Happy Pentecost! – Receive the Holy Spirit!
How beautiful have these fifty days been. We gathered with branches held aloft crying out, “Hosanna to the King”. Around the Altar we came with oils for the year ahead to welcome, to heal, and to consecrate. We were shown example as our feet were washed, we gathered in muted light as the wood of the Cross was exposed and we adored. In the darkness of the night, we came to the fire and together processed with the Light of Christ enabling the exultant song of God’s people to echo through the generations bringing blessing to the waters of baptism having heard the journey of our salvation. Then to the altar we came, as one family, newly baptised and those long on the Way, to be fed by the very living presence of the Risen Lord! Alleluia!
Over these seven weeks we have been fed richly by the accounts of those who were first called Christian. Recognising, as they did, that Christ walks with us, and comes to us in the stories of our faith and our lives. That he is with us in the breaking of the bread. Yes, and he has been with us in these fifty days as we have baptised little ones and farewelled into eternal life older ones. As we have looked to future shepherds, as we have supported the young preparing to receive him in Holy Communion, as we have poured a coffee, supped a cuppa, nibbled on a cake, enjoyed a chat. As we have celebrated with a Cardinal fifty years of priesthood, thanking him for his generous service, and wishing him, with our Archbishop a Happy Birthday! Throughout these times we have recognised the presence of the Lord.
So, it is no surprise that the celebration of his Ascension was not an experience of separation, rather the time to recognise his promise of presence until the end of time. Now with open minds, open hearts, open eyes, and open arms we receive the Holy Spirit. The outpouring of his gifts we have seen around us; we have experienced within us. Now we celebrate together the indwelling of Spirit; the Holy Spirit is at home with you, with us!
Veni Sancte Spiritus! Come Holy Spirit! You are at home!
Prayers, Patrick