My Thoughts on 30/05/2020

Tomorrow, on the feast of Pentecost, we celebrate the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the Apostles. They were transformed and had the strength and courage to tell the world about Jesus as Lord, risen from the dead. This is traditionally known as the moment the Church was born. This is the birthday of the Church.

At this time of pandemic, as the local church in Canterbury, we are prevented from gathering to celebrate together but we are still the church. We are the living stones. We are being renewed through the gifts of the Holy Spirit, who gives us the strength to live as faithful and loving Christians. Although apart let us pray for one another on this Vigil of Pentecost that we may experience a fresh outpouring of the Spirit in our lives. Let us remember especially our young people who were to have been confirmed tomorrow.

There is a Pentecost Vigil from Rome organised by Catholic Charismatic Renewal: CHARIS tonight at 9pm GMT (10pm CET). See below.

Come, Holy Spirit open our hearts to receive and use the gifts of the Holy Spirit in our parish. Help us to see and respond to the needs of our people. Help us to support and encourage the variety of vocations found in our parish. Above all, help us all be the Body of Christ in the world.