May 2016 E-pistle

Thoughts
What amazing change can happen in 53 days. 53 days ago (on Holy Thursday), the Apostles were ordained priests and fed with the Eucharist… and immediately afterwards they sold our Lord for silver, denied knowing him and hid while he was crucified. 53 days later, we find the Apostles out in the streets proclaiming boldly, converting thousands at a time, curing the sick, bringing the dead back to life and fearlessly enduring torture and martyrdom. The difference?  The Holy Spirit!
Challenge

Having just ended our 50-day celebration of Easter, it is time to embrace the parting gift of Jesus given to the Apostles and to all of us on the Feast of Pentecost – the Power of the Holy Spirit. Let us come to better know this Third Person of the Holy Trinity, endeavor to walk with the Spirit’s guidance, and through the promptings of the Spirit share the Good News of salvation with others.
Go Deeper

+ The Seven Gifts of the Holy Spirit

+ Reflections on the Holy Spirit: River of Grace (St. Ambrose) +++Purifier (St. Basil), Gift of God’s Love (St. Augustine) +++ Descent upon the Apostles (Bl Marmion)

+Videos: Bishop Robert Barron On the Holy Spirit +++ Fruits of the Holy Spirit

+ St. John Paul II’s Encyclical On the Holy Spirit in the Life of the Church