Word from the Pastor

Pentecost Sunday

We are called by God, filled with the Holy Spirit.
Acts 2:1-11, 1 Corinthians 12:3b-7,12-13, John 20:19-23

Dear parish family,​

Today we celebrate Pentecost, known to be the birthday of the Church. Birthdays are a time of celebration and recognition of our beginnings. It is a time to reflect on identity. Our Liturgy of the Word today reveals important elements of what it means to be Church.​

In the first reading, the Holy Spirit is described as a strong driving wind that fills an entire house. Imagine the power in this imagery. It is inescapable and full of energy. We can see this same vitality in the Church’s work as a force for good in the world. Parishes bring together people of all different walks of life to share lives of faith. Works of mercy are undertaken to meet the needs of communities around the world. Individuals find healing and hope in the grace of the sacraments. In each of these areas and in so much more, we can feel the rush of the Spirit, swirling around us and moving us forward together. ​

The first reading also describes the Holy Spirit as resting on each of the disciples. Indeed, all of us, especially those who have received the Sacrament of Confirmation, have received the Holy Spirit. We each have a part to play in the Church. This is affirmed by the second reading today. As Saint Paul reflects, “There are different kinds of spiritual gifts but the same Spirit; there are different forms of service but the same Lord; there are different workings but the same God who produces all of them in everyone.” God has deliberately given each of us our own spiritual gifts to serve the world. Although our gifts are different, we are one in the Spirit. ​

In the Gospel, Jesus appears after his death and resurrection to his disciples, offering peace and the Holy Spirit. Let us take peace and the Holy Spirit with us as we celebrate the Church’s birthday. Let us take stock of the gifts we have been given and thank God for them. Let us also give thanks for the gifts he has given to others. Perhaps there are even gifts we feel called to put into practice, but we have not acted upon yet. Let us have the sense of peace and courage to move past fear and use them as God calls us. ​

As we celebrate the birth of the Church, let us remember that it began with disciples going out into the world. Today, we are those disciples with that call. May we find peace in our ongoing discernment of what gifts God has given to us. May we remember that he is always with us, including in a special way in the Eucharist. May we share this beautiful Spirit with all of those around us. ​

Fr. Jean Jadotte
Pastor