Come Holy Spirit, Come

We spent the eve of Pentecost as only one can when preparing to invite the world to receive the power of the Holy Spirit (Acts 1:8) – at a vigil service with youth and the young-at-heart. Sponsored by the Emmanuel Community and hosted at St. Benedict’s parish downtown, the three-hour service was filled with prayerful song, adoration, reconciliation and an address by Bishop Julian, auxiliary of the Archdiocese.


Amidst all my prayers, both personal and as part of what is occurring here, I was struck by two themes. The first is the idea of holy waiting, hope and expectation. Without a doubt, this captures the mood of Catholics here. Like the apostles in the upper room, the Church here is not only hard at work, but hard at prayer – longing for the Spirit to renew their efforts and their land. For the city outside, life moves about as it always does, but for the people we have met here who are preparing for World Youth Day, you can see the flame ever-growing in anticipation of the fruits that will come from their efforts and with the grace of God.

The second theme is renewal. I have never been in a place where a “spring-time” is so clearly seen. Living and serving where I have, I have benefited from the catalysts that have come before me. Yes, things could be better, but the Church in North and South America is alive. Renewal is needed in every aspect of the Church here – liturgy, social justice, homilies, youth ministry, care for the disadvantaged, family ministry, catechesis, praise and worship and the list goes on. . . But, you can literally feel the tide turning in this “upper room” in which we pray. You can feel courage swelling, purpose manifesting and excitement building – particularly from the youth and lay ministers.

One thing I have realized here, is how skeptical clergy can be. In just one week, I have noticed it in others and seen it in myself. I am not sure how it happens, but it does, and it is now my prayer for Pentecost:

Renew in us the faith of children. Let us be wise, but keep us simple. Help us live with purpose, and with joy. Guide us with prudence, but help us be bold. Open our hearts to learn from others and not cling too closely to what we think we know. Come Holy Sprit, come. Come Holy Spirit, come.