Word to the Wise
Sunday, June 9, 2019 - Pentecost Sunday - C
[Acts 2:1-11; opt: Rom 8:8-17; opt: John 14:15-16, 23b-26 ,250]There are different kinds of spiritual gifts but the same Spirit; there are different forms of service, but the same Lord; there are different workings but the same God who produces all of them in everyone. To each individual the manifestation of the Spirit is given for some benefit. [1 Corinthians]
The feast of Pentecost covers many bases. It celebrates the fulfillment of Jesus' promise to the disciples that he would send the Holy Spirit. It celebrates the end of the Easter season. It also celebrates the birth of the Church as a spirit-filled community reaching out to the whole world. The familiar image of Mary, surrounded by the disciples with a dove and flames of fire over everyone's head should not lead us to think that was a one-time event as far as the Spirit is concerned. There may not be "tongues of fire" and a dove, but each of us has received that same Holy Spirit in baptism/confirmation.
St. Paul continually reminds us that each of us has received the Holy Spirit "for some benefit." This "indwelling" is not a private possession, even if each person is unique. It is for the benefit of the whole community. One of the challenging tasks of pastoral life is to discern the presence of the gifts each one has and enable them within the community. There is also a kind of collective presence of the Spirit in the church which safeguards the truths of our faith. This is personified in the ministry of the pope and magisterial teaching. All of this comes together in the celebration of Pentecost. As the old prayer puts it: "Come Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of the faithful and enkindle in them the fire of your love." AMEN