The Spirit is a Force for Action

The Spirit is a force for
ACTION - let's ACT!



It's Sunday!



May 29 - Sixth Sunday of Easter



This Sunday we can already hear the flutter of the Dove's wings. . . there are many anticipations of Pentecost, beginning with the First Reading. Phillip seems to be enjoying his new powers (We recall that at the Last Supper he actually wanted Jesus to show them the Father! Failing that, he will be content with some miracles!). It would be mistaken to think from the reference to Baptism - "only " Baptism - that these converts had not received the Spirit. We appear to be talking of something extra needed - the text does not say. Interesting to see Phillip evangelizing in Samaria - we recall the bad relations between the Samaritans and the Jews and indeed Phillip may have put his life in some danger. But his faith and zeal were rewarded.


The RespoBsorial Psalm needs no special comment except to wonder when today's Church will be able to raise a united voice of joy and praise without any reservations If you are like me, you must sometimes feel a sense of unreality: when will Catholics return en masse to the genuine practice of the faith? St. Peter, in the Second Reading, gives an answer to my question. He deals with the situation of the early Christians: persecution and sometimes death. How are they to react? First, they must not be afraid to witness to their faith and secondly they must endure their suffering with the example of Christ before them. We have a parallel situation. We must be ready to give witness not necessarily about our Catholic beliefs but about our beliefs in the Institute and its great advantages for a better married and spiritual life.


The Gospel is part of the Master's farewell discourse at the Last Supper. It introduces once again the concept of "Spirit" which Jesus will send to enlighten and strengthen this shaky followers. This great Spirit is also ours today and He is ready and willing to enlighten each of us according to our needs. We don't always turn to Him for inspiration and a spirit of enterprise so this Sunday may be a good time to reflect on our relationship. But not only reflection . . . what about some ACTION? Institute membership which is purely contemplative and never includes reaching out to others to share our Good News is not enough and our exam of conscience should take this into account. Paulines are . . . children of St. Paul and there has been no Saint in the history of the Church more outgoing than he was. It is not necessary to SUCCEED in our efforts - mostly we will fail. It IS necessary to TRY - and "to try is to succeed" in the eyes of God.