When I was a young woman, my mother noticed my devotion to our Blessed Mother and lovingly passed her personal novena booklet on to me. This little 1950s-era prayer booklet of the Miraculous Medal Novena included Benediction of the Most Blessed Sacrament in Latin. It became, and remains, my “go-to” devotional. I have witnessed with awe and gratitude countless answered prayers.
Through my experience and observations, I associate Latin with the most reverent of prayers and higher education. I admire and respect the devotion, piety and prayerfulness of my friends who attend the Latin Mass. However, I believe Pope Francis is right in calling Catholics to embrace the Mass as reformed by the Second Vatican Council. Why?
Because the paradigm set forth by the Holy Spirit, not just at the Second Vatican Council but at Pentecost itself, when the Holy Spirit descended upon the apostles, allowed them to preach the Good News of Jesus to all.
For nine days the disciples remained in the Upper Room, fearful yet waiting for the Paraclete as Jesus had promised. It is noteworthy to mention that at that very time, thousands of Jewish pilgrims were gathered from countries far away, speaking many languages. The apostles, filled with the Holy Spirit, courageously went forth into the streets of Jerusalem. They were amazed they were able to speak whatever language necessary to communicate the Good News that Jesus was the Messiah. Over 3,000 people were converted that day!
Jesus commanded, “Go, therefore, and make disciples of all nations.” The most effective way of doing this is the manner used by the Holy Spirit at Pentecost: actively engaging people of every culture in their native tongue.
Melanie S. Rotondi lives in York, S.C.
Sometimes we need reminders that God is great – especially when, because of earthly circumstances, we have forgotten it.
After one year of the pandemic “canceling” so many things, including in-person Mass, it is easy to forget: the spirit God gives us to live with grace and faith each day is within us.
We just need to acknowledge and use it.
On Pentecost Sunday 2021, I happened to attend St. Gabriel Church in Charlotte and was inspired by the instructions of the passionate, energized Father Richard Sutter to say aloud, “Holy Spirit, you are welcome here.”
During a time when many feel alone and might be physically isolated, this reminder to embrace the Holy Spirit and remember that we are never spiritually alone could not have been more timely.
The Holy Spirit was truly in Charlotte on Pentecost Sunday, as it is everywhere. We just have to remember to say the words: “Holy Spirit, you are welcome here.”
Aaron Kohrs lives in Hickory.