In today’s Gospel, Jesus appears to his disciples and gives them the gift of the Holy Spirit. Younger children are learning how to be a good friend to others. As Christians, we are called to be agents of peace and forgiveness. We have been given the gift of the Holy Spirit to help us. Pentecost is sometimes called the birthday of the Church. The Gospel for Pentecost reminds us that the Church begins with the command to forgive. Within the family, the domestic Church, we learn how to forgive and we learn to accept forgiveness. It is the gift of the Holy Spirit that enables us to do both. Today is a fitting time to share a family celebration of reconciliation.
As you gather together as a family, sit quietly for a few minutes, inviting all to reflect upon their need to forgive and to receive forgiveness. If there is a situation or issue within the family that needs attention, spend some time reflecting upon the concern and how your family might address it. Read together today’s Gospel, John 20:19-23. Talk together about how Jesus gave us the gift of the Holy Spirit to help us in the work of forgiveness and to bring us peace. Pray together the Prayer to the Holy Spirit, asking that the Holy Spirit help your family. Share with one another the sign of peace.
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 will renew the face of the earth.
Lord,
by the light of the Holy Spirit
you have taught the hearts of your faithful.
In the same Spirit
help us to relish what is right
and always rejoice in your consolation.
We ask this through Christ our Lord.
Amen.
Faith Formation Calendar
- Tuesday, June 7th – Confirmation Mass 7 pm with Reception to follow
- Friday, June 10th – First Communion Rehearsal & Reconciliation 5:30 pm in Church
- Sunday, June 12th – First Communion at 11 am Mass
**VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL – JUNE 27TH- JULY 1ST REGISTRATIONS IN CHURCH!**