Fr. Aidan Writes:
As we come to celebrate the Feast of Pentecost, literally the 50th day after Easter, we remember that we have the seven gifts of the Holy Spirit: Wisdom, Understand- ing, Knowledge, Fortitude, Counsel, Piety and Fear of the Lord.
But we need to have the Holy Spirit’s attitude as well. The Holy Spirit is defined in many ways, but one way that I think helps us understand how the Holy Spirit works, is to recognize God’s Spirit as His divine Grace in action in our lives. For God to assist us in our lives, He must listen to us. By listening, I mean being totally open to hear our prayers, see our actions and receive our true worship. The gifts allow us to have this open attitude of God, especially in a time when many are feeling locked up, closed down, fearful and bewildered by what is going on in our world.
Let us call upon the Holy Spirit to give us open hearts and minds to engage with today’s challenges in all spheres of life. We ask that the Holy Spirit help us grow in the knowledge, under- standing and wisdom to discern what needs to be defended, to give good counsel and to fear the Lord rather than the unknown, or more poignantly, the unwanted. Then, and only then, will our piety be for the service of others and the Glory of God, rather than anything self- righteous.
Come Holy Spirit, open our hearts and minds, our eyes and ears to further your Kingdom of love, joy, beauty and peace.
God bless you, Fr. A-P
May God bless you, your families, and the week ahead,
Fr Aidan Peter