Solemnity of Pentecost

05-19-2024Pastor's CornerFr. Bob Deehan

Today we celebrate the Solemnity of Pentecost, the time when the Holy Spirit came upon the disciples of Jesus in a powerful way.

I think the most forgotten member of the Blessed Trinity is the Holy Spirit. Yet, the Holy Spirit, which comes to us from the Father and the Son, is what makes the presence and power of God possible within our Church and our world.

You might consider it the dynamic spiritual force of God that gives life, blesses, empowers, energizes, strengthens, enlightens, inspires, guides, unifies, and makes holy. The seven gifts we’re given by the Holy Spirit, received in a special way in the Sacrament of Confirmation include: Wisdom, Understanding, Counsel, Fortitude, Knowledge, Piety, and Fear of the Lord – which means revering God by offering Him due worship and devotion. Think about what the coming of the Holy Spirit did to the disciples in the upper room on that first Pentecost. They were completely changed people, gifted with special abilities and zeal to make known the message and love of Jesus Christ, and the salvation made possible by His death and Resurrection.

What effect has the Holy Spirit had on you? Have you ever prayed for a special outpouring of the Holy Spirit, maybe with the simple prayer “Come Holy Spirit?”

St. Paul in his letter to the Galatians offers some evidence to look for as a way of telling if someone has allowed the Holy Spirit to be effective in them. His list includes 9 “fruits” of the Holy Spirit and the tradition of our Church has expanded them to 12. They are: charity, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, long-suffering, humility, faithfulness, modesty, self-control, and chastity. So, how do you measure up? Pray daily that the Holy Spirit will come upon you so that you may be graced and guided to carry out well the unique and special mission the Lord has entrusted to you.

In this regard, I offer you a serious warning about some programs and workshops being offered in our area that often sound interesting and harmless. However, when they involve harnessing “energy,” contacting spirits, consulting mediums/psychics, reading Tarot cards or tea leafs, or playing with Ouija Boards – great caution is advised! It is an offense against God, the Holy Spirit when we open ourselves to any spirit/power other than the Holy Spirit. Know that Satan, aka, the Evil One is real and has a demonic power, and looks for openings to take over and influence a person who delves into such practices. It is very harmful and should be avoided. The Catholic Church strongly and explicitly advises against our involvement in these things. (cf. Catechism of the Catholic Church #2115 – #2117).

Please pass the word along to those who need to know about the danger of these practices.

Come Holy Spirit, Come!