Thursday, May 16, 2013

Pentecost Sunday

Here are the readings for the Solemnity of Pentecost, May 19, 2013:

Acts 2: 1-11
Psalm 104: 1, 24, 29-31, 34
1 Corinthians 12: 3b-7, 12-13
-or- Romans 8: 8-17
John 20: 19-23
-or- John 14: 15-16, 23b-26

Do me a favor, please. In addition to these listed Scripture readings, please click here and read Genesis 11: 1-9.

Okay? Do you see any similar themes between that and the reading in Acts?

In the Genesis account, the people start out united and end up, through their own ambitions, scattered and unable to understand each other.  In Acts people of diverse cultures and languages, through the Holy Spirit's power, are restored to understanding and unity. The early Christians would have recognized those comparisons and viewed the Pentecost event as a clear sign of renewal and reconciliation. It was a reminder, too, to be about the work of Jesus Christ, to focus on his mission, rather than become busy  with self-centered projects whose only goal is to 'make a name for ourselves'.

In light of these few thoughts, I invite you to read the Pentecost scriptures again, with your own confirmation in mind.
  • Which one of the (many) readings most directly speaks to your faith life right now?
  • Is there a specific response, action or change that it is calling you to?
  • How will you participate in the work of Jesus Christ in the coming week?
Mystagogia meets this Sunday at 10:45am.
In celebration of the Holy Spirit, consider wearing RED to Mass this weekend!

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