Saint Rita Catholic Church and School in Webster, NY - An Introduction to Sunday's Scripture Readings

“The Advocate, The Holy Spirit . . . Will Teach You Everything”

Today is the Feast of Pentecost.

It commemorates the coming down of the Holy Spirit upon the disciples of Jesus. The original Pentecost feast (Shavuot) commemorated the day that the first fruits of the harvest were brought to the temple. It also commemorated the day God gave the Torah to the people of Israel. It is now also the day the Holy Spirit descended on the disciples to enlighten them and remind them of all that Jesus taught them.

Our first reading (Acts 2:1-11) tells the story vividly. Ten days after Jesus had been taken up to heaven, the disciples were celebrating the harvest festival of Pentecost. Jerusalem was filled with “devout Jews from every nation under heaven . . . Both Jews and converts to Judaism”. “And suddenly, there came from the sky a noise like a strong driving wind ....“. They were instantly enlightened and empowered and were given the grace to speak in tongues, so that everyone could understand them.

In our Epistle reading (1 Corinthians 12:3-7, 12-13), St. Paul explains the many different spiritual gifts and forms of service that come from the same Holy Spirit. Each of us are called in some unique way by the Spirit to do God’s will and God’s work. Together, though we are many parts, we make up on body, the body of Christ, His Church.

In our Gospel reading (John 14:15-16, 23-26), Jesus, at the last supper, promised His disciples that the Father would send the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, and He would teach them everything; and Jesus, with the Holy Spirit, will come and make their dwelling with them. This promise is given to all those who love Jesus and keep His commandments (including us).

We have been reading in the Acts of the Apostles all during this Easter season of the “mighty deeds and wonders” performed by the Apostles and disciples of Christ. We also have heard of their incredible bravery and even joy in the face of terrible persecutions and martyrdom. All of this happened because of the gifts and graces given to them by the Holy Spirit at Pentecost. Could the Holy Spirit, would the Holy Spirit give these same gifts to us? Would accept them?

It starts with loving Jesus and keeping His word.

bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/060825.cfm