Homily for the Solemnity of Pentecost

Today, the Church celebrates the Solemnity of Pentecost, a day when God sent His Spirit to dwell in the hearts and souls of the Apostles and commissioned them to share that Spirit with others.

The arrival of the Holy Spirit is much more than a single event in the life of the Church; this feast, this Solemnity, focuses on being persons of the Spirit, who is described as a "driving wind" or "breath" that shakes the house; "tongues of fire" warm hearts that have grown cold with fear; "different languages" are understood; and, ultimately, we witness the gift of "peace" bestowed upon all who receive the Spirit.

Receiving the Spirit is not a passive experience—those who have received the Spirit are alive in their faith. They allow Christ to come alive within them, and their faith extends beyond themselves to embrace others through lives of service, support, and prayer.

Their worship and prayer are sincere and heartfelt. Their faith energizes them to grow in love for God and their neighbor.

A person who has received the Spirit lives as a son or daughter of God; they do not shy away from their identity as disciples of Jesus, even when it leads to conflict with the world.

People of the Spirit understand that God grants them grace to face life's challenges and joys.

On this Solemnity of Pentecost, we should each ask ourselves if we are truly people of the Holy Spirit. To be such people, we must invite the Spirit into our hearts every moment. And so, we pray:

“Come, Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of your faithful and kindle in them the fire of your love. Send forth your Spirit, and they shall be created. And you shall renew the face of the earth.

“O, God, who by the light of the Holy Spirit, did instruct the hearts of the faithful, grant that, by the same Spirit, we may be truly wise and ever enjoy His consolations. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.”