Be open to the Holy Spirit

From the Desk of Father David

Dear Friends in Christ,

              Two weeks ago I asked you to reflect upon who is God for you. In today’s bulletin I would like to share with you my reflection on the Holy Spirit. Jesus said the Holy Spirit is like the wind, you do not see where it is coming from or where it is going, you only feel its effects.  When I was in grade school preparing for Confirmation, we were told to frequently pray for one of the seven gifts of the Holy Spirit.  I chose wisdom.  Not only would I pray for this gift, I would seek it out through college and seminary days.  I didn’t realize for a long time I should have been seeking all seven gifts.  At our Baptism and Confirmation we have received all seven gifts. We are challenged to develop each gift. 

When I reflect upon my life I see the effects of the Holy Spirit in small and dynamic ways.  I will now share a few experiences.  One day a lady came to the door and told me her son just died and would I go and bless his body.  I told her that we do the blessing at the funeral service.  Then, all of a sudden, I realized I should go.  As I was following her in my car, I realized that this was a tragic death and I needed to prepare myself, so I started praying.  When we arrived at the house an officer met me at the door and after a short conversation he escorted me to the body.  I blessed the body of the young man who had committed suicide.  Then I went out to comfort the mother.  All the guidance came from the Holy Spirit.  When I preach, I know it is the Spirit of God touching individuals, because people will say, “Father your homily spoke directly to me as if you knew what was happening in my life.”  At other times, I will hear someone’s confession or be praying with a person and the right words or needed insights come at the moment to help the individual.  Sometimes people think living in the Spirit equals being Charismatic.  That is not true.  The more you are open to the movements of the Holy Spirit the more the Spirit works with your personality, gifts, talents and even your weaknesses.  The only common denominator is that the fruits of the Holy Spirit take hold.  In St. Paul’s Letter to the Galatians, he identifies twelve fruits: charity, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, generosity, gentleness, faithfulness, modesty,    self-control, and chastity.

Almighty God set our hearts on fire with Divine Love and give us Your assistance in increasing the gifts of the Holy Spirit in our lives. Come Holy Spirit!

In Christ,

Fr. David