Greetings in Christ!
As we celebrate the glorious Feast of Pentecost, we are reminded of the moment the Holy Spirit breathed new life into the early Church. The Apostles, who were once locked behind closed doors in fear, were transformed into bold witnesses of the Gospel message. They preached a simple message that Jesus Christ truly rose both body and soul from the dead proving that He is Lord of both the living and the dead and can grant eternal life to whomever He wills.
The account of the day of Pentecost in the Acts of the Apostles is so dramatic and exciting it can be hard to remember that we have all received of the same Spirit in both Baptism and Confirmation. The Apostles hear a strong driving wind, they are able to see tongues of fire, and they begin speaking in various languages. This is not the typical experience for someone who receives Baptism and Confirmation. More often than not, we may walk away feeling the same.
Yet, in those sacraments, we truly have been given both the Holy Spirit and particular gifts that come with the Spirit’s presence. The Holy Spirit does not come to us to remain hidden. He equips us with the Seven Gifts of the Holy Spirit: Wisdom, Understanding, Right Judgment (Counsel), Knowledge, Courage (Fortitude), Reverence (Piety), and Wonder and Awe (Fear of the Lord). These are not merely for our personal spiritual comfort; they are dynamic, active tools given to us to build up the Kingdom of God right here in our local community.
Besides these Seven Gifts, there are additional gifts and abilities that God has given us to help build up His Church. Pentecost is a perfect day to reexamine our lives to consider how we can give of ourselves to spread the Gospel. Whether your strengths lie in teaching, serving the poor, offering wise counsel, or simply bringing the peace and joy of Christ to a weary world, your unique charisms are vital to our parish mission. When we use our gifts in service to others, we make the love of Jesus Christ tangible in our neighborhoods, our families, and our parish
As I mentioned in the homily for the Ascension last week, two of the major goals that came out of our survey among our parishioners was the need to: 1. Grow spiritually and 2. Increase volunteer participation. I am very proud of how our community responded to that first goal. Over 100 people have signed up for our small group study! As we grow in faith, continue to pray and discern how to give of your time and talent for the benefit of our parish.
Please keep in your prayers and offerings Deacon Maximilian Frei who will be ordained a priest for our diocese this coming Saturday! His first Mass of thanksgiving will be the following day here at St. Dorothy at 9 am.
In Christ,
Fr. Carlson, Pastor