Pentecost Sunday Done
- 1. PENTECOST SUNDAY Changed people Introduction This is the day when Jesus, true to his promise, sent his Spirit on the apostles. The coming of the spirit resulted in changed people and saw the launching of the new community (the Church). Introduction to the Readings First Reading (Acts 2:1-11) This describes the descent of the Holy Spirit on the apostles, and the effect of this on them. Second Reading (1 Cor 12:3-7,12-13) Paul says that each of each of us has been given different gifts by the Holy Spirit. These gifts are given, not just for our own good, but for the good for the Church, the Body of Christ. Gospel (John 20: 19-23) On Easter day the risen Jesus came to his disciples, breathed the Holy Spirit upon them, and then commissioned them as messengers of God’s peace and forgiveness. PRAYER OF THE FAITHFUL Let us pray that we may cooperate with the work of the Holy Spirit, so that he may renew us as thoroughly as spring renews the face of the earth. R. Spirit of the living God, fall afresh on us. For the Church: that the Holy Spirit may inspire and guide it in its mission to witness to Christ and to preach the Gospel. Let us pray. For the whole world: that the Holy Spirit may bind the human family in ties of love and friendship. Let us pray. For all those who are imprisoned by fears, doubt, loneliness, depression, or habits of sin: that the Holy Spirit may set them free. Let us pray. That the Holy Spirit may inspire in each of us a desire for holiness, and bind us together as brothers and sisters in a community of love. Let us pray. For local needs.
- 2. Communion Reflection In the fields patches of green are appearing, new patches on an old garment. But, given time, spring will weave a completely new garment. Yet spring is only a facilitator. It doesn’t make anything happen. It merely creates the climate in which things can grow. We too need to grow, to grow as human beings and children of God. But growth is slow and painful. We do not easily let go of the old garment, woven out of old habits and attitudes. But we have been given a wonderful Facilitator, namely, the Holy Spirit. The spirit awakens us to the mysterious power within us, bids us live, and helps us grow. Spirit of the living God, fall fresh on us.