Pentecost marks the end of the Easter Season with the celebration of the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the infant Church. Although the work of the Holy Spirit had been evident before then, Pentecost marked his coming in a new and powerful way. The apostles were transformed from a small band of frightened followers into a bold and energized company prepared to take Jesus Christ to the whole world.
The Church is the Temple of the Holy Spirit, who guides and strengthens the Church. He comes to all the baptized, not only to the ordained. We have different roles and different gifts, yet all come from the same Spirit. They are not given for our own individual satisfaction but to be used to build up the whole Church.
As we celebrate the coming of the Spirit on Pentecost, let us ask for guidance as to what commitments of our talents and gifts we should make as faithful stewards, and then for the strength to fulfill what we’ve committed to.
