The Washington Post curiously published an article coinciding with Pope Leo’s visit to France. They are reporting a recent trend of people seeking to join the Catholic Church as full members. Much has been reported about the decline in membership, especially in Western secular countries in Europe and the United States. The Catholic Church continues … Continue reading Young Catholic Converts on the Rise
Tag: Holy Spirit
The Feast of Pentecost
Today, we celebrate the Feast of Pentecost, commemorating the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the Apostles, bringing the gifts necessary to continue Jesus' mission through his Church. After his resurrection, even though the doors were locked, Jesus stood before them and bade his peace. “As the Father has sent me, so I send you. … Continue reading The Feast of Pentecost
I Will Not Leave You Orphaned
Sixth Sunday of Easter-A Anticipating the Feast of the Ascension, this weekend's Gospel reading focuses on Jesus’ return to his Father in heaven. He reiterates to his disciples that keeping the commandments is akin to loving him. Then, he says something strange. He tells them he will not leave them, orphans. The traditional understanding of … Continue reading I Will Not Leave You Orphaned
The Fullness of God Is Revealed
The Feast of Pentecost Last week, when we focused on Jesus' Ascension into heaven, the main point was to reflect on the completion of his mission. One week later, the universal Church celebrates the moment Jesus promised to send the Church another Advocate, the Holy Spirit. The descent of the Holy Spirit upon Mary and … Continue reading The Fullness of God Is Revealed
Blasphemy Against the Holy Spirit Will Not be Forgiven
Tenth Sunday of Ordinary Time-B The season of Lent, Easter, and solemnities has ended, and we return to Ordinary Time and the Gospel of Mark. The scene portrayed by St. Mark is a confrontation between the Pharisees trying to assert that Jesus’ ministry is the work of Satan instead of from God. The religious leader's … Continue reading Blasphemy Against the Holy Spirit Will Not be Forgiven
The Gift of the Holy Spirit
The Feast of Pentecost Today is the annual celebration of the birthday of the Church, which is the Feast of Pentecost. The day the Holy Spirit descended, after Jesus was taken into heaven. The fulfilled promise that Jesus would not leave his disciples orphaned and the assurance of God’s invisible and continuous dwelling with his … Continue reading The Gift of the Holy Spirit