Pentecost 2020 - We are Called to be Witnesses
This weekend we welcome into our faith, Mike Collins and Stephanie Pansch. Since both are already baptized Christians, they will make their profession of faith, be confirmed, and receive Eucharist for the first time in the Catholic Church. Originally, both were scheduled to be received during the Easter Vigil back in April, but due to the “shelter in place” restrictions it had to be postponed. Permission was recently granted by the bishop to proceed with the initiation. Pentecost seemed to be the perfect day to celebrate this coming of the Holy Spirit. It was on this day that the power of the Holy Spirit entered the hearts of the Apostles and not only gave them understanding, but courage to proclaim the good news by their words and deeds. The Acts of the Apostles states that on the day of Pentecost over 3,000 people were added to the number of believers. Mike and Stephanie continue that tradition as they profess their faith and receive that empowerment of the Holy Spirit in Confirmation. Since it is not possible to celebrate in the context of a gathering of the parish, we will do so at our weekend Mass that will be livestreamed. In the near future, we will have two more to be initiated. Neither of them has been baptized so their initiation will include baptism, as well as confirmation and Eucharist. In the meantime I ask you keep them all in your prayers as they enter the Catholic faith and the Blessed Sacrament community.
One thing worth noting by this celebration is that despite the precautions and restrictions placed on our worship by the pandemic, the church continues to grow. It reminds us that this growth is not simply what we do, but rather what God does. He is the primary cause for its growth. The present situation presents challenges, but cannot and will not stop the faith from spreading. The message of Christ finds a place in the hearts of those searching for a deeper meaning of life. This is good news. It is encouraging to see that God is still opening the hearts of the faithful to hear the Word and to act. Do we hear God’s word in these unusual times? Have we seen the works of His hand? God is still doing remarkable things in our midst.
People want to hear the Gospel. People want to be inspired by spirit-filled people whose hearts are on fire. The church needs people who act selflessly and generously in the face of difficult obstacles. The Feast of Pentecost reminds us that you and I are called to be these witnesses.
