In August of 2009, a mandate was given to Westminster, MD Aglow called Operation R.E.L.E.A.S.E., an acronym for:
Reclaim the land and souls
Enter into enemy’s camp
Loose the bands of wickedness
Establish the Name of the Lord by renewing the minds of believers
Arm believers with the Word of God
Shout the victory
Exalt the Lord for the restoring of land and souls.
We began to walk out the first part of this acronym, ‘Reclaim the land and souls’, but then circumstances halted us.
In August of 2018, this mandate was reignited. First on our agenda was praying at eight “gates” (major roads) leading into Carroll County, including kindling a Holy Ghost fire at Reese Fire Station. At each one, a group of us met and declared God’s redemption, renamed the gates, and dedicated the land for the Lord through communion elements, the covenant of salt to bring down God’s blessings, watering the ground for new life, and pouring of oil as an emblem of the Lord’s anointing.
Next, we visited area churches representing the establishment of several denominations. One was the site of the first Methodist Church in America – right in our own ‘back yard’! At each location, we re-dug the wells declaring revival.
Subsequently, we targeted hot spots within the city of Westminster. Twice we prayed and declared at a central location, Belle Grove Square, and covered downtown by praying at the Library, reclaiming our city for the Lord.
In May 2021, several of us targeted the County Detention Center and the building where property issues are handled. After notifying several key leaders of our intent, we were privileged to have the sheriff, warden, and chaplain join us. Despite a sudden downpour as we began, we delighted in sharing with them the Appeal to Heaven flag background, praying for them, and having them pray with and for us!
Westminster Aglow is determined to fulfill God’s mandate to R.E.L.E.A.S.E. our area by taking back Westminster and Carroll County for the Lord.