but as a person. Make them a part of your life and invite them into it regularly. It will mean the world to them
Im alone a lot but never alone or lonely....please never feel you are alone❤
I do too
Years of confusion, dabbling with various occult theories and practices, sexual immorality, porn addiction, and occasionally approaching Jesus but never really committing have left me a jaded and skeptical, grumpy old man. I have to say that watching this, watching you two interact, listening to her story has opened something in me. I feel like something has shifted, whatever the bleep that means? I love you both is all I can say. Thank you and God Bless you.
@@McPocalypsus "Whatever that means"? That's the Holy Spirit tapping you on the shoulder, I dare say. 😊 If you're feeling bold, ask Jesus to reveal Himself to you.
I will pray for you, brother. ❤️✝️
Hang in there. Simply open your heart to Christ; he'll take it from there. Focus on Him and all the rest will fall away.
I love how Matt interviews people. He is just so present and honest and real. I love these interviews so much
He knows how to sit with something as well as keep things moving.
He did a great job learning to do this. You can see the progression over the years
slightly too emotive in both tone and focus.
@@MJK2600
It's always slightly easier to break one down vs. building one up!
I'm guessing that it's the human condition that does this to us!
May God bless you my friend! ⚘️
@@rosiegirl2485 My observation isn't breaking anyone down or building any one up. In fact, stating what I stated wasn't critical. It is a simply a recognition of the exchange between two people in a conversation. Some conversations can be too emotive as to cloud their intent while others can be too sterile. It is amazing to me that such a simple and arguably accurate observation would lead you to infer what you apparently did. We live in strange times today.
I am not a Catholic and honestly, I was raised with a negative bias towards it. However, I have found nothing but true blue believers spreading the Gospel of Jesus Christ. I am proud to call myself your sister in Christ.
Finally some positive comment from protestant ❤
What about worship of Mary, priests forced to be unbiblically celibate, humans saying they forgive your sins...etc etc
@@pixeldrifterare you here to seek truth or are you here out of insecurity
@@pixeldrifter Yes. No Holy Spirit with the Catholics. Satanists go for the consecrated eucharist of other denominations right? They defile the Catholic mass, not Protestant ones. I am sure it is not because there is anything sacred there. If it was not holy, they wouldn't bother. They aren't going after protestants or evangelical articfacts, etc.
I don’t know what she does for a living, but she needs to investigate broadcasting. Her voice is pure good! Radio, TV, Podcasting, singing, audio books… something!
What A Gift!
Right! I thought so too.
I AM MUSIC EDUCATED, OPERA....
WOULD LOVE TO HEAR HER SING.
I AGREE WITH YOU. ...A PERFECT GIFTED, SPEAKING VOICE AND HERE SHE IS 'SPEAKING HER STORY' ABOUT HER JOURNEY TO GOD. I CAN'T THINK OF A BETTER WAY TO DELIVER A MESSAGE TO THE MASSES. HALLELUJAH!!!! AMEN!!!✝️🙇🏼♀️🌹🌿👍💖💒🥰
Same. She is very articulate. Clear diction, intelligent, with no NY accent. She should have her own podcast, read for audiobooks, or do voice acting.
As Fr Mike Schmitz says… “What a gift!”
oh she would be create for broadcasting or something related to radio theater
I'm an Orthodox Christian and I absolutely believe Catholics are our bros and sisters. Many Orthodox do not feel this way, so I understand how they can be off-putting. Thank you for airing this particular video. May God bless you and your podcast.
Raised Catholic I walked away from Jesus and got stuck in witchcraft coming out of the occult myself after working in the New age industry my whole life knowing I was misleading people Iam now a returning Catholic Iam 53 mother of 3 adults and the saddest thing is how much time I’ve wasted in the darkness
Jesus saves better late than never
Fantastic woman fantastic stories ❤
I am a cradle Catholic, my mother's family is full of priests and nuns, 2 of them martyred and beatified. That did not stop me from getting pretty deep into occultism. I believe the prayers of my aunt, a Carmelite nun, through the Virgin Mary's grace saved me and brought me back to the faith.
As a Protestant who loves Jesus and enjoys your show, I appreciated your expression of love for said Protestants. ❤ Also, the Grace of God displayed in Vesper's life is beautiful. I'm reminded of his High Priestly Prayer when Christ says "and none of them are lost." He goes after His sheep.
So different than how Catholics are treated by most Protestants. Most don’t recognize them as Christian…… Jew, Christian, Catholic…….complete ignorance.
❤
As a Catholic, protestants have done SO much for my faith in Jesus and love of scripture. Sending all my love 💗
@rkhenleyHe came after you? Not the other way around?
Deception looks beautiful and sounds great. R.C. Doctrine of salvation through works. Sacraments and adherence to Papish bulls and Dogmas, As Martin Luther correctly declared, will only lead to the Lake of fire for all who believe these doctrines of demons. All this fluff n puff is planned as part of the Jesuit led ecumenical movement to bring everyone back to the " Mother Church". Peter was never a Pope and from that false foundation the whole tower of Babel, Godless system was built. Read The secrets of Romanism by Father Joseph Zachello or The Woman who rides the beast by Dave Hunt. The truth will set you free.
When she talked about being tucked in the wound in Jesus side, I was reminded of a prayer from St Alphonsus Liguori "...Therefore I place myself into the wound of Thy sacred side and beneath the protecting mantle of my Mother Mary. May Thy holy angels assist me and watch over my peace, and may Thy holy blessing remain with me."
It also makes me think of the Anima Christi -- "Intra tua vulnera absconde me" / "Within Thy wounds hide me"
New Age practices were so attractive to me in my youth. There were movies like the Craft and other similar movies that made it attractive. I used to go into new age bookstores and I was so attracted to the candles, the idea of the rituals, the “esoteric knowledge” and I am a cradle Catholic. I have come to the realization that all of the desires for ritual are satisfied in the Roman Catholic Church. The truth truly sets us free and the truth is in the Church established by Jesus Christ.
Amen 🙏. Eventually we discover Gnosticism is Nonsensism and that the greatest knowledge lies in His Word
Beautiful comments
I’m an Orthodox Christian Actor and so appreciate everything about her story. She is wonderful. Early in life I had an episode of an unclean Spirit speaking those thoughts and the Lord Jesus Christ delivered me instantly. I love you guys. God bless!
Her story is heartbreaking. God bless this woman. The suffering and horrible things she went through. So glad she found God and found her way out of her abyss. Praise be to God.
😅😮
What she said about, it isn’t about you was my biggest “aha” moment when I began going to the Latin mass. It’s not about how loudly I reply or how well I sung , it’s about me being present at the holy sacrifice of the mass. Man once I figured that out I was able to truly participate in mass by remaining silent and simply being. “Be still and know that I Am God”
His word says other wise,if you claim to love him you would follow his word RC orthodox ect.... Doesn't reflect his words it's twisted not in context at all,if you do your research study get others to help that are not just part of a religion you can see for yourself, Jesus says himself it is because of tradition the power of GOD doesn't work......We forget to seek his word,in context,for understanding,and not to please man, which RC is all about everyone and everything but Straight Jesus Christ, GOD and his word,not what they feel his word says his word. I want someone to look at all the things they say compare it to scriptures and truly say this is what they mean without a doubt in their minds,if they're honest they know it doesn't match the word of GOD',it matches the Words they say is inspired by God through others 😢 the priest gets more glory then Jesus 😢.....
@@jernisharichard5032
Jesus also said he came to start his church,
To his apostles he said he who receives you receives me,
So if it wasn’t an institution that spread all over the world how did all of us get the message of the gospel to be saved?
Was there something else that was spreading the gospel for 2000 years alongside the Catholic Church?
@@Chrishd1 Yes,the Bible that tells us what is expected and how to spread the Gospel not just in a building. The RC has it's own teachings that are not biblical.... pagan teachings, rituals that are not of GOD'.
@@jernisharichard5032
If the RCC is not biblical and pagan, then who spread the gospel for the first 1500 years of Christianity?
WOW, I'm only 20 minutes in and this is like my life but on the other side of the coin. Early sexual abuse, acting out as a kid. Nightly demonic attacks. Researching occult as a teen. Fully immersed in college. Initiated two traditional African religions, Native shamanism and any and everything occultic. Not as much wiccan, I'm black/native so I more those beliefs. Started dreaming of Jesus in 2001, and ran for three years. Had major miracles involving the Virgin Mary. Come to faith but still bordering the occult. Set free 2005/06 but terribly oppressed. Seek deliverance am very oppressed, in Protestant Church no one believes I can be demonically oppressed. Eventually turn to our Mother (very scared too, as many African religious beliefs hid their "gods" in the guise of Saints) so had a very hard time trusting in the intercession of the Saints. Her love for me overcame all my fears. She will indeed lead you to her son. Praise Jesus. Was baptized in the Orthodox Church 7 years ago after many years of study. Was raised in a non-religious home filled with sin but Praise God my mom kept me in Catholic schools and I was 10 the Blessed Mother visited me, after that night I was no longer attacked demonically in a specific way as I had been for years. I saw shamans from the Amazon, Hindu priests, and Buddhist monks. I was initiated in Reiki up to level 2. Religious vegan and open to ANYTHING except Judaism, Islam, and Christianity. Praise God he saved me. I have a great devotion to our Lady and St. Michael specifically. Have a great love for my Roman brothers and sisters in Christ. Can't wait to the hereafter to serve our Lord and King Jesus Christ eternally.
Would love to hear your whole story.
Glory to God ☦️
@@Tx911gal
I keep trying to share a link to my testimony but it won't work.
Google, Journey to Orthodoxy, in the search write Hannah husband not Orthodox. My testimony will come up. God bless
Thank you so much for sharing! I would love to have you as a kind of role model I can look up to as their is still so much I want to learn and can’t find anyone to relate to. Would you mind if I emailed you?
God bless and thank you for sharing your story 🙏🏼
As a Protestant, this episode really blessed me.
It’s 3:00 in the morning and the closing prayer had me weeping in my bed from start to finish. I think I’m going to start praying that every night. God bless you both.
Ave Christus Rex
I was raised JW, went to a bunch of churches after I was DF'd, joined a Traditional British coven, moved to Buddhism, then harcore atheist for years. Now, preparing for OCIA and it feels like coming home.
Welcome. Jesus became incarnate to bring us home. That is His thirst.
OCIA?
I was also raised a JW! coming out of that is hard to deal with xD
@@Xanaseb it's rcia, but tweaked.
@@Xanaseb Think it’s the new term for RCIA
Seeing Matt cry is incredibly powerful. Her testimony is just stunning. God bless you both!
Viva Cristo Rey
That makes me not want to keep watching..and right now he's warning of triggers 😢. All I will say is thank you to God for delivering people from suffering and thanks to Pints for providing this testimony of God's love.
@@BitsyBeeThere are triggers. Its a heavy interview. But in the MOST LOVING, STRONG, KIND, and SAFE place...
Its actually very HEALING. If you are sensitive, you may actually NEED to watch this. Parts are uncomfortable, but they don't leave you there, they bring you through to the peace in the other side of it. They address the damage and the pain and walk through it together as Christians with firm foundations and understandings of how God saves people.
Its heavy but miraculous! Totally worth it!
Ave Christus Rex!
"they did a folk mass" "I'm so sorry. That's why you're orthodox today" 😂 Matt you kill me.
That was a good one 😂
@@vesperillustrationyour testimony pierced my heart. And your spirit is so beautiful. You're one of those ppl I just want to find myself in the same room as. Thank you for sharing.
This kills me.
facts though
That was funny. Are folk masses *that* tedious? Or just too-and I apologize in advance-“Peter, Paul, and Mary?” 😁
Matt's one of the guys partly responsible for my being drawn towards Catholicism, and I really have a desire to be a part of the Church. As someone who was an atheist for years (and Protestant growing up), the tradition and clarity of what the Church is and was is what draws me to it. I see people like Matt that want to preserve that and not conform it to the world and the whims of the present. God bless you Sir, keep being a loving and open, yet firm and unshakable opposition to the present age. You and others like you are a beacon that reflect the love of Christ into the darkness.
She truly is a beautiful woman inside and out, I just prayed for her shoulder...❤ I am not a Catholic .. But I've been binge-watching this channel for the last couple days maybe 3 days... I have to say that it's been healing for me because there's a lot of bad things being said about the Catholics... And even though I don't agree on several things, I can see genuine love of Jesus Christ from you both and other people that I've seen on your show as well... So the healing part is dropping judgment and being able to love without agreeing on some things... So thank you for that
I had the same experience! I had all these sinful evil thoughts in my head, demonic entities would enter my dreams and tempt me into sin, or to manifest them, or I would try to exorcize them out of a house. And in my waking hours, all these thoughts would come into my mind and implant themselves. Praise the Lord that I actually met a priest who does healing and liberation ministry. After he had laid his hands on me and prayed, that night I experienced that peace and silence that she had mentioned. I cried tears of joy! And mass the next day was truly a celebration! Prayer works!
I know this sounds weird, but I was a Christian-turned-atheist until i started to dabble in witchcraft/New Ageism, and I felt genuine fear. And then bad/unexplainable things started happening at home and in my life. But that fear, wow. Not sure if it was fear of hell, of the demonic, no idea. But it made me realize that I did have faith after all, and I thank God for that.
Fr. Mike from Ascension presents gave me some good advice on how to honor your parents when the relationship is toxic and abusive. He said you can honor them by not repeating the same behavior and abusive patterns onto your children. This has changed my whole life hearing this and I’m so thankful and blessed for him responding to my email on that.
I love how Matt gets so emotional because he can feel God so strongly in people's testimony. Amen 🙏🏾
Thursday NEEDS to make a short or gif out of Matt saying, “I ffffffreaking love Protestants who love Jesus.” 😂❤
“Do you want Jesus”. Raise your hands those who didn’t tear up together with Matt!!
That moment was so powerful!
i swear i hit my chest ToT
I started crying even before he did. What a moment!
Started to cry at work 😢😅. We need a tears ahead trigger warning.
Amen
What a privilege to listen to Vesper’s story! So moving! I loved her remark: “it either comes from the Lord or from the Devil!” How we need such women in our Church experience! People such as she will be the “Arbiters of Church unity”!
It was the way you carried yourself through all the hardships you have been facing alone through using power of anger as fuel without realising the negative side of it. That could be why the chronic pains that came latter to haunt you again for years. Thanks God that you have come out with victories to share them here. Amen. God bless your road ahead.
Vesper is an amazing woman of faith from every angle-and a dear friend!! What a beautiful surprise for me to see this come up today as a recommendation!!
Love you sister ❤❤❤
Love you back!! ❤️🙏
It is as if Vesper and I lived parallel lives. I cried so much listening to her story because this was my childhood as well. Not being heard. Not being believed. Living as a latchkey kid. Then having to forgive and let go of the anger and resentment with the help and love of Christ . Thank you , Matt for having her on.
I was really into attempting astral projection in my 20's, and one time, I felt my astral body lifting out of my physical body just by an inch in my fingers and arms. It felt more real than my daily waking life, but just as I was lifting out, there was this dark shadowy presence at the foot of my bed just watching me. It was terrifying... so malevolent...intensly still, just waiting and watching... I was scared back into my body and never attempted again. I thought it had probably been my imagination, but now I am thankful I went no further.
same here ! glad i so fearful of it. you would'nt know what you'd come back with !! God BLess 🙂
I am often admiring of my Protestant brothers for their evangelical spirit. Jesus has been able to bring so many people to Himself through their efforts. We have much to learn from them.
It is a wonderful thing to know his word I use to want to follow RC but I had to see for myself who to follow I was sent to JW,I was in baptist, I did all kinds of church you know just checking everything out.... The thing I've learned is to follow his word in context,not trying to please anybody or any religions just truly seeking his word.... I'm now just a follower of Christ because I've learned a lot on how all those religions were just traditional teachings, and not the same as exploring what is expected what his word truly teaches,it was mostly perverted all we have to do is hold up whatever is being taught AGAINST his word truly seek to understand and know what is of God and not. There is a lot of things people Are being deceived on all in the worship of A man 😢 and not what our savior has taught ,not what God says to follow. The past how people were killed for not following, that is one frightening scene that people just look over,it's very telling.
I'm big on trying to figure out what is expected and what is going on.... It is a lot of paganism in what is taught....and flat out how can you bring Jesus body back over, and over😢 who in their right minds can believe that is biblical 😢
48:00 this moment is what makes this podcast top tier. God bless you both.
Same.
No. More 48:13 is better. That’s where the real tears come in.
The Lord worked on my heart in Adoration and showed me that I was holding a feeling of abandonment by the Lord that was an obstacle to emotional intimacy. He’s big enough and strong enough to take the “where were you - why didn’t you save me?” question and offer healing.
I had a friend in college who told me she had left her body and thought it was really cool, until she tried to return to her body and found somebody else was there. "I had to FIGHT it to get my body back." She RAN to the church and never looked back.
This is one of my favorite interviews ever and it has played a big part in my conversion. Thank you!
I loved this interview, and I love Vesper’s testimony and deep love for the Lord.
Matt, if you call up Bert to tell him you love him, tell him I do too. My heart is filled with gratitude for what Jesus did through his intercession for Vesper and her family.
I’m not a Catholic but what a journey this woman has had! God is good, God is love.
She’s Orthodox
She is a *fabulous* story teller.
I'm barely half way and just wanted to say THANK YOU. You two have shared something that relates so much to my life. These stories are what give me and others hope. Glory be to God.
I went through my house and threw away all the witchcraft things I had. Tarot cards, pendulum, sage, and a bunch of books. I just had this feeling overcome me that I HAD to get that stuff out of my house.
Same. I went through that a couple years ago.
The spirit (Holy) present during this interview was so gentle and uplifting. What a lovely witness to our Lord. May He continue to bless you according to His ownership and love. Bless you both and thank you
Didn’t expect the 4 words to make me cry at work. Put a warning on that too guys! Praise Jesus! Bert for the win
Same here !
@@zairaa677 And I as well.
Yes agree!. It hits me right on the spot too!
I'm not a christian, but I'm very curious and interested in other ways of life. It often brings to be unexpected places, like this podcast episode. I might not relate to all of this but I loved how earnest and open Vesper was, this was a very engaging listen. Thank you for sharing your story!
Power to this woman for praising her mother for leaving domestic violence. This truly has the power to allow physical, emotional and spiritual safety. Ignore toxic voices that tell you to stay, no matter your sex or background. ❤
I have friends and the mom is Catholic and the dad is Jewish. My birthmom has mental illness. I'm glad I have medical Lupus and Bipolar support in my adoption family. I came here on your recommendation and I'm glad I did. Vesper is a wonderful guest.
I routinely watch this interview. listening to Vesper Stamper is so comforting
I love how her demeanor changes... When she talks about her encounter with Jesus, she lights up with love!
You know it!!! He's my everything
The prayer at the end was the most powerful and engaging moment I have ever heard on this podcast. God bless you all.
This was awesome guys thank you. Jesus is amazing and I love hearing others stories of how He rescues them. And of course I love John Eldridge. So appreciate you reading the daily prayer. I love that prayer.
This resonates so much with me. The SA, the non existent childhood with different fathers. Dabbling in new age mambo jambo. Took one very scary unholy incident to make me turn back to God and now, it’s only about God. I too realised He has always been there, trying to reach out and I kept rejecting Him. I am ao grateful He has been so so so patient with me all these years and taken me back with His wide open loving arms. Thank you Father for not giving up on me. Amen.
I confess that I don't often watch Pints with Aquinas but this is the very best interview I have seen on this channel. Vesper is wonderful! Her story was so interesting and inspirational.
This was eye-opening and inspiring. Thank you for sharing your hearts.
love the sensitivity that Matt holds with her story. so beautiful.
I practiced wicca too, just a month ago I was saved. I was suicidal and like her I have racing thoughts of terrible things. I did get help for my mental illness, but it was Jesus that truly saved me and changed my life. He saved me from things that I didn't know was ruining me. Thank you God for your goodness!
Welcome sister. I too have been involved in the occult. Catholicism has been anything but perfect or easy, but it is home. May God continue to bless your journey. ❤
I absolutely adored this conversation! Vesper has an incredible story and inspires me as an aspiring fiction writer. Stoked to read her books. Thanks PWA!
When people ask, "Where was God during X atrocity/tragedy? Why didn't He do something?", people need to ask the same thing about Jesus' Passion, Crucifixion, and death, the worst of the worst atrocities/tragedies. They need to realize that, if the Father didn't intervene to stop His Son's suffering and torture, neither should we think we have a right to His intervention in our suffering. Rather God's answer to those questions is to suffer with us, exactly as we suffer, in the person of Jesus Christ and to show us how to humbly trust the Father and bear it with confident hope of redemption of all evil and suffering.
Beautifully said.
Realising the reality of the Fall actually converted me to Christianity. We are fallen men and women in a fallen world- and Christ redeemed us through suffering.
JUST BRILLIANT TONY........
I BELIEVE THAT, THAT THIS IS THE BASIS
OF OUR ROMAN CATHOLIC FAITH:
GOD BLESS:
SUFFERING IS HUMILITY!!
TO KNOW HOW TO SUFFER,
YOU THEN HELP OTHERS
IN HIDDENESS: ❤
Perfectly said
Loved this guest! Praise God for his patience and mercy on us poor broken creatures. What a tender Father we have In heaven.
Oh I really enjoyed this podcast. Her expressive nature and warmth makes me feel like I'm listening to a friend. I too wandered arounded NYC in the 90's, went to the East West bookstore, film school at Parsons and ate up every New Age workshop. I came to God in 2021 on the heels of coming out of a mental illness collapse. God's grace restored me and saved my life. No more more occult and New Age. My sanity restored and my grateful heart thanks God everyday. Thank you for this lovely podcast. Yes Tikki Marsala is the bomb ;)
What a powerful testimony, I was mesmerized for the entire episode. I confess I wept too at the moment Vesper described her conversion to Christ. As always, excellent interview Matt, thank you.
Vesper should do audio for Hallow or audiobooks. Her voice during that prayer was so light & spirit filled. (Matt your great too)!
I want to be like bert.... What a guy. Love a pure vessel like him. what a role model.. God Bless you Bert..
I'm really thankful for this video. My daughter is in a place now where she thinks she can be a "christian witch", even though I tell her there's no such thing (thank you, TikTok). And Vesper is right - it's all about control. Due to things that happened in her life, I think my daughter feels the need to control her emotions, reactions, and environment. Herbs, lore, incantations, etc. And if I say anything, she'll dig deeper into it. And YES, she thinks it's all about light and love and not being bound to something that was made by old men that's out of date. I just keep praying to know when and what to say to her, and when to keep my mouth closed and be prayerful about it. I'm hoping she comes out on the other side with a stronger belief in Christ and His church. Right now she's too worried about anyone's feelings being hurt by "strict" religious beliefs and especially cannot stand Catholicism. sigh.
I don’t know how old she is, but I’d remove her devices immediately. It’ll be awful for a while, but it’s your right to do it.
@@vesperillustration Ah, if only. She's 25 and lives on her own. I'd say since the Covid shutdown she started turning toward this but never really came out with it until a year ago. It breaks my heart for her.
@@cthurbz5146 I’m so sorry about what’s going on with your daughter, truly. I’m praying for you both. How horrible, all the confusion that’s in our world today.
I don't know if this will help, but it may also be an aesthetic thing. I had an ex-protestant now-wiccan classmate, and we spent an entire feildtrip drive where I told her about the smells-&-bells parts of Catholicism, as well as things about icons, ossuary churches, angels, and so on. She thought it was all really cool. She eventually converted back to Christianity. I don't know if our conversation had anything to do with it, but it might have. TL:DR show her that Catholicism is cool.
Hey! I’m 24 and I was saved last year. I was an astrologer, reiki healer, crystal seller etc.. if I was saved, anyone can be 😂
I love Matt’s emotion…. I can’t explain but it’s profound. I needed this testimony today. This from a cradle Catholic that has had wonderful miracles and blessings in my life at 58. Thank you Matt and Vesper.
Loved every single minute of this! Im a graphic designer and illustrator, and was so moved by your God journey! Implimenting God into my Illustration teachings has been amazing and frustrating as i battle the masses who turn me away because of my mention of Christianity. I too was born in Germany and lived in New York for a stint. Was moved to beautiful Colorado at an early age and desperately wish id have had more training at a young age like you! 25 yrs as a graphic designer and now pushing my way into the illustration realm. You are an amazing inspiration Vesper! You have a new fan for sure. God bless you in your continuous growth and aspirations, and in healing!❤ and Matt, you have a new fan as well! Love you, and your podcast, lining them up for a listen! Loved the one with Lila, and the very moving story with Kim Zember! The world needs more of these discussions...raw, real, truthful and amazingly faithful❤❤❤
I pray to the LORD for more conversions, they need back to GOD, I thanks to God, HE always open his merciful ❤. Thank for the podcast, testimonies are powerful for others .
Fairytales were more real to me than real life too… I’ve never heard anyone else say it like you did…
Extend grace to the grown ups- I’m crying. Yes. That’s it right there… praise the Lord for being our true Father ♥️
Matt, this is one of your best videos that I've watched. Absolutley loved it. Especially the ending prayer. Thank you for sharing.
Today was my first live Pints, I usually listen in the evening. I want to say I appreciate the topics that are discussed as well as the amazing guests. I have also enjoyed the new format with Matt and Thrsdy. Thrsdy has brought new perspective and depth to Pints. Thank you for all you do to further the Kingdom.
Thursday is a real asset. Knows his way around a computer, intelligent, knowledgeable and solidly Catholic.
@@sabinemeyer3899and shares Matt’s dry sense of humor. Thank God. I can’t take too much piety without some levity.
This woman. Praise God for her! Such a beautiful heart for God.
I'm a Protestant who went to a very Catholic high school. I love Catholicism. He loves all people. And He saves all people who accept His gift.
Wow. Thank you so much for sharing your story. I am 30 minutes in and my story parallels in so many ways! I grew up in the Pacific NW in the 90s and witchcraft was rampant. My best friend and I practiced Astral projection around 10/11 and my friend's experience was exactly what you shared. She started to be able to start to leave her body, but got scared and was slammed back in.
So much of my family experience and personal experiences were the same, although undated of NYC, in the country, poor.
A lot of these experiences and the Catholic church's doctrine on demonic entities are a big part of what took me from not being able to believe to bring able to see it as logical.
If there is anyway I can get connected with her, I feel it would help my healing immensely. Our stories are shockingly parallel. Hearing her share her testimony, has already felt like one of the biggest God hugs I’ve received. Wow. Praise Be! 🌹
I know this was a while ago you posted this but her Instagram is in the description under the video.
I didn't plan on watching this episode; stayed to the ending prayer, which was Beautiful. Thank you Matt , Vesper and crew. Glory be to God.
How beautiful the prayers were at the end 😭❤️🙏
Was a die hard Germanic pagan then became a Calvinist now an orthodox Christian, glad this woman came out of that. Glory to God
Her post "yes" vision of throwing piles of paper at Jesus's feet reminds me very strongly of Til We Have Faces by CS Lewis... phenomenal book.
Thank you for an excellent interview -- I can't stop listening!
That’s the part I didn’t get. Any idea what it meant?
I stumbled upon this channel, and I love the interview style. You do a great job letting people tell their own stories. I love the times you find yourself starting to ask a leading question, but catch yourself and ask the interviewee to tell it in their own way. These are stories that we all need to hear, absorb, and take into our daily lives. Things we need to be aware of, and ask the Lord for help with!
I would love to know more on strong Christian trauma therapy. It is very, very hard to find a good Christian therapist. A lot of it is wishy-washy, and we really need help that gets to the root of trauma response. Maybe you could do an interview with someone on this topic.
What a wonderful testimony
I had to stop this interview after she accepted Jesus. I felt the presence of God and I needed to spend time with him and thank him for everything he’s done for me and for humanity. He really is GOOD!
Being entertained AND feeling the Holy Spirit… now THAT is a GOOD program!
Thank you sir!
for anyone who doesn't believe this story here listen to mine.
I am a saved human being by Jesus Christ. However I wasn't always this way. Growing up I was Christian however there was never pressure in my family to stay Christian or even go to church for a long time. I knew what the bible said about witchcraft, however in my life at that point I don't think I ever felt God, it doesn't mean he wasn't with me. But I never felt him, nor did I chase after him. Once I was 15 a few different traumatic things had already happened to me. Intense bullying, friends suicide, sexual assault, and much more. Once I started middle school I had made up my mind, no one was going to make me feel lesser than them, and no one was going to make someone else feel lesser than them in front of me. My mom had caught wind of this, she knew the longer id stay in school the more I was going to fight back and fight for others. And at an attempt to help keep my innocence the innocence I had left, she decided to homeschool me. But in that transition I had found some books and websites on witchcraft and Wicca. I started practicing when I turned 16 and I should tell you (whoever is reading now) All of the spells that I did worked and every time that a spell worked I felt more and more empty. My depression would get worse the more pride id gain over a successful spell. I was on an endless loop, out of control trying to gain control over everything. I was 20 when I was saved, and it happened in a miraculous way. Now I'm not going to call this what it's not. IF you don't believe this story, thats okay even after being saved I questioned what happened to me. But I'm going to say it like it is. One day about four years ago I was doing a spell and then was told to get ready to leave. So I put my candles out, made sure the glass that it was in was cold. Then I covered my 'altar', I went to go get snowballs with my mom. (Unknowingly to me at the time, My mother had been praying that I will come back to Jesus. Asking God to give her a chance to make things right. Like starting to go to church.) While we were gone we got a call from our alarm system company that their was a fire at our house. I couldn't believe it, in fact I didn't, until I got home and saw the smoke. The firemen came and put out the little bit of fire that was on the altar. It didn't do any other damage to the house. Apart from the ceiling and the desk itself. All of the tools I used to practice witchcraft was burnt including my book of shadows. Seeing all of this happening I did feel sorry for myself, sorry for my things. And sorry to my parents. But what I was most sorrowful for is that when I entered my room where the fire happened I felt God's Authority for the first time. And above all the things I was sorry for, I was the most sorry that I had angered him. I couldn't speak, I wanted to tell my parents I was sorry I wanted to cry. But it was like I wasn't allowed too. Then the words came to me which were the only things I was able to get out my mouth and the words were, "Jesus Forgive me." and I cried, I wept. But it wasn't out of remorse or shame now, it was freedom and just this intense sorrowful gratefulness. It's so hard to explain. But on that day I was forced to throw a lot of my witchcraft out, because of the fire. And I truly believe it was God that started the fire. I believe he called me, and choose to answer to him Now. Praise be to God, Amen..
thx also for reading if you did. May God bless you
Amen! The power of a praying mother!
😮😮😮😮😮😮😊😊😊
I am convinced bad things that happen to us, are only allowed by God to draw us to Him. "ALL things work for good to those that love God."
@@NaomiSims-id2vn amen I believe this as well. My job now is to be as wise as the serpent but as gentile as the dove
Wow, that’s a great story.
I don’t think you have to question what happened, if it turned you to god and changed your life then you can be sure it was him, how else could we turn around if not him? I’ve had an experience in my life, somehow god just let’s you know, you know?
Todays July 10 2024 .
12:35 .
I'm 40 yes old.
I am a woman lol.
I loved this interview, thank you so much for such a wonderful honest interview.
I loved it .
My 12 yr old daughter was in room as it played .
I know she was listening whilest acting like she wasn't.
I grew up same time as lady in interview.
This was a wonderful testimony.
Thank you to both of you I'm on hr 2 and I'm just spell bound .
Yall are doing a hallowed app commercial kinda moment ..
Just thank you so much .
I’m reminded that the standard for forgiveness is Jesus forgiving those who placed him on the cross…through false testimony to the very nails that fixed him there until death. Very high standard. It was helpful, in that it was a reminder that being incessantly bullied as a young girl is nothing compared to the scourging and the cross. Great long form discussion. Thank you.
Great comment! I’m really sorry you went through that but you have clearly emerged from those years as a very special woman to make that kind of observation here, anneinohio.
@@Featherfinder It took many years, and I’m grateful to have been given the time to appreciate blessings, even when they come as hardships (I still struggle with this…). Thank you for the kind words!
Excellent program and so timely! I am praying for your continued ministry, Matt.
I have watched/listened to so many Pints and this one is now tied with my favorite show (Aliens and Paul Thigpen ❤). She's amazing. Thank you for letting her tell her powerful story.
Matt, I want to thank you for this beautiful interview. I think this is the first time I’ve ever witnessed an interviewer so genuinely compassionately engaged with his interviewee. That is truly healing to watch. That moment…”Do you want Jesus?”…😭 Well, anyone who has received the unspeakable undeserved gift of encountering Him knows exactly what is going on here! I bless all the “Burts” in my life! I started out Methodist, (encountered Jesus as a child) traveled through Pentecostalism and various iterations of Evangelicalism as a teen and adult until I reached the end of my rope after over 20 years in the same Evangelical church and cried out for an answer…the answer that came led me into the Orthodox Church. It’s been 16 years, and humanly speaking this is as messy and imperfect place as exists in the world, but in terms of the Tradition-the Liturgy, Dogma and Saints, it is my only true spiritual home. I’ve never looked back. Vesper, thank you so much for telling your story. The Burts of this world surely are not going to lose their reward! I’m also working to steer the narrow path between rigorism and legalism on one side vs. boundary-less undiscerning liberalism on the other, so thank you for touching on that (I’m halfway through the interview). Thank God He does not allow us to rest and be at peace until we are right where He wants us-in His embrace.
One of your best guests ever. What a beautiful human being.
Wow. I'm at a loss for words other than to say that this was really moving to me. I'm a 46 year old artist too and the Lord has brought me closer to Him in this last year through my own journey through hurt and darkness. This blessed me incredibly. Thank you to the both of you.
GOD is Awesome!! God bless you in becoming a Christian and leaving that life behind Vesper
I was deeply into new age occult and witchcraft and it had ruined my life. Depression, suicidal thoughts, drugs, gluttony etc etc etc yet i was delusional enough to think that i was “manifesting” great things. I pray God everyday and thank him for his forgiveness and his guidance. I turned to Him a year and a half ago and my life has blossomed. No longer depressed, and my anxiety has gone down. My relationships have never been better and my health as well.
The Shroud was mentioned here. I just wanted to comment that there was something interesting about this from Father Carlos Martins, who has the Exorcist Files podcast. He mentioned in a case file podcast that a priest gave him a tiny thread from the shroud. He didn't know if it was an authentic thread. He was performing one of the hardest exorcisms without results and so he pulled out the thread during a session. The demon (as in the manifestation in the possessed person ) immediately became quiet, subdued, and made the person's body into the shape of Jesus on the shroud, with arms crossed etc. Like God had commanded it to be submissive. Father Carlos then knew the thread was authentic.
Beautiful testament. Matt's interview with Fr. Andrew Dalton is way spiritually rich.
The Exorcist Files is very well done. I’ve learned a lot from Fr. Carlos Martins. I just can’t listen to the podcast at night due to the subject matter 😬
That's pretty cool. I downloaded the podcast, didn't have the nerve to listen to it yet. I tried the first one, a little girl talking with a woman if I recall correctly. I didn't have time to listen then I psyched myself out of listening. That was not long after he came out with it. Maybe it'll attempt to listen all the way through, instead of a few minutes.
I love hus stories. Its funny, he cameto a nearby church with 150 relics about 4 or 5 years ago. He did an amazing presentation. I touched all the relics too. I didn't know he was an exorcist. Then I started seeing him on UA-cam about a year ago. I was like, hey, he's the one who came to that church! He also came just a few months ago, I couldn't make that one though.
@@katdunn7934 listen to it during the day then it's not so bad. Once you get into the interesting bits of it, when Father explains things, the creepy parts aren't so creepy anymore. Maybe listen to one case per week so you don't overwhelm yourself with it. Good to take breaks. The question and answer episodes are not scary
@@MWroses thank you for the tip! I'll definitely have to try that!
I relate to so many of the core aspects of her life story, raised in chaos, raised by wolves, how it makes seeing reality important to you and that you see things other people don’t see bc of it
I love Matt as an interviewer. What a good conversation! God is so good! 😊💗
Just incredible. Don’t know how to say what that interview made me feel, except that it was powerful. Agape? I’m a bit older than Vesper, but there were so many synchronicities of the heart in her experiences and my own that I felt truly exposed. Dang Matt, another great one. God bless.
So, I'm watching this while working and thinking this is a cool interview. Then BAM!! the 48:00 mark crushed me into sobbing tears. Glory to Jesus Christ! Glory Forever!
This is an INCREDIBLE episode. I'm a Catholic who loves her faith and would never trade Christ for anything....but I can admit that I find Wicca attractive. It appeals to something in my personality I think. God bless this woman who is sharing this unique and important story.